Can You See How I See?

Episode 9: Our Aging Heart with Dr. Kim Eagle | Can You See How I See?

In this episode of Can You See How I See?, Keith and George welcome renowned cardiologist Dr. Kim Eagle from the University of Michigan to unpack what really happens to the heart as we age and what we can do to stay ahead of it. Dr. Eagle explains why cardiovascular disease often develops silently, why knowing your numbers matters (blood pressure, cholesterol, A1c), and how prevention can dramatically reduce risk. The conversation covers lifestyle fundamentals like movement, Mediterranean-style eating, sleep quality, and the dangers of online misinformation around statins and supplements. Dr. Eagle also breaks down warning signs of a heart attack, the role of aspirin today, and why community, purpose, and “keeping your world big” may be just as important as any prescription.
Chapters00:00 Welcome and Guest Introduction04:14 Understanding Heart Disease and Prevention09:14 Recognizing Heart Attack Symptoms12:38 Advances in Cardiovascular Care16:28 Importance of Knowing Your Health Markers20:46 Diet, Eggs, and Cholesterol Management26:04 Understanding Test Results and Statins33:04 Exercise, VO2 Max, and Mood Benefits39:41 Integrating Activity and Everyday Movement42:14 Social Media and Misinformation44:55 Dietary Fats and Skin Absorption47:07 Supplements and Their Efficacy49:16 Evidence for Supplements and Placebo50:46 Alcohol Consumption Guidelines51:41 Sleep Issues and Circadian Rhythm56:12 Sleep Importance and Gummies57:41 The Power of Naps and Siestas01:00:41 Evolving Aspirin Guidelines01:02:19 Recognizing and Responding to Heart Attacks01:05:20 Value of Outdoor Activities01:06:53 Importance of Socialization01:08:45 Keeping Your World Big
About the ShowCan You See How I See? is hosted by filmmaker, chef, and author Keith Famie and George Wurtzel, a blind master craftsman and environmentalist. Through honest conversations and compelling stories, the show explores perception, intuition, and what it means to navigate the world from different lived experiences.HostsKeith Famie and George WurtzelCreditsIntro music by Jill Jack.LinksKeith's Website: https://www.keithfamie.com/ Visionalist Entertainment filmography: https://v-prod.com/ George Wurtzel Woodworking (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeWurtzel.GinkoGallery/ Subscribe & FollowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-you-see-how-i-see/id1822563485 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Z1uNxvYKyiuHd8tLh253X?si=b5b53e37def9458e YouTube (if applicable): https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIdysequtlI24iromLdNaLtnvJjVagBHB&si=eeKDitFbfdBw7_xL

Episode 8: The Eyes of a Warrior with U.S. Army Maj. Iván Castro | Can You See How I See?

In this gripping and deeply human episode of Can You See How I See?, George and Keith sit down with Major Iván Castro, one of only a few blind officers to serve in the United States Army Special Forces.
After losing his sight in combat, Major Castro refused to be sidelined, running marathons, returning to active duty, and becoming a powerful advocate for the blind and wounded veteran communities. Through candid storytelling and moments of raw vulnerability, he shares what it takes to rebuild identity after trauma, the role of faith and grit in his recovery, and why living with purpose is not optional, it is survival. This conversation goes beyond blindness and battlefield injuries. It is about hope, hard truths, and the relentless pursuit of meaning.
Timestamps00:00 Introducing Major Ivan Castro05:28 Life After Blindness10:07 Military Career and Training15:59 The Moment of Realization26:37 A New Chapter: Divorce and Accomplishments33:53 The Drive to Succeed39:53 Frustrations of Blindness43:59 Aging and Physical Discipline48:04 Positive Attitude and Mental Health55:04 The Importance of Hearing57:23 Future Hopes and Disappointments01:00:49 Perception and Blindness01:06:56 Extreme Expeditions and Their Impact01:11:30 Humor, Gratitude, and Future Plans
 
About the ShowCan You See How I See? is hosted by filmmaker, chef, and author Keith Famie and George Wurtzel, a blind master craftsman and environmentalist. Through honest conversations and compelling stories, the show explores perception, intuition, and what it means to navigate the world from different lived experiences.HostsKeith Famie and George WurtzelCreditsIntro music by Jill Jack.LinksKeith's Website: https://www.keithfamie.com/ Visionalist Entertainment filmography: https://v-prod.com/ George Wurtzel Woodworking (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeWurtzel.GinkoGallery/ Subscribe & FollowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-you-see-how-i-see/id1822563485 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Z1uNxvYKyiuHd8tLh253X?si=b5b53e37def9458e YouTube (if applicable): https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIdysequtlI24iromLdNaLtnvJjVagBHB&si=eeKDitFbfdBw7_xL

Episode 7: Kitchen Memories & Meaning with Chefs Brian Polcyn & Ed Janos | Can You See How I See?

