Celebrate Happiness Roadshow with Sandra M

Episode 55: “Music, Community & Felines” with Bobbi Heller—Music by Todd Lowry

In the latest episode of The Celebrate Happiness Roadshow podcast, we are talking with Bobbi Heller, who was born and raised in Sydney, Australia, and came to the US to study at the California Institute of the Arts, where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in music. She next worked in the entertainment industry and she founded her own film distribution company.
Bobbi and her husband moved to Santa Fe New Mexico in 2000. With her love for cats, she founded Felines & Friends New Mexico in 2002, and is the Executive Director.
Bobbi also co-hosts the weekly radio show and podcast Pet Chat with Murad & Bobbi, which will reach its 200th episode milestone in spring 2026. Throughout the show, Bobbi, along with Murad Kirdar, Director of Community Engagement at Española Humane, provide ongoing information on all things pet-related to the broader community and beyond.
 
Check out this uplifting episode in which Bobbi discusses her love of music and animals, cats' particular relationship with sound and vibration, the concept of "working to live" rather than "living to work", and the importance of community in one's life.

Episode 54: "The Power of the Human-Animal Bond" with Murad Kirdar—Music by Todd Lowry

In the latest episode of The Celebrate Happiness Roadshow podcast, we are talking with the Director of Community Engagement at Española Humane, Murad Kirdar. After a 20-year career in media and marketing within the television industry, primarily with NBCUniversal, Murad Kirdar relocated to Santa Fe to pursue a long-held passion for animal welfare. This transition marked the beginning of his second career as an animal welfare advocate, during which he has held leadership roles at Northern New Mexico's two largest animal shelters, including Public and Business Relations Officer and, currently, Director of Community Engagement at Española Humane.
 
In his role as Director of Community Engagement, Murad plays a key role in strengthening Española Humane's visibility, reputation, and community impact. He also co-hosts and produces the weekly radio show and podcast Pet Chat with Murad & Bobbi, which will reach its 200th episode milestone in spring 2026. Through the show, Murad, along with Bobbi Heller, executive director of Felines & Friends, helps provide ongoing information on all things pet-related with the broader community and beyond. Murad is also "dog-dad" for his three rescue pups, who he proudly refers to as the Golden Girls.
Join us for this heartwarming episode, in which Murad discusses how profoundly animal companionship impacts our lives and the lessons our animals teach us about being present, forgiveness, and love. 

Episode 53: “Innovation, Creativity & Lifelong Learning with Brett Trusko” Music by Todd Lowry

In the latest episode of The Celebrate Happiness Roadshow podcast, we are talking with Brett Trusko, a dynamic thought leader whose career spans academia, consulting, finance, technology, writing, and innovation, and whose insights challenge conventional wisdom, proving that structured processes can drive breakthrough success without sacrificing efficiency. Whether in the corporate world or the classroom, his expertise and forward-thinking approach make him a compelling voice in business and technology.
Brett began his career at the accounting firm of Coopers & Lybrand, where he earned his CPA before working as the CFO at a major Seattle hospital. His leadership skills and strategic mindset propelled him into 25 years of global consulting, where he became the Managing Director of the "Quality and Excellence Practice" at BearingPoint.
After which Brett transitioned into academia, focusing on medical informatics, technology management, and innovation, Currently an Associate Professor at the University of New Mexico he has also held faculty positions at Symbiosis Institute for Business Management in India; The Mayo Clinic College of Medicine; Houston Baptist University; Texas A&M University; New York University; and Mount Sinai College of Medicine.
Dr. Trusko is the President and CEO of Propertyhero.ai, a cutting-edge technology company and a renowned author, who has written many books on quality and innovation, including the award-winning Global Innovation Science Handbook.  While finishing his first novel Brett is currently the Editor of Santa Fe New Mexico's TREND Magazine, Art-Design-Culture. Brett is a force to be reckoned with in the world of business innovation.
Join us for this fascinating episode in which Brett discusses the role lifelong learning, creativity, and embracing change have played in his varied and exceptional career. We also explore the significance of pursuing what you love and not allowing failure to stop you, as well as appreciating the things that "make us human," such as art, music, and simply being present. 

