Radio Maine with Dr. Lisa Belisle: Recent Episodes
Dr. Lisa Belisle
Each week on Radio Maine, host Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with an artist, art-lover or creative individual that will broaden your view of Maine and the community that we cherish. Listen to, or watch, Radio Maine on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible, Google Podcasts, Podbean, You Tube, Vimeo and the Portland Art Gallery website. Thank you for joining us, and being part of our world.
Some of the art we live with becomes inseparable from the lives we’ve lived. A painting can recall a graduation, a marriage, a place we love—or someone who is no longer here. For Emma Wilson, director of Portland Art Gallery, those connections are at the heart of what art can offer. In this conversation, she reflects on moving through her own divorce, the recent death of her mother, and the unexpected ways creativity can make room for both grief and hope. She shares stories of collectors whose paintings became part of family histories, and of artists whose work continues to connect people even after they are gone. Emma also offers a glimpse into the intuitive work of curating a gallery, where seemingly different pieces can begin to “talk” to one another—and where relationships matter as much as aesthetics. Join Dr. Lisa Belisle for this conversation with Emma Wilson today on Radio Maine. Full episode page: https://radiomaine.com/episodes/why-some-paintings-stay-with-you-forever-gallery-director-emma-wilson More Radio Maine episodes: https://radiomaine.com/episodes.html Portland Art Gallery: https://portlandartgallery.com
Most people think of physical therapy as something you do after an injury.
Dr. Philip Finemore believes it has the potential to be much more.
Founder of WorkFitME Mobile Physical Therapy, Philip joins Dr. Lisa Belisle to discuss why preventing injuries, improving movement, and helping people stay active should be just as important as rehabilitation. Their conversation explores entrepreneurship, innovation in healthcare, the realities of remote work, and why building the right team—from primary care providers to strength coaches and massage therapists—can help people stay healthier for longer.
Rather than waiting until something hurts, Phil encourages a different approach: one that helps people continue doing the things they love, whether that's training for a marathon, keeping up with grandchildren, or simply living without pain.
Join our conversation with Dr. Philip Finemore today on Radio Maine.
Produced by Portland Art Gallery.
Kim Holden, founder of Doula by Design and founding principal of SHoP Architects, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle to explore an unexpected question: How does the design of a space influence the way we heal?
After helping build one of New York's leading architecture firms, Kim followed a deeply personal calling sparked by two transformative birth experiences. Today, she combines architecture, doula care, and maternal health advocacy to rethink how healthcare environments affect birth, healing, and human dignity. Through advocacy, education, collaborative teaching, and work with healthcare leaders, she is helping bridge the worlds of design and maternal health to create more compassionate systems of care.
Originally drawn to Maine as a child, Kim now calls the state home, where she continues to connect design, healthcare, and community through her work. Join our conversation with Kim Holden today on Radio Maine. Be sure to subscribe to the channel for more conversations celebrating creativity and the human spirit.
Tom Mahoney, community connector and resource team leader with Harpswell Aging at Home, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle to discuss one of today's most overlooked public health challenges: loneliness.
After decades working in public health, Tom found himself helping launch ROMEOs—Retired Older Men Eating Out—a program designed to bring older men together over shared meals and conversation. What started as a simple lunch has become something much larger: a community built on friendship, purpose, and mutual support.
Their conversation explores healthy aging, ageism, vulnerability, volunteering, intergenerational relationships, and why face-to-face connection remains one of the most powerful forces for improving health and well-being.
Join our conversation with Tom Mahoney today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Jennifer Merz, writer, illustrator, collage artist, and author of Steadfast: Frances Perkins, Champion of Workers' Rights, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to discuss creativity, perseverance, and the value of trusting a long creative process.
After working in textile design and later earning an MFA in Illustration, Merz spent nearly a decade researching, writing, illustrating, and ultimately self-publishing her award-winning children's biography of Frances Perkins. Along the way, she discovered that creative work rarely follows a straight line—it evolves through curiosity, revision, persistence, and a willingness to keep showing up.
From handcrafted collage and children's literature to Maine's artistic community and the enduring legacy of Frances Perkins, this conversation explores how meaningful work often grows from patience as much as inspiration.
Join our conversation with Jennifer Merz today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Dr. Jennifer Monti, cardiologist, critical care physician, and Chief Growth Officer of Prescriby Health, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to discuss one of healthcare's most important emerging conversations: thoughtful deprescribing.
Drawing from years of experience in cardiology, critical care, and healthcare innovation, Dr. Monti explains why medications that were once appropriate aren't always meant to remain part of a person's care forever. She explores how evidence-based deprescribing can improve quality of life while reducing unnecessary risks, and why the future of healthcare depends on combining clinical expertise with technology that supports—not replaces—the human relationship between patient and clinician.
From preventive medicine and artificial intelligence to public health and compassionate care, this conversation challenges conventional thinking about what excellent healthcare can look like.
Join our conversation with Dr. Jennifer Monti today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Gretchen Halpert, scientific illustrator, educator, former molecular biologist, and founder of a scientific illustration distance program, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to discuss the intersection of science, creativity, and lifelong learning.
With roots in both Portland's arts community and the scientific world, Halpert has spent decades showing students that careful observation is as essential in art as it is in biology. From botanical illustration and book arts to teaching future scientific illustrators, her work demonstrates how curiosity can connect seemingly different disciplines.
This thoughtful conversation explores creativity, education, the value of paying attention, and why pursuing what genuinely fascinates us often leads to unexpected opportunities.
Join our conversation with Gretchen Halpert today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Susan Newbold, artist, teacher, printmaker, bookmaker, and author of Reveries: Journaling in Place, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to discuss creativity, reinvention, and the lifelong process of becoming.
After decades working in interior design, Newbold made the bold decision to return to school at age fifty and pursue art full time. That choice led her into printmaking, book arts, teaching, artist residencies around the world, and a deeper exploration of journaling as both a creative and reflective practice.
In this conversation, she shares how travel, history, teaching, and curiosity have shaped her work, and why she believes creativity belongs to everyone—not just those who identify as artists.
Join our conversation with Susan Newbold today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Dannel Malloy, Chancellor of the University of Maine System and former governor of Connecticut, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to discuss education, opportunity, and the responsibility we share to help one another succeed.
Diagnosed with dyslexia as a child during a time when learning differences were often misunderstood, Malloy reflects on the teachers, family members, and mentors who advocated for him and helped him discover new ways to learn. Those experiences shaped a career dedicated to public service, educational access, and creating systems that support people before they reach crisis points.
From early intervention and higher education to COVID's lasting impact on students and the opportunities presented by emerging technologies like AI, this conversation explores how communities can become stronger by investing in one another.
Join our conversation with Dannel Malloy today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Philip Hussey, CEO of Thos. Moser, brings together Maine heritage, craftsmanship, and thoughtful leadership as he guides one of the state's most iconic furniture makers into its next chapter. In this episode of Radio Maine, Hussey reflects on growing up in a seventh-generation Maine business family, studying at Colby College, and eventually returning home after years away to lead a company built on timeless design and enduring values.
He shares how Thos. Moser's handcrafted furniture—signed by the individual makers who build each piece—is designed to last for generations, honoring both the life of the tree and the people gathered around it. Hussey also speaks candidly about the profound influence of his late father, whose grace and optimism during a cancer diagnosis reshaped his understanding of leadership, community, and what it means to live well.
Join our conversation with Philip Hussey today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Amanda Rand, President and CEO of Spinnaker Trust, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to discuss leadership, resilience, workplace culture, and building a meaningful life in Maine.
After leaving Maine to attend Duke University and Harvard Law School, Rand returned home to raise her family and help lead one of Maine’s premier wealth management firms. In this conversation, she reflects on how personal loss, motherhood, community involvement, and professional mentorship shaped her leadership style and her commitment to creating supportive environments for both employees and clients.
Thoughtful and candid, this episode explores how empathy, long-term thinking, and strong community connections can shape not only organizations, but the people within them.
Join our conversation with Amanda Rand today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Scott Budde, financial services executive, art collector, and steward of a quietly thriving peony farm in Alna, joins Radio Maine to reflect on the intersections of finance, creativity, agriculture, and place.
After a career in mainstream banking and responsible investing, Budde came to Maine to help launch Maine Harvest Federal Credit Union, a mission-driven institution focused on supporting small farms and food businesses. Alongside this work, he and his wife cultivate hundreds of inherited peony bushes on their property along the Sheepscot River—flowers that eventually make their way into local CSAs and community spaces across Maine.
In this conversation, Budde also shares how Maine’s accessibility and creative culture shaped his unexpected journey into art collecting and commissioning. From encaustic paintings to woven works inspired by blueberry barrens, he reflects on the value of trusting artists, engaging deeply with place, and crafting a life that allows seemingly different passions to coexist.
Join our conversation with Scott Budde today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Lynda Adams, certified matchmaker, relationship coach, and founder of Guided Love Connections, joins Radio Maine to explore how intuition, connection, and personal growth shape the relationships we build.With a background spanning city government, integrative wellness, radio hosting, and coaching, Adams reflects on the pivotal moments that led her to leave stable career paths in pursuit of more meaningful work. Drawing from her own experiences with marriage, loss, reinvention, and long-term partnership, she shares how trust, self-awareness, and community play essential roles in creating lasting connection.
In this conversation, Adams also discusses the loneliness many people experience in a technology-driven world and why she believes people are increasingly craving authentic interaction. Through her matchmaking practice, she combines personal guidance with modern tools to help people move beyond surface-level dating and toward deeper relationships.
Join our conversation with Lynda Adams today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Jaclyn Janis, a nurse, public health researcher, and emerging Portland Art Gallery artist, joins Radio Maine to share how science, illness, and landscape converge in her printmaking practice.
With a background spanning nursing, ICU care, and health outcomes research, Janis brings a deeply analytical lens to her creative work—one shaped by her own experience living with a rare lung disease. After years away from art, she returned to it during a challenging period away from Maine, finding both solace and structure in the layered process of reduction printmaking.
Inspired by Maine’s marshes, birdlife, and quiet moments of observation, her work reflects a balance between precision and uncertainty—mirroring the experience of navigating health, research, and life itself.
Join our conversation with Jaclyn Janis today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Natalie Miller, writer, creator of Eat, Stay, Wheel, and disability advocate, joins Radio Maine to share how she is redefining what it means to live fully and visibly.
With a background in corporate leadership and more than two decades in Maine, Miller reflects on how a breast cancer diagnosis and lifelong mobility challenges reshaped her perspective—leading her to create a platform that celebrates accessibility, adventure, and everyday joy. Through adaptive sports, storytelling, and creative expression—from painting on cardboard to documenting life’s “soundtracks”—she invites others to expand how they see possibility.
Rooted in coastal Maine and inspired by community, Miller’s work encourages small shifts in perspective that can open the door to meaningful experiences—whether on a mountain, in the ocean, or just outside your door.
Join our conversation with Natalie Miller today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Kim Case, a longtime Portland Art Gallery artist, returns to Radio Maine to reflect on the evolution of her painting practice and her deepening exploration of abstraction. Trained in photography and art history at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts and Tufts, Case began with a focus on realism but has increasingly embraced abstraction as a way to express emotion, energy, and the subtle presence of human experience in nature.
In this conversation, she shares how life changes—from raising a teenage son to adapting to new studio spaces—have shaped both her process and perspective. Case discusses the importance of light, discipline, and treating art as a professional practice, while also trusting intuition through the highs and lows of creation. Her work, rooted in New England landscapes, now pushes toward a more expressive, vibrant visual language.
Join our conversation with Kim Case today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Cameron Kelly Rosenblum, young adult author with HarperCollins/Quill Tree Books, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to share her journey of resilience, creativity, and finding her voice later in life. After years of teaching and navigating personal challenges—including raising a son with significant special needs and processing the loss of a close friend to suicide—Rosenblum reflects on how writing became both a refuge and a form of healing.
Drawing from her own experiences, she explores the emotional depth behind her novels, including The Stepping Off Place, which examines grief through the perspective of those left behind. Rosenblum also speaks candidly about perseverance, rejection, and ultimately publishing her first book at 49—proving that creative success doesn’t follow a fixed timeline.
This conversation is a powerful reminder of the role storytelling plays in understanding ourselves and others.
Join our conversation with Cameron Kelly Rosenblum today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Victoria Zurkan, licensed marriage and family therapist and painter based in Portland, Maine, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to explore how the impulse to understand people and the impulse to make art are, at their core, the same. With roots in animation studios in San Francisco and Budapest and graduate training in psychology in London, Zurkan reflects on the winding path that brought her to Maine and to a body of work entirely her own. Now painting with a clearer sense of intention, she shares how her latest series was born from a simple question: what would happen if something unexpected appeared in a quiet winter landscape? From the ways drawing can serve as a portal into the unconscious to her plans for teaching portrait painting at the South Portland Community Center, Zurkan reveals how curiosity about the human experience continues to guide both her clinical work and her art. This conversation invites listeners to consider how creativity can be a form of healing, and how the act of making something is a gift worth giving yourself. Join our conversation with Victoria Zurkan today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Annie Kloppenberg, professor of performance, theater, and dance at Colby College and director of the Lyons Arts Lab, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to explore how movement, curiosity, and collaboration shape contemporary artistic expression. With roots in New England and a career spanning performance, teaching, and choreography, Kloppenberg reflects on her early influences in dance and the moment that transformed her understanding of what movement could communicate.
Now working at the intersection of dance, visual art, and music, she shares how her creative process embraces ambiguity, non-linear storytelling, and deep collaboration with performers and artists across disciplines. From inspiring new work through visual art to fostering student creativity through the Lyons Arts Lab, Kloppenberg reveals how curiosity continues to guide her work.
This conversation invites listeners to reconsider how we experience art—not just intellectually, but physically and emotionally.
Join our conversation with Annie Kloppenberg today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Jennifer Acker, author, founder and editor-in-chief of The Common and director of the Amherst College LitFest, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to explore how place, storytelling, and personal transformation shape both literature and life. Raised in rural Maine, Acker reflects on how her early experiences—family reading traditions, small-town culture, and global travel—deeply informed her commitment to place-based writing. She shares the origin story of The Common, a literary magazine dedicated to capturing the nuances of place across the world, and discusses her upcoming novel Surrender, inspired in part by her family farm and the emotional complexities of midlife change.
From goats and farming to identity, aging, and unexpected love, Acker offers a thoughtful perspective on how stories help us understand ourselves and others.
Join our conversation with Jennifer Acker today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Tobias Parkhurst, Head of Business Development for Cushnoc Brewing Company and a longtime Maine entrepreneur, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to share an unconventional journey from professional skateboarding to revitalizing community life in central Maine. Growing up in rural Maine, Parkhurst found identity and resilience through skateboarding, eventually traveling widely before returning home to help run his family’s glass business. After years in construction, he shifted toward ventures that reflected his passions—helping launch Cushnoc Brewing Company in Augusta and contributing to other local businesses like State Lunch, Sand Hill Bagel, and Cushnoc Cantina.
In this thoughtful conversation, Parkhurst reflects on lessons learned from skateboarding, entrepreneurship, and travel—especially the importance of persistence, community connection, and bringing new ideas back to Maine. From building breweries and skate parks to fostering spaces where people gather over beer, pizza, and conversation, his work highlights how small businesses can shape the identity of a place.
Join our conversation with Tobias Parkhurst today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
John Kuehnle, CEO of Partners for World Health, brings a global public health perspective to Maine through his leadership of an organization that transforms surplus medical supplies into lifesaving resources for communities locally and around the world. In this episode of Radio Maine, Kuehnle joins Dr. Lisa Belisle to reflect on a career shaped by service—from four years in the Peace Corps in Nicaragua to more than a decade working with USAID across Africa. Now based in Maine, he leads an effort that collects unused medical supplies from hospitals across New England, redistributing them to healthcare systems in need while reducing environmental waste.
Kuehnle shares how thoughtful partnerships, cultural understanding, and sustainable planning help ensure that donated equipment truly benefits the communities receiving it. He also discusses the organization’s lesser-known work supporting Maine residents with refurbished medical equipment. Along the way, he reflects on art, photography, and the value of global perspective in solving complex challenges.
Join our conversation with John Kuehnle today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Beryl Cui is a Cross-Cultural Communication Trainer and English Instructor who moved from Beijing to Maine to begin a new chapter. In this episode of Radio Maine, Cui joins Dr. Lisa Belisle to share her journey from corporate language training in China to building connection and community in Portland. For over a decade, she has coached CEOs and business leaders to communicate with clarity, confidence, and cultural awareness—teaching that language is more than grammar; it is trust, mindset, and relationship. Now in Maine, she is blending that expertise with her lifelong practice of Chinese calligraphy, creating personalized artwork that reflects both meaning and identity. Thoughtful and energetic, Cui reflects on courage, small acts of change, and the power of stepping into discomfort—whether giving a speech, moving across the world, or jumping into cold water.
Join our conversation with Beryl Cui today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Dr. Eric Brown is the executive director of the Maine Irish Heritage Center and a scholar whose background spans Renaissance drama, poetry, and even insect studies. In this episode of Radio Maine, Brown joins Dr. Lisa Belisle to explore how Irish heritage, literature, and imagination intersect in Maine today. Raised in Dover-Foxcroft with deep Irish roots, Brown reflects on rediscovering his ancestry during the pandemic and how that journey led him from academia into community leadership. Now stewarding the former St. Dominic’s Church in Portland, he is helping transform the historic “Irish Cathedral” into a vibrant cultural hub—hosting music, education, and cross-cultural events like the upcoming Shalom & Shamrocks dinner. Thoughtful and wide-ranging, this conversation touches on diaspora, creativity, discomfort, and the power of shared space to build understanding across communities.
Join our conversation with Dr. Eric Brown today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Aubrey Calaway is an audio producer and the director of Foghorn, a Portland-based audio collective and coworking space dedicated to storytelling, listening, and community. In this episode of Radio Maine, Calaway joins host Dr. Lisa Belisle to explore the deep human roots of audio—from oral tradition and NPR influences to the evolving world of podcasts and documentary storytelling. Trained at the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies, Calaway reflects on finding one’s own voice in audio, both creatively and literally, and on learning what to leave behind in order to pursue work that feels meaningful. Calaway shares how Portland became an unexpected hub for audio producers and how Foghorn grew from an informal coworking experiment into a vibrant creative community. The conversation also looks forward, touching on the power of gathering in physical space and the role of storytelling in shaping empathy, culture, and social change.
Join our conversation with Aubrey Calaway today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Brian Petrovek is a longtime community leader and former sports and entertainment executive whose career spans elite athletics, business leadership, and civic engagement. In this episode of Radio Maine, Petrovek joins host Dr. Lisa Belisle to reflect on his journey from high-level hockey at Hotchkiss and Harvard to decades of leadership in professional sports and live entertainment. Known in Maine for bringing elevated sports experiences to the state, Petrovek shares how those years shaped his belief in hospitality, risk-taking, and creating meaningful experiences by choice—not necessity. Now in a new chapter, he is focused on service, arts, education, and strengthening community life in Portland, from board leadership to cultural institutions and mentoring future leaders. This conversation weaves together family, Maine’s youth sports culture, and Petrovek’s guiding philosophy of “first principles”—simplifying challenges to their core. Thoughtful and forward-looking, this episode offers insight into leadership, creativity, and giving back.
Join our conversation with Brian Petrovek today on Radio Maine—and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Sara Schiller, co-founder of the Sloomoo Institute and Bowdoin College alumna, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to share how curiosity, resilience, and joy shaped her unlikely path from rural Maine to a national cultural phenomenon. Raised in Winterport, Sara credits her Maine roots—and the confidence she built at Bowdoin—with fostering a lifelong curiosity that led her into art, business, and entrepreneurship. After early work in hospitality and corporate leadership, her passion for art and public experience took shape through Wooster Collective, a groundbreaking street art blog that helped demystify contemporary art for a global audience.
Following profound personal challenges within her family, Sara co-founded the Sloomoo Institute as a joyful, hands-on space where creativity, sensory play, and human connection come together. What began as a short-term experiment has grown into multiple locations nationwide, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Deeply rooted in Maine values of openness and ingenuity, Sara’s story is one of fearlessness, imagination, and purpose.
Join our conversation with Sara Schiller today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to the channel.
Radio Maine is sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery
Liz Kovarsky, founder of the Electric Cottage Collective in Brunswick, Maine, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to explore a new model for creativity, wellness, and community connection. A trained social worker, artist, and educator, Liz created Electric Cottage Collective as a shared, embodied space that brings together creative coworking, arts practice, and wellness—challenging the ways modern culture often separates mind from body. Drawing on her background in social work, art education, and movement practices like dance and yoga, Liz shares how her own experiences of burnout and disconnection led her to imagine a more accessible, community-centered approach to healing and creativity. At the heart of her work is the idea of “practice over perfection,” emphasizing process, mutual aid, and collective care rather than productivity or profit. Grounded in Maine’s strong sense of place and community, Electric Cottage Collective offers sliding-scale and inclusive programming that invites people to show up as whole humans.