In this heartfelt, humorous, and soul stirring episode of Can You See How I See?, Keith and George sit down with two culinary giants and lifelong friends, Chef Brian Polcyn and Chef Ed Janos, for a conversation that is equal parts kitchen banter and life reflection. Keith was once chef colleagues with Brian and Ed.
From vocational school origins and family friction to Michelin level kitchens and aging knees, the group dives into what it means to build a legacy through food, friendship, and resilience. They explore how aging chefs stay sharp, literally and figuratively, how mortality shifts perspective, and why happiness often means knowing when to stop arguing and start living. With laughs, lessons, and just a touch of powdered sugar, this is a deep dive into craft, character, and carving out a life with meaning.
 
Timestamps
00:00 New Roof, New Cat, Inky05:39 From Poor Student to Chef08:48 Early Culinary Influences11:15 The Chef’s Journey15:11 Diverse Career Paths19:01 Morning Routines and Retirement23:55 Fitness and Longevity26:15 Extreme Adventures and Life Lessons32:12 Kitchen Diversity and Leadership38:21 Women in Non-Traditional Roles40:09 Parental Worries & Life’s Risks44:50 Aging and the Fear of Decline46:53 The 80-Year-Old Neurosurgeon51:49 Facing Death and Not Being a Burden56:07 The Art of Retirement and Happiness01:01:36 New Podcast: ‘Well Seasoned’01:03:50 George’s Vision and the Mind’s Eye01:07:28 Muscle Memory in the Kitchen01:11:06 Most Memorable Career Moments01:15:28 Woodworking and Tennessee Adventures
 
About the ShowCan You See How I See? is hosted by filmmaker, chef, and author Keith Famie and George Wurtzel, a blind master craftsman and environmentalist. Through honest conversations and compelling stories, the show explores perception, intuition, and what it means to navigate the world from different lived experiences.HostsKeith Famie and George WurtzelCreditsIntro music by Jill Jack.LinksKeith's Website: https://www.keithfamie.com/ Visionalist Entertainment filmography: https://v-prod.com/ George Wurtzel Woodworking (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeWurtzel.GinkoGallery/ Subscribe & FollowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-you-see-how-i-see/id1822563485 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Z1uNxvYKyiuHd8tLh253X?si=b5b53e37def9458e YouTube (if applicable): https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIdysequtlI24iromLdNaLtnvJjVagBHB&si=eeKDitFbfdBw7_xL

Episode 6: Outrunning Time with Triathlete Ryan Rau | Can You See How I See?

Ryan Rau, one of the nation’s top triathletes and fitness trainers, joins Keith and George in the studio to talk about how to push back against father time through consistent movement and intentional training. Ryan began his career in personal training after graduating from Alma College with a degree in Exercise and Health Science. Alongside coaching, he started competing seriously, qualifying for the Boston Marathon and winning an ultramarathon.
After seven years of racing as an amateur while working full time, Ryan earned his pro card by placing sixth overall among non professionals. Ryan’s mission now is to help others experience the joy, health, and camaraderie that comes from being part of the endurance sport community.
Chapters00:00 Welcome & Upcoming Events03:36 The Mind’s Eye & Vision Loss05:46 Introducing Triathlete Ryan Rau09:02 Triathlon Distances and Origins13:03 Ryan’s Triathlon Journey & Motivation16:31 George’s Extreme Skiing Expedition21:19 The Importance of Training for Life25:01 Flexibility, Strength, and Aging29:22 Physical Activity and Mental Health33:55 Efficient Movement and Secondary Muscles38:18 Free Weights vs. Machines & Muscle Fatigue42:33 Building Muscle as You Age44:11 George’s Adventures: Mackinac Swim46:02 Endurance Riding and Core Strength47:30 The Importance of Balance Training49:01 Modern Lifestyles and Physical Decline50:19 Simple Daily Balance Exercises52:12 Fast-Twitch vs. Slow-Twitch Muscles55:29 The Critical Role of Diet in Aging59:09 Extreme Challenges & Personal Goals01:01:02 Echelon Multisport & Lifestyle Coaching01:01:45 Training Dad & Inspiring Longevity
About the ShowCan You See How I See? is hosted by filmmaker, chef, and author Keith Famie and George Wurtzel, a blind master craftsman and environmentalist. Through honest conversations and compelling stories, the show explores perception, intuition, and what it means to navigate the world from different lived experiences.HostsKeith Famie and George WurtzelCreditsIntro music by Jill Jack.LinksKeith's Website: https://www.keithfamie.com/ Visionalist Entertainment filmography: https://v-prod.com/ George Wurtzel Woodworking (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeWurtzel.GinkoGallery/ Subscribe & FollowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-you-see-how-i-see/id1822563485 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Z1uNxvYKyiuHd8tLh253X?si=b5b53e37def9458e YouTube (if applicable): https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIdysequtlI24iromLdNaLtnvJjVagBHB&si=eeKDitFbfdBw7_xL

Episode 5: From Grief to Purpose with Dr. Tara Hipple-Thomas & Eric Hipple | Can You See How I See?

