Exploring Washington State

Behind the Scenes at the Cascadia International Women’s Film FestivalRochelle Robinson joins us to talk about the ninth annual Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival in Bellingham. From her work on the board to her passion for storytelling, Rochelle shares what makes this unique celebration of women-directed films so impactful. We also dive into her work with Hamlet Literary Journal, community writing, favorite local spots in Bellingham—and yes, we end with the all-important debate: cake or pie?

What happens when musical chemistry sneaks up on you—and never lets go? In this episode, Scott sits down with Jessiand Jared Fredeen, the heart and soul of Tacoma’s genre-defying band Champagne Sunday. From meeting in a California restaurant to building a life of music, love, and relentless connection, the duo shares stories that are equal parts hilarious and heartfelt.  They talk about creating a band and a marriage, performing over 2,000 shows, and pouring their souls into their 10th—and most personal—album yet. If you’ve ever questioned whether passion can power a lifelong career, this one’s for you.

Seattle’s cherry blossoms are more than just a stunning spring spectacle—they’re part of a rich history, a scientific research project, and a race against time. 🌿In this episode, we’re diving deep into the fascinating world of UW’s iconic cherry trees with Marlee Theil, sustainability coordinator and lead researcher for the Cherry Tree Phenology Project. Marlee and her student volunteers are tracking each bloom stage to predict peak bloom, uncover the long-term effects of climate change, and preserve these legendary trees for future generations.But here’s the twist—the origin story of these trees is a mystery. Were they really a gift from Japan? Were they rescued from a construction project? Or were they planted as part of a secret New Deal initiative? We’ll explore the theories, the science, and why some trees are on borrowed time.You’ll also hear:✅ How climate change is shifting peak bloom dates 🌎✅ The hidden spots on UW’s campus for the best cherry blossom photos 📸✅ Why Tacoma’s cherry blossoms bloom at a different time than Seattle’s 🤯✅ What’s being done to ensure these trees thrive for years to comeWhether you’re a cherry blossom fanatic, a nature lover, or just looking for an excuse to visit UW’s campus, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.🔊 Hit play now and get the inside story of Seattle’s most famous blooms! 🌸🎙️

In this Exploring Washington State Podcast episode, Scott sits down with returning guest Jessica Alexanderson, also known as Scuba Jess. While she’s usually diving deep into Washington’s waters, today she’s surfacing with an urgent mission: collecting two million aluminum cans to help schools nationwide.Jessica shares how this national recycling contest is making a difference, from funding playgrounds to providing school lunches. With 18 schools across 12 states competing, every can counts! She also looks inside at scrapyards, the aluminum recycling process, and how Washingtonians can get involved.But that’s not all—Jessica talks about her latest scuba diving adventures, the odd treasures she’s found underwater, and the unexpected places her recycling mission has taken her, including NASCAR and the Smithsonian.Tune in to learn how you can help turn trash into treasure while supporting local schools!

Kells Irish Pub isn’t just a bar—it’s a Seattle institution. Join Patrick Pearse McAleese as he shares the history, stories, and legacy of this iconic pub, from its deep Irish roots to its lasting impact on the community.  Discover what makes Kells a beloved gathering place for generations.

In this episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast, Scott Cowan welcomes Kendall Jones, founder of the Washington Beer Blog, to discuss the history and future of craft beer in Washington State. Kendall shares his journey from an aspiring rock star to a renowned voice in the beer community, weaving together stories of personal discovery, local breweries, and the unique character of Washington beer.From Bellevue to BloggingKendall’s story begins in Bellevue, Washington, where his teenage dreams of becoming a rock star shaped his early years. Although music didn’t become his career, Kendall’s creativity and passion for storytelling found a new outlet in writing. His career path shifted again when he discovered the world of craft beer, a moment sparked by a life-changing sip of Samuel Smith’s Tadcaster Porter.That experience opened the door to exploring beer differently, and Kendall began documenting his journey. Eventually, he launched the Washington Beer Blog. This website quickly became a trusted resource for beer enthusiasts across the state.The Craft Beer Boom in WashingtonWashington’s craft beer industry has grown immensely since the early 2000s, and Kendall had a front-row seat to its evolution. When Kendall first considered writing a book about local breweries, he realized the market was expanding too rapidly to keep up. Instead, he turned to blogging, a format that allowed him to document the dynamic changes as they happened.Kendall reflects on the early days of now-iconic breweries like Georgetown Brewing, whose Bodhizafa IPA helped define the style of Washington IPAs. He discusses how smaller, independent breweries have contributed to the state’s reputation as a leader in craft beer and the unique challenges they face in a competitive market.The Stories Behind the BeerBeyond the beer itself, Kendall has always been captivated by the people and stories that define the industry. From the innovative brewers crafting bold new flavors to the small business owners overcoming challenges, Kendall’s blog has highlighted the human side of brewing. He shares anecdotes from his years of experience, offering listeners a deeper appreciation for the passion and hard work that go into every pint.Scott and Kendall also discuss the importance of community in the craft beer world. Local breweries often become gathering places that reflect the personality of their neighborhoods. Whether it’s a cozy taproom in a small town or a bustling brewery in Seattle, each spot tells a story about the people and culture of the area.What’s Next for Craft Beer?Kendall explores some challenges facing the craft beer industry, from rising production costs to changing consumer preferences. He explains how breweries adapt by experimenting with lighter styles, like lagers, and embracing trends such as non-alcoholic beers.Despite the obstacles, Kendall remains optimistic about the future. He points to brewers' continued innovation and creativity as a reason to be excited. New breweries are still opening, and established ones are finding ways to stay relevant in an ever-changing landscape.Why Washington Beer MattersWashington’s beer culture is more than just a collection of breweries—it reflects the state’s creativity, resilience, and sense of community. Kendall believes the industry’s success lies in its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. From the farmers growing hops in the Yakima Valley to the brewers experimenting with new styles, Washington beer celebrates local ingenuity.This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves craft beer or is curious about the stories behind Washington’s vibrant brewing industry. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or new to craft brews, Kendall’s insights and passion will inspire you.Tune in for a conversation that delves deep into the evolution of craft beer, the people behind it, and what makes Washington a special place for beer lovers.

