Multifaceted actor and New York jazz musician, Bryan Eng speaks with Dawn Burns about making waves across Broadway, TV, film, and iconic venues like the Kennedy Center and Birdland. As the Carlyle Hotel’s youngest resident performer, Bryan’s talent shines in every performance. Explore his inspiring journey and extraordinary career!

Indie Folk Musician Anna p.s. speaks with Dawn Burns about being East coast born and raised, Midwest influenced and rooted. Anna p.s. continues to captivate audiences across the nation with storytelling, introspective lyrics, and the humor encompassed in the human experience.

In Dandelion Roots Run Deep, authors Merrill Ann Clark and Merry Bell Clark share a heartfelt memoir about growing up in rural America. The book reflects on family, community, and a deep connection to the land, exploring themes of resilience, personal growth, and the power of tradition. In this episode, Dawn speaks with Merry Clark, who grew up in Michigan with parents who were pioneers of the organic farming movement. She shares moving stories about why she completed the memoir her mother started and what it was like living with parents dedicated to raising awareness about organic farming. Their journey reveals the joys and struggles of farm life and the lasting impact of their courageous cause. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about family, heritage, and activism.

Award-winning Canadian instrumental fusion artist Desarae Dee, known as “Toronto’s Queen of Vibes,” blends faith, soul, and vulnerability in her unique sound. A recurring artist on NPR Music’s Jazz in America, she sits down with Dawn Burns to share the latest chapter in her incredible journey, revealing the inspiration behind her music, the challenges she’s overcome, and what’s next for this powerful artist.

Cinema Program Director Rick Herbst and Senior Associate Director Sean Martin of the University of Notre Dame’s DeBartolo Performing Arts Center (DPAC) share an inside look at their roles and the invaluable services the arts center provides. From enriching the cultural experience of students and faculty to serving as a hub for the broader South Bend community, they discuss how DPAC plays a vital part in shaping the artistic landscape.

Award-winning composer and multi-instrumentalist Zac Zinger, renowned for his collaborations with icons like Paul McCartney and Branford Marsalis, joins Dawn Burns to discuss his innovative shakuhachi technique and unique multicultural compositions.

Author and historian Aaron Helman speaks with Dawn Burns about his latest book, On the Southernmost Bend. Join them as they dive into South Bend's rich history and Helman’s journey to bring local stories to life. Discover more at aaronhelman.com/books.

Connie Hahn speaks with Dawn Burns about her meteoric rise and compelling musical voice. The pianist explains, “I firmly believe that to create art with substance and quality, the artist must sacrifice a portion of her soul — physically, mentally and spiritually. That to create something truly beautiful, the artist must delve into the savage darkness that lives inside us all.”