Shortly after learning how to walk, Tommy Ford began skiing at the mere age of two. It was “on the backs of my parents going up the chair” at Mt. Bachelor where he first discovered his life’s passion and vocation that later led him to three Olympic Games, several World Cups and World Championships, and […]
Adriana Mariño
Bend into Balance: Nathaniel Perullo & John O’Sullivan
Bend is not short of incredible athletes, nor amazing coaches and transformational leaders. Nathaniel Perullo, 2025 Under 19 National Boulder Champion of the U.S., and John O’Sullivan, founder of Changing the Game Project, are two top examples. Both shared profound reflections on the role of youth sports, intrinsic motivation and the value of a “multi-movement […]
Bend into Balance: Interview with Dr. Kevin Jones of Flow Wellness
In 2010, I traveled with a small film crew to Monterey, Mexico to meet Manuel Uribe for a documentary on obesity I was directing for National Geographic. At that time, he was 44 years old and held the Guinness Record as the heaviest man alive at 597 kilos or 1,320 pounds. For the last 13 […]
Bend into Balance: Willis Mitchell of the Loving Fungi
Willis Mitchell’s passion for mushrooms does not go unnoticed. His eyes light up as he enthusiastically explains why he has devoted his life’s work to this remarkable kingdom. During our podcast conversation, he mentioned that fungi are more closely related to humans than to plants — a statement that immediately piqued my curiosity. Rather than […]
Bend into Balance: The Power of Water
As I was getting out of the Juniper pool after my regular swim, I couldn’t help noticing the lively masters team getting ready to start their “Fast Friday” session. While Coach Bob was writing the workout on the dry board, swimmers ranging from early thirties to mid-eighties were stretching on land, putting their swim googles […]
Bend into Balance: Alli Jorgensen and Dr. Matthew Ingrassia
After every swim at Juniper Swim & Fitness Center, I stop to fill my water bottle on my way out. This time, however, a flyer above the drinking fountain caught my eye. It was a week before Valentine’s Day and the flyer announced an upcoming free body composition analysis celebrating heart health week. I didn’t […]
The Butterfly Effect
After listening attentively to the first episode with Cornelius Edison, my 10-year-old daughter said to me, “Mama, you forgot to say your name!” Even though it was her first time ever listening to a podcast, she was completely right. I had forgotten to present myself. I humbly nodded and she immediately asked me, “But, why?” […]
Bend Into Balance
Perhaps drawn to the sheer natural beauty surrounding Bend and its endless trails and terrains for hiking, biking, running, rock climbing, kayaking, skiing and snowboarding (and so much more), the city has attracted many individuals who get out, play, compete and thrive in this vibrant outdoor playground. And along with them, so have a great […]

