Love Maine Radio with Dr. Lisa Belisle

This year marks one hundred years of Acadia, Maine’s only national park. Born ‘officially’ on July 8, 1916, Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island has brought joy to generations of people the world over. Today we speak with David MacDonald, president and CEO of Friends of Acadia, Cookie Horner, co-chair of the Acadia Centennial Task Force, and her husband, Bill Horner, president of the MDI Historical Society. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/04/acadia-centennial-240/

Maine is not just a place to live—it is a place to make a life. Today we speak with four people who are creating successful businesses that feature the tastes of Maine. Our first guest is chef and restauranteur Harding Lee Smith, owner of The Rooms in Portland, who is expanding his presences to one of Maine’s favorite ski mountains this year. Our other guests--Chris Avantaggio, John Turner and Nate O’Leary—are co-founders of Cratefull of Maine, a company that is sending the taste of Maine around the world. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/04/taste-of-maine/

The Wayfinder Schools have been helping at-risk Maine students for decades. In 2011, Maine’s first alternative high school, The Community School, merged with century-old organization Opportunity Farm to form the Wayfinder Schools. Today we speak with Wayfinder board member, Barbara Russo and her husband, Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Richard Russo, about their work with the school, their life as a couple for the past 43 years and his newest novel, “Everybody’s Fool.”   Photo by Emma Wilson <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/04/wayfinding/

Life informs art—and vice versa. As human creatures, we benefit from experiencing art as a way of helping us explore some of the larger questions we may find ourselves pondering. Today, we speak with internationally known Maine-based artist, Eric Hopkins, about how his art has been shaped by his interaction with the world. We also speak with Emma Wilson, managing director of Art Collector Maine and the Portland Art Gallery, about an innovative project focusing on the body as a work of art. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/03/life-art-237/

Where do you find your adventures? Maine offers something for everyone in the realm of adventure. Today we speak with Holly Twining, founder of Maine Yoga Adventures, and Tino Fuimara & Taki Miyamoto of Salt Pump Climbing, about the ways they are helping people get up and out in search of adventure. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/03/adventuring-outdoors-236/

Maine appeals to a broad range of people in part because of its beautiful coast. More than simply coming here for recreation, many people find creative ways to make a living with the water as inspiration. Today we speak with entrepreneurs Ben Davis, founder of True Course Yachting, and Shana Ready, designer and founder of The Ropes. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/03/coastal-creativity-235/

Mary Herman is a woman of many talents. She has intersected with and supported Mainers in countless areas, including education, health, and the non-profit world. Today we speak with Maine’s former 'First Lady' about her experiences as advocate, and how she hopes to continue her good work in the years to come. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/03/first-lady/

Food is one our favorite subjects: we love the nourishment that it provides, on so many levels. Not only does it provide our bodies with fuel, but it also brings us together with family and friends—both in the kitchen and around the table. Today we discuss these ideas with Justin and Danielle Walker, the husband and wife team who run the restaurant Earth at Hidden Pond, and with Old Port and Maine magazine food editor, Karen Watterson.   Photo by Greta Rybus <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/03/233/

Maine has been ‘growing goodwill’ in its communities for decades. Today we speak with Julia Sleeper, Founder and Executive Director of Tree Street Youth Center in Lewiston, which has been supporting area children through academics, the arts and athletics for the past ten years. We also speak with Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, President and CEO of Goodwill Northern New England, a one-hundred-year old organization that helps families find stability through work, and letting nothing go to waste. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/02/growing-goodwill-232/

<div> The spaces in which we dwell, work and recreate have an undeniable impact on our well-being. Who are the people that design our spaces—and why have they chosen this profession? Today we speak with architects Caleb Johnson and Kevin Browne about their love of space, and how this has translated into interactions with the community at large. </div> <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/02/community-architects-231/

Tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world. We Mainers love our tea—and have many ways in which to enjoy this healthful and nourishing drink. Today we speak with Ray Marcotte and Ellen Kanner of Dobrá Tea, and with Sarah Richards of Homegrown Herb and Tea, about types of tea, how tea is best enjoyed, and what specific benefits we may derive from drinking tea. You will love this informative episode. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/02/tea-time-230/

