New Mexico’s oil and gas industry is a touchy subject if you ask anyone. Supporters say it’s the lifeline to the state’s economy and without it, New Mexico wouldn’t have the luxuries or cashflow that it does. But on the flip side, opponents argue the industry is allowing contaminants to pollute the environment, putting communities’ health and future sustainability at risk.

To understand a professional’s perspective on this debate, Missi Currier, president and CEO of the New Mexico Oil & Gas Association, joins the latest “Conversations Different” podcast episode.

Currier discusses with host Inez Russell Gomez what energy production means for the state and how it correlates to other industries that affect our economy and daily lives, from personal use products to public infrastructure.

In the episode, Currier is asked about whether she thinks the state can transition away from oil and gas production and what that would look like given modern day environmental challenges.

She also offers her view on the controversial topic of produced water.

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Traditional Spanish Market, one of Santa Fe’s biggest cultural events, returns to the Plaza July 25-26, showcasing another year of juried artwork from artists across the region.

The market has been around since 1926. Artists accepted into the event are given the unique opportunity to spotlight their craftsmanship for a weekend while connecting with people in the community whether it be with returning patrons or first-time visitors.

On the latest “Conversations Different” podcast episode, host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by an artist and organizer from this year’s Traditional Spanish Market: Arlene Cisneros Sena, master santera, and Jeanette Salazar, program manager with The Atrisco Companies which oversees the market’s operations.

Cisneros Sena and Salazar discuss the market’s cultural significance, reflect on their individual contributions ahead of the market’s debut and share why preserving traditional art forms still has value in today’s world.

As a master santera, Cisneros Sena also explains her work in painting religious retablos. Some have become fixtures in Catholic churches throughout Northern New Mexico.

For more information about the market, visit traditionalspanishmarket.org

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Add contemporary dance to the list of experiences you can find in Santa Fe.

Local company Zeitgeist Dance Theatre is taking the artform to the next level by creating shows that center on emotional human connection in the present moment. The company’s artistic director says the goal is to help audiences see the world more intimately and beyond a reality where day-to-day life keeps people disconnected.

On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by Zeitgeist’s artistic director Francisco Gella and apprentice Elena Garcia to discuss the world of contemporary dance and the role it’s played in their creative self-discovery.

In the episode, Gella elaborates on why he chose to create the dance company while reflecting on what it’s like to choreograph award-winning routines. He notes that intense practice has his dancers working hard to achieve perfection before it’s time to set foot on stage.

Garcia, a Santa Fe native now attending college, shares her experience with the craft from starting out at the National Dance Institute of New Mexico to being a rising performer alongside Gella. She explains how the opportunity has transformed her life.

Gella also talks about Zeitgeist’s upcoming panel discussion about its residency event and performances, which include a first-time appearance at The Lensic Theater Aug. 1.

The discussion will be on July 25 at Zane Bennett Galley in Santa Fe.

For more information, visit zeitgeistdancetheatre.org.

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