Let's Circle Back to That

What do processed food formulas, hypermobile thumbs, and gooseberry pies have in common? They're all part of the topics we promised to circle back to—and we did! In this special "Circle Back" episode, Anne and Heather dive into everything from the science of snack addiction (hello, Bliss Point!) to the myths behind double-jointed thumbs, the secrets of Lisa Frank, and a look at language we used to...

In this episode, we sit down with Jade Townsend, the dynamic force behind That Curl Girl , a salon dedicated to embracing natural curls. Jade shares her journey from launching her business to building a team that caters to a growing clientele, some traveling from as far as Seattle. Beyond the salon, Jade dives into her passion for beer league hockey, the sense of family it brings, and how it inter...

In Episode #38, we're circling back with Melyssa Wandling — powerhouse cheer coach, twin mom, history teacher, and community builder! Melyssa shares her journey from gymnastics to cheerleading at Gonzaga, and now serving as the Head Cheer Coach in the Tri-Cities. We dive into the real team spirit behind cheer, the magic of building trust within communities, lifting women up (literally and figurati...

From embroidery at the County Fair to wine pours to full-blown theatre chaos, Kyla Haren-Moye joins us to talk about showing up loud, creative, and unapologetically intentional. In this episode, Kyla shares: • Why fast-paced costuming builds community under pressure • What real hospitality looks like when it's rooted in care (not performance) • Her favorite kind of chaos (spoiler: it includes sequ...

From synchronized swimming to Directing the Stage, Ginny Quinley's life has been a masterclass in sustaining community. In this heart-filled episode, we talk with Ginny about growing up in Tri-Cities Washington, falling in love with theatre, and what it means to champion the things (and people) you care about. A key player in sustaining several local theatre groups, Ginny shares stories of mentors...

Born in Massachusetts, rooted in social work, and now building bridges in Tri-Cities, Kendra Palomarez is a fast-talking, detail-loving community leader who proves that connection and service can be fun—if you're willing to organize the event. In this episode, Anne and Heather dive deep into Kendra's journey from homelessness advocacy to moms groups, Leadership Tri-Cities, and planning Bunco night...

What does it mean to truly support your community? In this episode, we sit down with Brenton Nundahl , General Manager at the Emerald of Siam , ACT alum, drag performer ( Karma Rexia ), and lifelong Tri-Citian. From Zip's tartar sauce nostalgia to drag shows and karaoke competitions, Brenton's life is full of passion, performance, and people. We talk about his early days at ACT, his years at Tumbl...

Candy is a universal gift that builds community." Diana Milton, owner of How Sweet TC in the Tri-Cities, joins us for a vibrant conversation about connection, community, and candy. Whether she's lifting weights, wrangling goats for charity, showing up at every local theatre performance, or selling Swedish Bubs and Japanese KitKats, Diana's life is rooted in intentional relationships. She shares he...

This week, we welcome Brent Johnsen , pastor at EastLake Tri-Cities and expert community builder. Brent knows that real friendships don't just happen —they take intention, effort, and maybe even a well-timed GIF response. We dive into what it means to build THICC community (the good kind), from his Butternut Small Group's legendary casino nights to his March Madness trips with friends he's had for...

Get ready for an inspiring conversation with Amy Rene , a powerhouse in community building, beauty, wellness, and business. With over 20 years as a makeup artist, Amy has cultivated lasting relationships through her artistry while also expanding into mentorship, education, and entrepreneurship. From her work with Hype the Tri and Connections Concierge to her role as VP of Public Relations at Lexar...

It's time for another Circle Back episode, where Heather & Anne revisit all the fun, chaotic, and unexpected moments we promised to "come back to!" ✨ Inside this episode: • ☕ Espresso Martinis – The ultimate hunt for the best in town! • 🎭 Fundraising Magic – Anne recaps the Heart for the Arts Gala, which raised $115K for the Academy of Children's Theatre! • 🥪 Cuban Sandwich Wars – Tampa vs. Mi...

Marcus Garza is the energy in every room. A math teacher, coach, and the unofficial hype man at Chiawana High School, Marcus is all about building relationships, making work fun, and keeping school culture alive. In this episode, we talk about: 🔥 Hawkspitality – the team that builds community for staff 🎳 Bowling and coaching tennis – balancing competition & connection 🤔 Navigating identity – gr...

