In this episode of The State I Am In, I sit down with Fairbanks-based chef and community builder Lizzie Hartman. From her roots in Alaska’s culinary scene to appearing as a top 10 finalist on Master Chef, to traveling abroad and expanding her craft, Lizzie’s story is one of passion, creativity, and connection—but also profound loss. A few years ago, Lizzie lost her husband, leaving her to navigate life, motherhood, and grief in a way no one is ever truly prepared for. In this conversation, Li...
Apr 6
1 hr 5 min
One year ago, on Seward’s Day, I launched The State I Am In with a simple idea: Alaska is full of incredible people, and their stories deserve to be heard. A year later, that belief has only grown stronger. In this solo episode, I reflect on what I’ve learned from sitting across the table from so many individuals—people chasing purpose, facing obstacles, and figuring life out in real time. The biggest takeaway? The human story is far more powerful than we give it credit for. We’ve been sharin...
Mar 31
10 min
What does the Iditarod sled-dog race look like in 2026—and where is it headed? In this episode of The State I Am In, Manny sits down with longtime musher, media voice, and publisher Robert Forto to explore the evolving world of dog mushing. From the ceremonial start in Anchorage to the realities of running a kennel in Alaska, this conversation goes far beyond the race itself. They dive into the rising costs of competing, declining participation numbers, sponsorship challenges, and the ever-pr...
Mar 23
56 min
Discover the inspiring stories and expert insights from Dr. Bob Ledda, blending health science, outdoor adventures, and spiritual purpose. A key theme in this part 2 episode is Dr. Bob's observations with his son's recent type 1 diabetes diagnosis, and the significant improvements he's made due to the lifestyle prescription Dr. Bob prescribes. Is remission possible? Whether you're interested in longevity strategies, outdoor pursuits, or building meaningful ventures, this episode offers ...
Mar 16
1 hr 8 min
In the first return guest episode of the podcast, this conversation with Dr. Bob Ledda, we dive deeper into the worlds of health, wilderness, and the mindset that connects them. What starts with a powerful story about helping his son navigate Type 1 diabetes without insulin quickly opens into a broader discussion about lifestyle medicine, metabolic health, and the gap between conventional healthcare and proactive wellness. From there, the conversation shifts into the outdoors—where Dr. Bob be...
Mar 9
1 hr 37 min
In this episode, Alaska-based artist AnnMarie Henderson shares her inspiring journey from Texas to Alaska, how she turned her passion into a thriving 6-figure full-time business, and her unique approach to landscape painting, music-inspired posters, and entrepreneurial art ventures. Whether you're an aspiring artist or a creative looking to turn your passion into profit, AnnMarie's insights will motivate you to chase your dreams with confidence and purpose. AnnMarie’s Alaska journey: from col...
Mar 2
1 hr 45 min
Over the last few conversations, one theme keeps rising to the surface: perspective. From reclaiming cultural identity, to rebuilding after divorce, to redefining dreams after paralysis, the stories shared by Nikki Corbett, Delana Green, Jake Long, and Clare Henry all carry a common thread — life rarely unfolds the way we expect, but how we choose to frame it shapes what comes next. In this solo episode, I reflect on what these Alaskans have taught me about context, resilience, an...
Feb 23
26 min
Most stories of resilience are inspiring, but Clare Henry’s journey might just redefine what you think is possible. At only 18, she faced a devastating spinal cord stroke that left her paralyzed from the chest down — but her response? Pure determination, unwavering faith, and a relentless pursuit to pursue her dreams of music, no matter the odds. This is the comeback story you didn’t know you needed. In this episode, Clare takes us inside her life growing up on the Kenai Peninsula, sharing ho...
Feb 16
2 hr 3 min
In this episode, we explore Jake Long’s adventurous path from growing up in Minnesota skating to becoming a passionate Alaskan paragliding pilot and dog owner. His story highlights the thrill of extreme sports, resilience after an accident, and living authentically and intentionally. Key Topics: Jake’s transformation from aggressive inline skater to mountain and air sports enthusiastThe role of paragliding in his recovery and self-discoveryHow his dog Pickles became his flying partner and soc...
Feb 9
1 hr 33 min
My guest today is Delana Green, a lifelong Alaskan from the Kenai Peninsula, musician, educator, and founder of Greenhouse Music. She’s also a podcaster and creator who has built a YouTube channel with over 10,000 subscribers—all from right here in Alaska. In this conversation, Delana shares how her background in music and theatre shaped her creative journey, leading her to teaching and building Greenhouse Music. Through stories about her students, she illustrates the real impact music has on...
Feb 2
1 hr 49 min
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