Welcome back to another inspiring episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast! This time, Scott Cowan sits down with Meghan Storey, a talented musician with an extraordinary story of resilience, creativity, and passion. From her challenging beginnings on the streets of Seattle to becoming a celebrated artist, Meghan shares her incredible journey of triumph over adversity.Episode Highlights:A Musical Childhood: Meghan reflects on growing up surrounded by music, where family jam sessions and demo tapes sparked her early love for melodies. By age three, she was belting out "Jesus Christ Superstar," foreshadowing her future as a performer.Life on the Streets: At just 12, Meghan entered the foster care system and faced homelessness. She candidly recounts her experiences, from sleeping in doorways to finding solace in community programs like the YMCA's Independent Living Program and the Orion Center.The Healing Power of Music: Discover how Meghan used songwriting to cope during her toughest times. Music has been her lifeline and voice, from writing her first song at 14 to her latest releases.Denny's Days: In a surprising twist, Meghan's time at a downtown Seattle Denny's provided a job and a sense of home and community. Hear how a compassionate manager helped change her life.A Flourishing Career: Meghan discusses her collaboration with Raymond Hayden, the excitement of releasing their rendition of "Silent Lucidity," and the 19 songs they're working on. She also shares her dreams of performing at iconic venues like Benaroya Hall.Advocacy Through Art: With a deep commitment to raising awareness about homelessness, Meghan urges listeners to embrace empathy and human connection. Her insights are as heartfelt as her music.Tacoma Scene Love: Meghan shares her favorite spots to play and listen to music in Tacoma, from the Spanish Ballroom to hidden gems like Valhalla Coffee and the Church Cantina.Key Takeaways:The importance of resilience and goal-setting in overcoming life's challenges.Music can serve as a coping mechanism and a bridge for connection.Why empathy and human connection are vital in addressing homelessness.Listen Now:Tune in to hear Meghan's inspiring journey and gain a deeper understanding of the person behind the music. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that our stories matter and that creativity can shine even in the darkest times.

Today’s guest is Tim Nyhus, a passionate explorer uncovering the hidden treasures of ghost towns and abandoned mines across the state.Episode HighlightsA Journey into Washington’s Forgotten PastTim shares how his love for history and family road trips inspired him to explore ghost towns and mines, starting with the abandoned coal town of Melmont in 2009. Hear about his first-hand experiences uncovering these historical gems and how a simple hike sparked a lifelong passion.Building a Community of ExplorersFrom sharing photos on Facebook to creating videos for YouTube, Tim discusses how his adventures evolved into a platform that connects history enthusiasts. He reflects on how technology and storytelling have played a role in preserving and sharing Washington’s forgotten landmarks.Exploration Tips for BeginnersInterested in visiting a ghost town? Tim offers beginner-friendly tips for exploring these historical sites, including how to find publicly accessible locations and plan safe, enjoyable trips.Challenges of Abandoned MinesLearn about the risks and rewards of mine exploration, including the incredible story of Tim’s harrowing entry into a collapsed 1890s mine. He emphasizes the importance of preparation and respecting the history and fragility of these sites.Why Documentation MattersTim explains his mission to preserve the legacy of Washington’s ghost towns and mines, ensuring future generations can learn about these significant landmarks before they disappear.What’s Next for Tim’s Adventures?Tim teases upcoming explorations, including a private mine visit in the Okanogan area and more trips to Washington’s lesser-known ghost towns. Stay tuned for incredible stories of perseverance, history, and discovery.Where to Follow Tim’s JourneyExplore more of Tim’s work and connect with his community:Facebook: Ghost Towns and Mines of WashingtonYouTube: Ghost Towns and Mines of WashingtonInstagram: Ghost Towns And Mines of WashingtonSupport the ShowEnjoying the podcast? Share this episode with friends and family! You can also follow us on Twitter @explorewastate or visit our website at explorewashingtonstate.com. Your word-of-mouth support helps us grow and share these stories with more listeners.Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll see you next time for another exploration of Washington’s unique stories!