Join our conversation with Liz Kovarsky today on Radio Maine, and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Radio Maine is sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery
Jeff Mao, founder of Knead and Nosh, educator, author, and former statewide leader in educational technology, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to reflect on a career shaped by curiosity, adaptability, and community. A Bowdoin College graduate, Jeff began as a teacher and coach before becoming a central figure in Maine’s pioneering one-to-one laptop program, which helped transform how students and teachers across the state engaged with technology and learning. In recent years, Jeff has brought that same systems-thinking and love of experimentation to food, launching Knead and Nosh and earning statewide recognition for his bagels—including the award-winning Sichuan Dragon bagel, inspired by his Chinese heritage and culinary history. He shares how education, technology, and food intersect through storytelling, science, and culture, and how Maine’s farmers markets and food community have become an extension of his lifelong work connecting people. Thoughtful, wide-ranging, and deeply rooted in place, Jeff’s story is one of reinvention and purpose.
Join our conversation with Jeff Mao today on Radio Maine, and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Radio Maine is sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery
Marnie Girado, Fair Manager, Exhibitor Relations; for Affordable Art Fair NYC & Boston, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to talk about making art more accessible—without sacrificing depth, quality, or curiosity. With a background in art history from Bowdoin and advanced training in Victorian and Edwardian art, Marnie brings a sharp eye and deep love of context to contemporary art spaces. From transparent pricing to thoughtfully curated booths, she shares how affordable art fairs help connect artists, galleries, and new collectors—often for the very first time. Along the way, she reflects on trends, color, Maine’s influence on the Boston art market, and the many career paths available beyond museums and galleries.Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about access, aesthetics, and the joy of seeing art find its way onto people’s walls.
Join our conversation with Marnie Girado today on Radio Maine, and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Radio Maine is sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery
Elizabeth Ross, founder of The Art of Being and a longtime leader in wellness and population health, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to explore what it truly means to pause, pay attention, and reconnect in an increasingly distracted world. Drawing on two decades of work in corporate health—and a pivotal, stress-induced medical crisis—Elizabeth traces her journey from data-driven wellness strategy to a deeply human, experiential practice rooted in mindfulness and presence. She shares how the rise of the attention economy, smartphones, and AI has reshaped our nervous systems, relationships, and sense of self, and why simple acts of pause can be profoundly restorative. Based in Maine, Elizabeth creates unplugged gatherings, potluck conversations, and art-centered experiences that foster intergenerational connection, community, and reflection. Her perspective blends science, lived experience, and compassion, offering a hopeful vision for reclaiming our time, attention, and humanity—together.
Join our conversation with Elizabeth Ross today on Radio Maine, and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Radio Maine is sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery
James Mattison is a Maine painter and newly represented artist with the Portland Art Gallery whose work explores landscape, process, and the often-overlooked pockets of the state. In this episode of Radio Maine, Mattison joins host Dr. Lisa Belisle to reflect on his artistic journey—from growing up in central Maine and studying graphic design, to returning home after time away and fully committing to painting. A former Portland Museum of Art security guard, Mattison has experienced art from many angles, shaping a thoughtful, process-driven studio practice rooted in drawing, photography, and oil painting. He shares how mentorship helped him understand the importance of process, experimentation, and to learn to loosen realism in favor of a style that feels true to him. A standout moment centers on a striking painting inspired by massive log piles along the Allagash—a homage to Maine’s landscape and labor that resonates deeply with both the artist and his audience.
Join our conversation with James Mattison today on Radio Maine, and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Radio Maine is sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery
Julie Kingsley is an award-winning author, educator, and the co-founder of the Manuscript Academy and Manuscript Wishlist, joining Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to explore creativity, resilience, and the courage to put stories into the world. A Scarborough native with deep French Canadian roots, Julie reflects on how Maine’s mill towns, immigrant histories, and close-knit communities shaped her voice and her debut novel, “The Space Between You and Me”, winner of the IPPY Gold Medal and the 2025 Moonbeam YA Gold Medal. Drawing from decades of teaching—from middle school classrooms to community college—Julie shares how education, entrepreneurship, and storytelling intersect, and why young adult fiction is such fertile ground for exploring identity and possibility. She offers candid insights into the writing process, rejection, revision, and trusting the creative community around you, while championing Maine as a place where grit and imagination thrive.
Join our conversation with Julie Kingsley today on Radio Maine, and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Radio Maine is sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery
Sean Thomas, manager of the Portland Art Gallery and a photographer with roots in documentary filmmaking, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to reflect on creativity, community, and the evolving role of artists in Maine’s cultural landscape. A Cape Elizabeth native and graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design, Sean traces his path from photography and film to gallery leadership, where he now champions more than 60 artists with care, curiosity, and respect. He shares thoughtful insights on the importance of creative community, the vulnerability of making art public, and how constructive critique helps artists grow over time. Drawing on his experience traveling across Maine and beyond to meet artists in their studios, Sean emphasizes trust, storytelling, and accessibility as core values of the gallery. His perspective highlights a distinctly Maine sensibility—welcoming, relationship-driven, and grounded in place—while offering a broader reflection on how art connects people.
Join our conversation with Sean Thomas today on Radio Maine, and be sure to subscribe to the channel.
Radio Maine is sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery
Grant Auber, a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans painting, music, design, and film, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to discuss the creative forces that shape his wide-ranging practice. Raised in Rhode Island and deeply influenced by sneaker culture, hip-hop, and early design obsessions, Grant developed a visual language rooted in rhythm, instinct, and flow. His artistic evolution—from drawing sneakers in school to producing music, directing videos, and creating large-scale abstract paintings—reveals a mind finely tuned to cross-disciplinary inspiration.
Grant speaks candidly about the powerful role creativity played during a significant health challenge between 2020 and 2023, and how art became both expression and anchor during a time of intense introspection. With connections to both Maine and Charleston, he continues to explore how environment, music, and emotion intersect in his work.
Join our conversation with Grant Auber today on Radio Maine. Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel.
Radio Maine is sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery
Brett Aldrich, an Ayurvedic counselor, breathwork practitioner, and founder of Seed the Spirit, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to explore how ancient healing practices can help us navigate modern life. A Maine native with a richly layered background—from competitive athletics to trauma-support advocacy—Brett’s path shifted in 2020, a pivotal year that opened the door to studying Ayurveda, yoga, and Spiraldance breathwork more deeply.
Drawing from over a decade of yoga training, advanced breathwork certification, and personal experiences supporting her own family’s health, she now guides clients through seasonal living, somatic awareness, and gentle, sustainable change. Brett shares how breath, food, and rhythm connect us to the natural world, especially in Maine, where shifting seasons shape both our inner and outer lives.
With warmth and clarity, she offers tools for grounding, healing, and reconnecting with oneself—no matter where one is on the journey.
Join our conversation with Brett Aldrich today on Radio Maine. Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel.
Dr. Jana Mohr Lone, executive director of the Philosophy Learning and Teaching Organization (PLATO), joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine to share her lifelong mission of helping children explore life’s biggest questions through philosophy. Trained as both an attorney and a philosopher, Jana discovered early on—as a graduate student and mother—that children naturally ask profound questions about bravery, friendship, death, and purpose. Her work now empowers young people to reason thoughtfully, listen deeply, and engage in meaningful dialogue, whether in classrooms, ethics bowls, or community programs across the country. Based in Camden, she collaborates with Maine schools and the University of Maine, as well as schools and educators across the country and internationally, to bring philosophy and ethics to students of all ages. With a passion for nurturing curiosity and honoring children’s voices, Jana offers a compelling vision for how philosophical inquiry can strengthen communities and inspire lifelong reflection.
Join our conversation with Dr. Jana Mohr Lone today on Radio Maine. Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel.
Radio Maine is sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery
Megan Rosenberg, a dedicated Special Olympics Maine athlete and health messenger, brings remarkable heart, resilience, and advocacy to her work both on and off the field. From early beginnings in California to representing Maine at multiple national competitions, Megan has built a life shaped by athletic discipline, community connection, and a deep commitment to helping others pursue healthy, active lives. Now preparing to compete in unified golf alongside her mom, she continues to model grit and positivity—whether running beside teammates who need support, encouraging healthier choices, or speaking openly about personal challenges with honesty and strength. Megan’s strong ties to Maine’s Special Olympics community, the Law Enforcement Torch Run, and even the Portland Art Gallery through her aunt, artist Ann Trainor Domingue, add warmth and depth to her story.
Join our conversation with Megan Rosenberg today on Radio Maine. And don’t forget to subscribe to the channel.
Radio Maine is sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery
Emily Blaschke is a Portland Art Gallery artist whose mixed-media assemblages transform found objects into vibrant, layered stories. In this conversation with Dr. Lisa Belisle, Emily shares how her art evolved from figurative work at UC Berkeley to the richly textural collages she now creates in Maine. Her inspiration often begins at antique shops or even the local dump, where she collects discarded materials—Barbie dolls, jewelry, paint, and nail polish—and gives them new life. With roots that stretch back to Down East Magazine, founded by her grandfather, Emily has deep ties to Maine’s creative community and now helps foster it through her work with Yarmouth Arts and the Portland Museum of Art. Her pieces invite discovery, joy, and connection, reminding us that beauty can be found in what others leave behind.
Join our conversation with Emily Blaschke today on Radio Maine.
Mike LaRosa, founder of LaRosa Studios and represented by the Portland Art Gallery, brings an uncommon duality to his life’s work—he’s both a practicing pharmacist and a professional artist. Raised in Syracuse, New York, with a background in engineering and pharmacy, Mike ultimately found fulfillment through painting—proof that science and creativity can coexist in harmony. His vivid, hard-edged abstractions and Maine-inspired landscapes reflect a disciplined precision balanced by emotional spontaneity. From family hikes near Deer Isle to his fascination with cinematic color and rhythm, Mike’s art reveals how structure and imagination can share the same canvas. Now living in Norway, Maine, with his physician wife and young son, he continues to explore how love—for color, composition, and connection—drives both his professions.
Join our conversation with Mike LaRosa today on Radio Maine.
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Emily Sabino is a Maine-based painter whose vibrant abstract works explore nature’s cycles, human resilience, and the quiet renewal that comes with listening to one’s own creative voice. After more than a decade as a director of pricing and project management at a major international law firm, Emily found herself managing constant crises—until she realized the real emergency was her own unfulfilled artistic life. In 2025, she made the courageous decision to leave corporate stability behind and commit to painting full time.
Her art—rooted in themes of plants, seeds, and transformation—reflects her fascination with the natural world’s capacity for rebirth. Works like Path Forward and Once an Ocean meditate on growth, healing, and the balance between yin and yang energies. Emily’s paintings invite viewers to see beyond beginnings and endings—to the continuous motion of life and the possibility of regeneration.
In this deeply personal conversation with Dr. Lisa Belisle, Emily shares how her years in the high-pressure legal world unexpectedly strengthened her confidence and focus as an artist. She discusses how caring for her father through Alzheimer’s and learning to trust her intuition reshaped her sense of purpose. Drawing inspiration from her mother, artist Jane Dahmen, Emily embraces a daily practice that blends discipline with spiritual openness—showing how creativity can thrive even after long periods of constraint.
Today, Emily’s work can be seen on her website, EmilySabinoArt.com. Her story is one of rediscovery and courage—a reminder that it’s never too late to return to what makes us feel alive.
In this episode of Radio Maine, Dr. Lisa Belisle welcomes back Dr. Chuck Radis—rheumatologist, author, and storyteller—to discuss his newest book, Mystery in the Room (RHEUM): A Physician’s Journey Treating Patients with Rare Diseases. Drawing inspiration from Oliver Sacks and John McPhee, Dr. Radis blends medical insight with personal reflection, exploring the art of diagnosis, the humanity behind clinical encounters, and the balance between science and empathy.
Together, they discuss how technology, including AI, might paradoxically help physicians reconnect with patients, why listening remains medicine’s most powerful diagnostic tool, and how life on Peaks Island continues to shape Dr. Radis’s perspective as both a doctor and a writer.
Radio Maine is proudly sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery, where we explore and celebrate creativity and the human spirit.
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In this episode of Radio Maine, Dr. Lisa Belisle sits down with Jason Agren, President and Owner of Agren, Maine’s largest independent appliance and mattress retailer. Together they explore the creative side of business—how curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to take risks can drive long-term success.
Jason shares the remarkable story of his family company, from his father’s humble beginnings repairing appliances out of a van in 1969 to Agren’s expansion into eight showrooms and more than 160 employees statewide. He reflects on lessons learned from working alongside his father, balancing tradition with innovation, and how technology and AI are reshaping customer service and logistics.
The conversation also delves into creativity as leadership—hiring the right people, building strong relationships, and reimagining how a local company can compete with giants like Amazon while staying true to Maine values. Jason and Lisa discuss how creative thinking extends beyond the arts into everyday problem-solving, community engagement, and business growth.
This conversation, proudly sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery, celebrates Maine’s entrepreneurial creativity and the blend of hard work, innovation, and human connection that defines success in both business and art.
In this special episode of Radio Maine, Dr. Lisa Belisle sits down with her husband, Kevin Thomas—owner of the Portland Art Gallery—for a candid conversation about his unlikely path from a farming family in northern Maine, to foodservice distribution CEO, to gallery owner in Portland Maine’s Old Port. Kevin shares how his lifelong appreciation for creativity began with high school sketches and Friday night gallery visits in Northampton, Massachusetts—long before he could afford original art. He reflects on lessons in business and branding learned on the job, the leap from an early online art venture to a physical gallery, and why creating a welcoming, approachable space matters to both artists and collectors. Together, Kevin and Lisa explore the Portland Art Gallery’s monthly First Thursday openings, the importance of community, the joy of connecting collectors with meaningful work, and the ways art inspires families across generations—including their own children and grandchildren. This conversation highlights the intersection of creativity, entrepreneurship, and family—revealing why art is more than something you hang on a wall. It’s a way of life.
In this episode of Radio Maine, Dr. Lisa Belisle sits down with William Sullivan, co-organizer of Maine Tech Week and founder of From Away Games. A Maine native who began his career at Microsoft, William shares his journey from deep tech and engineering to gaming, VR/AR, and creative entrepreneurship. They explore how technology and creativity overlap—whether through video game design, immersive VR storytelling, or using AR to improve healthcare training and patient care. William also discusses the vision behind Maine Tech Week, his work with the Silicon Lobster network, and the importance of building lasting connections between Maine’s creative and tech communities. From Robin Williams filming Jumanji in Maine to startups using VR for empathy training, this conversation highlights the innovation, resilience, and community spirit shaping Maine’s future. ✨ Sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery in Portland, Maine.
In this episode of Radio Maine, Dr. Lisa Belisle sits down with Billy Jack Goodwin—program leader at Port Resources’ Achieving Independence in Maine (AIM). Billy Jack shares his remarkable journey from growing up in Lewiston, to decades of nonprofit work supporting vulnerable populations, to creating innovative programs that help young adults with autism and individuals with disabilities live independent, fulfilling lives.
He also opens up about the influence of his mother, an ER nurse who modeled compassion and service; how art and creativity sustain him; and why comedy, yoga, and storytelling have all become vital outlets in his life. Along the way, he reflects on the challenges of working with traumatized youth, the evolution of care for people with disabilities, and his belief that “the universe loves me” has guided his purpose.
Sponsored by the Portland Art Gallery, Radio Maine celebrates creativity and the human spirit.
Tosca Ruggieri is an independent art historian and the founder of Art with Tosca. She brings museum collections to life through storytelling, guided tours, and lectures. Based just outside of Washington, D.C., Tosca began her career in the London art market before shifting her focus to education and engagement both online and in-person. Since moving to the U.S. in 2021, she has created and led intimate, research-driven tours at the National Gallery of Art, helping audiences connect deeply with individual works while exploring themes such as women artists, symbolism, and the history of color.
Her approach blends scholarship with improvisation, encouraging conversation and sparking curiosity that extends far beyond the museum walls. Tosca’s passion for art has roots in her French and Italian upbringing: her early exposure to the museums of Paris, Florence, and Tuscany inspired a lifelong fascination with art history and collecting.
Join our conversation with Tosca Ruggieri today on Radio Maine. Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more episodes!
Joan Fischer is both an artist and a retired attorney, a life path that has taken her from courtroom arguments to colorful canvases. Though she practiced law for decades, art was always her release—first through textiles learned from her immigrant grandmothers, later through bold paintings inspired by color, rhythm, and joy. Today, Fischer brings that sensibility to the Portland Art Gallery, where her vibrant fish paintings and playful compositions invite viewers to smile and linger. Raised by a sculptor mother who once greeted Joan’s high school dates with a blowtorch in hand, Fischer grew up surrounded by creativity. Now living and working between Portland and East Boothbay, she finds inspiration in Maine’s ever-shifting light and coastal landscapes. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and a deep belief that beauty belongs in the everyday. Join our conversation with Joan Fischer today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to the channel.
Ann Trainor Domingue is a Portland Art Gallery artist whose work beautifully explores the intersections of landscape, seascape, and human connection. With a background in graphic design, Ann brings a distinct visual language to her paintings, blending sharp composition with emotional storytelling. Her creative journey includes decades of sketchbook explorations, moments of experimentation with abstraction, and the incorporation of figures that embody strength, relationship, and care.
Ann’s pieces often capture life at the edge—where sea meets land, or where individuals meet one another—inviting viewers to bring their own stories into her art. Influenced by time spent along Maine’s coast, as well as formative travels in the Southwest, Ann has developed a style that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Her career reflects persistence, playfulness, and a willingness to reimagine her own process.
Join our conversation with Ann Trainor Domingue today on Radio Maine. Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of creativity and the human spirit.
Sarah Giffen Carr is a conservation leader whose lifelong connection to Maine’s landscapes has shaped both her personal journey and professional career. Raised in Hallowell, she spent summers with her family in a rustic cabin built by her father. As a result of that yearly re-immersion into the natural world, Sarah developed a deep love for the outdoors that guided her toward studying geography and environmental science at McGill University. She went on to work with organizations including the U.S. Geological Survey and Maine’s Land Use Planning Commission, before serving as co-executive director of conservation at the Midcoast Conservancy. In this conversation, Sarah shares how her upbringing, family influences, and the writings of Aldo Leopold shaped her conservation ethic. She reflects on balancing land use with preservation, the unique ecological treasures of Maine—from intact northern forests to Atlantic salmon populations—and the personal meaning she draws from place, loss, and legacy. Join our conversation with Sarah Giffen Carr today on Radio Maine. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more inspiring stories!
Contemporary landscape artist Sam Chappell brings a compelling blend of intuition, emotion, and resilience to her creative journey. With a background in art history, focused on the Renaissance, Sam never imagined she’d return to art through painting—especially not in the loose, expressive style she now embraces.
After years in nonprofit fundraising and the corporate world, she rediscovered painting during the isolation of the pandemic, finding the process both meditative and transformative. Motherhood, and a move to Maine in 2023, gave her the clarity and courage to pursue art full-time.
Beginning with vibrant red underpaintings, she recreates fleeting moments from her travels and memories, creating works that resonate far beyond the canvas. Her story of vulnerability, persistence, and reinvention will inspire anyone seeking creative fulfillment.
Join our conversation with Portland Art Gallery artist Sam Chappell today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel!
Dr. Lisa Belisle, physician, writer, and host of Radio Maine, returns with a deeply personal solo episode exploring the rhythms that shape our inner and creative lives. Drawing on her experience in medicine, motherhood, and writing, Dr. Belisle reflects on the power of slowing down, honoring transitions, and reconnecting with the quiet wisdom within us. She weaves insights from traditional Chinese medicine with her own stories of long runs through the woods, tea-filled mornings, and the cyclical nature of creativity. Inspired by artist Emma Ballou and conversations with others in the Portland Art Gallery community, she invites us to reimagine rest not as retreat—but as return. Whether you're navigating change or simply feeling out of step, this episode offers a gentle and grounding reminder: you're not falling behind, you're coming home. Join our conversation with Dr. Lisa Belisle today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel!
Michael Keighley, Chief Yoga Officer of Archangel Yoga and former Army helicopter pilot, shares a powerful and deeply personal journey from war zones to wellness. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Michael found his way to Maine through the University of Maine ROTC program. He served more than eight years in the military, including deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kuwait. Struggling with PTSD and disconnection after his military service, Michael discovered yoga as a lifeline—eventually dedicating his life to teaching trauma-informed yoga to veterans, first responders, and underserved communities. Now based in Augusta, Maine, Michael’s work centers on restoring connection, identity, and purpose through movement, breath, and self-compassion. His yoga teaching experiences—from the Kennebec County Jail to the Travis Mills Foundation—highlight the healing power of choice and community. Join our conversation with Michael Keighley today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more stories that celebrate creativity and the human spirit!
Anni Pat McKenney, Director of MaineHealth’s Coulombe Center for Health Improvement, joins us on Radio Maine to share her inspiring journey from occupational therapy to pioneering community-based youth health programs. Raised in Newcastle, Maine, Anni Pat brings a deep personal connection to the communities she now serves. With past experience in the mental health field and a passion for service, she has helped transform school-based health centers into trusted spaces where students receive vital medical and behavioral care—right where they learn.
Her work addresses rural healthcare gaps, early childhood trauma, and the importance of trusted relationships in healing. Anni Pat’s story—from growing up in a home her father built to returning and leading community health efforts—reflects a powerful cycle of care, purpose, and local impact.
Join our conversation with Anni Pat McKenney today on Radio Maine, and don’t forget to subscribe to the channel!