In this powerful conversation, Keith and George open up about aging, anxiety, regrets, and the noise of modern life before welcoming former Detroit Lions quarterback Eric Hipple and his daughter, trauma therapist Dr. Tara Hipple-Thomas. Eric shares the loss of his son Jeff to suicide at fifteen and how that tragedy led him into decades of work in mental health and suicide prevention. Tara reflects on losing her big brother at seven, how childhood trauma fragments memory and emotion, and why true healing means feeling emotions rather than avoiding them.
Together, they talk about the window of tolerance, PTSD, and how early experiences shape who we become. It is a tender, honest look at grief, meaning, and how to keep going.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal ideation, please reach out for help by dialing 988 to reach the Michigan Suicide Crisis Hotline.
Chapters00:00 Guest Introductions and Updates03:55 Mental Health and Personal Struggles08:48 Welcome and Childhood Fame12:28 Football Career and Hardest Hit19:57 Childhood Trauma and Its Impact27:56 Addressing Past Trauma as Adults32:46 Eric Hipple’s Work and Mental Health Terms37:23 Navigating a Complicated World41:17 Five Human Needs in Uncertainty45:29 Supporting Suicide Loss Survivors49:25 Redefining Suicide and Support53:19 The Importance of Presence55:49 Tools for Mental Well-being58:49 Aging and Adjusting Life’s Goals01:03:02 Self-Acceptance and Regrets01:05:51 Impact and Legacy01:07:38 AI, Scrutiny, and Happiness01:09:25 Gratitude and Farewell
About the ShowCan You See How I See? is hosted by filmmaker, chef, and author Keith Famie and George Wurtzel, a blind master craftsman and environmentalist. Through honest conversations and compelling stories, the show explores perception, intuition, and what it means to navigate the world from different lived experiences.HostsKeith Famie and George WurtzelCreditsIntro music by Jill Jack.LinksKeith's Website: https://www.keithfamie.com/ Visionalist Entertainment filmography: https://v-prod.com/ George Wurtzel Woodworking (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeWurtzel.GinkoGallery/ Subscribe & FollowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-you-see-how-i-see/id1822563485 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Z1uNxvYKyiuHd8tLh253X?si=b5b53e37def9458e YouTube (if applicable): https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIdysequtlI24iromLdNaLtnvJjVagBHB&si=eeKDitFbfdBw7_xL

Episode 4: Purpose in the Second Half of Life with Chuck Gaidica | Can You See How I See?

On this episode of Can You See How I See?, Keith and George sit down with media personality Chuck Gaidica for a thoughtful conversation about aging, relevance, and purpose in the later chapters of life. After a decades-long career in broadcast journalism, Chuck reflects on what it means to move from success to significance, redefining identity beyond titles and careers. He shares insights on legacy, community, grace, and the importance of keeping your world big as you age. The discussion explores joy versus happiness, finding purpose where time seems to disappear, and why relevance and connection matter deeply for men navigating retirement and beyond. With honesty, humor, and wisdom, Chuck offers a grounded perspective on healthspan, mortality, and how the choices we make today shape how we live and age tomorrow.
Chapters00:00 Chuck Gaidica’s Retirement Journey04:13 Finding Purpose and Legacy07:49 Woodworking and Spatial Knowledge11:01 Joy, Legacy, and Life’s Transience14:37 Life’s Purpose and “Sailing Away”19:18 Facing Death and Life’s Extremes25:27 Men, Relevance, and Grace in Failure
About the ShowCan You See How I See? is hosted by filmmaker, chef, and author Keith Famie and George Wurtzel, a blind master craftsman and environmentalist. Through honest conversations and compelling stories, the show explores perception, intuition, and what it means to navigate the world from different lived experiences.HostsKeith Famie and George WurtzelCreditsIntro music by Jill Jack.LinksKeith's Website: https://www.keithfamie.com/ Visionalist Entertainment filmography: https://v-prod.com/ George Wurtzel Woodworking (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeWurtzel.GinkoGallery/ Subscribe & FollowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-you-see-how-i-see/id1822563485 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Z1uNxvYKyiuHd8tLh253X?si=b5b53e37def9458e YouTube (if applicable): https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIdysequtlI24iromLdNaLtnvJjVagBHB&si=eeKDitFbfdBw7_xL

Episode 3: Memory, Healing & the Brain with Dr. Gary Dunbar and Tom Rau | Can You See How I See?

