Fill to Capacity Podcast (Crazy Good Stories and Timely Topics)

Paul Gaines takes us on a gripping journey from his work at the College of Visual Arts (St. Paul, MN) to his pivotal role in Alaskan mental health. In Fairbanks, he navigates the complexities of providing care amid the extremities of isolation and trauma surrounded by nature's grandeur.

Orna O’Reilly, an accomplished interior designer from Ireland, recounts her vibrant journey—from standing in line for 5 hours to vote for Mandela in South Africa to dodging danger in Mozambique. Returning to Ireland only fueled her desire for Italy, a country that called to her. Ultimately, she took a leap of faith, selling her home in Galway to start anew near Padova. Her stories capture the essence of community acceptance and the delicate dance of belonging in a foreign land.

Whether you want to relocate abroad or simply crave an armchair travel escape, Orna's candid insights offer a window into the expatriate life in Italy—a testament to the transformative power of embracing new horizons.

Jump into the pulse-pounding world of a 911 dispatcher with our latest episode featuring Marlis X! Witness the remarkable balance of quick decisions and calm required in emergency dispatch.

Join Natalie Zett as she brings to light the silenced voices of history. Scouring old newspapers, she reveals the rich tapestry of immigrant life and 1915 Chicago. Discover the legacy of the Eastland Disaster in "Eastland Chronicles" – our past echoes in the present.

In this episode, discover Liz Pimentel-Gopal's extraordinary dance journey! From the heart of Mexico to the NBA stage at 55+, her story is a testament to cultural identity and self-reinvention as she joins Golden State Warriors Hardwood Classics Dance Team, proving performance knows no age.

Objects that anchor us - do you have one? I’ve journeyed with an etched stone for 20+ years. It's been a silent guide through change, a puzzle in constancy, and a testament to life's delightful ironies. Check out this oh-so-quick podcast!

In this episode, listen to the wisdom, humor, and laser-focused strategies of Shaun Floerke. From reforming the judicial system to nurture family unity to leading the charge at the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation, Shaun demonstrates the transformative impact of collective action.

At 40, Alice Grasset turned a personal trial into a pathway for many. Her 'Sparkles of Grace' program weaves yoga, meditation, and coaching into a tapestry of support for breast cancer recovery, highlighting the collective strength as we support each other.

From a spark of conversation to a beacon of spirituality: watch how a simple burst of words ignites a journey from 3D sketch to the first-ever 3D window-sculpture for a new chapel.

Dive into the healing world of art therapy with Kris Frykman! 🌟From aesthetics to art therapy, Kris reveals art’s power in self-expression & healing. Discover her impactful role with the Suicide Survivors Club and be moved by a heartfelt story shared at their conference. This podcast isn’t just art appreciation—it’s a journey to peace amidst life’s storms.

Discover resilience and compassion forged in a childhood crucible of violence and poverty. Mick Cochrane, acclaimed writer and professor, reveals a moving tale of growing up with his remarkable & creative sister, Sue. From mutism to finding her voice, as family law reformer to cancer survivor, Sue's journey inspires us all to live with radical openness and unwavering compassion. Dive into her extraordinary memoir, "The Crystal Gavel," and experience the mirror that reflects the good in others.

⚡️ Struck by lightning, but unstoppable! Join us in an electrifying conversation with Lori Grace Bailey, the phenomenal storm chaser and photographer. 📸 Hear about her passion for capturing nature's fury and her journey of self-discovery. Don't miss it!

Embark on a cultural journey with Vesna Kittelson, a tri-located citizen gracefully navigating Croatia, Cambridge, and Minneapolis. Raised in Communist Yugoslavia, her life reflects the power of curiosity. Vesna’s art transcends borders and time, weaving rich experiences into her work. Explore the profound interplay of words and art, as she challenges language boundaries. Vesna invites you to contemplate the enigma of language, creating dynamic dialogues through her art.

Discover the future of renewable energy with Rod Read, CEO of Windswept Kite Turbines. These trailblazing kites are a game-changer by harnessing high-altitude winds on land and ocean. Rod shares insights on DIY construction, safety, AI integration, and the potential to transform renewable energy. Join us on this high-flying adventure in clean energy innovation!

Ready for takeoff? Delve into the world of aviation with Mina Carlson! From high school dreams to Air Force Missions, Mina’s journey is awe-inspiring. She’s breaking barriers, mentoring future female aviators, and is event director for Stars of the North, Girls In Aviation Day. Buckle up for an inspiring adventure!

In this episode, Peter's 28-day trip to Mangone turns family history into a roadmap. Ditched by a guide but embraced by locals, he unearths WW1 sites and family legacies. It's a crash course in ancestry tourism, full of tips for your own journey.

Step into equine therapy with Lynn Moore of Acres for Life. Hear her transformative story where vibrant pastures set the stage for powerful horse human interaction. Meet horses like Chief, who turn mirrors into windows for self-discovery. Discover non-verbal bonds and how Acres uplifts its community, changing lives one hoof-beat at a time.

Ever feel trapped in the same old routine, and everything becomes a chore? Discover the delicate balance between comfort and creativity and decipher what a rut really means.

Ever feel the tug of a good tale? Patti Christensen uses storytelling & story-listening to connect hearts. From a children's hospital to counseling rooms and drama classes in China, she weaves stories that change lives.

Experience the transformative power of nature therapy with Taylor Eagan and the Nature Connection team. Discover how they heal and boost mental health with nature, fostering trust and responsibility with at-risk youth through therapeutic animal interactions. From a boy overcoming fears with a bearded dragon to the value of everyday nature connections, this episode showcases the profound impact of the program on individuals battling disabilities and degenerative diseases. Learn about the challenges of making such programs accessible to all. Meet Taylor Eagan, Program Director for The Nature Connection, a biologist, animal welfare advocate, educator, and gardener.

In this episode, embark on an extraordinary artistic journey with Ed Charbonneau. From teenage mural painter to aspiring Disney animator, Ed’s path takes unexpected twists. Join him as he ventures to Alaska, returns to study art, and discovers a passion for large-scale abstract painting and buildings in need of murals.

“In the sacred space where history and art intersect...”

In this moving episode, Cori Levin delves into the profound journey of elder advocacy, finding joy and making a meaningful impact. Discover how Cori fills healthcare gaps, explores alternatives in healing, and imparts wisdom that challenges society’s fear of death. Listen as she describes how her end-of-life doula work took on new significance during the pandemic. Gain insights into creating a more inclusive, age-friendly environment and the importance of honoring the stories and dignity of our older adults.

In this thought-provoking episode, Rabbi Avi Olitzky explores complexities and detrimental effects of toxic work environments and offers invaluable insights for fostering a more balanced work life. With expert analysis, he discerns signs of workplace toxicity, and provides guidance in navigating the blurred boundaries of digital connectivity to cultivate a positive and fulfilling professional environment.

In this episode, Benincasa creatively explores the mystique of prayer beads and personal mantras for transformative meditation and moments of tranquility.