Ginny Hussey, General Manager of Canopy Portland Waterfront, brings a deep passion for hospitality and an abiding love for Maine to her leadership role in one of Portland’s most dynamic hotels. Raised in Colorado Springs but with early connections to Biddeford Pool, Ginny moved to Maine with her family when she was in high school. After returning to Colorado for college, and gaining experience in the hospitality industry, Ginny returned to the Pine Tree state and enjoyed being part of the team that launched Portland’s Press Hotel. Her deep local knowledge, commitment to authentic guest experiences, and dedication to showcasing Maine’s food, art, and people make her a true ambassador for the region.
Ginny thoughtfully guides visitors through Portland’s vibrant culinary and cultural scene, reveals her favorite hidden gems, and discusses her work championing local art through initiatives like Canopy’s Epic Grant for Maine College of Art & Design students. Whether it’s welcoming guests at the front desk or connecting them to Maine’s unique spirit, Ginny is shaping what it means to experience hospitality with heart.
Join our conversation with Ginny Hussey today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to the channel!
Dr. Gerard Gawalt, esteemed historian and author, joins us from New Harbor, Maine to share his deep knowledge of the state’s often-overlooked past. With a career rooted in archival work and a passion sparked by his wife’s Maine lineage, Dr. Gawalt has spent decades uncovering the complex layers of our history—from intertribal conflicts among the Abenaki to the turbulent land disputes involving Henry and Lucy Knox. Dr. Gawalt also explores how a longstanding mistrust of outsiders and a fierce sense of independence helped shape Maine’s identity. Our conversation offers a compelling look into the events and people that helped define the state. Join our conversation with Dr. Gerard Gawalt today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to the channel!
Dr. Rebecca Boulos, Executive Director of the Maine Public Health Association, brings an extraordinary blend of academic insight, personal experience, and deep-rooted commitment to her home state. With a PhD in Food Policy and Applied Nutrition from Tufts, along with degrees from Yale and George Washington University, Rebecca has spent years exploring how our environment, mindset, and stress shape health outcomes. A Cape Elizabeth native, Rebecca shares how growing up in Maine—and eventually returning to it—shaped her belief in both self-sufficiency and community care. From her early days volunteering in local schools to groundbreaking research on optimism and public health policy, Rebecca offers a compelling perspective on how small shifts can lead to big health improvements. Her work is a powerful reminder that place, purpose, and people all matter. Join our conversation with Dr. Rebecca Boulos today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel!
Dr. Lisa Belisle—physician, writer, and host of Radio Maine—returns for a solo episode that resonates with emotional depth and quiet strength. In this intimate reflection, she explores the art of wayfinding: how we move through uncertainty, loss, and transformation with grace and authenticity.
Drawing on recent experiences, Lisa speaks candidly about the death of a cherished patient, the evolving role of caregiving, and the one-year anniversary of her father's passing. Her words are grounded in the perspective of a healer and shaped by a lifelong connection to Maine’s rugged, contemplative landscape.
Rather than offering tidy answers, Lisa invites listeners into the messy, beautiful process of becoming. She reflects on how moments of grief can sharpen our insight, loosen our grip on old narratives, and open the way for something more honest and alive.
With lyrical clarity and emotional steadiness, this episode holds space for anyone navigating change. It’s a reminder that, sometimes, the surest direction comes not from knowing where we’re going—but from paying attention to what calls us forward.
Krista Cole, owner and Director of Operations for Sur Lie in Portland and Gather in Yarmouth, brings Northern Maine grit and hospitality to the heart of the restaurant world. A two-time James Beard semifinalist, Krista’s journey began in healthcare management, where she built a foundation in operations and strategy before stepping full-force into entrepreneurship. Her story is one of dual passions—caring for people and creating meaningful food experiences. From her humble roots in Houlton to balancing two full-time careers, she’s stayed true to her small-town values: honesty, hard work, and community. At Sur Lie, she redefines upscale casual dining, while Gather feels like a welcoming neighborhood table—complete with a team that shares her passion for service. Krista’s love of systems, branding, and culture-building has made her a force in Maine’s culinary scene and a role model for women entrepreneurs. Join our conversation with Krista Cole today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel.
Chip Brewer, founder of Growth Story LLC and a Bowdoin College alum, joins Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine for a dynamic conversation about storytelling, community, and the power of collaboration. A longtime resident of Cape Elizabeth, Chip blends decades of corporate consulting with his passion for improv, screenwriting, and novel writing—crafts he uses to explore themes of teamwork and empathy. From teaching improv to the Bowdoin Alumni Council to co-authoring a screenplay inspired by his over-40 hockey team, Chip infuses every project with insight and humor. He shares stories of unexpected connections, lessons from summer camp, and the value of "sneaky bonding" to bridge generational or ideological divides. Rooted in the belief that creativity flourishes in collaboration, Chip's work reflects a deep commitment to kindness and shared purpose. Join our conversation with Chip Brewer today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to the channel!
Christoph Gelfand, Wes Sterrs, and Jeff Griecci—filmmakers behind the dynamic short documentary Final First Edition—join us for a lively and insightful conversation about collaboration, creativity, and a deep dive into pop culture history. This trio, each with impressive individual credentials in Maine’s tight-knit film community, came together to chronicle a fascinating project: collector Rich Horn’s mission to recreate the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comic, using the same techniques and even the original negatives—first printed in Biddeford, Maine nearly 40 years ago. Christoph, founder of True Life Media, Jeff, a Biddeford-based cinematographer with a passion for indie films, and Wes, the film’s director and a Belfast native, reveal how Final First Edition became a joyful exploration of fandom, nostalgia, and artistic obsession. Their camaraderie shines throughout—whether joking about their own Ninja Turtle alter egos or reflecting on the powerful lessons learned from documenting Rich’s meticulous archive. Beyond the humor and energy, this conversation highlights the unique spirit of Maine’s creative scene, where small communities foster big projects—and where teamwork transforms vision into reality. It’s a testament to friendship, shared passion, and the magic that happens when artists unite behind a common goal. Join our conversation with Christoph, Wes, and Jeff today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more inspiring stories!
Ryan Kohler is a Portland Art Gallery artist known for his vibrant mixed-media paintings that blend acrylic and collage into energetic “parties on canvas.” Based in Skowhegan, Ryan’s journey to full-time art began with a brief stint in architecture, followed by years immersed in music—writing, performing, and producing—before a major life shift brought him fully into the studio. His process is intuitive and tactile, often sparked by color, texture, and rhythm, with unexpected elements like fragments of album covers adding layers of meaning. A self-taught builder, Ryan even renovated his own studio above a garage, embracing the physicality of creativity in all forms. Inspired early by Picasso and Dalí, he sees each canvas as a self-portrait in energy, offering viewers a dynamic and personal visual experience rooted in Maine’s landscape and artistic community. Join our conversation with Ryan Kohler today on Radio Maine. Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more inspiring artist stories.
Karla Brannen, principal at Brannen CPA Services, shows that accounting is as much about insight and problem-solving as it is about numbers. A native of Maine's Aroostook County and graduate of Thomas College, Karla has built a thriving firm grounded in expertise and a deep understanding of her clients’ unique situations. In this Radio Maine interview, she shares how no two tax returns are ever quite the same, and how careful interpretation, judgment, and experience are essential to finding the best path forward for each client. Karla also reflects on her bold decision to leave a traditional firm and launch her own practice—bringing fresh ideas and a personal touch to every aspect of her work, from welcoming office design to her strong ties with the Portland Art Gallery. It’s a thoughtful look at how accounting can be both precise and personal. Join our conversation with Karla Brannen today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to the channel.
Documentary photographer Nick Gervin has spent the last decade capturing the soul of Portland, Maine—its beauty, its struggles, and its untold stories. In this inspiring Radio Maine interview, Nick shares how photography became a lifeline in his recovery from traumatic brain injury and substance use disorder, guiding him from solitary nighttime shoots to a vibrant artistic community at the Bakery Photo Collective. His work, including the acclaimed book Portlanders, blurs the line between documentary and fine art, inviting viewers to see the city’s complexities: its flaws, its resilience, its humanity. With powerful images of everyday life and a deep commitment to truth-telling, Nick shows how photography can both witness and heal. Join our conversation with Nick Gervin today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to the channel.
Susan Woods, MD, MPH is a digital health pioneer whose career has bridged the exam room and the cutting edge of technology. In this inspiring conversation with Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine, Dr. Woods shares how her Maine roots and collaborations with forward-thinking public health pioneers like Dr. Richard Rockefeller, Deborah Deatrick, M.P.H., and Dr. Dora Anne Mills helped shape her path—from launching the Maine Tobacco Helpline to leading national innovations at the VA. A passionate advocate for participatory medicine and co-designed care, she brings exuberance to every pivot—from telehealth to AI, food as medicine, and her latest role as a Food for Health ambassador connected to Portland’s Fork Food Lab.
Through it all, Susan remains grounded in her belief that patients are not just recipients of care—they’re experts, too. Her story offers an uplifting reminder of what’s possible when we listen, collaborate, and design with real people in mind.
Join our conversation with Dr. Susan Woods today on Radio Maine. Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel.
Dr. Jeffrey Barkin is a practicing psychiatrist, multimedia journalist, and co-host of A Healthy Conversation on WGAN, where he brings clarity and calm to today’s most pressing healthcare issues. Known for his positivity and thoughtful communication style, Jeff has spent decades helping people navigate uncertainty—first in clinical settings and now through public dialogue. A Swarthmore and Yale-trained physician, he traces his love of radio back to childhood nights spent listening to a tiny transistor tucked inside a stuffed animal.
From his early DJ days to leading the Maine Medical Association, Jeff’s journey reflects a deep belief: better communication leads to better care. Whether breaking down pandemic anxieties or advocating for more humane healthcare models, he champions honesty, empathy, and the power of process over prescription. His Maine roots, paired with a global outlook, make his voice a vital one in reimagining how we connect, care, and heal.
Join our conversation with Dr. Jeffrey Barkin today on Radio Maine. Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel.
Andrew Faulkner is a Maine-connected artist whose vibrant landscapes captivate viewers with bold color and playful textures. Based in Sausalito, California, Andrew draws on his background in graphic design and fine art to create pieces that blur the line between representation and abstraction. His recent series explores the interplay of color, light, and texture, incorporating cold wax into oil paint for added depth. Andrew’s evolving style reflects a growing confidence in creative exploration, free from the constraints of trends or expectations. His work, described as joyful and whimsical, invites viewers to interpret each piece through their own lens. Join our conversation with Portland Art Gallery artist Andrew Faulkner today on Radio Maine.
Melissa Skahan is the Vice President of Mission at Northern LIght Mercy Hospital in Portland, Maine. With a background in education and healthcare, Melissa has spent 17 years leading initiatives that support vulnerable populations. She played a key role in transforming Portland’s McAuley Residence into a statewide program providing housing, healthcare, and education for families affected by substance use disorder. Melissa’s work extends to serving pregnant women who have immigrated from other countries, ensuring that they receive culturally responsive care. Passionate about breaking cycles of poverty and addiction, Melissa helps families build stability and opportunity. Join our conversation with Melissa Skahan today on Radio Maine.
How can we keep our brains healthy as we age? Dr. Allan “Chip” Teel has spent decades exploring this question, both as a Maine-based family physician and an innovator in independent senior living. Maine has the highest percentage of people over 65 in the United States. Practicing in Lincoln County (which itself has one of Maine’s oldest populations), Dr. Teel has seen firsthand the challenges of cognitive decline—but he also sees hope. Inspired by groundbreaking research, Dr. Teel has developed an approach that blends cutting-edge brain imaging with lifestyle interventions to slow, and even reverse, memory loss. From volumetric MRIs to tailored cognitive exercises, Dr. Teel helps patients reclaim their mental sharpness and independence. In this conversation, Dr. Teel shares surprising insights about brain health, the role of community in aging, and why early intervention is key. His work is transforming the way we think about Alzheimer’s Disease and other conditions causing dementia, proving that proactive brain care can make all the difference.
Join our conversation with Dr. Allan “Chip” Teel today on Radio Maine.
Dr. Lucy Liaw is a scientist, educator, and wellness advocate whose work bridges the worlds of biomedical research, martial arts, and mindfulness. A faculty scientist at MaineHealth, and professor at the University of Maine and Tufts University School of Medicine, Lucy’s research focuses on cardiovascular health and metabolic disease, tackling some of today’s most pressing health challenges. Outside the lab, Lucy is a dedicated practitioner of Japanese martial arts and a certified yoga instructor, bringing her passion for mind-body integration to her community.
In this episode, Dr. Liaw shares her path from studying biology at the University of Arizona to earning her PhD at the University of Washington, and how she followed both science and intuition to Maine. She discusses her work in research mentorship, her efforts to expand life sciences in Maine, and her commitment to fostering resilience through movement and mindfulness.
Join our conversation with Dr. Lucy Liaw today on Radio Maine–and remember to subscribe!
Joel Alex is the founder of Blue Ox Malthouse, a business dedicated to connecting Maine-grown grains with the craft beer industry in his home state. Joel’s family has deep roots in Maine: his mother’s family once worked in the Rumford mills, and his father grew up on a dairy farm in Unity. Raised in Old Town, Joel graduated from Colby College in Waterville, where his exposure to study abroad programs in Madagascar and Switzerland piqued his interest in sustainable development. After working in community organizing and environmental policy, Joel discovered a gap in local grain processing, leading to the creation of Blue Ox. From living out of a car while researching Maine’s agricultural landscape to pioneering a craft malt industry, Joel’s journey is a testament to innovation and perseverance. Join our conversation with Joel Alex today on Radio Maine.
Michael Dalton, the CEO of Ovatient, is redefining virtual healthcare by bringing high-quality, patient-centered care directly to the people who need it. With a background in healthcare leadership at The MetroHealth System and Summa Health in Ohio, Michael saw firsthand the barriers patients face—from transportation and family/work schedules, to limited availability of specialists. His passion for improving healthcare accessibility led to the creation of Ovatient, a virtual-first care model seamlessly integrated with major health systems like MetroHealth and The Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. In this conversation, Michael discusses the power of digital health, the importance of rebuilding trust between patients and providers, and how Ovatient leverages technology to enhance care, while keeping the human connection at its core. From his Midwest roots to his leadership in healthcare innovation, Michael shares how virtual care is transforming the industry.
Join our conversation with Michael Dalton today on Radio Maine–and subscribe to the channel for your weekly dose of creative inspiration!
Jim Brady is the president and founder of Fathom Companies, a real estate development and hotel management firm based in Portland, Maine. A former professional sailor, Jim was a silver medalist in Barcelona's 1992 Summer Olympics, before transitioning to real estate. His journey into the field was influenced by his partnership with Maine native Kevin Mahaney. Jim’s projects, such as The Press Hotel, located in the former Portland Press Herald building, have played a significant role in revitalizing the city’s downtown. Jim is now working on transforming nearby Monument Square, as he creates unique spaces that bring life to Maine. Join our conversation with Jim Brady today on Radio Maine.
Emma Ballou is a Maine-based artist whose work reflects her appreciation for the beauty of her natural surroundings. Raised in rural Buxton, Emma cultivated her artistic perspective through a family legacy of creativity and formative experiences at the Maine College of Art in Portland. After more than a decade away in Baltimore, Maryland, Washington, DC, and Long Island, New York—attending Goucher College and subsequently working as a historical museum curator—Emma returned to Maine to immerse herself in art and homesteading. Emma now creates her ethereal landscapes in a renovated barn studio, surrounded by the family goats and invigorated by the scents emanating from nearby Milkweed Coffee Roasters, a micro-batch endeavor shared with partner Jennilee Morris. Join our conversation with Portland Art Gallery artist Emma Ballou today on Radio Maine.
Lisa Sockabasin is the co-CEO of Wabanaki Public Health and Wellness (WPHW), an organization addressing health and cultural restoration for indigenous communities in Maine. A member of the Passamaquoddy Nation, Lisa holds degrees in nursing and epidemiology, and has dedicated her career to community wellness. Lisa draws upon her considerable experience to further the integration of traditional Wabanaki practices with modern public health strategies at WPHW. Lisa also co-hosts Aunties on Air, a podcast amplifying indigenous voices and stories. Join our conversation with Lisa Sockabasin today on Radio Maine
Giovanna Gray Lockhart is the Executive Director of the Frances Perkins Center in Newcastle, Maine. Passionate about gender equity and the intersection of policy, politics, and media, much of Giovanna’s career has been in the political arena, including four years working for New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. In her latest role, Giovanna serves as an enthusiastic advocate for Frances Perkins, the first female U.S. Cabinet member whose saltwater farm was recently designated one of only two National Monuments in Maine. This is a fitting tribute to Frances Perkins’ transformative role and her enduring legacy in social reform, including the establishment of Social Security. As a National Monument, Frances Perkins’ former homestead celebrates Maine’s rich heritage of women leaders, and serves to remind us of both the importance of inclusive narratives in historic preservation, and the power of community-driven change. Join our conversation with Giovanna Gray Lockhart today on Radio Maine.
Dr. Tom Brewster is a pediatrician and geneticist who is passionate about improving the health of children beginning at a foundational level. A Nebraska native, Tom earned his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and practiced clinical pediatrics in Maine for more than thirty years. Today, Tom is at the forefront of genomics, focusing on how advances in DNA sequencing can revolutionize newborn screening and disease prevention. He has unique insights into the evolution of genetic medicine, from his early days of painstakingly analyzing individual chromosomes (groupings of DNA segments and other proteins found inside cells) to today’s ability to sequence a genome (a complete set of our body’s DNA) in a matter of hours. Join our conversation with Dr. Tom Brewster today on Radio Maine.
Carlos Gamez de Francisco is a Cuban-born artist known for his vibrant, imaginative works. Educated in his home country, and later at the Art Institute of Chicago, Carlos combines classical techniques with contemporary storytelling. His art, deeply influenced by his family’s resilience and rich history, reflects themes of freedom, mystery, and creativity. Carlos incorporates Renaissance inspiration and elements of nature into his paintings, often blending animal and human forms to create striking narratives. Join our conversation with Portland Art Gallery artist Carlos Gamez de Francisco today on Radio Maine.
Artist Brian Reardon is inspired by the landscapes of New England and the charm of vintage industrial design. Born in Vermont, Brian graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, and worked for over 25 years in educational publishing while pursuing his passion for painting. Brian’s art reflects a deep appreciation for light, form, and nostalgia, often capturing classic tractors, cars, and other objects that evoke personal and shared memories. Join our conversation with Portland Art Gallery artist Brian Reardon today on Radio Maine.
Dr. Rachel Criswell is a family physician who combines clinical care with pioneering research on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): commonly found "forever chemicals" that have been increasingly linked to negative health impacts. Rachel translates complex scientific findings into actionable insights for patients and communities affected by these pollutants. A graduate of Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City, and the Maine Dartmouth Family Medicine Residency, Rachel now practices at Redington-Fairview General Hospital in Skowhegan, Maine. Rachel takes a holistic approach to health, integrating Western medical practices with more traditional ways of understanding wellness. Her passion for addressing local environmental health challenges, including PFAS contamination in Maine’s food and water systems, reflects Rachel’s dedication to improving patient care. Join our conversation with Dr. Rachel Criswell today on Radio Maine.
Brenda Cirioni is an accomplished artist known for her vibrant, mixed-media creations. Originally from Rhode Island and now based in Massachusetts, Brenda’s artistic journey began early, exhibiting at the Wickford Art Festival at just eight years old. A graduate of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, Brenda’s work reflects her deep connection to nature and her intuitive creative process. Her acclaimed Continuum series explores growth and transformation through sculptural, textured pieces incorporating materials like dried flowers, resin, and paint. Inspired by art luminaries such as Van Gogh and Joan Mitchell, Brenda’s studio practice emphasizes resilience and the joy of experimentation.
Join our conversation with Brenda Cirioni today on Radio Maine.
Dr. Minda Gold is a Maine-based family medicine specialist and direct primary care (DPC) physician. After co-running Full Circle Family Medicine in Damariscotta for 13 years, Minda transitioned to caring for patients through the DPC model nearly eight years ago. A graduate of the Maine Medical Center Family Medicine residency program in Portland, Minda embraced Maine's natural beauty and close-knit communities early in her career. Minda’s DPC practice prioritizes unhurried, personalized care by removing barriers like insurance constraints, making more space for patient-physician relationships.
Join our conversation with Dr. Minda Gold today on Radio Maine.
Adele Ngoy is a fashion designer, educator, and entrepreneur who has made a profound impact on the Maine community. Originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Adele arrived in the United States in 2000 as a refugee, driven by a determination to provide a safe, supportive environment for her three young children. After several years In Portland, Adele’s passion for empowering others led her to establish the non-profit Women United Around the World. Her organization teaches sewing and helps new Mainers connect with the local community. Still active in fashion design, Adele now owns the much beloved and well-regarded Antoine's Tailor Shop on Congress Street. Join our conversation with Adele Ngoy today on Radio Maine.
Nikki Fontaine is a visual artist and holistic skincare specialist. Formerly a high-level makeup artist working with globally recognized clients in the entertainment field, Nikki transitioned into natural and plant-based treatments after moving to Maine from New York City during the pandemic. Her journey led her to formal esthetician training. Nikki now practices at Abura Skincare, an eco-focused skincare studio in Portland, Maine, where she incorporates botanical ingredients, such as calendula and blue tansy, to promote skin health. Her unique approach includes facial sculpting, which targets muscle tension and enhances overall well-being. Join our conversation with Nikki Fontaine today on Radio Maine.