Episode 52: “Happiness is Our Backbone in A Difficult World with Michael Burt Jr.” Music by Todd Lowry

In the latest episode of The Celebrate Happiness Roadshow podcast, we are talking with Michael Burt Jr., a dynamic American multi-instrumentalist, teaching artist, and composer living and working in Santa Fe and Albuquerque, New Mexico. Born in Petersburg, Virginia, Michael is from a long line of teachers; both his mother and grandmother answered the call.
For over 20 years, Michael has mentored young people in both public and private schools and currently teaches in the music departments at Nelson Mandela Charter School and Santa Fe High.
In addition, his 2023-2024 Master Artist Workshop series introduced students to 'the body as keeper and origin of song' by way of an immersion into the rich traditions of blues music and original songwriting.
You can hear Michael performing regularly at the historic La Fonda Hotel, Sky Railway Santa Fe, Meow Wolf, SITE Santa Fe, among other venues.
Join us for this powerful episode in which Michael discusses how happiness is the backbone of being able to function in a difficult world, how blues music holds both the reality of hard times and the hope for better times, the ways in which music teaches us about the human experience, the importance of giving back, and so much more!

Episode #51: Sing Along with Our Special Happiness Holiday Podcast. Music by Todd Lowry

To celebrate the Holidays, composer Todd Lowry and I have collaborated to bring you a special musical episode of The Celebrate Happiness Roadshow Podcast. In this delightful episode, Todd performs three of his original songs, First our theme song “Everybody Smiles in the Same Language,” followed by  “Friends,” closing out with “Let’s Create a New World” (That Works for All). In addition to sharing some personal background on each song Todd has prepared a mp3 Karaoke track and the Lyrics of “Everybody Smiles in the Same Language”. Click BELOW to download.
To Book the Live Celebrate Happiness Roadshow email: Sandra@sandramcknight.com
Everybody Smiles in the Same Language- With Lead vocalsEverybody Smiles in the Same Language - Without Lead vocalsEverybodySmiles in the Same Language - Lyrics
The music provided herein is for your personal use only. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution is a violation of copyright law. It's also bad karma!
Happy Holidays! Peace to all!  -Todd Lowry

Episode 50: “Celebrating Life with Dharm Segal” Music by Todd Lowrey

In the latest episode of The Celebrate Happiness Roadshow podcast, we are talking with Dharm Andrew Segal, owner of the Chocolate Maven Bakery and the new Unit B Supper Club in Santa Fe New Mexico. Dharm was born in Copenhagen, Denmark and grew up in Massachusetts, the son of a mathematician father and an artist Mother. Dharm has lived in New Mexico of 35 years.
A renaissance man, he is a 2nd generation yoga teacher, musician, author and actor as well as a baker, restaurateur and business owner. In addition Dharm holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Rochester, and has served on several non-profit boards.
Dharm and his wife, Cassie, began baking health food baked goods in their home kitchen, and in 1993 created a commercial bakery in their garage which grew into what the Chocolate Maven is today. Dharm believes that the mood of the baker changes the taste of whatever they are making.
Join us for this heartfelt episode where Dharm shares how his two business aim to inspire celebration of life and each other, whether that may be through cakes or music, he also dives into his go-to "bulldozers for stress," and the essential role of balance, gratitude, and kindness.

Episode 49: “Slow Down with Sarah Taylor” Music by Todd Lowrey

In the latest episode of The Celebrate Happiness Roadshow podcast, we are talking with Sarah Taylor in St. Louis, Missouri. Sarah graduated from the University of Missouri, with degrees in marketing, sales and Spanish and is currently working full time as the marketing coordinator for Quiet Village Landscaping in St. Louis where she manages brand storytelling, digital strategy and lead generation.
In addition, Sarah also finds time to run her photography business where she captures the beauty of pets, people, and  special moments in life.
Sarah loves to spend time outdoors with her dogs, make videos, dive into arts and crafts projects, and enjoy time with friends!
Check out this inspiring conversation in which Sarah shares her thoughts on the value of slowing down, why you can't achieve what you want by rushing through life, and what animals teach us about being present.

