Shows
Creative JourneysEpisode 9 - Storytelling, Serendipity, and the Creative Life of an ArchaeologistIn this episode of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie sit down with Bill Farley, archaeologist and Associate Professor at Southern Connecticut State University, for a conversation that digs deep into the unexpected intersections of creativity, research, and personal growth. Bill shares how his path shifted from music to anthropology, and how embracing detours, failures, and curiosity has helped shape his career.They talk about the role of storytelling in archaeological work, what it means to follow your interests across disciplines, and why creativity isn’t limited to the arts. Whether he’s sifting through historical artifacts or writing about modern culture, Bill brings a thoughtful, honest perspective to the evolving nat...2025-05-1553 min
Creative JourneysEpisode 8: Comics, Identity, and Drawing as DiscoveryIn this inspiring episode of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie talk with Dr. KC Councilor, a professor in the Communication, Media, and Screen Studies Department at Southern Connecticut State University, about how comics became an unexpected and transformative part of his life and academic journey. KC shares how discovering drawing in his mid-30s—thanks to the influence of artist and educator Lynda Barry—helped him reconnect with his creativity, navigate personal identity, and reimagine how students can express themselves.The episode explores the power of comics as a storytelling tool, the importance of drawing as a for...2025-04-1050 min
Creative JourneysEpisode 7: Assistive Technology and Creativity in EducationIn this episode of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie sit down with Dr. Lauren Tucker, an expert in assistive technology and special education, to explore how creativity enhances accessibility and learning. Dr. Tucker shares how adaptive tools—from switch-activated toys to tactile coloring books—help individuals of all abilities engage more fully with the world around them.The conversation highlights how creativity fuels problem-solving in education, from modifying everyday objects to designing inclusive classroom experiences. Dr. Tucker also discusses her work in toy adaptation, DIY accessibility solutions, and the importance of fostering a culture where diverse learn...2025-03-201h 04
Creative JourneysEpisode 6: Creativity, Science, and Our Connection to the OceanIn this episode of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie welcome Dr. Miriah Kelly, an environmental scientist and professor at Southern Connecticut State University, to explore the intersection of creativity, science, and our connection to the natural world. Dr. Kelly shares her work on the Ocean Identity Initiative, a project that examines the emotional and social connections people have with the ocean and how fostering these relationships can inspire environmental action.The conversation delves into the role of storytelling, communication, and design in making scientific research accessible and meaningful. Dr. Kelly reflects on her journey from communication st...2025-03-0645 min
Creative JourneysEpisode 0: Midseason RecapCreative Journeys is back! After a brief hiatus, Dave and Melanie return with fresh ideas, a new approach, and exciting plans for the future of the podcast. In this special episode, they reflect on past conversations, discuss their evolving vision, and invite listeners to be a part of the journey by sharing topic ideas and feedback.They also introduce upcoming changes, including the addition of video recordings, more student involvement, and even taking the podcast beyond the studio. With an open call for creativity and collaboration, this episode sets the stage for an engaging new season f...2025-02-2044 min
Creative JourneysEpisode 5: Creativity in Nursing and Healthcare InnovationIn this episode of *Creative Journeys*, Dave and Melanie welcome Dr. Maria Krol, Chair of the Nursing Department at Southern Connecticut State University, to discuss how creativity shapes healthcare and nursing education. Dr. Krol shares her inspiring journey from Peru to becoming a trailblazer in her field, emphasizing her commitment to mentorship, diversity, and innovative problem-solving.The conversation explores the intersection of creativity and nursing, from using virtual reality for training to addressing systemic challenges in healthcare through inventive solutions. Dr. Krol discusses initiatives like the Summer Nursing Symposium, which introduces high school students from diverse...2024-12-0554 min
Creative JourneysEpisode 4: The Art of Sound Design and Creativity in Theater**Episode 4: Featuring Mike Skinner – The Art of Sound Design and Creativity in Theater**In this episode of *Creative Journeys*, Dave and Melanie sit down with Mike Skinner, Chair of the Theater Department at Southern Connecticut State University, to explore the intersection of sound design, storytelling, and the creative process. Mike shares his journey from musician to sound designer, recounting how he discovered the power of combining sound and theater to enhance storytelling.The conversation dives into how the pandemic reshaped theater education, with Mike introducing innovative approaches like radio dramas and live-streamed performances to...2024-11-2146 min
Creative JourneysEpisode 3: Supporting Siblings Through Creative CommunicationIn this episode of Creative Journeys, hosts Dave and Melanie are joined by Dr. Zara Waldman DeLuca, a speech-language therapist and dedicated researcher committed to empowering young children, particularly those with hearing loss, through creative approaches to language and literacy. Dr. DeLuca shares her unique perspective on working with families and children with disabilities, emphasizing a holistic approach that fosters communication and emotional support.Throughout the episode, Dr. DeLuca reflects on her personal experiences growing up with a sibling with disabilities and how this has shaped her work. She discusses the importance of creativity in overcoming...2024-11-0741 min
Creative JourneysEpisode 2: The Creative Side of MathematicsIn this episode of Creative Journeys, hosts Dave and Melanie are joined by Dr. Braxton Kerrigan, Professor of Mathematics at Southern Connecticut State University. Dr. Kerrigan shares his unexpected journey into mathematics, explaining how his initial love for sports evolved into a passion for exploring the deeper truths behind mathematical concepts. He emphasizes that math is far more than solving equations—it’s about uncovering why things are true, drawing surprising parallels between math, language, and even music.Dr. Kerrigan also sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding math education, encouraging students and educators to think beyond trad...2024-10-2449 min
Creative JourneysEpisode 1: Creativity in Higher EducationIn this episode of Creative Journeys, Dave and Melanie welcome Nicole Henderson, Director of the First Year Experience Program at Southern Connecticut State University, to discuss the role of creativity in higher education. Nicole reflects on how her work with first-year students and faculty involves rethinking traditional approaches to teaching and learning, particularly in creating programs that foster critical thinking and creativity.Nicole shares her experiences designing the First Year Experience Program, describing how creative problem-solving and collaboration with colleagues can transform the way students engage with their coursework and campus life. Together, the hosts and N...2024-10-1048 minCreative JourneysEpisode 0: Welcome to Creative Journeys! - Part 2In this engaging episode of Creative Journeys, hosts Melanie and Dave dive into the complexities of the creative process. They share personal stories about overcoming creative blocks and navigating self-doubt, reminding us that these struggles are a universal part of being an artist or creative professional.Discover how Dave finds inspiration through relaxing activities like puzzles and Lego building, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of stepping back to recharge creativity. Melanie recounts a recent challenge designing a plush toy for the University of Texas mascot, illustrating the importance of research and revision in refining one’s work.2024-10-1046 minCreative JourneysEpisode 0: Welcome to Creative Journeys! - Part 1In the first episode of Creative Journeys, SCSU faculty hosts Dave Petroski, chair of the Communication, Media, and Screen Studies department, and Melanie Uribe, a designer and art educator from Venezuela, explore what creativity really means and how it influences our everyday lives. They share their personal experiences on how they each found their way into creative careers, revealing how creativity shows up in their work—Melanie in graphic design and teaching, and Dave through communication and learning with games.The episode discusses both the ups and downs of creative jobs, like designing merchandise for the NB...2024-10-0950 min