Home designer Patty Cooke brings a unique approach to her craft, applying principles from art and architecture to create harmonious spaces. Patty believes in the importance of reworking existing spaces rather than opting for new construction, believing that character and history add depth to design. Her passion for preserving historic buildings shines through in projects like the Pickering House Inn in Wolfeboro, NH. Patty strives to create environments that enhance mental well-being, incorporating original materials and thoughtful aesthetics. Join our conversation with Patty Cooke today on Radio Maine.
Paula Hamel Daher is an accomplished interior designer and founder of Daher Interior Designs. Paula’s successful design practice draws on her educational background in civil engineering and computer science, and thrives on client collaboration. Based in Boston and Kennebunk, Maine, Paula has traveled globally, and actively sources unique local craftsmanship for her projects. Join our conversation with Paula Daher today on Radio Maine.
Grace DeGennaro is a renowned artist and educator whose work has been exhibited widely across the United States and around the world. Originally from Long Island, New York, Grace now lives in Yarmouth, Maine. She earned degrees in Fine Arts from Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, New York and Columbia University in New York City. Grace’s work reflects a unique blend of spirituality and abstraction, deeply influenced by her Catholic upbringing and years of exploring sacred geometry. Using a meditative process, Grace creates intricate patterns and compositions that reference natural cycles, time, and space. Her artistic approach intertwines visual arts with literature, as she draws inspiration from myths, fairy tales, and her extensive reading. Join our conversation with Grace DeGennaro today on Radio Maine.
Vivian Beer is a renowned sculptor and furniture designer/maker originally from Bar Harbor, Maine. A graduate of the Maine College of Art in Portland and the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Vivian has transformed the public art landscape with her large-scale installations, including her recent work in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, titled "Woven Together." This project creatively intertwines durable materials like metal and bronze to celebrate women and evoke empathy in the community. Vivian’s work has been in many well-known institutions, including the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston and the Smithsonian in Washington, DC. Vivian’s journey through the male-dominated art world and other personal experiences have shown her the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. Join our conversation with Vivian Beer today on Radio Maine.
Pasha Marlowe is the CEO of Neuro Belonging, a company dedicated to advancing neurodiversity and disability inclusion. With over 30 years of experience as a therapist and health coach, Pasha connects deeply to Maine through personal and professional ties, seeking to shift the narrative around neurodiversity in the state. Pasha emphasizes the importance of recognizing individual differences rather than conforming to a "normal" standard. The conversation highlights the need for inclusive practices in workplaces and communities, advocating for accommodations that celebrate diverse experiences. Join our conversation with Pasha Marlowe today on Radio Maine.
Dr. Todd Otten is a board-certified family physician with over two decades of experience in medicine. Todd, who has ties to Maine through his past work as a naval flight surgeon, champions an approach called “Our Quadruple Aim,” which seeks to drive systemic change in healthcare. His groundbreaking book, Ripple of Change, co-authored with his patient Joshua Judy, delves into the challenges of burnout and offers a hopeful path forward. Todd believes that collaboration and innovative models will transform the way we offer and access care. Join our conversation with Dr. Todd Otten today on Radio Maine.
Margot Hartford is a multidisciplinary artist and commercial photographer originally from Waterloo, Canada. With a background in photography and film, Margot has spent nearly three decades exploring creativity. Margot’s journey from commercial photography to fine art demonstrates the freedom that comes from breaking traditional artistic rules. Margot’s vibrant work is informed by childhood nostalgia, and incorporates innovative techniques like image transfer and encaustics. Join our conversation with Margot Hartford today on Radio Maine.
Dr. Barbara Crowley is the leader of the Peter Alfond Endowment Programs at MaineGeneral Health in Augusta. Barbara’s background in pediatrics and community health has contributed to her transformational approach to broadening the definition of health beyond clinical settings. From pioneering school-based health centers to leading initiatives that address social determinants of health such as food insecurity, Barbara's career reflects a deep commitment to integrating wellness services into the community. Her current focus is on enhancing well-being in Kennebec and Somerset counties through innovative programs and partnerships. Join our conversation with Dr. Barbara Crowley today on Radio Maine.
Rebecca Hatfield is the CEO and president of Avesta Housing. With a background in finance and tech, Rebecca brings a unique blend of analytical prowess and compassion to her role at one of Maine’s most well-recognized affordable housing non-profits. Raised on the West Coast, Rebecca spent time all over the world before moving to her husband’s home state nine years ago. She has become known as a strategic leader dedicated to tackling Maine’s housing crisis head-on, noting the critical intersection of stable housing and overall well-being. Join our conversation with Rebecca Hatfield today on Radio Maine.
Megan Jo Wilson is the founder of Rockstar Camp for Women, a transformative leadership program held at the Portland House of Music in Maine’s largest city. Growing up in nearby Cape Elizabeth, Megan felt drawn to the arts at an early age. From performing Tina Turner tunes on her parents’ front lawn to becoming a professional singer and musician, Megan quickly developed confidence in her ability to use her voice effectively. Throughout her decades of work as a certified coach and leadership trainer, Megan noticed a stark confidence gap between men and women in business. She founded Rockstar Camp with this in mind, providing a space where women conquer stage fright and unleash their voices through performance, empowering them to embrace their brilliance and leadership potential. Join our conversation with Megan Jo Wilson today on Radio Maine.
Bud Stiker is an internationally recognized radio professional and creative consultant who now uses his communication background to benefit medical learners and patients. Originally from upstate New York, Bud gained extensive experience in radio across the U.S. before eventually moving to Maine. Bud’s winding professional path from disc jockey to general manager and international consultant enabled him to build resilience and adaptability, while developing a deep understanding of people. He has most recently used these skills while playing the role of “standardized patient” for the Tufts University School of Medicine Maine Track Program and Maine Medical Center in Portland. Join our conversation with Bud Stiker today on Radio Maine.
Chelsie DiConzo is the Community Events Director for the Yarmouth Clam Festival. Originally from Rumford, a riverfront mill town located in the foothills of western Maine, Chelsie has dedicated herself to showcasing Maine’s cultural landscape. Chelsie drew upon her well-honed skills as a seasoned event organizer when reviving Yarmouth’s beloved tradition after a two-year Covid-imposed hiatus. She and her team successfully overcame many challenges in 2022 as they reinstated Maine’s largest free-admission festival, which welcomes more than 100,000 guests each July. Join our conversation with Chelsie DiConzo today on Radio Maine.
Kristin Eckhardt is a co-founder of Notice, a boutique consulting agency that specializes in educational startups and other entrepreneurial ventures. A graduate of Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, Kristin's education and professional background encompass diverse realms from visual art and architecture to technology and small business ownership. Kristin believes in balancing tech with tangible experiences, and the importance of nurturing enriching environments, both physical and virtual. Hailing from the woods of Southern Maine, Kristin attributes her eclectic pursuits to a Mainer's ethos of embracing challenges and seeking growth. Join our conversation with Kristin Eckhardt today on Radio Maine.
Sonia Cook-Broen is a trailblazing innovator whose focus is the intersection of technology and art. A former software engineer and longtime Maine resident, Sonia is the founder of TheTechMargin, which embraces “coloring outside of the lines, creativity, mindfulness, and allyship,” through its online classes and other content. Sonia advocates for diversity in the tech industry, emphasizing the value of varied perspectives in problem-solving. Sonia also transforms artwork into wearable pieces, as a means of making art more accessible, and providing financial sustainability for artists like Christopher O’Connor (who also happens to be her husband). Join our conversation with Sonia Cook-Broen today on Radio Maine.
Page Eastburn O’Rourke spent decades developing a successful career based on a creative style she called “Pop Folk Art,” that became beloved by loyal collectors of her work. She hopes that her new work will be even more appealing to those who have come to love and appreciate her approach. Page recalls a “lightning bolt” moment while exploring the Left Bank in Paris that convinced her of the clear immediate need to shift her painting to a more abstract form. Although this change represents a potential risk to her current success, Page has no regrets about her decision to embrace her truth and take hold of her future, as she fully pursues significant artistic growth. Join our conversation with Page Eastburn O’Rourke today on Radio Maine.
Raised in Winslow, Maine, Addiction Medicine specialist Dr. Nick Gallagher is the latest in a long line of family members to provide care for his community. He began his employment with the local hospital when he was a teenager, scrubbing floors and emptying trash cans, as a member of the environmental services team. After working his way through the University of Maine at Augusta, Nick went on to the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine in Biddeford, Maine. During his emergency medicine training, Nick saw firsthand the devastating impact of substance use disorder (SUD). This prompted Nick to pursue a fellowship in Addiction Medicine at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, before returning to practice in his home state. Now a medical director for the same hospital system in which he “grew up”--and where his mother worked for four decades– Nick stresses the importance of a compassionate, comprehensive, community-oriented approach to SUD. Join our conversation with Dr. Nick Gallagher today on Radio Maine.
Coffee by Design owner and co-founder Mary Allen Lindemann is a pioneering force in the coffee industry, and a longstanding supporter of arts and community in Maine. Her deep connection to the state dates back to 1971, when her family first began summering on Chebeague Island in Casco Bay. Mary Allen would go on to pursue fashion marketing and advertising, before a chance intersection with Seattle’s specialty coffee scene seeded her desire to focus on what would become her life’s work. Portland-based Coffee By Design has flourished for three decades, and her leadership has shaped not only local culture, but also the global coffee landscape. As an advocate for sustainable sourcing, Mary Allen maintains direct connections with coffee farmers worldwide. Join our conversation with Mary Allen Lindemann today on Radio Maine.
Emerging artist Miriam Webber found her way back to art as a means to rediscover herself after becoming a mother. Miriam has long enjoyed painting and drawing. A friend who featured Miriam’s work at her local business catalyzed Miriam’s shift toward sharing her art publicly, and the subsequent sell-out show affirmed Miriam’s artistic path. Currently balancing her role as a mother and work as a hairstylist with her artistic pursuits, Miriam actively involves her son in her creative process. This collaboration has influenced her artwork, yielding imaginative pieces such as "Fruit Solar System.” Miriam draws on her knowledge of color theory to bring beauty to all aspects of her life: from people and painting, to interior spaces. Join our conversation with Miriam Webber today on Radio Maine with Dr. Lisa Belisle.
Dr. David Salko is a family physician and medical leader dedicated to community health. A graduate of Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and the Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Dave completed his family medicine residency at Maine Medical Center in Portland. He and his wife, Jen, have four active children, whose interests range from ice hockey to art. Passionate about teaching, Dave mentors the next generation of health practitioners at the Topsham practice where he has worked since 2007. Dave is also a member of Central Maine Healthcare’s Board of Directors. An avid runner and cyclist, Dave is a regular participant in the The Dempsey Challenge, a yearly run/walk/cycle event that raises money for the Dempsey Center, founded by actor Patrick Dempsey to help cancer patients and their families. Join our conversation with Dr. David Salko today on Radio Maine.
Dianne Ballon is a sound artist. A graduate of the Massachusetts College of Art in Boston, Dianne originally worked with visual mediums, but became intrigued by the creative possibilities of audio elements, and soon changed her focus to sound. Her current exhibit at the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath, titled Lost and Found: Sounds of the Maine Coast by Dianne Ballon, features local soundscape essentials such as buoys and foghorns. Previously a member of the teaching and production staff at the University of Maine in Augusta, Dianne looks for the right locale, and the perfect circumstances, to record audio of the highest possible quality. She has a particular love for the sounds of nature, which intersects with another of her favorite pastimes: birding. Join our conversation with Dianne Ballon today on Radio Maine.
An experienced leader across various industries, Alex Sydnor brings a unique perspective to the healthcare sector, where he has served as a Chief Strategy Officer for more than a decade. With a background in education and the arts, Alex recognizes the pivotal role creativity plays in problem-solving. Alex emphasizes the value of cross-disciplinary ideas, and encourages a culture that embraces diverse viewpoints. He champions and practices effective group facilitation as a means of fostering communication and visioning within teams. True to his creative roots, Alex believes in the power of narrative and storytelling to enable a deeper understanding of patient experiences and drive positive change in healthcare. Join our conversation with Alex Sydnor today on Radio Maine.
When George Matelich began his career, he intentionally moved to the West Coast to be in the center of tech entrepreneurship. He understood the importance of spending time with others who were on the cutting edge. Drawing on this exposure, and experience as a software engineer, this former self-described “pizza-influencer,” developed invaluable insights and skills. George has used these to cultivate a tech community, Nexus Maine, that he envisions as a place for like-minded entrepreneurs to find support, collaboration, and camaraderie. George also continues to work in fintech (financial technology) and proptech (property–real estate–technology) from his new home on the coast of Maine. The story of George’s Maine adventure includes a marriage proposal to his now-wife Ann, which involved a special painting by Portland Art Gallery artist Jack Gable. Join our conversation with George Matelich today on Radio Maine.
Dr. Sheila Carroll is a former practicing pediatrician who is finding new joy as a certified life and weight coach. A Maine native, and graduate of Bowdoin College and the University of Vermont College of Medicine, Sheila worked as a physician for two decades. After experiencing professional burnout and recognizing the limitations of traditional medicine, Sheila embarked on a path of personal transformation. Additional training and experience in coaching helped Sheila to solidify her understanding of the interconnectedness of thoughts, feelings, actions, and results. Sheila now empowers children and parents by collaborating with them to reshape their family relationships with food and lifestyle choices. Join our conversation with Dr. Sheila Carroll today on Radio Maine.
Stacey Dietsch specializes in human potential. After almost two decades with a national consulting firm, Stacey became the Executive Vice President of Talent at Liberty Mutual Insurance earlier this year. Drawing upon her educational background in psychology, Stacey has developed an expansive understanding of the nuanced world of human resources over the course of her professional career. Stacey seeks to align personal motivations with organizational objectives, enhancing job satisfaction and productivity. She champions a growth mindset and emphasizes the importance of creating a workplace that nurtures potential and embraces diversity of thought. Join our conversation with Stacey Dietsch today on Radio Maine.
Kristine Newell is an author and professional speaker known for her transformative insights on gratitude. With a background in real estate and executive leadership, Kristine's journey includes multiple familiar challenging events, including the financial stress caused by the 2008 global economic downturn, and subsequent impact on her personal life. She also describes the unimaginable community grief caused by the deaths of several local teens due to a car accident. Kristine’s debut book, "The Habit of Grateful," chronicles her personal experience and offers practical strategies for cultivating gratitude in daily life. Kristine's message resonates deeply with audiences, inspiring them to shift their perspectives and find resilience amidst adversity. Join our conversation with Kristine Newell today on Radio Maine.
Liz Cotter Schlax, is the President and CEO of United Way of Southern Maine. Originally from Maine, Liz graduated from Waterville High School, then completed an undergraduate degree at Harvard University and an MBA from Columbia Business School. She developed her skills in corporate and non-profit settings across the United States, before returning to her home state, with a desire to have a positive and lasting impact on her own community. At the United Way of Southern Maine, Liz oversees initiatives focusing on issues such as childcare, housing, and mental health. Liz champions the notion of collective action, striving to create lasting change and improve the lives of those in need. Join our conversation with Liz Cotter Schlax today on Radio Maine.
Emma Wilson is the Director of the Portland Art Gallery, which is celebrating ten years of representing established and emerging artists at its expansive, light-filled space in Portland Maine’s Old Port district. The Gallery Director for the past eight years, Emma has been an integral part of executing the gallery’s unique and successful vision. Her focus on artist and buyer relationships and communication have proven critical to the Portland Art Gallery’s ability to support artists at every stage of their career. This approach, coupled with modern marketing techniques, have made the Portland Art Gallery one of the leading art galleries in Maine. Emma and the gallery staff have truly created a place where community and creativity flourish. Join our conversation with Emma Wilson today on Radio Maine.
Native Mainer Katie Shorey has become an enthusiastic promoter of her home state, both as the Director of Engagement for the non-profit Live + Work in Maine, as well as the President of the entrepreneurial resource hub, Startup Maine. Katie grew up in the small Western Maine town of Sweden and graduated from nearby Fryeburg Academy, before getting her college degree from St. Lawrence University in upstate New York. Subsequent experiences with partnerships and consulting in larger locales such Washington, D.C. and San Francisco, combined with a serendipitous experience with Maine Startup & Create Week, convinced Katie of the importance of sharing Maine’s evolving economic landscape and opportunities with a larger audience. Join our conversation with Katie Shorey today on Radio Maine.
Catherine Breer has been a prolific and popular Maine artist for decades, captivating the imaginations of art-lovers with her colorful landscapes and scenes of coastal living. A child of Christian missionaries, Catherine spent her childhood in Seoul, Korea, and has found herself influenced by the harmony of Buddhist imagery and thinking. She studied painting and drawing at the Atlanta College of Art (now a part of the Savannah College of Art and Design) and School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. A resident of Freeport, Catherine has worked for L.L. Bean as a graphic designer for many years, and recently joined the Portland Art Gallery as a means of broadening her artistic community and reaching a larger audience of those who love Maine art. Join our conversation with Catherine Breer today on Radio Maine.
Carolyn Delaney is the founder of Journey Enterprises, a media company focused on making recovery from addiction more visible and accessible. Carolyn’s own life-altering experience created an impetus for the significant work she has done supporting individuals and families who are challenged by substance use disorder. While Carolyn encountered a lack of understanding and awareness as a young single mother in early recovery many years ago, she also found hope and encouragement through community. As a result, Carolyn became convinced of the incredible need to combat stigma through education and storytelling. Her message of amplifying hope and providing resources earned Carolyn the title of Maine’s Small Business Person of Year in 2023. Join our conversation with Carolyn Delaney today on Radio Maine.
Bill Laurita is the president of the Swans Island Company, a well known maker of traditional wool blankets. Now located in Northport, Maine, the company had its origins on the picturesque isle that bears its name. Bill, his wife, and brother took over the business in 2004, when its original owners retired. This was a natural progression for Bill and his wife, who began their careers in Waldorf education. They found the work of the Swans Island Company to be holistic and process-oriented, which is very much in alignment with the Waldorf approach. Blankets created by the Swans Island Company are made of high quality fibers, hand-dyed and woven on vintage looms by skilled craftspeople. Swans Island blankets reflect the quality and authenticity for which Maine has become known. Join our conversation with Bill Laurita today on Radio Maine.
Dr. Robert McArtor is a longtime Maine resident and leader in medicine, who had a significant impact on Maine’s healthcare landscape. One of the state’s first chief medical officers in the newly created MaineHealth system, Bob drew upon his skills in family medicine and teaching to engage clinicians in improving quality measures and the health of the community. Bob models healthy lifestyle behaviors, both as a former marathoner and as a triathlete who earned the honor of representing the United States at the World Triathlon Age Group Championships in 2020. Bob speaks to the importance of community and finding purpose as a means of impacting both personal and professional longevity. Join our conversation with Dr. Robert McArtor today on Radio Maine.
Rebecca Hoffmann is the director for the Maine Health Center for Trauma Resilience and Innovation. As part of this role, Rebecca focuses on the challenges faced by caregivers and staff in the healthcare system. One significant challenge is an underlying cultural belief that healthcare providers should be superhuman, and able to continually put aside their own needs in order to care for others. While this view was prevalent before the COVID-19 pandemic, it has not diminished in the past several years, as health systems address issues such as strained access to services, and increased violence against healthcare workers. The need for healthcare worker resilience is more important than ever before. While Rebecca recognizes the importance of self-care, she also emphasizes the need for all organizations, but particularly those in healthcare, to prioritize the well-being of their employees. This includes providing resources and support for building teams, and sharing responsibilities to prevent burnout. Join our conversation with Rebecca Hoffmann today on Radio Maine.
Rebeccah Sanders is the CEO of the Natural Resources Council of Maine (NRCM). The NRCM operates within the unique ecological ethic and culture of a state where environmental issues are an integral part of how people live their lives. Rebeccah and her team endeavor to engage stakeholders and build coalitions to achieve important environmental legislation. Rebeccah is understandably proud of the first-in-the-nation legislation that the NRCM has been involved in, such as the bottle bill and the offshore wind bill. In this interview, Rebeccah emphasizes the need to listen to and include myriad voices in decision-making processes. Rebeccah also discusses the importance of mentorship and collective leadership in creating durable solutions and empowering future generations. Join our conversation with Rebeccah Sanders today on Radio Maine.
Former high school athlete Eavan O'Neill began running marathons as a result of a life-altering event. During her senior year in college at St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York, Eavan was diagnosed with Stargardt disease, a rare form of macular degeneration that causes vision loss, and often leads to blindness. Soon after receiving this diagnosis, Eavan’s school closed due to Covid restrictions. Eavan found herself back in her hometown of Yarmouth, Maine. While processing the initial shock of the diagnosis, and attempting to understand the new life in front of her, Eavan found solace and strength through running with a fellow Yarmouth High School graduate. Eavan went public with her condition in order to garner support for organizations such as the Foundation Fighting Blindness. In 2023, Eavan ran her first Boston Marathon, raising money for the research work of Rachel Huckfeldt, MD, PhD, an ophthalmologist in the Inherited Retinal Disorders Service at Mass Eye and Ear in Boston. With the help of another Yarmouth High School graduate, Eavan shared her story with the sustainably-oriented Janji running company, where she was named to the Janji Field Team as a “Marathoner + Advocate for the Blind and Visually Impaired Community.” Join our conversation with Eavan O’Neill today on Radio Maine.