Mythologist and philosopher Joseph Campbell is perhaps best known for his suggestion that we "follow our bliss." Today we speak with two individuals who—separately and without prompting—referenced this quote in their interviews, and described the ways in which they have attempted to do just that. Our guests are Deirdre Nice, executive director of St. Lawrence Arts, and landscape artist Jane Dahmen. We hope they inspire you to find ways to follow your own bliss. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/02/following-bliss-229/

Every body has the innate ability to keep itself healthy and in balance. This balance is best achieved by maintaining good alignment—both physical and emotional. Today we speak with osteopathic physician Dr. Jacey Goddard, and with exercise science specialists Rebecca Woll and Tom Kropf, about keeping our bodies healthy and aligned. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/01/bodily-alignment-228/

How do we nurture growth in a positive and sustainable way? Whether this is economic, ecological or social growth, the answer is the same: by paying attention to what factors may be influencing it, and working favorably with those factors whenever possible. Today we speak with Nancy Smith, executive director of Grow Smart Maine, Sue Inches of the Red Oak Group, and Tyler Kidder, assistant director of sustainable programs at the University of Southern Maine, about fostering mindful growth in Maine <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/01/growth-sustainability-227/

It is impossible to separate us, as humans, from the world in which we live. We impact, and are impacted by, not only the air we breath and food we eat, but also our fellow humans and other living beings with whom we share the planet. Today we discuss the concept of ‘human ecology’ with College of the Atlantic president, Darron Collins, and with educator and author, Richard Borden, founding member of the Society for Human Ecology. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/01/human-ecology-226/

How do we help the most vulnerable members of our society not only survive, but thrive? As the future of our world, our children deserve important consideration. Today we explore concepts such as childhood poverty, resilience, and family friendly policies with Claire Berkowitz, the executive director of the Maine Children’s Alliance, and Maine Children’s Alliance Corporate Giraffe Award-winner Jim Wellehan, co-owner and CEO of Lamey Wellehan.   Photo by Nicole Wolf <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2016/01/kids-count-225/

Each new year brings with it the opportunity to evaluate the paths our lives have taken, and make certain that we are embracing the possibility of wellness within ourselves. In its broadest sense, wellness is being fully integrated and appreciative of all of the gifts—physical, mental, emotional and spiritual—that we have been given. Today we speak about the pursuit of inner wellness with bestselling author Kate Braestrup, and Vivian Franck, a former nun who wrote a book entitled “Forever Becoming”. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/12/wellness-within-224/

We love what we do on Love Maine Radio. Now in our fifth year, it has been our great privilege to spend time with hundreds of intriguing Mainers who also love the lives that they have created. This week we revisit insightful conversations with artist Scott Nash, musical legend Dan Crewe, brothers Paul and Lou Urenek & chocolate-maker Kate McAleer, founder of Bixby & Co. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/12/best-of-2015/

Have you ever explored the ocean floor? Many of us –even longtime coastal dwellers—have had little experience with the creatures who roam the depths of the sea. Today we speak with Mary Cerullo, Associate Director of Friends of Casco Bay, and Gulf of Maine Research Institute chief education officer, Leigh Peake, about Maine waters, and how humans can better coexist with their water bound neighbors. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/12/under-the-sea-222/

Healthcare has undergone tremendous change in the past few decades—and this transition is one that will likely continue for many years to come. Maine is fortunate to have strong leaders who are helping traverse this new landscape. Today we speak with Peter Chalke, president and CEO of Central Maine Healthcare, and Lois Skillings, president and CEO of Mid Coast-Parkview Health, about the challenges and opportunities they have been part of. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/12/leading-healthcare-221/

More than simply a ski mountain, Sugarloaf has developed a close-knit and loyal community for more than sixty years. The Sugarloaf Charity Summit has provided a means of caring for community members impacted by cancer by raising more than $2 million since its inception. Today we speak with Martha Bradley, Bruce Miles and Meredith Strang Burgess about the Sugarloaf Charity Summit, and their personal connection to this important event.   Photo by Greta Rybus <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/12/sugarloafers-helping-others-220/

