On this episode of Capital Chat, Justin Miller talks with Dr. Heidi Pearson about her work studying marine mammals in Juneau, Southeast Alaska, and beyond. Dr. Pearson shares details from a recent research and teaching trip to Portugal, where UAS students gained hands-on international field experience studying dolphins, turtles, seabirds, and whales.

The conversation also dives into the Juneau Whale Health Project, a long-term collaboration studying humpback whales through photo identification, drone research, tagging, and other field methods. Dr. Pearson explains what scientists are learning about whale health, behavior, body condition, social bonds, and how changing ocean conditions could affect marine life in the years ahead.

Listeners will also hear practical ways boaters and community members can help protect whales and marine ecosystems, from slowing down around whale activity to reducing plastic waste. It’s a thoughtful and fascinating look at the complex lives of the whales that share Juneau’s waters—and why protecting them matters.

What if the secret to seeing the world differently was simply slowing down?

In this episode, bestselling author Patrick Bringley joins us to discuss his remarkable journey from the bustling halls of the Metropolitan Museum of Art to becoming the author of the internationally acclaimed memoir All the Beauty in the World. After spending a decade as a museum guard surrounded by some of history's greatest works of art, Patrick discovered that true beauty isn't just found on gallery walls—it's found in learning how to pay attention.

We explore why slowing down has become such a rare skill, how art can change us when we take the time to truly experience it, and why people around the world have connected so deeply with his story. Patrick also shares insights into the inspiration behind the City Museum's Slow Beauty exhibition and why this message feels especially relevant in today's fast-paced world.

Whether you're an art lover, someone who enjoys a great human story, or simply looking for a fresh perspective on the world around you, this conversation is an invitation to pause, look closer, and rediscover the extraordinary in the everyday.

Patrick Bringley will appear for a free author talk and book signing on Friday, July 10 at 7:00 p.m. at the UAS Egan Lecture Hall. Copies of All the Beauty in the World will be available while supplies last.

In this episode:

• How ten years as a Metropolitan Museum guard transformed Patrick's life
• Why "slow beauty" matters in an increasingly distracted world
• What great works of art teach us about ourselves
• The surprising lessons found in simply paying attention
• Why beauty is often hiding in plain sight

A thoughtful conversation about art, attention, gratitude, and finding wonder in everyday life.

On this episode of Capital Chat, Cliff Dumas is joined by Charlotte Truett, Executive Director of the Juneau Symphony, for a look back at a strong season and a look ahead to what’s next.

Charlotte shares highlights from the Symphony’s first season with new Music Director Brad Hogarth, including strong attendance, growing community engagement, and exciting momentum heading into the next concert season. She also previews the Juneau Symphony’s Wildlife Cruise fundraiser on July 19, featuring live music from Symphony musicians, whale watching with Allen Marine, wine tasting, and a silent auction with one-of-a-kind experiences—including the chance to conduct the orchestra.

This episode also covers upcoming summer strings camp opportunities for young musicians, the return of holiday programming, and how community members can support the Juneau Symphony through tickets, memberships, and season subscriptions.

Learn more or get tickets at juneausymphony.org.