Dr. Hermann Haller is the President of the MDI Biological Laboratory (MDIBL), located in Salisbury Cove, Maine. Born and raised in Germany, Hermann trained there as a nephrologist (kidney specialist), before completing post-doctoral work at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. In addition to being a practicing physician, medical school professor and researcher in German institutions for more than two decades, Hermann continued his work in the United States through the MDIBL (formerly known as the Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory). Hermann became the leader of the MDIBL in 2018. The goal of the MDIBL is to: “Improve human health by discovering novel mechanisms of tissue repair, aging and regeneration, [and]...translate our discoveries for the benefit of medicine and society.” Hermann’s own research focuses on using zebrafish embryos to study kidney development, vascularization, and blood vessel growth, with the goal of eventually transplanting newly made kidneys into humans. Join our conversation with Dr. Hermann Haller today on Radio Maine.
Poet and artist Andy Gelinas lives on North Haven island off the coast of Rockland, Maine, where he spends his (non-winter) days working for the local golf course. Andy’s journey into poetry began as a child, growing up in Athens, Maine. Although Andy was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth, he doesn't view this as an obstacle, but rather a source of inner strength. He focuses on themes such as nature and love, capturing the essence of seasons and daily life in metaphoric verses. Andy’s writing process involves keeping journals, jotting down ideas, and letting inspiration guide him. When he is not writing, Andy creates oil paintings depicting Maine scenes, including many from North Haven. His work has found an appreciative audience in his island community and beyond, made possible in part through social media. Join our conversation with
Jewelry designer Cat Bates began his life as an artist on Maine’s Monhegan Island. His keen observational skills yielded inspiration for future creativity, as he found beauty in the discarded fishing ropes and marine hardware that would eventually become the basis of his work. Cat would go on to pursue formal education in jewelry design at the Maine College of Art in Portland, and evolve his skills through the bracelets, necklaces and other accessories he designs, creates and sells through his eponymous business, located in Biddeford, Maine. Employing techniques like lost wax and sand casting, Cat delivers both intricate details and rugged textures. Learn about Cat Bates’ passion for and commitment to wearable art today on Radio Maine.
Dr. Chuck Radis is a Maine author and physician who has a passion for understanding people. A practicing rheumatologist (specialist in the immune system and disorders that impact primarily the joints and muscles), Chuck has experience with many aspects of health care. He previously worked in traditional internal medicine–facing the unique challenge of being an island doctor in Maine’s Casco Bay communities–and has collaborated on medical training and education projects through the non-profit Maine African Partnership for Social Justice. A graduate of Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, one of Chuck’s recent books focuses on fellow Bates graduate John Jenkins, Maine’s first Black senator and a beloved civic leader. Join our conversation with Dr. Chuck Radis today on Radio Maine.
Dr. Jacey Goddard takes a holistic approach to her work with patients. A longtime osteopathic physician, Jacey uses integrative medicine and gentle alignment techniques to facilitate healing and self-awareness, while also helping patients to redefine their connections between mind and body. Although patients often seek her out to address pain and other issues not easily dealt with through traditional Western medical approaches, Jacey has found significant benefit in using these modalities for preventing disease and optimizing health. Join our conversation with Dr. Jacey Goddard today on Radio Maine.
Rebecca Hoffman helps children and families become the best they can be, by providing them with tools that assist in easing the pain caused by trauma and grief. As the director of the MaineHealth Center for Trauma Resiliency and Innovation, Rebecca has recently needed to lean more heavily upon her expertise. On October 25, 2023, Maine became the latest state to suffer the tragedy of mass gun violence. Rebecca and her team have been called into action to help their fellow Mainers recover from the death and devastation wrought upon the Lewiston community. Rebecca discusses the importance of preventive interventions in the immediate aftermath of traumatic events, as well as evidence-based practices such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, in decreasing individual and intergenerational trauma. Join our conversation with Rebecca Hoffman today on Radio Maine.
Originally from New Hampshire, Brian Emerson moved to Maine to be closer to his future wife. In marrying Colleen Barter, and in spending time with her family, Brian would end up inspired to follow in his artist brother’s footsteps and pursue art more seriously. The Barters, including Colleen’s father, Philip, and brother, Matt, are a prolific and well-regarded artistic family. Brian’s pieces are bold, colorful landscapes and seascapes, created in a style he says was influenced by artists like Georgia O'Keeffe and Maine native Marsden Hartley. Join our conversation with Portland Art Gallery artist Brian Emerson today on Radio Maine.
Maine native Lexi Doudera is committed to ocean education and environmental stewardship. Founder and executive director of the Saltwater Classroom, Lexi’s nonprofit offers week-long workshops and community programs for learners of all ages. Their curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including ocean science, conservation, and our connection to the deep blue sea. The Saltwater Classroom has an eye toward the future with its plans to develop an app-based platform for ocean literacy and education. Join our conversation with Lexi Doudera today on Radio Maine.
Laura Mrazik has had to figure out how to integrate her art practice with a full-time healthcare career and parenting two small children. Her solution (at least for now) is painting in the evenings after the kids go to bed. Laura’s artistic style has evolved over time incorporating both detail and organic elements in her pieces, which have primarily focused on florals. With a desire to keep evolving professionally and move through a self-diagnosed case of “imposter syndrome,” Laura set a goal of joining a gallery in 2023. She achieved this goal earlier this year by becoming an artist with the Portland Art Gallery. Join our conversation with Laura Mrazik today on Radio Maine.
Raised in Raymond, Maine, Holden Willard found himself significantly influenced by the work of artists from his home state while studying for his bachelor’s degree in fine arts at Montserrat College of Art in Beverly, Massachusetts. Painters like American Modernist Marsden Hartley (born in Lewiston, Maine), and the state’s long history of plein air painting strengthened Holden’s desire to return to his roots. Holden describes his artistic style as reactive painting, which involves observing and reacting to subject matter through movement, color, and sound. He incorporates figures into his pieces in unique and non-traditional ways. These elements, and Holden’s intuitive use of color theory in his art, likely contributed to the distinct honor of his being selected for the 2023 Center for Maine Contemporary Art Biennial exhibition. Join our conversation with artist Holden Willard today on Radio Maine.
Entrepreneur Ethan Nestor began his career in the basement of his parent’s Cape Elizabeth, Maine home in 2012. While still a teen, Ethan created his first YouTube channel, where he uploaded content consisting of his gaming narrations. This channel, CrankGameplays, launched Ethan’s Los Angeles-based entertainment career. His latest YouTube channel, “Ethan Nestor,” has over 2.1 million subscribers. Ethan has built a successful business out of audience engagement and regularly reimagining his work, which now also includes writing, touring and live performances. Join our conversation with Ethan Nestor today on Radio Maine.
Art consultant Suzi Hlavacek co-founded Alchemy Station as a means of strengthening the “magical and mystical human connections” created by an art-filled life. With extensive training at Christie’s auction house and the Museum of Modern Art in New York, as well as a master’s degree in art administration, Suzi is well suited to the task. Suzi and Alchemy Station co-founder Kate Anderson partner with businesses and private clients to find and install art that transforms living spaces. In the process of doing so, Suzi and Kate provide artists with an admiring and appreciative audience. Join our conversation with Suzi Hlavacek today on Radio Maine.
Dr. Louis Nadelson has had an impressive career as a university professor, but perhaps even more striking is his broad range of personal interests–including playing the mountain dulcimer and welding sculptures from repurposed metal farm implements. Dr. Nadelson has spent a lifetime learning and teaching. He has authored hundreds of peer reviewed academic papers, and has myriad overlapping interests including educational psychology, the nature of science, and situations of chance. Dr. Nadelson’s explorations of art and music are often done in the company of his wife (a fellow academic whose concentration has been in healthcare). Dr. Nadelson embodies a true love of learning, manifesting his dedication to the tenets of his chosen profession. Join our conversation with Dr. Louis Nadelson today on Radio Maine.
Maine native Chris Ryan Ross had built a very successful photography career for himself in New York City when he realized that the pull from his home state was too great to resist. In 2014–well before it was popular to do so–he decided to work remotely, traveling to photo shoots in Los Angeles and New York via the Portland International Jetport. Recently, Chris took another life leap, leaving his full-time photography work to develop his skills as a painter. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Art and Design in Providence, Chris recalled many childhood hours spent with his sketchbook, and found himself wanting to re-engage with that earlier version of himself. Following this theme of exploration, Chris and his wife, Alice, will be spending the next year in England with their two children, as they reconnect with Alice’s extended family. Join our conversation with Portland Art Gallery artist Chris Ryan Ross today on Radio Maine.
Growing up in landlocked southern Pennsylvania, Brad Blymier never imagined a future involving oysters. After graduating with an undergraduate degree in English, Brad was successfully building a career in artificial intelligence software sales on the West Coast when an impromptu call from a childhood friend changed the course of his life. Brad and his wife, Hannah, would go on to become co-owners of a high-end shellfish distribution company, War Shore Trading Co., named for the Virginia duck-hunting shoreline where Brad first tried his hand at oyster farming–at the suggestion of his childhood friend. Raised in Pittsfield, Maine, it was not hard for Hannah to convince Brad to return to her home state, where they both now live with their two sons. Join our conversation with oyster entrepreneur Brad Blymier today on Radio Maine.
Art critic and historian Martica Sawin has been connected to the international art community for decades. Born in New York CIty, she has had a similarly long-standing connection to Maine. After years of vacationing with her family at places like Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake in South Casco, Martica’s parents bought a farm in Yarmouth in the 1940s, so that her father could commute to his job with Bates Manufacturing in Lewiston. Following a detour to Paris, where Martica met her first husband, (an artist) while studying art history, she continued her education at the University of Iowa. When she returned to New York City in 1946, Martica found the metropolis bursting with veterans pursuing artistic endeavors, and she quickly parlayed her own education into a job with the Museum of Modern Art. These early opportunities would start her down a storied path as an author, educator and overall art expert. Join our conversation with Martica Sawin today on Radio Maine.
Jane Dahmen is one of the Portland Art Gallery’s most beloved and longstanding artists. She was also one of our first Radio Maine guests, joining us on episode four from her Newcastle, Maine home, back when the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a remote conversational format. A proud graduate of Colby College in Waterville, Jane has always been known for her commitment to Maine and passion for promoting her adopted state’s myriad talented artists. Despite challenges such as the death of her husband, Joe, three short years ago, Jane continues to embrace exploration, curiosity and perpetual reinvention, as reflected in her vibrant works of art. Join our most recent conversation with Jane Dahmen today on Radio Maine.
Judiann Smith is a firm believer in the importance of strong leaders in healthcare, especially during times of rapid change. As the executive director of the Daniel Hanley Center for Health Leadership in Maine, Judiann has coordinated countless programs focusing on leadership skills for doctors, nurses, and others in the healthcare field, since taking this position in 2015. Judiann is no stranger to the reality of change, and the need to approach leadership creatively. After earning her law degree from Suffolk University in Boston, Judiann quickly realized that she wanted to use her education to benefit the greater good. A longtime Maine resident, Judiann spent more than 18 years working for Spurwink Services in Portland, and has functioned in numerous other public capacities, including six years as an elected member of the Yarmouth school committee. Join our conversation with Judiann Smith today on Radio Maine.
Research scientist Claire Enterline has found that the ocean has much to teach us about climate resiliency. As a research associate and project manager with the Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) in Portland, Claire works with FishSCORE (Fisheries Strategies for Changing Oceans and Resilient Ecosystems by 2030), a global program endorsed by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. Raised in Ohio, Claire loved being outside as a child. She found her passion for marine biology while studying abroad in Ecuador and New Zealand, as part of her undergraduate degree in environmental science and policy at Boston University. Claire now spends her time at GMRI helping to develop and deliver solutions to global climate and ocean challenges–right down the street from the Portland Art Gallery. Join our conversation with Claire Enterline today on Radio Maine.
Artist Sarah Verardo has an eye for detail and design. Originally from a small Rhode Island beach town, Sarah grew up in a home filled with art, and socialized regularly with artists from the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence. Her father, who briefly owned an art gallery, once brought five-year-old Sarah to Dale Chihuly's studio to watch him make art from blown glass. While a government major at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., Sarah took her first painting class right before graduating. She applied her strong visual sense to marketing in fashion and home design, working for storied European fashion houses like Gucci from her New York City base. After 14 years, Sarah returned to Providence, where she picked up her paintbrush again. Her connection to the New England coast is clearly felt in the intricate details of her subject matter, which include seashells, flower petals and beach stones. Join our conversation with Sarah Verardo today on Radio Maine.
Mallika Malhotra is a business strategist, mentor, speaker, and author. Known as the Brand CEO, Mallika has helped hundreds of female entrepreneurs to maximize their strengths and draw upon their passions as they create success in their fields. Born to parents who emigrated from India and the Philippines, Mallika learned the value of hard work, and the importance of appreciating opportunities, from an early age. Her experiences in the corporate and creative worlds have greatly informed her current work. Join our conversation with Mallika Malhotra today on Radio Maine.
Artist Wylie Garcia has learned to have faith in her intuition. Based in Charlotte, Vermont, Wylie draws upon memories of gardening with her mother when creating her much sought after floral paintings. Wylie remains continually inspired by the varying shapes and changing colors of flowers, as she creates layered emotional landscapes with titles such as “A Trusting Place for Bower Birds,” and “Dreams of Southport Island.” Wylie’s creative process also plays into her role as curator at Champlain College in Burlington, Vermont, where she seeks to “highlight conversations that are happening visually between artists.” Visit with Portland Art Gallery artist Wylie Garcia today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more.
Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube so you never miss an episode.
This artist is represented by the Portland Art Gallery of Maine. Click here to view her art.
More Women+ Surf media director Miranda Rico has a passion for fostering safe spaces and driving positive change. Raised in North Yarmouth, Maine, Miranda draws upon her interest in creative portraiture and skills as a photographer to help More Women+ Surf break down socio-economic, physical, and emotional barriers to create surf and water access for those who might not otherwise engage in this sport. The oldest of six children, Miranda experienced the power of unity, cooperation, and support while growing up in a larger-than-average household. Her family taught her the value of inclusivity, empathy, and fostering connections among diverse individuals. Miranda enthusiastically incorporates these values into her work with More Women+ Surf. Join our conversation with Miranda Rico today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more.
Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube so you never miss an episode.
Jennifer and Neil Gutekunst wanted to spend more time in Maine. Originally from the Philadelphia area (where each of their families had been longtime business owners), Jennifer and her husband immediately felt a connection with the Pine Tree State while vacationing here several years ago. In 2019, they made the dramatic decision to move to Maine and become small business owners themselves. First, they acquired New England Treads, a Gorham millwork company specializing in custom-stained stair treads. Then, at the height of COVID in 2021, Jennifer and Neil purchased the well-known Wooden Screen Door Company in Waldoboro. When it comes to shared leadership decisions, Jennifer's experience as a human resources analyst and love of data has proven to be an effective counterpoint to skills that Neil developed over 20 years as a defense attorney with the U. S. Marine Corps' Judge Advocate Division. Now dividing their time between Portland and Cushing, Jennifer and Neil have shown that it is possible to turn a shared Maine dream into reality. Join our conversation with Jennifer Gutekunst today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more.
Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube so you never miss an episode.
Stephen Coston did not intend to follow in his family’s footsteps. Despite the fact that his grandfather was a hotelier in Bar Harbor, Maine for decades, Stephen struck off initially in another direction, seeking to make a career out of sports writing. When that did materialize, a book suggestion from his father spurred his interest in reading about business, which led to his getting a degree in this field. Somewhat on a whim, Stephen went on to buy and renovate the seventies-era 12-room Rockhurst Motel in Bar Harbor, and found himself back in the family business. Since then he’s added multiple properties to his growing real estate collection. Taking a hands-on approach to all aspects of the hospitality business, Stephen continues to learn about design, art and architecture, as he seeks to create unique experiences at each of his properties. Join our conversation with intriguing auto-didact Stephen Cotson today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more.
Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube, so you never miss an episode.
Dr. Deirdre Heersink understands the importance of truly connecting with patients in long-term care, as a means of positively impacting their health and well-being. Patients who are in these settings often interact with staff over months and years, developing meaningful relationships that become especially important if they do not receive regular outside visitors. Deirdre has seen these relationships blossom when patients are able to share additional information about their lives. Through a grant-funded program called “Life Stories,” Deirdre worked with a team of volunteers and staff to provide this opportunity for patients in the MaineGeneral Health system in Augusta. Join our conversation with physician and medical leader Deirdre Heersink today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more.
Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube, so you never miss an episode.
Aroostook County native Beth Wilbur Van Mierlo credits her northern Maine upbringing with exposing her to values that have become integral to her experience as an artist and educator. Like many kids in her agricultural community, Beth grew up picking potatoes from an early age. This helped her understand the importance of hard work, community and connection. Perhaps equally important to her development was Beth’s experience with dyslexia, undiagnosed until she was a sophomore in college. “There are times with dyslexia I can't spell–I can't put a sentence together–and I feel inadequate,” says Beth, who founded Portland’s Oak Street Studios almost twenty-five years ago. “Art has given me the power to say, ‘I'm still smart, I still matter and look at what I can do.’” Beth’s non-profit, Side x Side, similarly embodies this concept. Side x Side pairs teaching artists with classroom teachers to create an inclusive environment where students feel a sense of belonging, while also empowering teachers to explore their own creative potential. Join our conversation about art, inclusivity and connection with Beth Wilbur Van Mierlo today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more.
Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube, so you never miss an episode.
Raised in upstate New York, artist Dale Roberts has fond childhood memories of fishing, building forts and exploring the rural area in which he lived. His early attention to the world around him has never ceased. Dale’s exquisite work with encaustic painting reflects a careful attention to detail in his everyday life, whether he is out running near his Pennsylvania home, or traveling abroad. Dale first learned about encaustic painting at the Rochester Institute of Technology in Henrietta, New York, and found that this ancient medium helped him capture a unique perspective. He is fascinated by the weathering and corrosion of subjects, and the possibility of embodying impermanence in art. Join our conversation with one of Portland Art Gallery’s newest artists, Dale Roberts, today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more.
Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube, so you never miss an episode.
Dale Roberts is represented by the Portland Art Gallery of Maine. Click here to view his art.
Kari Herer never intended to become a professional photographer, despite an early interest in the art form. As the director of photography at the high-end stationery company William Arthur, Kari had the opportunity to experiment with lighting as she sought to capture the beauty of their products. Time spent at the Maine Media Workshops in Rockport convinced her to pursue her craft further, and she has gone on to have her work featured on multiple platforms, from magazines and book covers, to billboards. Kari has become known for ability to help people feel comfortable in front of the camera, creating images that are both intimate and accessible. Raised in a suburb of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and a graduate of the University of Idaho, Kari now lives in the Portland area with her two children. One of her recent projects is a documentary about her teacher and famed photographer, Sam Abell. Join our conversation with Kari Herer today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube so you never miss an episode.
Born in Bath, Maine, and raised in Brookline, Massachusetts, sculptor Andreas von Huene has been strongly connected to the region’s creative community from his earliest years. His parents emphasized the importance of arts and culture, speaking multiple languages in their home, and regularly bringing Andreas and his four siblings to area concerts and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. A graduate of Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, his father, Friedrich, founded Brookline’s von Huene Workshop, Inc., in 1960, and became a pioneer in the reproduction of historical woodwind instruments. After earning degrees in engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts and Stanford University in California, Andreas returned to Maine, and his artistic roots, creating sculptures of stone, wood and metal from his studio in Woolwich. Along the way, Andreas has enjoyed the company of other renowned Maine sculptors, and participated in events such as the Schoodic International Sculpture Symposium and creation of the Maine Sculpture Trail in Downeast Maine. Join our conversation with Portland Art Gallery sculptor Andreas von Huene today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube so you never miss an episode.
This artist is represented by the Portland Art Gallery of Maine. Click here to view his art.
Illustrator Bruce Hutchinson has become passionate about piping plovers. This is perhaps not surprising, given that he shares an affinity for Maine beaches with these tiny endangered birds. Raised in Waterville, Maine, Bruce’s large Catholic family squeezed into their Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser and drove to Reid State Park in coastal Georgetown almost every Sunday after mass. Tuning into this deeply ingrained ocean connection, Bruce and his wife would go on to live in Cape Elizabeth once their children were grown. When local author Andrew Fersch reached out to Bruce to collaborate on a children’s book about the plovers, set on nearby Higgins Beach, Bruce was immediately intrigued. Bruce, a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, and longtime professional illustrator, has put his considerable talents to use on this project, which is due to be published in August. Join our conversation with Bruce Hutchinson today on Radio Maine.
Driven by her desire for work-life balance and her passion for entrepreneurship, former attorney Melissa Coulombe took a chance when she started a legal recruiting firm at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Raised in Lewiston, Melissa now lives in southern Maine, but her ambitions are not limited by geography: the Camden Talent Group, specializes in high-profile partner placements in the Boston and Washington, DC areas. A lover of art, Melissa applies her own creativity to working toward personal career fulfillment for herself and others. Join our conversation with Melissa Coulombe today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube so you never miss an episode.
Jack Soley is reimagining the way in which Maine approaches and builds workforce housing. This is an interesting turnaround for someone who admits that his initial entry into real estate was somewhat begrudging. In the late eighties, he was teaching at Portland’s King Middle School, working on Outward Bound courses and designing furniture, when one of his brothers first floated the idea for a new professional path. Jack eventually agreed, and approached this the way he approaches all of his varied pursuits: with robust intellectual curiosity. His interests and education in theology, service and design have contributed to his desire to make it possible for Maine people to live in beautiful, affordable spaces. Learn more about Jack Soley’s passion for this important work today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube so you never miss an episode.