Healthy knees are an important part of staying active. Known as ‘hinge joints,’ they keep us walking, running, pivoting, shifting and bounding up stairs. Today we speak orthopedic surgeon & sports medicine specialist Dr. Linc Avery, and with Dr. Kirsten Buchanan & Matt Kraft of the University of New England physical therapy department, about the newest happenings in the area of knee injury prevention. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/11/keeping-knees-healthy-219/

Although we often think of the term ‘ecosystem ‘ as being related to the greater Earth, we are actually part of multiple ecosystems. These ecosystems exist wherever we work, live or learn. Today we speak with Jenny Rowe, head of school at the Friends School of Portland, and Jan Robinson, owner of EcoHome Studio, about the work they are doing to improve our indoor ecosystems. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/11/indoor-ecosystems-at-home-at-school-218/

Collaboration can be a magical thing. Working with others—especially on a one-one-one basis, can lead to creative advancement that we might not see when working solo. Today we speak with documentary filmmakers Christoph Gelfand & Caroline Losneck, and singer/songwriters Anna Lombard & Dave Gutter, about their experience as creative duos. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/11/creative-duos-217/

We accept many roles in this life: parent, co-worker, friend. Most of us do this willingly, and yet may wonder if there is a deeper essence of spirit that exists within our selves. Today we speak with interfaith minister Jacob Watson, and Hancock Lumber president, Kevin Hancock, about the ways in which they have more intimately connected with their own spirits, and encouraged others to do the same. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/11/spiritual-essence-216/

How do we help children develop a love of physical pursuits without overwhelming their growing bodies with strict training regimens and early competition? This has become an important topic of conversation as information continues to surface about the long-term impact of concussions and repetitive injuries. Today we speak with Rich Smith and Carrie McCusker—two seasoned coaches and educators—about keeping young athletes safe, healthy and happy.   Photo by Peter Frank Edwards <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/10/youth-sports-215/

The Maine music scene is vibrant and evolving. From experienced musicians who have played on the world stage, to hardworking newcomers who are making their voices known, we have a front row seat to a wealth of talent. Today we speak with singer-songwriters Jonathan Edwards and Lyle Divinsky, who are each bringing their soul-filled messages to the Maine community in unique ways. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/10/soul-music-214/

When children become seriously ill, their lives are forever changed—as are the lives of their families. For more than 3 decades, Camp Sunshine has been providing hope and help to families who are struggling with life-threatening illnesses. Today we speak with Camp Sunshine executive director, Michael Katz, and psychosocial director, Nancy Cincotta, as well as Meg Dermody, mother of a Camp Sunshine Family.   <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/10/camp-sunshine-213/

Our homes provide us with much more than safety and warmth—they offer a place to retreat from a sometimes chaotic world and nourish our souls. Unfortunately, homelessness is an ongoing and ever present issue in Maine. Today we speak with Navy veteran and Preble Street advocate Thomas Ptacek, who experienced a year of homelessness, and with Camden National Bank president, Greg Dufour, about an innovative program called Hope@Home. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/10/homeward-bound-212/

Journeys can be both literal and figurative. We can see the world through travel, but we can also journey without leaving our physical space. Today we speak with international bestselling author, Tess Gerritsen, and musician Emilia Dahlin, about the journeys they each have taken while practicing their craft, and how the melodies of life have influenced their experience. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/10/musical-journeys-211/

Change is inevitable—especially physical change. When we are intentional about building strong, flexible bodies, we can experience change positively, and impact our social, behavioral and emotional lives as well. Today we speak with two triathletes about the impact of training upon their well-being: architectural designer Linda Banks (featured in an upcoming issue of Old Port Magazine) and chiropractor & acupuncturist Dr. Zev Myerowitz Jr. Each of them offers personal and professional insights that you won’t want to miss. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/09/transformative-training-210/