Meet Lance Johnson, a Sunnyside, WA native, whose diverse interests have continually led him to forge strong community bonds. Growing up in a home where friends felt like family, Lance learned the value of connection early on. As the husband of our co-host Heather, he offers a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into our podcast's dynamics. Join us as we delve into Lance's journey of pursuing passion...

Ty Schoenwald is all about adventure, connection, and community. A firefighter in Pasco, a passionate whitewater rafter and kayaker, a CrossFit coach, a skier, and even a Dungeon Master , Ty knows that belonging comes from shared experiences and showing up for others. He's been building community his whole life—from volunteering as a firefighter while in college to leading epic rafting and ski tri...

What does it take to truly build a community where people feel seen, valued, and connected? Paul Casey , leadership coach and founder of Growing Forward , shares how curiosity, intentionality, and showing up are the keys to fostering meaningful relationships—both personally and professionally. From healthy boundaries in leadership to volunteering with flexibility , Paul unpacks the seasons of a co...

How do we truly build a sense of belonging? This week, we sit down with Joshua Cole , a mental health counselor specializing in working with neurodivergent individuals and helping kids and adults navigate anxiety, fear, and social connection. From exposure therapy to finding the right communities, Josh shares insights into how we can build stronger, more inclusive spaces where everyone feels seen...

From the marching band field to the choir classroom, JoLyn Glenn has spent her life creating communities driven by shared purpose. As a high school choir director, musician, and entrepreneur, JoLyn opens up about how teamwork and intentionality have shaped her leadership journey. She shares the lessons she's learned in the music world, her self-development path through   The Miracle Morning , and...

Rose Gilliam, Assistant Principal at Chiawana High School, shares her journey from growing up on an asparagus farm in Grandview, WA, to becoming a leader in education. With a deep sense of commitment to family, community, and personal growth, Rose discusses what it takes to avoid burnout, navigate difficult conversations, and lean into intentionality in life and leadership. Tune in as Rose reflect...

Join us as we sit down with Chris Wagar, Associate Professor, Instructional Designer, and owner of Time Magic Studios. Chris's journey is deeply rooted in storytelling, service, and community-building—from growing up alongside his mom's ESL students to serving in the Peace Corps in St. Lucia. In this episode, Chris shares how music, food, and art are the foundations of every thriving community, hi...

In this episode of Let's Circle Back to That , we chat with Becca Allen— pelvic health specialist, mom of 3, choreographer and community builder. From growing up in the Tri-Cities theater scene to helping moms connect and thrive, Becca's story is a testament to the power of showing up and supporting one another. We dive into topics like: • The ties that bond a theater cast and the magic of the sta...

Kick off the new year with Anne and Heather as they once again keep their promise to "circle back"! That's right, every ten episodes, we revisit the random tangents we boldly wandered into without a map—because nothing says podcasting excellence like fact-checking... eventually. This time, we're diving into the charming history of American Girl Dolls (the nostalgia is real), the fascinating world...

From the ice rink to leading Girls on the Run in the Tri-Cities, Misty Fewell has embraced collaboration and community in every chapter of her life. Join us as Misty shares her journey from competitive ice skating to advocating for young girls, the joy of goal-setting, and the importance of showing up. Misty's story is one of resilience, leadership, and finding joy in the little things. Don't miss...

Meet Ted Miller, a lifelong advocate for community and connection, with a passion for storytelling and bridging generational gaps. In this episode, Ted shares his journey from growing up in a small town to becoming a mentor and leader who inspires others to show up authentically in their communities. From his work in education to his reflections on legacy and mentorship, Ted's stories will leave y...

Get ready for a heartfelt and hilarious journey through 20 years of friendship! Carson Roach and Morgan Thompson, best friends since 3rd grade, share their story of staying connected through laughter, letters, and life's ups and downs. From Bee Gees singalongs to choir tours and annual cabin trips, these two have built a bond that's unshakable. They discuss how they've grown individually and toget...

In this episode, we sit down with Erin Dickey, an English teacher, theatre enthusiast, and community builder, who shares her perspective on grace as the foundation for meaningful connections. From her role at Hanford High School to her involvement in countless arts communities, Erin brings wisdom, humor, and insight into how we can foster stronger, more inclusive spaces. She discusses the importan...