Chris Strong has always lived up to her name. She grew up in Thomaston, Maine– a coastal town so small that her beloved high school (Georges Valley) no longer exists, having since merged with those in other local communities. The lessons she learned there, however, have had an outsized impact on Chris. After almost losing her leg in a freak childhood accident, Chris would go on to play alongside the boys on the town’s only soccer team, long before this was a widely accepted practice. Her resilience and tenaciousness served her well as a Division I basketball standout at the University of Maine. Chris has carried these traits into adulthood, through careers in law, athletic training/coaching, and, most recently, real estate appraisal. Join our conversation with this strong, inspirational Maine woman, today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube so you never miss an episode.
New England native Liz Prescott loves to teach, and her passion for painting is apparent when she talks about process and technique. Liz earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Maine College of Art in Portland, and a Master of Fine Arts from the Vermont College of Fine Arts in Montpelier. A lifelong learner, she names Rick Rubin’s The Creative Act: A Way of Being as a recent source of inspiration. Liz loves being in nature, and incorporates beautiful settings into her teaching through her Monhegan Island workshops. Join our conversation with Portland Art Gallery artist Liz Prescott today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube so you never miss an episode.
Liz Prescott is represented by the Portland Art Gallery of Maine. Click here to view her art.
When artist Christopher O’Connor arrived in Maine, one of the first things he did was to visit a few of the state’s many islands. A native of Ireland, he soon noted the similarities and differences between the two coastlines. Christopher spent many childhood hours exploring the Irish seashore, clambering over ledges covered with moss and lichen, due to the country’s persistent damp weather. He quickly became intrigued by the stark angularity of Maine’s rocky coast, which proved a source of inspiration for his abstract yet intricate work. Join our conversation with Christopher O’Connor today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube so you never miss an episode.
Christopher O'Connor is represented by the Portland Art Gallery of Maine. Click here to view his art.
Scott Simons has spent three decades creating an enduring architectural legacy. Founder, Partner, and Principal of Simons Architects in Portland, Scott’s exceptional work has been incorporated into residential and commercial buildings across Maine. While his success is due in no small measure to his design excellence, Scott suggests that the efforts he and his colleagues have put into team building have had an even more significant impact. As Scott enters “the next third” of his life, he understands the need to make room for future generations in his field. At the same time, he sees the value he still has the opportunity to add. His father, Richard, worked until five years before his death in 2022 at the age of 95. After retiring as a judge from the State of New York at 70, Richard provided 20 years of legal counsel to the Oneida Nation, earning him the respect of an elder in that community. Scott acknowledges that his father’s long-standing service and approach to aging provided him with invaluable role modeling. Join our conversation with Scott Simons today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube so you never miss an episode!
Founded by former Bates College professor Tom Moser, the Thos. Moser company is venerated for its handmade American furniture and highly respected for showcasing Maine craftsmanship to the world. Thos. Moser has benefited greatly from the involvement of Tom’s sons, each of whom has had a role in the company’s growth. Chairman Aaron Moser has been integrally involved with this evolving local business. Aaron draws on his experience as he reflects on the Thos. Moser commitment to strong design and quality, their upcoming 50th anniversary, and the family dynamics that make this all possible. Join our conversation with Aaron Moser today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube so you never miss an episode.
Maine native Shannon Richards has always had a strong and committed vision for her life. Acting upon that vision, Shannon founded an innovative business called Hay Runner, which assists homeowners with everything from planning and construction to interiors and plant design. Given her exuberant personality and strong work ethic, it’s unsurprising that Shannon has surrounded herself with a team of professionals who can take on nearly anything home-oriented. When she’s not working, Shannon navigates the ocean waters in a wooden boat she owns with her partner, architect Caleb Johnson. Join our conversation with Shannon Richards today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube, so you never miss an episode.
Maine native Phoebe Cole wants art, artists, and art lovers to thrive. A graduate of Simmons College in Boston, Phoebe’s bachelors degree in arts administration focused on the “business of art.” She regularly uses this foundational knowledge and expertise in the nuances of art collecting in her work with Powell Fine Art Advisory. Phoebe expertly navigates the sometimes competing needs of finding something a client loves, ensuring that it is a good art investment and respecting budgetary considerations. Originally from Damariscotta, Phoebe recently moved back to her home state, and has been refamiliarizing herself with Maine’s rich art history and talented contemporary artists. Join our conversation with art consultant Phoebe Cole today on Radio Maine.
As a registered nurse and clinical quality specialist who has worked in primary care for many years, Jill Skrabalak is well-acquainted with the traditional tools of her trade. At the same time, she deeply understands that healing can come from many sources. Jill is in the process of completing a master's degree in clinical herbalism as a means of adding the power of plants to her toolbox. As the wife of Portland Art Gallery artist Cooper Dragonette, it may come as no surprise that Jill also believes in the curative nature of creative pursuits. Following her mother's death in March 2022, Jill moved her mother's baby grand piano from upstate New York to Maine, sustaining their lifelong connection through their shared love of music. Join our conversation with Jill Skrabalak today on Radio Maine.
Every week, Dr. Lisa Belisle brings you an interview with a member of Maine’s community, including artists, designers, and more. Subscribe to Radio Maine on YouTube, so you never miss an episode.
Vanessa Santarelli is passionate about Maine. In her business, Your Maine Concierge, Vanessa’s literal job is to know the state inside and out so that her clients can benefit from her experience. While those areas include Maine’s “gold coast” towns, Vanessa also takes time to explore the rural interior of the state-always finding gems along the way. While many claim to know Maine, it’s refreshing to meet someone who so enthusiastically and completely understands the people who live here, those who spend the summers here and the many who visit each year. She credits her restaurateur grandparents for teaching her an abiding love for the food service business via their Augusta eatery. Join us today to learn more about Vanessa’s story and her explorations of Maine.
Chris Lynch had a successful finance career managing a bond trading group on Wall Street–until it clashed with his desire to be with his growing family. A graduate of Bates College in Lewiston, Chris followed his heart back to Maine in the early 2000’s, seeking a more balanced personal and professional existence. Despite being warned away from real estate, and facing more than one detractor, Chris borrowed from his children’s college savings in order to found and build what would become one of Maine’s most successful residential firms – Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty. Chris has gained many valuable insights about business and life in his beloved adopted state over the past two (plus) decades. Join our conversation with Chris Lynch today on Radio Maine.
Sculptor Benjamin Pochurek is highly attuned to the world in which he lives, and is unafraid to explore complex issues that deeply impact humanity. His poignant works articulate contrasting messages of vulnerability and pain; strength and hope. In 2022, Maine’s Portland Museum of Art introduced the “Tidal Shift Award,” to recognize young artists whose creations reflect innovation and sustainability, while focusing on solutions for climate change. Benjamin was one of only three award recipients in the 14-18 age group. A junior at Portland’s Waynflete School and resident of Freeport, Benjamin has been inspired by local artists Matt and Philip Barter, and recently joined them as a represented artist at the Portland Art Gallery. Join our conversation with Benjamin Pochurek today on Radio Maine.
Annie Darling is carrying forward her family’s artistic legacy in a way that is uniquely her own. Growing up, she osmosed the ingenuity and perspectives of her creative kin, whose talents are represented in a variety of professions– from photography and interior design, to sculpting and academia. Annie deepened her learning through an educational focus on architecture, psychology and marketing. After many years in the communications field, Annie turned her attention inward, and opened a space for personal exploration. Her recent encaustics reflect both emotional vulnerability and the resilience garnered through life experience. Though she is new to the Portland Art Gallery, she is no stranger to the artistic journey. Thank you for joining our conversation with Annie Darling today on Radio Maine.
Many of us have experienced points in life’s journey when, as New England poet Robert Frost once described, “Two roads diverged.” In this 100th episode of Radio Maine, our host Dr. Lisa Belisle reflects upon her ongoing role as a communicator and on-air host. and the significant divergence that brought her to this place. Lisa remembers the sudden death in 2007 of her Bowdoin College classmate, Hanley Denning, who had brought hope and light to countless children whose families lived near the Guatemala City dump. That pivotal event, and a desire to support Hanley’s organization–Safe Passage–revealed an unexpected media path that has complemented Lisa’s professional work as a doctor and leader. Fast forwarding to today, Lisa remains inspired by her conversations with the creative, resilient guests of Radio Maine, and is grateful for the divergence that has led to the evolution of the Radio Maine community of which we are all now a part.
Well known to our Radio Maine Community, Portland Art Gallery Director Emma Wilson has spent many years supporting Maine artists. Emma finds joy in connecting art buyers around the country with contemporary art. Emma also continues to draw on her background in social work as she humanizes the ongoing need for, and challenge of, allowing ourselves to risk discomfort in order to fully experience the world around us. Join us for a Portland Art Gallery update with Emma Wilson today on Radio Maine.
Artist Jill Hoy is at a place of artistic integration. She would be the first to say that she benefited greatly from the creative critique she once received from her husband and fellow artist, Jon Imber. When Jon died in 2014 from ALS, Jill grieved not only the loss of her husband but also of her creative partner. That emotional process, occurring over the past few years during which Jill has focused on her art in a new way, has been accentuated by an internal wellspring of knowledge and confidence. Learn more about the impact of this life phase on Jill’s art, as well as Jill’s love for her adopted home of Deer Isle, Maine, today on Radio Maine.
In 1989, Betsy Evans Hunt had an unexpected encounter with internationally acclaimed photographer Todd Webb that would prove life-changing. Her educational and professional background prepared Betsy well for the day that Todd and his wife, Lucille, walked into the Evans Gallery in Portland, Maine. Betsy’s graduate thesis about famed photographers Alfred Stieiglitz and Georgia O’Keeffe, and work for Robert Mapplethorpe in New York City, enabled her to speak intelligently and passionately about the fine art photography world. Todd, a 1920’s era stockbroker-turned-photographer trained by Ansel Adams, had once worked with Georgia O’Keeffe. The Webbs, by then in their eighties and living in central Maine, formed a bond with Betsy that would continue until Todd’s death at age 94 in 2000. Betsy continues to support his legacy through the Todd Webb Archives, museum placements and publications. Join our conversation with Betsy Evans Hunt today on Radio Maine.
Elizabeth Polanksky was ahead of the curve when she started Maine’s first large-scale home staging business in 2000. The subsequent growth of the state’s real estate market has resulted in a significant demand for her skills and aesthetic sense. Elizabeth’s perseverance and business acumen have led to multiple important collaborations. Recently she helped facilitate a series of shows featuring Portland Art Gallery artists at the Cumberland Club, an historic social gathering spot in Portland, Maine. Join our conversation with Elizabeth Polansky today on Radio Maine.
Danielle Devine is the editor of Maine Home+Design (MH+D), a beautifully curated magazine that showcases the state’s premier interior designers, architects and builders, as well as countless trade specialties. After a short stint working in finance, Danielle put her undergraduate education in English and art history to use through her work with national and international design publications. Having spent many years in New York, Danielle’s young family moved to Maine when her husband opened an architecture office here, and she was thrilled when a position became available with MH+D. Join our conversation with Danielle, as she reflects on her experiences with art and architecture, and the changes she had seen in Maine’s design landscape, this week on Radio Maine.
Quincy Hentzel had been leading the Portland Regional Chamber of Commerce for three years when the global pandemic dramatically shifted the landscape. Previously Quincy had been highly regarded, and known to be proficient at leading the effort to support business in Maine’s largest city, but this put her leadership skills to the test. In a time of great uncertainty, multiple stakeholder groups had proposed initiatives that could negatively impact economic viability. Quincy met this significant challenge unphased, while continuing to address other important issues such as affordable housing, workforce and inclusivity. Join our conversation with Quincy Hentzel today on Radio Maine.
Growing up in a small town in Northern Maine, Admiral Gregory Johnson, USN, Retired, could not have foretold that he would spend more than three decades traveling the world with the United States military. With a BA in political science from the University of Maine in Orono, and an acceptance letter to attend law school in his home state, it seemed his dream of becoming an attorney was within reach. Then Greg got word that he would soon be drafted to serve in Vietnam. He rescinded his law school acceptance and joined the Navy, where he would go on to become a pilot, with the call sign of “Grog.” Continuing on this path, Grog Johnson eventually became the commander of the United States Naval Forces Europe and Allied Forces Southern Europe, working with several well known diplomats, including the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs Colin Powell, and former U.S. Secretary of Defense William Cohen (himself a son of Maine). Along the way, Grog shared his love of literature and Maine art with embassies across the globe. Learn more about Greg “Grog” Johnson on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Interior designer Brady-Anne Winn has approached her life with both unbridled optimism and unwavering persistence. Despite a few setbacks, and occasional advice from others that did not ring true, she has remained committed to her vision, and provided the space for her clients to do the same. In naming her most recent venture Nineteen Skies, she pays homage to the global pandemic, reflecting her belief that a seemingly ominous horizon may portend unseen opportunities. With that commitment, and a high degree of humility, Maine native Brady-Anne has become a respected member of the state’s interior design community. Join our conversation with Brady-Anne Winn today on Radio Maine.
Maine native Dr. Emily Isaacson is the founder and artistic director of Classical Uprising, a group of immersive community-oriented music programs that include the popular Portland Bach Experience. Emily is passionate about creating access to classical music, and illuminating its meaningful intersection with contemporary culture. Her original doctoral work in conducting and music literature provided her with a unique–and occasionally uncomfortable–perspective on leadership and inclusivity that has strengthened her resolve to have a more open and appreciative approach within this competitive field. Join Dr. Emily Isaacson’s conversation with Dr. Lisa Belisle today on Radio Maine.
Known for his plein air landscapes, artist Cooper Dragonette has spent recent months experimenting with a different reality: that of time past. His newer pieces draw upon his unique background as an teacher and instructor, exploring Maine’s remote outer islands with the Hurricane Island Outward Bound School. Considering this contrast of approaches–integrating one’s self and memories into one’s work, rather than focusing solely on the present moment–provides an opportunity for reflection on the nature of being human, and how art is uniquely positioned to capture this experience. Please join our conversation with Cooper Dragonette on this episode of Radio Maine with Dr. Lisa Belisle.
Philip Barter turns 83 in 2023 and the Portland Art Gallery is celebrating his 60 years of creating iconic Maine art with a January retrospective that will open at a reception on Thursday January 12th. Much of the work presented will be from Philip’s private collection that he has meticulously stored away for decades. This is what Carl Little, Maine art critic and author, says about Philip Barter "Barter's art harks back to Marsden Hartley and other American Modernists and their abstracting ways, a kind of school has spring up in his own impressive wake. You can hear the gallery-goer point to a brashly painted Maine landscape by a contemporary and say 'I see a bit of Barter there’. " In the meantime, join us for this Radio Maine interview with Philip Barter.
Sheep Jones is much beloved by art collectors across the United States. Raised in Waterville, Maine, she was affiliated for many years with the acclaimed Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria, Virginia. When her husband, Charlie, died in his early 60’s, Sheep returned to Maine, to be near her sister, Julie Cyr (also an artist), in coastal Belfast. Following Julie’s death due to cancer in December 2019, Sheep once again restructured her life to spend more time with her sons and grandchildren. She now alternates between their homes in California and Texas, and her own in Belfast, while maintaining art studios in each location. Join our conversation about art, resilience, and their intertwining, today on Radio Maine.
Jon Foley Sherman has an intriguing academic and professional background. A self-described “career communicator,” his formal education includes an undergraduate degree from Middlebury College in Vermont, a Diplôme from L'École International du Théàtre Jacques Lecoq in Paris, and an M.A. and Ph.D. from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. Jon draws additional expertise from his background in theater, teaching, and consulting. He now works in a mission-driven healthcare organization, where he brings his passion to understanding and improving patient and staff experiences. Join our conversation with Jon Foley Sherman today on Radio Maine.
Bibby Gignilliat had a varied career path, including more than two decades running her own business, before she decided to do something that would feed her soul. Heeding the advice of author Julia Cameron, well known for her book, The Artist’s Way, Bibby returned to doing something she loved as a child: creating art. She sought out the teachers and colleagues who supported this new journey, and slowly gained the confidence she needed to emerge as a mixed media collage artist. Using skills she gained through teaching corporate cooking classes and facilitating events, Bibby launched an online art course. To date this California resident has reached more than 700 students worldwide. Join our conversation with Portland Art Gallery artist, Bibby Gignilliat, today on Radio Maine.
Artist Bella Weidner has never been afraid of doing what she wants to do–including selling her Cumberland, Maine homestead, so that she and her young family could travel the country in their camper. She comes by her adventurous inclinations honestly, with parents who first came to the U.S. from Argentina, and then uprooted themselves once again as they moved with their children from California to New England. Along the way, Bella developed an eye for beauty and color, which led her to pursue an art education. Bella now lives and creates art in Stockton Springs (near Belfast), where she and her husband rent cottages to Maine’s coastal visitors, all while raising their son, Che. Join our conversation with the intrepid and innovative Bella Weidner today on Radio Maine.
Teaching is an important source of perspective and inspiration for artist Dietlind Vander Schaaf. Through her interactions with students, she has the opportunity to reflect on her own very prolific art practice, both with regard to process and outcome. Dietland continues to experiment with colors and her signature mark-making, while at the same time acknowledging that vision often comes before the ability to execute a given idea–and that this tension is not always easy. She remains committed to her creative evolution, and carries this into the business of art-making as well. Join our conversation with Dietlind Vander Schaaf on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Growing up in the Belgrade Lakes region of Maine, Emily McConnell considered Portland to be “the big city.” Though she felt a certain attraction to its urban energy, Emily did not yet have a sense that she would one day be contributing to its evolution. Maine’s largest municipality has experienced increased attention nationally in recent years, both for its liveability and for its economic opportunities. Anticipating the increased demand for housing options, the NewHeight Group has been at the center of several exciting projects, including the conversion of the former Northern Light Mercy Hospital building on State Street. NewHeight partner Emily McConnell has been actively engaged in this transformation, while simultaneously working toward her own, very significant professional transformation. Hear Emily’s reflections on change on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Rick Hamilton’s art brings joy to those who experience it. This is true when it is invited into the homes of those who have chosen it for their own, and also for those who are present during its creation. Such was the case recently, when Rick brought his easel, paints and a 6 x 10 foot canvas to the Portland Art Gallery, and created the piece “We’ll Always Stick Together,” with the participation of gallery visitors of all ages. This experience continued a dialogue of happiness that Rick seems always in the midst of, and produced a sizable work that now hangs on the wall of a local business. Join our conversation with artist Rick Hamilton today on Radio Maine.
Artist Missy Dunaway has the unique ability to be both far-ranging and deep in her approach to her work. While attempting to convince a fellow college student of the ongoing relevance of William Shakespeare several years ago, she gave his contribution to language as one example. A known ‘word chemist,’ The Bard not only engaged in the creation of new vocabulary, he also extensively used the known vocabulary of the time: his collected works include more than 30,000 different words. Among these are descriptions of 64 separate species of birds that eventually became the inspiration for Missy’s current series of paintings–which also include applicable and historically accurate plants. With the help of an ornithologist, a botanist, and a Shakespeare scholar, Missy is remaining true to her intention of “using a visual form to communicate information that makes it more accessible to everybody.” Join our latest conversation with Missy Dunaway on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Susan Sherrill Axelrod is a writer and editor whose work has appeared in numerous magazines and newspapers. A former restaurant owner, she is now the Editor-in-chief for Culture (“the ultimate publication for those who love cheese”). Her love of culture goes beyond the culinary: she has an undergraduate degree in French and Italian literature, and has traveled all over the world. Now a Maine resident with a strong connection to the Boothbay region, she shares her talents with the Portland Art Gallery community via “Art Matters,” a weekly web and email column featuring interviews with our artists. Learn more about Susan Sherrill Axelrod on this week’s episode of Radio Maine.
Joyce Grasso’s life experiences, and adversities, have been quietly informing her art for many years. A native of Portland, Maine, her family had a shoe store on Congress Street–across from what is now the Maine Historical Society’s Wadsworth-Longfellow House–for more than half a century. She had a front row seat to the cultural diversity of Munjoy Hill, and enjoyed weekend forays to Cape Elizabeth and Old Orchard Beach. She also felt the limitations of career choice, as did many women of her generation. Despite these limitations, and significant health challenges, her art reflects the abundance and hope that she has steadfastly drawn from her life. Join our conversation with Joyce Grasso on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Greg Day has always had an interest in lines and intersections. Early in life, Greg would lay out and draw intricate city maps at his kitchen table. After graduating from a small high school in rural Maine, Greg went on to study architecture. While his work in this profession was brief, both this and his fascination with cartography would eventually influence his art. Learn more about artist Greg Day on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Julia Einstein’s art is all about the details. She seeks “gestures” in her subjects - most often flowers from her garden, or the farm where she is currently an artist in residence - and takes great care to arrange and paint them at precisely the right time of day. Previously a resident of Kennebunk, Maine, Julia made use of her extensive art history background when she worked as an educator at the Portland Museum of Art. Now a resident of Raleigh, North Carolina, where she moved to be near her family, Julia maintains her connection to the Pine Tree State through her affiliation with the Portland Art Gallery. Join our conversation with Julia Einstein on this episode of Radio Maine.