<p class="p1">This week, Dr. Lisa Belisle shakes things up with a return visit to the studios of WLOB in Portland, where she has a lively and candid conversation with well-known WLOB radio show host, Ray Richardson. <em>Love Maine Radio</em> first aired four years ago this weekend. In today’s show, Dr. Lisa gets personal, describing her <em>Love Maine Radio</em> experience and sharing her observations about medicine, parenting, and the fiercely beautiful world in which we live.</p> <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/09/four-is-a-magic-number/

It can be a lifelong process to understand what makes each of us thrive as individuals, and how to create personal environments that foster our best selves. Today we speak with science commentator Hannah Holmes about her book <i>Quirk: Brain Science Makes Sense of Your Peculiar Personality. </i>We also explore the idea of creative space with Joan Dempsey, a writer and teacher who works out of a converted chicken coop known as “The Shed,” in the back yard of her home in New Gloucester. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/09/personality-place-209/

How do we help older people continue to live fulfilling and productive lives? As a state with a rapidly aging population, Mainers are working to answer this question. Today we explore the special needs of older individuals—and other individuals who are ‘differently abled’—with Jill Johanning and Chris Delenick of Alpha One. We also speak with Kate Adams of Aging Excellence, a non-medical in-home care agency that helps older people ‘age in place.’ <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/09/aging-in-place-208/

Lou and Paul Ureneck have been part of the Maine community for several decades—in very different ways. Paul has worked in construction management, helping orchestrate projects such as the Portland Museum of Art's Winslow Homer home restoration and Thompson’s Point redevelopment. Lou is a writer and Boston University Professor who worked as the deputy managing editor at the <em>Portland Press Herald</em> for many years. In 2011, Lou wrote <em>Cabin - Two Brothers, a Dream and Five Acres in Maine</em>. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/08/cabin-building-brotherly-love-207/

Coastal Enterprises Incorporated (also known as CEI) has specialized in rural business development and financing since 1977. Founded in Wiscasset, CEI helps create economically and environmentally healthy communities in which all people, especially those with low incomes, can reach their full potential. Today we speak with Ellen Golden, managing director of CEI Investment notes, and Tae Chong of the CEI StartSmart Program, which helps refugees and immigrants start, strengthen or expand their own small businesses. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/08/coastal-enterprises-inc-206/

Small businesses and nonprofits often have much to offer, but may not have the resources or support they need. How do we help them maximize the work they are doing? Through mentoring and leadership programs, both of which are readily available in Maine. Today we discuss these with Jula Sampson, a mentor with the Top Gun program, and Jan Kearce of Lift360. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/08/bettering-businesses-and-nonprofits-205/

Saint Joseph’s College, located on the shores of Sebago Lake in Standish, is a small Catholic liberal arts school that is experiencing a renaissance. Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in Portland in 1912, St. Joe’s has long been known for educating students in fields such as nursing, education and business. Lately, they have added a permaculture farm and are planning a hospitality center and multi-age educational living experience. Today we speak with college president Jim Dlugos, and farm manager Michial Russell, about the future of this forward-thinking institution. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/08/saint-josephs-a-small-college-renaissance-204/

Maine ballet continues to grow in popularity, attracting talented teachers and performers from around the globe. This is good news for the next generation of dancers, as they seek to gain a ‘toe-hold,’ in this intensely competitive and rewarding field. Today we speak with Eugenia O'Brien, founder of Portland Ballet and Portland School of Ballet, and 16 year-old ballerina Olivia Bartlett of the CORPS program at the Portland School of Ballet, about their experience with this beautiful art form. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/07/maine-ballet-203/

Many of us have an emotional—almost physical--response to things that we consider beautiful. This can be true of a piece of art or a compelling vista. Why is this so? Neuroscientists are beginning to offer answers, through the use of modern technology, and the study of what is being called “neuroaesthetics.” Today we speak with Professor William Seeley of Bates College, and Jane Bianco, associate curator at the Farnsworth Art Museum, as they help us understand the relationship between beauty and the brain. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/07/beauty-the-brain/