Episode 48: “Making Every Day Meaningful with Barbara Bentree” Music by Todd Lowrey

In the latest episode of The Celebrate Happiness Roadshow podcast, we are talking with Barbara Bentree, president of Jindojazz, Inc., a media company that specializes in music-driven projects whose mission is to shift the global vision for women, animals, musicians and the environment.  Barbara has produced and directed four feature length Documentary Films; "My Choice," "Dave Grusin: Not Enough Time," "Origami In The Garden," all which have been selected for 36 film festivals and won 23 awards. She is now finishing "Should You Go?
Barbara, a Minnesota girl, began singing early and toured in Europe with "America's Youth in Concert". With a degree in Music Education, she has always had "one foot in education and one foot in entertainment."
 
In Los Angeles she won awards while singing in "The Goils", a three-woman group, and with the vocal jazz group, "Terra Nova" which she co-founded,
Barbara also worked in production, as a vocal music coach and music producer, for shows at Disney Channel, as a consultant for Hollywood Records and was the Vocal Music Director and Actress for several episodes of popular shows on FOX, NBC, and the DISCOVERY CHANNEL and worked in producing roles for DISNEY/ABC
She has been a member of the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences and she has sat on Emmy judging panels for children's programming. Barbara has recorded a solo vocal CD titled "Green," published a children's novella titled "Free Billie," and is currently writing several original movie screenplays.
 
Tune in to this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode as Barbara reflects on what it means to live with purpose, presence, and towards the common good. She shares how contemplating mortality and the fleeting nature of time has deepened her appreciation of the little things and how she strives to make each day as deeply meaningful as possible. Barbara also explores how working in film impacts her perspective of the world, as well as the positive and negative ways media can influence our consciousness.

Episode 47: “Real vs. Artificial Happiness with Michelle Dillon” Music by Todd Lowrey

In the latest episode of The Celebrate Happiness Roadshow podcast, we are talking with Michelle Dillon, a marketing professional with a gift for bringing people, ideas, and brands together in meaningful ways. Currently in her marketing role at Jade Global, she helps shape the company's voice through executive engagement, corporate branding, high-impact events, and thought-leadership initiatives. Michelle has more than 15 years of experience in the information technology industry, spanning chief executive officer relations, company brand elevation, public relations, and strategic event management. Michelle is known for creating experiences that connect, inspire, and leave a lasting impression.
Outside of work, Michelle's heart belongs to her family, the outdoors, and the call of adventure. She is an advanced-certified scuba diver, and is happiest exploring nature and marine life, surrounded by water. She is also a great cook and loves sharing meals, discovering art and history, and finding any reason to explore new cultures and destinations. Michelle says that for her, happiness is about connection—being fully present with the people she loves, exploring the world with curiosity, and helping others along the way.
Check out this fascinating and powerful episode in which we discuss the value of face-to-face connection in an increasingly disconnected world, the importance of meaning vs. convenience, as well as nature, family, and making choices which nurture our happiness.
 
Listen now

Episode 46: “Happiness Beyond the Surface with Nicholas Stinson” Music by Todd Lowrey

In 2022, Nicholas relocated from Atlanta, GA to Santa Fe. For close to 15 years he served as the chef and owner of the renowned restaurant, Gato. Embracing his role as Market Manager at the Santa Fe Farmers' Market he finds joy in championing sustainable agriculture amidst our high desert microclimates. Nicholas also sits on the board for the soon to open Sun Mountain Community Charter School. Outside of work he revels in traversing the expansive beauty of the land on foot or mountain bike, all the while cherishing the responsibilities of fatherhood. He feels deep gratitude for this land of enchantment.
Join us for this powerful and uplifting discussion in which Nicholas discusses his role at the Santa Fe Farmer's market, how having purpose in one's work and life relates to happiness, the impact of love and gratitude, and so much more!