The founder of Maine Street Design Co., longtime interior designer Brett Johnson has many loyal clients across the state. Raised on the Maine coast, he has a deeply rooted family and personal history on Bailey Island. Building on the success of his Portland design studio and design center, he opened a new retail location in Bath, Maine in the midst of Covid, and has continued to grow his business despite the globally-felt challenges of the past few years. In the process, he has also reinvented himself personally, venturing forth to parts of the world that simultaneously broadened his horizons, and reconnected him with his family legacy. Join our conversation with Brett Johnson today on Radio Maine.
Sally Thomas has dedicated her life to healing others, in myriad and evolving ways. Through her work as a nurse, and then a nurse practitioner, she came to understand the importance of emotional connection. With that in mind, she pursued a Doctor of Ministry, and initiated the “Wondering Together Project,” which brings families together through shared conversation. Learn more about Sally Thomas, and the importance of interrelatedness, today on Radio Maine.
Artist Karen Blair has had a long love affair with Maine. Although she makes her home in Charlottesville, Virginia, she has a deep appreciation for the many artists who have similarly been inspired by the Pine Tree State, including Lois Dodd, Fairfield Porter, and Reggie Burrows Hodges. Our remote interview with Karen includes a walk through her studio, where she has been working on a new series of Maine-influenced pieces, which will be featured in her 2022 show at the Portland Art Gallery. Join our visit with Karen on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Maine native Dr. Jennifer Palminteri, a pulmonologist with MaineHealth in South Portland, recently discovered the joy of bringing original art into her home. Jen is no stranger to creativity, having–like most of her medical colleagues–engaged in this extensively while responding to the rapidly evolving virus that precipitated a global pandemic. She offers a balanced and reassuring perspective from the front line of medicine. Jen’s ability to engage in uncertainty enabled her to fully embrace the art buying process, despite having no background in this area, demonstrating the transferability of skills and mindset that artists in all fields (and professions) are known for. Join our conversation with Dr. Jen Palminteri on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Tony Cox is a fixture in the southern Maine art community. He and his wife Heather have owned and operated Casco Bay Frames and Gallery in Portland for nearly two decades. Tony has combined an educational background in psychology and studio art, with practical, hands-on experience working in human resources at LL Bean, to create success for their Back Cove area business. Tony finds joy working with his staff – all of whom are artists – and with clients from across the country. Learn more about Tony Cox, and what brought him back to his home state, in today’s episode of Radio Maine.
The daughter of a small business owner, Ashley Tucci has long had an enterprising spirit. Even while fully engaged in her successful corporate career, she was considering how she could build a business for herself. She imagined focusing her considerable talents in sales and brand building in a way that would satisfy her entrepreneurial calling and sustain her young family. Ashley found this opportunity with a small lingerie store in Portland, Maine, and took the leap not long before the global pandemic turned the world upside down. She has worked through the challenges, and sees the future as bright. Though her father did not live to see his daughter follow in his footsteps, we know he would be proud. Learn about Ashley’s journey on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Previously a celebrity and on-air makeup artist in New York City, COVID caused Nikki Fontaine to seek refuge in the quiet coastal Maine town of Damariscotta. No stranger to New England, Nikki grew up in a creative family in rural Massachusetts. Influenced by their filmmaker father, she and her brother (a fellow makeup artist who specializes in ‘monster’ effects) followed the bright lights to NYC. When their industry shut down in the midst of a global pandemic, Nikki remained connected to the city–and her ongoing interest in visual arts– through virtual classes offered by the Art Students League of New York. Now a member of the Portland Art Gallery staff, she continues to work on her own emerging career as an artist. Join our conversation with Nikki Fontaine on this week’s episode of Radio Maine.
Traveling can create space, enlarge perspective and enrich the soul. In this episode of Radio Maine, our host, Dr. Lisa Belisle, records a brief podcast from her recent trip to the Grenadine Islands where she had the space to consider the art and the artists she’s spoken with in dozens of episodes since early 2021. “Art is interesting because you have the opportunity to see where an artist was at that moment and in that period of time in their life,” she observes. “Artists leave a trail of breadcrumbs from the present to the past.”
Joanne Parent embodies creative energy. Her widely varied background includes many years as a musician–she has been the lead singer in nearly 20 bands—and an early career as a charter sailing captain. This latter experience proved beneficial to her work in visual art. When the responsibilities of her young family necessitated a return to land, Joanne brought the light-filled sea vistas to her canvases. Her work continues to reflect her effervescent personality. Join our conversation with Joanne Parent today on Radio Maine.
Whitney Heavey’s family has an intergenerational appreciation of the ocean. Her grandfather was the captain of the (then) fastest transatlantic ocean liner, the SS United States, before air travel became widespread; her father was a navigator for the Navy’s first nuclear submarine. The sea features prominently in Whitney’s work as an artist, and has helped her heal after a series of recent hardships. She is deeply appreciative of her life, and the lessons she has learned by working through challenges. Join our conversation with Whitney Heavey on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
In this week’s episode, our host, Dr. Lisa Belisle, reflects on the collaborative effort that makes Radio Maine possible. Beginning in the midst of a global pandemic as a primarily distance-based project, the show has evolved to include in-person interviews, and now has more than 60 episodes. A lover of books, art, people and their stories, Lisa continues to see her work with the Portland Art Gallery as a means of exploring shared humanity. Thank you for taking a moment to pause and ponder this concept with us this week, and every week, on Radio Maine.
For Dr. Sunil Malhotra, being surrounded by art that evokes a certain emotional response helps him “right the ship.” As a practicing surgeon and the director of the newly created Congenital Cardiac Surgery program at Maine Medical Center in Portland, his work life has a high level of intensity. Fortunately he was able to draw on the experience of multiple physician family members, including his father, grandfathers and sister, when he chose this path. He reflects on his chosen profession, and the balance that art provides, on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Newly graduated from the University of Vermont in Burlington, Sarah Ingraham took a calculated risk and moved to Brooklyn, New York to pursue a career in art. After working briefly in the wallpaper business, then as an artist’s assistant, she decided to hone her own craft full-time. The Maine native now paints in a 10 x 10 foot space in her apartment, and receives regular support from friends from her home state, including fellow Portland Art Gallery artist Page Eastburn O’Rourke. Learn more about talented emerging artist Sarah Ingraham on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Paula Stern kept her passion for sculpting hidden from her family, friends and colleagues for many years–at one point even her husband was unaware. With a masters degree in Middle Eastern Studies from Harvard University in Boston, and a PhD in International Studies from the Fletcher School at Tufts University in Medford, Mass, her professional career had been more globally oriented. After time spent as a journalist in the Middle East, writing for the New Republic and the Atlantic, she and her husband, Paul London, settled down in Washington, DC to pursue a career in government. This culminated in her role as the chair of the US International Trade Commision, making her (at that time) the second highest-ranking woman in the executive branch of the US Government. Paula’s quiet obsession with sculpting eventually became known, and her subjects would include such notables as Nelson Mandela, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and former president Bill Clinton. Learn how Paula integrated these very different aspects of her life on this week’s episode of Radio Maine.
Allen Bunker turned to art as a counterbalance to his fast-paced career in residential construction. Through experimentation and persistence, Allen developed a unique artistic approach. He soon left construction behind to open an art gallery in the coastal town of Boothbay Harbor, Maine. He learned much over the years that the gallery was open, including the fact that collectors loved the art he created. When Allen reentered the construction business, he did so under his own terms. His alignment with the Portland Art Gallery has been well-received by the many collectors who value his work. Join our conversation with Allen Bunker, as we discuss entrepreneurism, the search for life balance, and how art has made this possible for him on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Originally from England, artist Christina Thwaites has lived around the world, enjoying time in such far flung locales as Scotland, France, Spain, Italy, Indonesia, Netherlands and Australia. Painting has long provided a means of finding home wherever she lands. Now living in one of Maine’s university towns, Christina has recently been inspired by the rugged coastline of the Pine Tree State. She notes an interesting narrative intersection between geography and the old photos that often provide a starting place for her work. Join our conversation with one of the Portland Art Gallery’s newest artists, Christina Thwaites, on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Growing up in the land of the Razorbacks, it is perhaps not surprising that James Bonner is a former football player and sports enthusiast. More intriguing is the longstanding attraction that this Little Rock, Arkansas native has felt toward Maine art and artists. This first manifested as an attraction to the work of the Wyeth family. Drawn to Andrew Wyeth in particular, James began a decades-long love affair with Maine, traveling frequently to the state’s Mid-coast region to immerse himself in the environment that has inspired countless creative spirits. James has become known for his attention to detail, using a painstaking multi-layered process to create simplified yet evocative Maine scenes. We explore the inexplicable allure of our beloved Pine Tree State with James Bonner on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Emma Wilson has become intimately familiar with the challenges of managing an art gallery during a pandemic, including the potential impact on the livelihoods of artists. With a roster of over 55 Maine-centric artists, the importance of continuing to meet high standards at the Portland Art Gallery cannot be overstated. As the director, Emma worked with her team to meet and exceed these standards, in part by finding new ways to connect with art lovers around the world. Please join our conversation with Emma Wilson on the first episode of season two of Radio Maine.
Artist Scott Bowe has long been inspired by the ocean. He spent his formative years enjoying summers at the coastal Maine property his great grandfather acquired. As a college student, he participated in the Semester at Sea program, where he expanded his senses as he traveled around the world. It wasn’t until he was pursuing an acting career in Los Angeles that Scott began to experiment with art. He adopted a method of painting first created by Mexican artist David Alfaro Siqueiros, who developed a process called acrylic flow painting, or acrylic pour painting, in the 1930’s. This technique allowed him to explore themes of aquatically-inspired movement and constant change. Join our conversation with Scott Bowe on this episode of Radio Maine with Dr. Lisa Belisle.
With her graduate degree in clinical psychology, artist Laurie Fisher has been trained to look for, and understand, the factors that fundamentally make us who we are, and who we might be. She has used these in her own creative development, as both a writer and an artist. Laurie speaks eloquently about her creative path, the uncertainties that plague most artists, and the joy of meeting advocates and supporters who have furthered her career and contributed to her artistic confidence. A relatively new addition to the artist roster at Portland Art Gallery, Laurie has had notable national art representation for many years. Please join Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine for our conversation with artist Laurie Fisher.
By the time Sage Tucker Ketcham entered high school in Burlington, Vermont, she and her mother had moved over 20 times. Their travels took them throughout the U.S. and Europe, with memorable stays in England and Italy. Sage’s mother, herself an artist and musician, made sure that art played an important part in their experience. Sage went on to obtain a more formal art education from the Maine College of Art in Portland, before eventually returning to Vermont, where she now lives with her husband and son. Her paintings suggest an interesting blend of stasis and movement, likely informed by her own peripatetic past, weaving the transitional nuances of seasons and time of day with comforting depictions of home. Learn more about Portland Art Gallery artist Sage Tucker Ketcham on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Matthew Barter has always approached his artistic training, and his life, in a unique manner. Homeschooled in rural Downeast Maine, his parents exposed him to art, art galleries and the working waterfront from a young age. His father, himself an artist and fisherman, served as one of his early role models. Over time, Matt moved from working construction jobs to becoming a full-time artist and sculptor. His dedication to both persistence and play has put him on track to be one of Maine’s iconic artists. Join our conversation with Matt Barter on this week’s episode of Radio Maine.
Ed Wintner had more than a fleeting passion for art while in high school, and took his studies seriously at the Philadelphia College of Art (now part of the University of the Arts) during those years. His career would, however, take a very different path. After earning a PhD in organic chemistry from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, he joined the fast-paced biotechnology world, on the front line of drug discovery. After successfully launching two biotech start-ups, Ed made the decision not to remain in that field, instead returning to his early love and devoting himself full-time to being an artist. Ed draws parallels between the seemingly unrelated professions as he describes the neurologic processes involved, and the uncertainty of discovery inherent to each. Learn more about Portland Art Gallery artist Ed Wintner, and his unique artistic style, on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Artist MJ Benson loves swimming in the ocean, and the accompanying profound, visceral sense of the balance between breathing and not. What she experiences so deeply in that realm is reflected in the play between light and dark in her abstract landscapes. MJ is highly attuned to emotional contrasts: her sorrow over her brother’s death from cancer in the midst of COVID generated a renewed appreciation for her family, her friends and her life in Maine. Over the past two years, MJ poured this appreciation into her art, and her paintings soared as a result. Today’s conversation with MJ Benson provides a glimpse into an artist’s emotional experience and the impact it has on her art.
Anne Heywood was an accomplished full-time artist and gallery owner when, in February 2020, her husband of thirty years passed away suddenly. Still navigating her grief, she assumed the role of CEO of her late husband’s engineering firm as a global pandemic unfolded. Her resilience and fortitude kept the business moving forward, enabling The Thompson & Lichtner Co., Inc. to celebrate its 125th year that October. Two years later, Anne is still running the Canton, Massachusetts-based company, while once again finding time to visit her beloved home in Waldoboro, Maine and resume painting the Maine scenes that bring her peace.
Matthew Russ was born in Portland, Maine and raised in nearby Cape Elizabeth. He earned a B.A. from Colby College, majoring in studio art with a concentration in oil painting, during which time he studied for one year at Crawford College of Art in Cork, Ireland. He lives with his wife KC in Waterville, where he maintains a studio. Matt celebrates Maine’s landscape in his paintings. He paints from life, working outdoors in all seasons and often backpacking into remote locations. He favors protected lands, such as Maine State Parks, the Kennebec Highlands, the Morse Mountain Conservation Area, and islands along the Maine Island Trail. Matt is represented by Portland Art Gallery.
When Maine artist Dan Daly leaves his house, he checks off the essentials: keys, wallet, sketchbook. Over the past several decades, he has filled hundreds of sketchbooks with ideas and inspiration from his day-to-day travels. It’s not only images that capture his attention--Dan is equally drawn to people and their stories. He easily relates to people from a broad range of backgrounds, from the janitorial crew he worked with to make money so he could go back to college, to the inmates with whom he volunteered at the Maine State Prison. His sketchbooks, and his stories, reflect deep bonds with people and the world. Join our conversation with Dan Daly on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Steve Rogers has an appreciation for history, tradition, and service. This, in addition to his lifelong fascination with the ocean, boatbuilders and, (as he refers to them) “watermen,” has resulted in an almost documentary feel to many of his works: his attention to detail related to the working waterfront is unparalleled. On today’s episode of Radio Maine, Steve talks about his rare, but much anticipated, childhood trips to the Jersey Shore where he first fell in love to access to the water, his time teaching model boat building at the legendary Wooden Boat School in Brooklin Maine, and his personal commitment to leadership and giving back to his community. You’ll look at his work differently after listening to our conversation with Steve Rogers on Radio Maine.
Willa Vennema’s life is as wonderfully layered as the encaustic pieces she creates. Raised by art-loving parents in New York City, she became a talented flautist, attending what is now called the LaGuardia High School of Music & Performing Arts—the school that inspired the ‘80 film, television series and musical, “Fame.” She also began a decades-long relationship with Swan’s Island, a remote enclave in Hancock County, Maine that claims its own musical connection through the 32-year-old Sweet Chariot Music Festival. While studying at Oberlin College and Conservatory in Ohio, Willa realized a newfound passion for the visual arts, spurred on by courses in art history and printmaking. She would go on to become an arts-focused preschool teacher, eventually moving with her family to Southern Maine. Throughout this time, Swan’s Island has remained her muse, and her art—developed through layers of color and wax–an embodiment of her continued evolution. Join our conversation with Willa Vennema on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Sculptor David Moser has creativity woven into his DNA. A member of the Maine family known for the Thos Moser furniture company, David learned much from its entrepreneurial founder–his father, Tom. The wisdom that he gained, alongside his three brothers, would influence an early interest in business and economics. His comfort in working with his hands would eventually lend itself to the craft of sculpting, an artistic endeavor that he now pursues full-time. In this first Radio Maine episode of the New Year, David willingly explores the emotional depths, and vulnerabilities, inherent in this choice. Thank you for joining our conversation.
Artist Doug Caves has an affinity for the natural space afforded by rural New England. “It understands me and I understand it,” he says. Doug translates the energy he feels from the environment onto his paintings. Whether teaching artists, or pursuing his own art, Doug believes in taking a deliberate approach to exploration, discovery, and invention. His own explorations have led him to consider conflicting family guidance, a search for meaning, and whether his work “matters.” He suggests that the journey of discovery, as it relates both to knowing one’s own self and the external space one inhabits, is its own reward. Join our conversation with Doug Caves on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Julie Houck began life as a traveler, moving several times for her father’s career. This pattern repeated itself in her later years. After attending art school, she became a highly sought-after commercial photographer who traversed the globe shooting for corporations, as well as publications such as Business Week, Newsweek, Forbes, The New Yorker, and U.S. News & World Report. The accumulated miles, and the transition of photography from film to digital, motivated her to change her professional course after 20 years, and seek additional training in San Francisco and Paris. The worldwide landscape continues to inspire Julie’s art, although now she is now more likely to be exploring places by bike than by plane, near her studios located in Hawaii and Maine. Join our conversation with Julie Houck on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Carol Bass approaches life with an innate empathy, compassion and joy. A love for people and adventure brought her to Maine after college, and she stayed to raise a family, develop her art career and start a successful business. She moved to South Carolina after her children had grown, with the idea of reconnecting with family, but the draw to Maine was too strong. After a decade, she and her husband moved back. Now, you can find Carol living quietly in Pownal Maine, painting incessantly, and loving life despite challenges caused by multiple sclerosis. Carol talks passionately about living, absolutely, in the present, intentionally forgetting what came before, and about her need to finally come home. Join our conversation on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Radio Maine Episode 40: Kim Case
Telling Stories
Kim Case began her creative journey as a photojournalist. After growing up in central New Hampshire, she trained in art history and photojournalism at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University in Boston. Finding the field of photojournalism difficult to break into, she went on to photograph weddings, using images to create narratives of a couple’s special day. She eventually became editor of the first home and design magazine in New England. Her paintings often reflect a storytelling approach, whether depicting a farmhouse swing framed by the White Mountains, or a fisherman’s shack on Casco Bay. Kim now paints from her studio in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, where she has made a home with her husband and son. Listen to our conversation with Kim Case today on Radio Maine.
Radio Maine Episode 39: Nina Fuller
Back to the Land
Inspired by Scott and Helen Nearing’s classic “back-to-the-land” book, Living the Good Life, Nina Fuller first came to Maine in 1972. Being close to nature had taken root in her psyche from early days spent on her parent’s farm in Connecticut, and she sought this same agricultural connection for her own family. When her Maine dreams imploded with a series of life transitions, Nina knew she would someday return to the bucolic tranquility she had previously found. After raising her children and building a successful career as a commercial photographer, Nina reestablished herself on her very own sheep farm in Hollis, Maine. Nina has entered the latest phase in her photography career from this location, creating fine art prints documenting her life as a sheep farmer. Join us in discussing Nina’s journey back to the land on this week’s episode of Radio Maine.
Holly Smith’s New England connections run deep: she can trace her family lineage back to the Mayflower. Her great grandfather, Captain George Lane, used to sail from Rockport, Maine to the West Indies, carrying lime and lumber. Maine has been home her entire life, and she has taken full advantage of access to its islands, including Eagle, Monhegan and Vinalhaven. With loving encouragement from both her mother and father, she immersed herself in art from a young age, attended the Portland-Gorham area teachers college that would eventually become the University of Southern Maine, and spent 31 years teaching art and photography in public schools. After exploring several different avenues for getting her work into the homes of collectors, Holly decided to join the Portland Art Gallery. Learn more about Maine artist Holly Smith on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Martha Burkert’s successful career as a photography stylist taught her much about perspective, subtracting from a scene, and proper lighting--each of which has been important to her art. Martha attended the Maine College of Art in Portland later in life, at the suggestion of several artist friends. One of her early influences was artist and author Alfred “Chip” Chadbourn, with whom she shares a connection to Yarmouth, Maine. She brings her knowledge of photography and art forward into her pieces, many of which incorporate elements that are reminiscent of home life, including ceramics and garden flowers. Martha currently divides her time between her Texas home and her family cottage on Cousins Island in Maine. Watch, or listen, to this episode of Radio Maine to learn more about artist, Martha Burkert.
An undergraduate finance major at the University of Vermont in Burlington, Dick Alden did not anticipate that he would enjoy his ceramics class as much as he did. In contrast to work he did in his other classes, he found that the process of doing something “not exact” was very appealing. Putting his interest in art on hold, he went on to pursue a career with State Street Bank in Boston, while raising a family and studying for a master’s in business administration over many nights and weekends. Then, after taking a wood carving course in his mid-forties, Dick began creating stern boards for his friends’ sailboats. A museum exhibit based on the influential Black Mountain College in North Carolina started him down the path of stone sculpting. Learn more about Dick Alden’s artistic endeavors, lovingly undertaken with the support of his wife Priscilla and the stone sculpture community, on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Rodney Dennis is committed to his craft. For months, he took a late flight out of Washington DC bound for Boston every Thursday night after his compressed 4-day work week had ended. He did this so that he could spend weekends attending the Academy of Realist Art. As a result of his continuing commitment to serious academic pursuit, and countless hours of painting, his pieces display a level of precision that appears almost photographic in quality. After sharing Academy classes with him, artist and Portland Art Gallery staff member Missy Dunaway was so impressed with his talent and work ethic that she advocated for him to join our Maine-based gallery. We are fortunate that he agreed. Learn more about artist Rodney Dennis, and his exceptional realistic style, on this episode of Radio Maine.