Maine’s industrial mills have employed multiple generations of Maine families through the manufacturing of products such as paper, shoes and textiles. Although many are no longer used in that capacity, they are experiencing a rebirth, and once again becoming centers of creativity and commerce. Today we explore this subject with Biddeford mill aficionados Tammy Ackerman, co-founder of the community arts organization Engine, Inc., and Angelrox founder & fashion designer, Roxi Suger. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/07/mill-town-creativity-201/

Today is a big day on <em>Love Maine Radio</em>: we have officially reached our 200th episode. We began our journey as the Dr. Lisa Radio Hour & Podcast in 2011, and we have interviewed hundreds of visionary Mainers since that time. We’ve found ourselves continually blessed by what our guests have been willing to share, and hope you have enjoyed our conversations as much as we have. Today we feature philanthropist and music mastermind, Dan Crewe, and a selection of memorable past guests, as we celebrate the joy of giving voice. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/07/love-maine-radio-200/

Music can unlock memories that we may have otherwise lost. This past spring, the Choral Art Society (CAS) of Maine presented <em>Time Remembered — Time Forgotten</em>, the New England premiere of Alzheimer's Stories, to create awareness of the link between music and memory. Today we speak with CAS board member & vocal soloist Andrea Graichen, program director for the Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter, William Kirkpatrick, about this interesting collaboration. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/07/music-memory-199/

Many Mainers make their living on the water. Today we speak with two individuals who are doing so in very unique ways. Abigail Carroll is the founding farmer of Nonesuch Oysters, which is located in a nature conservancy in Scarborough; Jon Keller is a writer whose latest book, <em>Of Sea and Cloud</em>, was inspired by years of experience working in the secluded lobstering culture of rural Maine. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/06/making-a-living-on-maine-waters-198/

Maine has always welcomed individuals of diverse backgrounds. Whether we are offering a home to those seeking asylum from oppressive regimes in their countries of origin, or those who simply want to experience "the way life should be," our openness becomes a gift to all involved—most especially ourselves. Today we speak with Deqa Dhalac, Human Services Counselor for the City of Portland, and Virginia Dearani, founder and director of the Roots and Fruits Program in South Portland, about the work they are doing to further cultural understanding in our state. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/06/roots-of-humanity/

We may be more impacted by the spaces we inhabit than we realize. Everything from our access to light, to how we experience acoustics, has the potential to contribute to our well-being, and our relationships. Today we speak with architecture professors Roger Richmond and Eric Stark about the work they are doing in this area, and how they are educating the next generation of Maine architects about these important concepts. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/06/designing-space-196/

In each issue of Old Port Magazine, our "Active Life" piece features people who are successfully integrating wellness activities into their busy lives. Many Mainers find their wellness, and simultaneously make a living from, the water. Today we speak with two such Mainers: Aaron Frederick, former director of Rippleffect, and Brianne O'Donnell Fisher, a realtor with the Swan Agency and avid boater. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/06/wellness-on-the-water-195/

Maine is known for constantly reinventing itself—often in fun and interesting ways. Recently a group of developers has been making significant changes to Thompson’s Point in Portland. They will be offering space to businesses, artists and a variety of creative folk, including a new circus group. Today we speak with Chris Thompson of Thompson’s Point, and with Peter Nielsen of the Circus Conservatory of America, about their exciting new ventures. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/05/under-the-big-top-194/

The sporting life is alive and well in Maine. Some of us enjoy organized sports, at the youth, school and professional levels, while others of us are passionate about the great outdoors. Today we speak with longtime Maine sportscaster, Bill Green, who now hosts a weekly show called “Bill Green’s Maine,” and with Brian Corcoran of Shamrock Sports. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/05/the-sporting-life-193/

We never know what silent battles those among us might be engaged in. Local businessman Jim Godbout faced a series of losses—physical, emotional and social—as a child. Through self-care and healing techniques like yoga, acupuncture and healthy eating, Jim has created a full and happy life, rising above problems like epilepsy, encephalitis and the loss of his twin brother at the age of five. Jim embodies the quality of resilience to which most of us aspire. <br/> <br/> https://www.themainemag.com/radio/2015/05/resilient-life-192/