In this episode of The Heart of Maine, host Michael Connolly sits down with Cóilín Hernon (Cóilín Ó hIarnáin)—a renowned boatbuilder from Galway, Ireland—whose life’s work has been dedicated to preserving the craft of the Galway Hooker, Ireland’s iconic traditional sailing vessel. Born in Rusheenamanagh, Carna, County Galway, and now based in Galway City, Cóilín shares stories of his early life, his transition from teaching to boatbuilding, and his deep connection to Ireland’s maritime heritage. During his first visit to Portland, Maine, Hernon reflects on the historic ties between Galway and Maine—connections forged through generations of chain migration—and the enduring kinship that continues to unite families across the Atlantic. It’s a rich conversation about craftsmanship, culture, and the call of the sea that binds Ireland and Maine together.
New American with Mr. Bazia – Episode 7 – Ann B. Smith
In this new episode of New American, author and former teacher Ann B. Smith discusses authorship for African kids' books and growing up in a repressive household with Mr. Bazia
The Heart of Maine – Episode 6 – Bob Greene
Explore the inspiring life of Bob Greene, who grew up in Portland, Maine’s Black neighborhood on Munjoy Hill during the 1930s and ’40s. After graduating from Portland High School in 1953, Greene began a journalism career that spanned five decades as a global sports reporter for the Associated Press. As an Associated Press reporter, Greene became one of the leading voices covering tennis from the 1950s through the 2000s. Along the way, he crossed paths with sports legends and world leaders, including three American presidents. In this conversation with author Michael Connolly, Greene reflects on: Growing up Black in Portland and the importance of Munjoy Hill’s community His family’s eight-generation history in America, dating back to the 1700s Encounters with presidents, Kennedys, and icons of sport His decades-long career reporting on world tennis How race and civil rights shaped his life and work A remarkable life story connecting Portland’s past to the world stage. Perfect for those interested in African American history in New England, civil rights in Maine, or the history of tennis journalism and sports reporting.
New American with Mr. Bazia – Episode 6 – Sivaing Suos
In this new episode of New American, Mr. Bazia discusses financial success advice and how to build yourself up economically as an immigrant with Financial Professional Sivaing Suos.
Eboo Patel’s Keynote at the Forum on American Democracy, University of Southern Maine
Join Eboo Patel, founder of Interfaith America and a national leader in civic cooperation, here at the University of Southern Maine who launched our new series as our keynote speaker for the USM Forum on American Democracy. Eboo's message is on the role of pluralism in American democracy. Drawing on his decades of work in interfaith and public life, Patel will explore how engaging across lines of difference can strengthen communities, enrich civic life, and empower campuses like USM to lead in building a more inclusive and resilient society.
Eboo Patel’s Keynote at the Forum on American Democracy, University of Southern Maine
Join Eboo Patel, founder of Interfaith America and a national leader in civic cooperation, here at the University of Southern Maine who launched our new series as our keynote speaker for the USM Forum on American Democracy. Eboo's message is on the role of pluralism in American democracy. Drawing on his decades of work in interfaith and public life, Patel will explore how engaging across lines of difference can strengthen communities, enrich civic life, and empower campuses like USM to lead in building a more inclusive and resilient society.