Exploring Washington State

Remember me? After six months off, the Exploring Washington State podcast is back, and we're kicking things off with a caffeinated twist. Scott dragged his buddy Brooks Smothers from RV Out West to four very different coffee shops in downtown Everett to drink too much coffee, talk even more, and finally figure out what a "one and one" actually is. Turns out you can drink coffee your whole life and...

During peak summer season, Lake Chelan State Park can host nearly a thousand campers every night . Behind the scenes, that responsibility falls on one park manager. In this episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast , I sit down with Brian Frahm , the park manager at Lake Chelan State Park, to talk about what it actually takes to operate one of Washington’s busiest state parks. Brian overse...

Spokane Built the Dodgers Dynasty Show Notes: Author and researcher Eric Vickrey returns to the Exploring Washington State Podcast with a story most baseball fans have never heard — how Spokane helped build the future Dodgers dynasty. In his new book, Before They Wore Dodger Blue , Eric uncovers the overlooked role the Inland Northwest played in shaping the players, culture, and leadership that wo...

Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes at one of Washington’s most visited state parks? In this episode, Park Ranger Kevin Leese shares what he sees every day at Wallace Falls that most visitors completely overlook. From seasonal crowd patterns and trail management to the unexpected challenges that come with keeping a high-traffic park running smoothly, Kevin sheds light on the work t...

What happens when you shine a spotlight on the wonderfully odd, the creatively brave, and the musicians who refuse to fit the mold? In this episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast , we sit down with founder Rachel Crick and photographer Chris Pugh from As Many   Weirdos As Possible — a project that celebrates the artists who make the Northwest music scene vibrant, unpredictable, and unap...

Stories shape how we explore the Northwest, and some of the region’s most memorable outdoor books start at Mountaineers Books . In this episode, Editor-in-Chief Kate Rogers joins us to share how adventure, community, and curiosity guide the publishing process. Kate talks about finding writers who care deeply about place, what makes a great outdoor story, and how meaningful books can inspire people...

What does it take to finally pursue your dream after 15 years of waiting? Joe Giampietri spent a decade and a half working in grocery stores, always knowing he wanted something else. This summer, he's living his dream—his first season as the park ranger at Curlew Lake State Park . Located just 20 miles from the Canadian border in Ferry County, Curlew Lake is one of Washington's most remote state p...

Is SeaTac just an airport? Is Tukwila just a mall? Not even close. In this episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast, host Scott Cowan welcomes Mark Everton, President and CEO of Explore Seattle Southside , for a surprising deep dive into a region most people only pass through. Mark breaks down the magic of “micro adventures” easy, unexpected experiences designed for curious locals and tim...

This third episode in the Tri-Cities Ironman series features Claude Brun, a French-American triathlete who has made the Tri-Cities race an annual tradition. Originally from France and now living in Seattle, Claude has completed 10 triathlons this year alone and is chasing his goal of breaking the 5-hour barrier at this year's Tri-Cities Ironman. Claude shares what makes the Tri-Cities race special...

What does it take to redefine the identity of a region? Kevin Lewis joins Scott to talk about Tri-Cities’ evolution—from landing the IRONMAN competition to the power of storytelling, collaboration, and vision. It’s a candid conversation on what makes communities thrive and how to shape a lasting narrative.

What does it really take to train, fuel, and push through 70.3 miles? Athlete & coach Jennifer Comfort shares her raw, behind the scenes look at the Tri Cities Ironman from first timer jitters to race day breakthroughs. Expect grit, laughs, and stories you will not hear anywhere else.

When Daisey James picked up a disc during COVID, she didn’t plan on building a movement. Now, she’s the co-owner of Far From Par , president of the Whatcom Disc Golf Club, and the unofficial “lost disc” hero of Bellingham — having reunited over 2,200 lost discs with their owners. But this story isn’t about frisbees. It’s about how a simple, accessible sport created a ripple effect of community, st...

“I just loved fishing.” That simple passion sparked a journey that led Sean Visintainer from a Spokane kid casting in the backyard to the owner of one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected fly shops— Silver Bow Fly Shop . In this episode, Sean shares how he turned his love for the water into a thriving business rooted in community, curiosity, and calm leadership. You’ll hear about: The early d...

What do craft breweries, vineyards, and city parks have in common with saving wild salmon? This episode explores how Salmon Safe is reshaping land use across the Pacific Northwest through voluntary conservation. Learn how farmers, developers, and even college campuses are changing practices to protect clean water, restore habitat, and reduce chemical runoff—without regulatory mandates. Brian Muegg...

What happens when a quiet forest meets bold imagination? The Price Sculpture Fores t on Whidbey Island blends nature and creativity in a way that’s both unexpected and unforgettable. Scott Price shares how a simple idea to preserve forested land evolved into a community-powered haven for outdoor art, discovery, and wonder. From saving trees to showcasing sculpture in the wild, this is the story of...

This episode we’re talking Snowy Plovers, parks, and prairie remnants with Andrea Thorpe, PhD, Natural Resource Program Manager for Washington State Parks . From her childhood in Oregon to protecting Washington’s wild places, Andrea shares stories of endangered species, unsung park heroes, and how a rough-skinned newt stole her heart. You’ll also get hidden park picks, Olympia food tips, and one v...

Chris Voigt ate nothing but potatoes for 60 days—and it wasn’t a gimmick. Learn why, and discover how Washington’s potatoes became world-class. From tater tots to policy fights, this episode digs deep into one of the state’s most iconic crops. A surprising and satisfying listen for food and farming fans.

Paul Tolmé of Cascade Bicycle Club joins us to talk epic Washington bike rides, bold advocacy, and how the club is transforming lives—one pedal at a time. From the STP to food rescue by bike, this episode goes way beyond the handlebars. Tune in and get inspired.

Jennifer Hackett, founder of Northwest Portal , shares how she built a statewide recreation map featuring over 20,000 trails, parks, and outdoor sites. From fire closures to off-leash dog areas and seasonal access info, learn how thoughtful mapping helps people explore Washington with confidence and curiosity.

She didn’t grow up swirling wine glasses—Hailey Bohlman just wanted to travel. But a trip to Spain lit the spark, and now she’s helping others fall in love with wine (without the snobbery). We talk about starting Cork & Fizz, going from comp-sci to cabernet, and why Washington wine is worth exploring—no decoder ring required

Behind the Scenes at the Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival Rochelle 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, commu...

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 creatin...

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 t...

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 play...

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.