In the field of computer science, abstraction refers to the process of taking away, or removing less relevant characteristics, in order to get to what is most essential. Using that definition, Jodi Edward’s life, like her art, has been a process of abstraction, leading to her current existence on a bucolic family farm in Surry, Maine. Jodi traces her journey from an education at the Parsons School of Design in New York City, across a trajectory of varied experiences, including waitressing, singing, teaching and posing as an art model. The energy of her courage, and willingness to engage and take risks, shines through her colorful, ebullient pieces, creating a manifestation of abstraction that is entirely her own. Join our conversation with Jodi Edwards on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
For Brenda Cirioni, art has provided an opportunity for both catharsis and joy. While attending a retreat as an adult, she reconnected with feelings around a fire that destroyed her family’s home when she was 16-years-old--an event that was found to have been caused by arson. This emotional touchpoint became the impetus for a body of work that spanned several years, and eventually provided her with a sense of closure around the tragedy. More recently, she countered the challenges of COVID by finding joyful inspiration in her gardens, creating a series of floral abstracts. Learn more about Brenda’s experience with the interplay between art and emotion on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Stephanie Brown understands that food and family are foundational elements of a life well-lived. Trained as a chef at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, her professional pursuits are the continuation of a personal legacy reflected in memories of homemade pasta drying in the bedroom of her grandparents’ four story walk-up in Boston’s North End. Her decades-long career encompasses a love for food and people that has most recently manifested in co-ownership of North 43 Bistro in South Portland, Maine. Stephanie is beloved for the joy she brings to catered events, from intimate weddings to corporate events--not to mention pre-COVID art openings at our own Portland Art Gallery. Learn more about Stephanie’s commitment to building community through breaking bread on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Fred Williams traces his love for art back to his childhood, when he accompanied his parents on a visit to an artist’s studio located on Hancock Point in Downeast Maine. From a longstanding Maine family, his parents met at the University of Maine in Orono, and bought their first piece of art from one of their professors. Fred says that connecting with artists is something that he treasures to this day, as he continues to surround himself with art at his home in Portland, Maine. The founder of the well-respected investment management firm, Old Port Advisors in Portland, Fred has been in the financial services business for four decades. He has supported non-profit organizations--many of them with an art focus--equally as long. Joining Radio Maine from his Munjoy Hill home, Fred shares his deep respect for and admiration of artists William Crosby, Joyce Grasso, Fred Lynch, Missy Asen and many more. Listen in to learn more about Fred’s art collecting, philanthropy and professional transition, this week on Radio Maine with Dr. Lisa Belisle.
By his own admission, Cooper Dragonette “could not tell the bow from the stern,” when first hired as a sailing instructor by Maine’s Hurricane Island Outward Bound School in Penobscot Bay. Raised in Easton, Connecticut, he spent several years in landlocked Arizona working toward a degree in education, and had come away longing for the coast. His unanticipated Hurricane Island experience initiated an interplay between art and the outdoors that continues in his life to this day. Now a resident of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, Cooper balances raising his young children with plein air painting, and teaching workshops in this genre. Get to know Cooper and better understand the influences that contribute to his much sought-after Maine landscapes in today’s Radio Maine interview with Dr. Lisa Belisle.
Artist Matt Chamberlain has always felt an urge to paint. Although he pursued his passion at the Maine College of Art (MECA) in Portland, he initially felt uncertain about how to make a living through his art. With this in mind, he picked up a “real” job as a prep cook at Portland’s venerable farm-to-table restaurant, Fore Street. The experience, a total immersion into foodservice, set Matt on another creative path as a chef, which eventually led to his owning a Portland-based catering business. It wasn’t until years later, when the stress of operating a food business reached a peak, that he returned to the art studio. To his surprise, there was much for him to say on the canvas, and a group of art collectors who were more than willing to hear it. Now, Matt makes his living creating art as one of the most recent additions to the Portland Art Gallery. Hear more about Matt’s story on this episode of Radio Maine with Dr. Lisa Belisle.
Artist Ann Trainor Domingue, and her eight siblings, grew up in the oceanside community of Barrington, Rhode Island. There is little doubt that her relationship with the coast and devotion to family have informed her artwork. Ann’s paintings are unmistakable, offering her own distinctive depiction of family and working life on the New England waterfront. In this free-ranging interview, we talk about her childhood camping trips, her husband’s childcare business--and the impact of COVID-19 on that business--and pay homage to children’s book authors Eric Carle and Tomie Paola, as well the poetry of Mary Oliver. You’ll learn why Ann is beloved by collectors and Portland Art Gallery artists alike in today’s Radio Maine Interview with Dr. Lisa Belisle.
Emma McHold Burke started working with the Portland Art Gallery just as Covid was causing small businesses like the gallery to “shift direction.” She had recently graduated from the Tyler School of Art and Architecture in Pennsylvania after gaining an education in painting and art history, and had planned her next life steps around the Philadelphia community in which Tyler is located. With the uncertainty of the pandemic looming, Emma reluctantly gave up her post-college apartment and moved to her family home in Maine. Wanting to maintain her connection to the art world, Emma reached out to the gallery. When she learned that the gallery, as a non-essential business, had been instructed to close its doors to the public, she volunteered to work behind the scenes. Her work ethic and enthusiasm were immediately evident. She was soon offered a paid position, and her willingness to work through strange and challenging times eventually earned her the position of gallery manager. Learn about the power of creativity, and the importance of resilience, in Emma’s conversation with Dr. Lisa Belisle on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
Artist Jean Jack has earned a reputation for her unique, and now iconic, rendition of New England-style farmhouses and barns. Although she had no personal experience growing up in or around these structures, she found herself mesmerized by a particular farmhouse in Connecticut while in the early stages of her artistic career. After surreptitiously photographing this structure, she painted her own version and entered it in a competition at the famed Silvermine School of Art in New Canaan, Connecticut. Her competition win affirmed her passion for the subject matter. While subsequently living in Santa Fe, New Mexico she continued to trek hours to America’s farming heartland for inspiration. In addition to pursuing her art, including time spent operating her own art and antique gallery, Jean spent years traveling around the country, supporting her husband’s military service and career and raising their children. She and her husband, Claude, eventually settled here in Maine. Learn more about Jean’s creative journey through her conversation with Dr. Lisa Belisle on this week’s episode of Radio Maine.
Dr. Jarrod Daniel defies easy categorization. A former professional hockey player from Canada, his travels and educational path have taken him all over the world. Now a Portland-based surgeon, he has been married for more than two decades to a woman who grew up in Bangor, Maine and Paris, France. Jarrod and Frederique have chosen to raise their four children on a small Maine island, in a home filled with art from both in-state and away. Learn more about Dr. Jarrod Daniel and his global trajectory on this week’s episode of Radio Maine with Dr. Lisa Belisle.
Artist Ann Sklar was a printmaking major in college--not because she loved printmaking, but because of the charismatic female professor who led the program. From this professor, Ann learned much more about life and work than one might expect from a college course of study. The professor went on to become a provost at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and Ann went on to co-found three art galleries. One of these is a Philadelphia-area female artist cooperative that still exists today. Ann brings a mindful and determined discipline to her work: a discipline she developed over years spent balancing the demands of her business ventures, young children and her own art practice. We’re fortunate to have Ann here in Maine during the summer months, where she resides in a home she built with her husband, Henry, along the banks of the Kennebec River in Woolwich. Please join us on today’s Radio Maine, as we talk about life and work with Portland Art Gallery artist, Ann Sklar.
Vanessa Helmick started her Maine interior design business, Fiore Interiors, using a unique approach: she ignored all of her well-intentioned advisors, and made decisions that were best for her. She avoided networking, she moved out of the city of Portland, and she chose clients that she liked and who liked her aesthetic. Vanessa’s aesthetic, one that she describes as “Scandi Beach,” is a combination of Scandanavian minimalism and a heavily textured coastal experience. With each of her projects, she incorporates art into her design and engages with her clients to choose signature pieces that will enhance their daily lives. Vanessa’s own daily life has taken her to Yarmouth where she is raising her daughter, and their new pup, minutes away from her new storefront, located near the bustling boatyards of the Royal River. You’ll enjoy getting to know more about Vanessa’s personal and professional style on today’s episode of Radio Maine with Dr. Lisa Belisle. Thank you for joining our Radio Maine community.
Bill Crosby exemplifies the dualistic nature of many artists. He is both a photographer and a painter, who worked for decades as an art professor, while actively practicing his own craft. Bill reminds us that, as the poet Charles Baudelaire suggests, “An artist is only an artist on condition that he neglects no aspect of his dual nature…the power of being oneself and someone else at the same time.” Bill has enjoyed a longstanding personal and professional partnership with his wife, Pat. They divide their time between homes in Plattsburgh, New York and South Thomaston, Maine. Bill and Pat are passionate about kayaking the St. George River from his home in Maine. These frequent summer excursions, as well as travels throughout New England, continue to inform and inspire Bill’s signature abstract painting. Hear more about Bill’s rich and complex life and art as you join in his conversation with Dr. Lisa Belisle on Radio Maine.
There is much about Portland Art Gallery director Emma Wilson that may surprise you. Emma has been a traveling military spouse (caring for three children while their father served in Iraq), spent time as a social worker, and has strong ties to the non-profit world. Her early love of art, growing up with access to New York’s renowned museums, stayed with her as she moved around the country. She realized quickly that art is a tie that binds, and sought out the company of like-minded art-loving souls wherever she went. Emma and her family eventually moved to Maine, returning to a place that she had first gotten to know as a child, during extended summer stays on Casco Bay’s Long Island. In this episode of Radio Maine, host Dr. Lisa Belisle speaks with Emma about her love of Maine, art and family, and about forging a new way forward through Covid for Portland Art Gallery artists, and the community that supports them.
Aniella Salko’s career path seemed pre-ordained. The “family business” was medicine. For years she had imagined being a doctor, a surgeon, or maybe a scientist. At the same time, her sketch books and school art classes were an important part of her early years. As she progressed in high school, Aniella realized that she wanted to do something that she loved. After much consideration, and with the full support of her parents, Aniella chose to attend the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida. Her first year of college was unusual and challenging due to the pandemic, but Aniella knows that she has made the right decision. Her dream is to work eventually with Pixar (more formally known as Pixar Animation Studios), in Emeryville, California. Hear more about Aniella’s process of moving her dreams toward reality with Dr. Lisa Belisle on today’s episode of Radio Maine.
John “Jack” Gable has been a full-time artist for more than four decades after an equally successful career in automobile design. Jack trained to work for his initial profession at the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California. While there he explored artistic creation in various forms, affording him the opportunity to transition between watercolors, oils, acrylics and other mediums. In 1980, he left his original dream job as a designer for the Trans Am Firebird at General Motors in Detroit, Michigan, and moved his young family across the country to the small Maine enclave of Kennebunkport. Jack now lives in Woolwich, Maine. He works from a studio that is 50 feet long - giving him room to create massive, commissioned murals. He has also remained immersed in, and painted, the worlds of America’s Cup sailing, and competitive rowing. He does the same for automobile events and competitions around the globe. Jack has pieces in the Smithsonian and the Willard Intercontinental Hotel in Washington DC, as well as numerous private collections. We invite you to learn more about the formidable talent of Jack Gable in today’s Radio Maine conversation with Dr. Lisa Belisle.
Rick Hamilton has had many careers, but he has always been an artist at heart. In addition to traveling the world while in the Navy, he has worked as a framer, a machinist and a salesperson. Throughout these adventures, Rick remained connected to a creative spirit that was reignited by a chance encounter with a young artist on the Eastern Prom in Portland. While he names Picasso, Modigliani, and Basquiat as influences, Rick is humble about his work and suggests that “anyone could do what I do.” Most people would respectfully disagree with his assertion. Rick, with his impressive work ethic and commitment to his now full-time artistic career, has emerged as an incredible talent with a unique signature style. Join Dr. Lisa Belisle on Episode 18 of Radio Maine, and find yourself transported to the magical world of Portland Art Gallery artist Rick Hamilton.
Page Eastburn O’Rourke brings joy to people of all ages. A full-time artist and children’s book illustrator, she developed her artistic style at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, where she was heavily influenced by the color work of Josef Albers, and then Parsons School of Design in New York City. Page is beloved in the Yarmouth Maine area, and her travels have allowed her to introduce what she describes as “pop folk art” to countless others around the state. Join us on Radio Maine as we explore Page’s personal journey and find out how it has influenced her unique approach to art and life.
Alexandra Maurer is passionate about her work—both as an artist and an acupuncturist, two topics she is willing to explore deeply. In this episode of Radio Maine, she also touches upon the ideas of “fledging” one’s children, finding one’s voice, and embracing what Alexandra calls her maintenance phase. With her recent decision to join the Portland Art Gallery community, Alexandra has continued her commitment to creativity. Join us for Episode 16 of Radio Maine with Dr. Lisa Belisle.
Heather Shields grew up on North Haven, a remote Maine island with a year-round population of 350. Reaching the mainland by ferry boat was a 75 minute commitment – one way. Join Dr. Lisa Belisle as she discusses Heather’s formative island years that led her to understand, profoundly, that we all must learn how to get along. Heather built upon the foundation of her childhood experiences when she became a single mom living in the greater Portland Maine area and entered the now frenzied world of Maine residential real estate. Heather also reflects on the work of Portland Art Gallery artist, and fellow North Haven native, Eric Hopkins. If you’re not currently living in Maine, you’ll want to move here after listening to Heather Shields.
Architect Josh Lowe lives with his wife and daughter on a coastal Maine island—a decision that was as carefully considered as the process he uses for design creation. Less than three years ago, their young family was in San Francisco, with Josh working on residential and commercial projects coming out of the Bay Area tech boom. Many of their friends were transplants like themselves, who had moved to the area early in their careers in order to gain experience among their intellectual peers, and over time gradually moved away again. As their daughter got older, Josh and his wife, Carleigh, decided to seek a community with more stability: a place where people stay, and where they could raise their daughter to sail, ski and otherwise appreciate a close connection with the outdoors. On this episode of Radio Maine, Dr. Lisa Belisle explores Josh’s physical journey from Delaware to Mill Valley, with stops in Prague and Rome along the way, his professional journey from art student to builder to architect, and his personal journey into fatherhood, navigating the shifting priorities that come with having a young family. Thank you for joining us in this conversation of conscious life design, and for being part of our Radio Maine community.
It is said that change is constant, and most people will agree this is true. Along with change, which may be symbolized by an external shift in circumstances such as a birthday or retirement, we transition to new roles by revising our internal perceptions of ourselves and our interaction with the world. This may also take place during travel, and through finding art where it may not have previously existed. Join Dr. Lisa Belisle on the road this week as she reflects on the topic of change for Radio Maine.
As the world reopens, there is a strange reawakening that we're all experiencing as the springtime has woken up the birds and the buds are on the trees. Some of us are planting our gardens. We are realizing that things that we thought we lost over the last year were there all along. Maybe that's what creativity is; the ability to have things continue on. Maybe despite us, while our focus is elsewhere, things could still be happening while dormant, lying in wait in the fallow field, ready to emerge when the time is right.
Have you ever wondered about how priceless artwork gets moved from one location to another? Artist Stew Henderson has the answer. He recently retired after two decades working in Maine’s fine arts world: first with the Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland, and then as the senior preparator at the Colby College Museum of Art in Waterville. In this latest episode of Radio Maine, Stew talks to Dr. Lisa Belisle about this work, his experience acting as an art courier and his own unique artistic style.
Artist Helen Lewis creates her pieces, in part, by adding layer upon layer of molten beeswax to a panel, and scraping it away. This process creates great depth and luminosity. This practice reflects her life’s work of finding meaning from what remains after loss. Helen’s mother died suddenly when she was five-years-old. Soon after, her father brought Helen and her brothers on a trip to New Orleans that was meant to be restorative. Things did not go as planned, nor did the remainder of Helen’s childhood years. Helen’s art is clearly informed by her early heartbreaking experience and dedication to her own emotional healing. Prepare to be impacted by Helen’s compelling story, as described to Dr. Lisa Belisle, in this episode of Radio Maine.
Hadley Powell has spent a lifetime “training her eye” when it comes to art. Visits to art museums were an integral part of her childhood vacations and time at Gould Academy in Bethel, Maine expanded her view. She went on to complete formal educational programs in art at Union College and with Christie’s world-renowned art institute. Now, in tandem with nurturing her young family, Hadley is maturing her art consulting business, Powell Fine Art Advisory. Listen to this Farmington, Maine native talk about art, family, entrepreneurship, and her never-ending and always evolving love of art.
Dr. Brooke Jackson is a practicing clinical psychologist living in San Rafael, California. She is also a lover of art, lifelong learner and gardener. Join us for episode eight, as Brooke tells us about searching for, and finding, her genuine life path after a career trajectory that included jobs as a paralegal and educator, before returning to college later in life to earn her PhD in psychology. Feeling blessed that she could still work remotely as COVID lockdowns happened, Brooke made a determined decision to continue her support of independent booksellers, artists and her favorite non-profits. Her connection to Maine pre-dated her relationship with the Portland Art Gallery by 30 years, with her family’s annual cross-country trips from California to Maine. Her extended family now gathers whenever possible in a small, seasonal lodge on the shores of Moosehead Lake in Greenville, Maine. Watch and learn more about the important work that Brooke does with her clients and view the original art that she has on her walls. Thank you for joining us every Sunday for Radio Maine, and being part of our creative community.
Carlos Gamez de Francisco knew that he wanted to emigrate from Cuba to the United States when he was 14-years-old. According to Carlos, the generation before him had moved to Cuba for opportunity, and now his generation was leaving for opportunity. After early studies in dance, at age fifteen Carlos began devoting his time to studying and perfecting his art. He would eventually find his way to the U.S. where he took the first available job in a warehouse while continuing to create art. Within months, and after learning English by repeating 100 words 11 times each day, Carlos talked his way into gallery representation, had his first solo art show and sold it out. He promptly quit his warehouse job and became a full-time artist. Carlos' determined commitment to hard work, discipline, and constant learning is an inspiration for us all.
In this episode, Lisa Belisle connects with California-based artist, Andrew Faulkner. Andrew has an unusually rich lineage of creativity. His great-grandfather was an accomplished professional artist who traveled regularly to Europe for inspiration before returning to Connecticut to paint. His grandfather, father and brother are architects. Andrew’s mother was an interior designer. However, Andrew entered Trinity College prepared to obtain a more practical education in English, or Psychology, before finishing with a degree in Fine Arts. After a successful 30 year career in graphic design, Andrew started his “real job” as a professional artist. Learn more about Andrew Faulkner in Episode 6.
Dietlind Vander Schaaf’s life, as Walt Whitman might suggest, “contains multitudes.” Not only is she an artist and teacher of art, she is also a writer and yoga teacher who has undergraduate and masters degrees in history (as well as a masters of fine art in writing!) Lisa Belisle’s interview with Dietlind explores her unique practice of creating encaustic art on wood panels: a laborious process of applying layer after layer of hot wax, paint and, in her case, 23-karat gold leaf. Hear about her artistic evolution, including four years spent working through perceived failure, and ultimate emergence with a renewed faith in herself. Dietlind also speaks about her love of languages, imposter syndrome and the personal satisfaction she gets from teaching workshops. This conversation with Dietlind Vander Schaaf can be seen on the Portland Art Gallery website, on Vimeo, You Tube, or listened to via Podbean. Thank you for listening to, and following, Radio Maine. We welcome comments and suggestions for future shows from our Radio Maine community!
Host, Dr. Lisa Belisle, connects with artist Jane Dahmen in her Newcastle, Maine home for Episode 4 of Radio Maine. Jane has created a well-established art practice over the course of 50+ years. She was first introduced to Maine as a student at Colby College in Waterville and, after vacationing here for several years, moved to Newcastle full time with her husband, Joe, in 2005. Jane talks about overcoming challenges, including Joe's diagnosis and eventual death due to Alzheimer's disease, by looking inward to find answers. Jane also speaks about her passion for interviewing artists and curators at her popular "Talking Art in Maine" series in Damariscotta, Maine. She's led conversations with artists Alex Katz, Lois Dodd, Katherine Bradford, Eric Hopkins, Michel Droge, and many others, as well as museum luminaries such as Sharon Corwin, Suzette McAvoy and Mark Bessire.
Our host, Dr. Lisa Belisle, is one of ten siblings. Her father's 50-year career as a family physician led her toward a similar professional path adding studies in pubic health (MPH), acupuncture and business (MBA). While she's currently in a primary care leadership role for a Maine-based healthcare system, she has always continued a parallel path as an on-air interviewer, writer and presenter. Learn more about Lisa, as well as her appreciation for work by artist, Willa Vennema, in this episode.
Missy Dunaway talks with host Dr. Lisa Belisle about realizing she was going to an artist from the age of 6, her wanderlust for world travel, a Fulbright Scholarship that took her to Turkey, her visual travel journals, and more. Missy is one of the featured artists in March 2021 at the Portland Art Gallery.
In her inaugural episode of Radio Maine, Dr. Lisa has a conversation with Gallery Director, Emma Wilson. They talk about the past year of doing business during Covid and how the gallery, and artists, forged a path forward while taking care to provide needed connection, communication and compassion along the way. Hear about how the team at the Portland Art Gallery expanded their artist roster and available artwork to offer more creative space for their artists and more options for their loyal art buyers and collectors from Maine to Hong Kong.