Hey there, friends! In this episode of the Exploring Washington State podcast, your host Scott Cowan dives into a fun and heartwarming conversation with Jake Eberhart, the innovative mind behind Bolder K9 Jake shares his journey of moving to Washington, adopting a rescue pup, and turning a chewed-up leash into a thriving business that gives back to animal rescues and shelters.What’s Inside This Episode?🐾 The Bolder K9 Story: Jake talks about how a destroyed leash inspired him and his wife to start crafting durable, custom leashes and collars.🌲 Moving to Washington: Discover how Jake and his wife found their way from New York to the Pacific Northwest, complete with cross-country adventures and unexpected pit stops.🐕 Rescue Stories: Learn about Theobold, the German Shepherd who sparked Bolder K9’s mission, and the incredible work Jake does with True North GSD Rescue.🎨 Customization and Craftsmanship: From 33 leash colors to innovative FrogClips, Jake explains how Bolder K9 stands out by blending creativity, durability, and functionality.🥾 Hiking with Dogs: Jake shares his favorite dog-friendly hiking spots in Washington, including hidden gems like Anderson and Watson Lakes.🛠️ Nonprofit Partnerships: Hear about Bolder K9’s work with organizations like Forgotten Dogs for Forgotten Vets, connecting rescue dogs with veterans in need.Why You Should ListenThis episode is packed with inspiration for dog lovers, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about Washington’s outdoor adventures. Jake’s passion for helping animals and creating quality products shines through every story he shares. Plus, you’ll hear some great tips on local hikes and even where to find amazing gluten-free pastries in Kenmore!Where to Find Bolder K9Website: Instagram:Facebook:Mentioned in This EpisodeTrue North GSD Rescue: Supporting German Shepherd rescues.Forgotten Dogs for Forgotten Vets: Pairing rescue dogs with veterans in need.Diva Espresso in Kenmore: Jake’s go-to spot for gluten-free pastries and coffee.Favorite Hikes: Anderson and Watson Lakes, Kulchuck Lake, and Barclay Lake.Let’s Stay ConnectedIf you enjoyed this episode, please share it with fellow dog lovers or outdoor enthusiasts. Your support helps grow the show! And don’t forget to leave a review or reach out on social media to let us know what you think.

Are you ready to uncover Skagit County's hidden treasures? Join host Scott Cowan as he chats with Kristen Keltz, CEO of the Skagit Tourism Bureau, to explore everything this remarkable region has to offer—from breathtaking landscapes and charming small towns to vibrant cultural events and unique culinary experiences.What You'll Discover in This Episode:Skagit County's Hidden GemsThink you know Skagit? Think again! Kristen shares the lesser-known highlights of the area, including delightful towns like Edison and Concrete, incredible hiking spots, and awe-inspiring views that stretch from the water to the mountains.Coffee, Food, and Local FlavorWhether sipping coffee at cozy shops like Penguin Coffee or enjoying a meal featuring locally sourced ingredients, Skagit County is a foodie's dream. Kristen dishes out her top recommendations to fuel your next adventure.The Iconic Tulip Festival and BeyondWhile the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is world-famous, Kristen reveals why every season in Skagit County offers something special—from vibrant summer markets to winter birdwatching and holiday magic in its charming towns.Tourism's Role in the CommunityKristen explains how tourism fuels Skagit County's economy and helps create lasting memories for visitors, highlighting the importance of sustainable travel practices.Why Skagit Feels Like HomeFrom her early days in hospitality to becoming the CEO of the Skagit Tourism Bureau, Kristen's deep-rooted love for the region shines through as she shares what makes it unique.Why You Should Listen:Whether you're planning your next weekend getaway or love hearing about incredible places, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Kristen's passion for Skagit County will make you itching to pack your bags and discover this magical destination.Your Next Steps:Visit Skagit County: Plan your trip today! Explore hidden gems, savor local flavors, and experience a slower, more connected way of life.Explore Events: Visit Skagit Valley.com to check out its exciting lineup of events, from lighted boat parades to scenic winter hikes.Follow the Podcast: Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe to the Exploring Washington State Podcast for more stories, tips, and travel inspiration.Share the Love: Know someone who loves discovering new places? Share this episode and help spread the magic of Skagit County!Tune in now and discover why Skagit County is more than just a stop along I-5—a destination that deserves exploring. Click play and start your adventure!