Kickboxer, nutritional coach and strength trainer, Lipsa Panda is Making Discipline into an Art Form

By Anne Rondepierre

As an ITS project manager with Hartford HealthCare in Farmington, Lipsa Panda handles a diverse range of clinical, non-clinical and technical projects from implementation through execution and tracking success. She applies the same discipline outside of work to her practice of marital arts where she’s earned a black belt in kickboxing.

How and when did you get interested in kickboxing?

I became fascinated with martial arts as a child. Growing up in India, I never had the opportunity to learn because there were no classes available where I lived. When I moved to the United States, I noticed that very few people from India were learning this art form. I joined martial arts in 2016. Since then, it’s been a way of life for me.

How has your martial arts training impacted your professional life?

The discipline and focus required have enhanced my ability to manage projects effectively and stay organized under pressure. It has taught me the importance of resilience and perseverance, which helps me navigate challenges and setbacks in my projects.

What about in your personal life?

Martial arts have instilled a sense of discipline and self-control that permeates all aspects of my life. I am now a black belt and that’s a source of pride for me. The rigorous training has improved my physical fitness. The mental focus and mindfulness developed have helped me manage stress more effectively. And the values of respect and humility learned in martial arts have certainly enriched my relationships, fostering deeper connections with family and friends.

Do you have any other hidden talents we should know about?

I’m a certified nutritional coach, a licensed Zumba instructor and I run my own strength training program. I also find great joy in giving back to my community. Volunteering is a significant part of my life and I am actively involved in various organizations and initiatives aimed at making a difference.

Lipsa Panda channels the discipline of her kickboxing training into work as an ITS project manager.

Lifting up life’s weight Strength in Body and Spirit

By Anne Rondepierre
Sean Collins, inpatient pastoral counselor with Hartford HealthCare at Home, hits the gym regularly.

Rev. Sean “PRC” Collins, inpatient pastoral counselor for Hartford HealthCare at Home, supports patients, families and colleagues at The Hospital of Central Connecticut, MidState Medical Center and Bradley Memorial. Spiritually and emotionally, this is a heavy lift. But outside of work, Rev. Collins has a passion for powerlifting. Here, he shares how physical lifting helps lighten life’s load.

Let’s cut to the chase. How much can you lift?

I’m proudly part of what’s known as the 1,000-Pound Club, which combines max squat, deadlift and bench. I also enjoy goblet squats with 100 pounds for 8 to 12 reps, Romanian deadlifts with 250-315 pounds for 8 to 12 reps, and using the belt squat machine, with my best lift being 500 pounds.

“I believe any form of physical activity can alleviate stress and improve overall well-being”

How did powerlifting start for you and how many years have you been at it?

It was more of a spontaneous entry. I returned to the gym in 2021 due to weight concerns, then focused on cardio and, later, power yoga for flexibility and core work. During my journey, I encountered a colossal figure deadlifting 500 pounds for reps, which intrigued me. Contrary to assumptions, most gym-goers are approachable so I asked about his experience. He introduced me to powerlifting and I was hooked.

Many of us have “heavy lifts” in life. How can physical lifting help lighten those or improve our ability to help lift others?

Working in healthcare, particularly in hospice, is undeniably stressful. For me, hitting the gym at 4:30 a.m. is crucial; it helps me start the day focused and emotionally present for patients, families and colleagues. I believe any form of physical activity can alleviate stress and improve overall well-being. Whether it’s powerlifting, bodybuilding, yoga or even recreational activities like pickleball or walking, finding a self-care routine is essential. Powerlifting serves as my self-care and I encourage everyone to find what works best for them.


Passionate Playlists

Carini is inspired by her father’s love of jazz and blues

By Maggie Werner

Alison Carini, DO, a family and lifestyle medicine provider with Hartford HealthCare Medical Group, has a side gig spinning beats at WCNI radio at Connecticut College that carries on her father’s legacy while creating her own. You can find the station in iHeartRadio or at 90.9 FM.

How did your father’s passion for jazz and DJing shape your path?

My family’s musical background, especially his work DJing at NCPR and WSLU through St. Lawrence University, inspired me. DJing became a way to honor his legacy and stay connected, especially during challenging times in medical school.

What drew you to DJing at WCNI?

I started during college and continued through medical school. WCNI’s community and the creative outlet helped me stay grounded during residency.

How does DJing relate to your medical career?

Both require being in the moment and multitasking – skills that are crucial in the hospital and on air. It’s about keeping things flowing and engaging, whether it’s patients or listeners.

What’s the most enjoyable part of DJing for you?

t’s about creativity and taking listeners on a journey, much like my approach to medicine. I love exploring diverse music genres and sharing that with others.

Can you describe your process for preparing sets?

I mix world and jazz music, curating playlists that flow seamlessly. It’s a blend of planning and improvisation, responding to the moment and listener feedback.

If you were on a road trip, what three tracks would be essential for your playlist?

  • “Si No Te Quisiera” by Juan Magan, an upbeat Spanish track
  • “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham”  by Lata Mangeshkar
  • “Journey to the Real World” by Tame Impala, my show’s outro

What’s one surprising thing about being a DJ?

Many DJs, including myself, are volunteers driven by a love for music and community rather than financial gain.

If you could interview any musician on your show, who would it be?

Yamashita Tomohisa, a Japanese artist whose music has evolved significantly over the years. I’d love to delve into how life experiences shape artistic expression.

Any advice for healthcare professionals with passions outside of medicine?

Cultivate hobbies outside of medicine – it grounds you and enhances your patient care by making you more well-rounded and emotionally available.

Alison Carini loves multiple forms of music and sharing it with others on air.