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.