On this episode of Can You See How I See?, Keith and George bring in executive producer Tom Rau and Dr. Gary Dunbar, Head of Neuroscience at Central Michigan University, to talk about cognitive health and the fear many people carry as they age. The conversation moves from Blue Zone lessons in Okinawa, where community, walking, and simplicity shape long life, to the science of the brain, including why the temporal lobe and hippocampus matter in memory decline.
They explore whether you would take a blood test to learn your dementia risk, and what that knowledge might change. Dr. Dunbar breaks down practical inputs that support brain health: movement, social engagement, cognitive challenge, diet, gut health, and careful use of supplements like creatine. The episode closes with a simple theme: stay active, stay connected, and keep challenging your brain, because how you live today shapes how you age tomorrow.
Chapters00:00 Welcome and Guest Introductions03:00 Blue Zones & Okinawan Longevity06:52 Cognitive Decline and the Brain10:41 To Test or Not to Test for Dementia15:03 Rosemary, Creatine, and Brain Health19:54 Socialization, Diet, and Aging25:20 Gut-Brain Connection and Neuroplasticity30:45 Memories, Emotions, and Closing Thoughts
 
 
About the ShowCan You See How I See? is hosted by filmmaker, chef, and author Keith Famie and George Wurtzel, a blind master craftsman and environmentalist. Through honest conversations and compelling stories, the show explores perception, intuition, and what it means to navigate the world from different lived experiences.HostsKeith Famie and George WurtzelCreditsIntro music by Jill Jack.LinksKeith's Website: https://www.keithfamie.com/ Visionalist Entertainment filmography: https://v-prod.com/ George Wurtzel Woodworking (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeWurtzel.GinkoGallery/ Subscribe & FollowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-you-see-how-i-see/id1822563485 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Z1uNxvYKyiuHd8tLh253X?si=b5b53e37def9458e YouTube (if applicable): https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIdysequtlI24iromLdNaLtnvJjVagBHB&si=eeKDitFbfdBw7_xL

Episode 2: Art, Illusion & the Aging Brain with Artist Robert Schefman | Can You See How I See?

On this episode of "Can You See How I See?", Keith and George sit down with sculptor and painter Robert Schefman to explore how art shapes the way we think, age, and find meaning. Robert traces his journey from massive minimalist steel sculptures to illusionist narrative paintings that look photographic yet remain “a magic trick” on canvas. He explains illusion, abstraction, and non-objective work in plain language, and walks listeners through a powerful painting from his “Garden” series that shows two exhausted farmers in front of a burned house, a metaphor for the human struggle to keep “pushing the rock” and tending our world even when it feels impossible.
George offers a tactile perspective on sculpture, museums, and how blind visitors actually “see” more by using their hands and full body awareness. The trio talk about Bob Ross, cave paintings, Jesus being painted white for European audiences, and why it is never too late to start making art in your 60s or 70s. Robert shares candid reflections on legacy, mortality, and why the real goal is to still be creating at 90, not controlling what the world thinks. They close with a call to support local artists, visit museums without intimidation, and make something that may outlive you, even if no one remembers your name 150 years from now.
Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Craftsmanship Showcase03:26 George’s Proudest Creation: Flag Boxes07:35 Introducing Robert Schefman: The Crayon Artist12:01 Defining Art and Robert’s Artistic Journey19:28 The Power of Art to Enhance Life26:01 Understanding Illusion and Bob Ross’s Appeal35:08 Abstraction and Impressionism39:56 Tactile Art and Accessibility45:11 Evolution of Art and Museum Experience50:58 Adapting to Sensory Loss54:06 Meaning, Legacy, and Artistic Control01:03:14 The Purpose and Fate of Artworks01:05:53 Artistic Legacy and Taxation01:09:05 The Genesis of ‘City of Chefs’01:13:23 Embrace and Support the Arts
Guest Links:Robert's Website: https://www.robertschefman.com/
About the ShowCan You See How I See? is hosted by filmmaker, chef, and author Keith Famie and George Wurtzel, a blind master craftsman and environmentalist. Through honest conversations and compelling stories, the show explores perception, intuition, and what it means to navigate the world from different lived experiences.HostsKeith Famie and George WurtzelCreditsIntro music by Jill Jack.LinksKeith's Website: https://www.keithfamie.com/ Visionalist Entertainment filmography: https://v-prod.com/ George Wurtzel Woodworking (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeWurtzel.GinkoGallery/ Subscribe & FollowApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/can-you-see-how-i-see/id1822563485 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Z1uNxvYKyiuHd8tLh253X?si=b5b53e37def9458e YouTube (if applicable): https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIdysequtlI24iromLdNaLtnvJjVagBHB&si=eeKDitFbfdBw7_xL