Tillamook Coast Conversations

In this episode, we sit down with Mike Wendel, the Council Coordinator for the Tillamook Bay Watershed Council, to talk about how they’re working to protect the region’s watershed. Learn what a watershed is, how they’re partnering across the region to protect it, and how you can help support their mission. Below are the organizations, partners, and information about the waterways mentioned in our...

In this episode, we sit down with Sharlys Leszczuk, educator, real estate agent, and lifelong hospitality professional, to talk about how she’s bringing tourism education to life for students at Nestucca Valley High School. From her start in fine dining and PR in New York City to serving and teaching on the Oregon Coast, Sharlys shares how hospitality is more than service—it’s about connection, cr...

In this episode of Tillamook Coast Conversations, Nicole interviews Sydney Elliott, the owner and operator of Kayak Tillamook. Sydney shares her journey from being an English professor to running a guided kayak tour business, emphasizing the transformative power of nature and the importance of connection to the environment. She discusses the unique experiences offered through her tours, the signif...

On this episode of Tillamook Coast Conversations, Mother & Son duo Katie and Houston Vandergriff share Houston’s inspiring journey documenting their worldwide travels while advocating for disability awareness and accessibility in travel. They discuss the origin of their platform, Downs and Towns, and how Houston's Down Syndrome has shaped their experiences and perspectives. In this convers...

In this episode, Trevor Rogers from de Garde Brewing shares the journey of establishing their brewery in Tillamook, focusing on their unique brewing techniques that emphasize spontaneous fermentation and local ingredients. Trevor discusses the challenges and craftsmanship involved in their brewing process, the importance of seasonality, and their commitment to sustainability. Trevor also highlight...

TCVA’s Dan Haag sits down with Natalie Nites, Executive Director of the Nestucca, Neskowin, and Sand Lake Watersheds Council to discuss her role and the mission of the council to improve the environmental health of local watersheds. She highlights the challenges faced, including non-point source pollution and the need for collaboration with local communities and organizations. Natalie shares succe...

This episode of Tillamook Coast Conversations explores the partnership between Leave No Trace and the Tillamook Coast Visitors Association, focusing on sustainable tourism and the implementation of Leave No Trace principles. Along with our host, Nicole Steen, Leave No Trace’s Matt Schneider and TCVA’s own Dan Haag discuss the importance of educating visitors on responsible outdoor practices, the n...

In this episode of Tillamook Coast Conversations, Nicole Twigg shares her journey with Kiwanda Coastal Properties, a family-owned vacation rental business in Pacific City, Oregon. She discusses her deep roots in the area, the evolution of vacation rentals from the 1980s to the present, and the impact of technology and platforms like Airbnb on the industry. She chats with host Nicole Steen about th...

On this episode of Tillamook Coast Conversations, Ashley Schahfer shares her journey into accessibility advocacy, detailing her experiences as a wheelchair user and the founding of her consultancy, Empowering Access. She and host Dan Haag discuss the challenges of incorporating accessibility into outdoor spaces, the importance of community engagement, and the role of technology in improving access...

Meet Mark and Linda Lytle of Pacific City Fishing! In this episode, host Dan Haag chats with the Lytles about the rich history and culture of fishing in Pacific City, focusing on Dory boat fishing. Mark and Linda share their experiences, the unique aspects of fishing in the area, and the importance of community and conservation. They discuss the educational component of their business, memorable f...

On this episode, Dan Haag, the Director of Trails, Outdoor Recreation, and Accessibility for the Tillamook Coast Visitors Association, shares insights about his role and the importance of environmental stewardship. He discusses partnerships with local organizations, the impact of the Leave No Trace initiative, and the focus on accessibility in outdoor recreation. Dan also shares his personal favor...

On this episode, we have a thrilling conversation with Claudine Rehn, Deputy Director of the Tillamook Estuaries Partnership . After explaining what an estuary is, Claudine explains the unique habitats created by the confluence of freshwater and saltwater, the importance of salmon to the local ecosystem and economy, and the community-driven efforts to protect and restore these vital areas. The con...

In this episode of Tillamook Coast Conversations, host Nicole Steen interviews Val Folkema, chair of the Tillamook Coast Visitors Association Board and owner of Garibaldi Marina. Val shares her journey of moving to the Oregon coast, her experiences in the tourism industry, and her deep involvement in community and economic development. She discusses the evolution of tourism in Tillamook County, th...

In this episode of Tillamook Coast Conversations, host Nicole Steen interviews local outdoor enthusiast and social media influencer Trent Olson about the best hiking spots on the Tillamook Coast. They discuss various trails, including accessible hikes, hidden gems, and scenic views, while emphasizing the importance of preparation and community engagement in outdoor adventures. Trent shares his per...

Join your host, Nicole Steen, as she chats with Nan Devlin, the Tillamook Coast Visitors Association's Executive Director as they discuss the evolution of tourism in Tillamook County, Oregon. They explore Nan's personal journey to becoming the Executive Director , the establishment of community-based tourism principles, and the impact of the transient lodging tax on local infrastructure an...

Welcome to Tillamook Coast Conversations, your insider's guide to Oregon's captivating Tillamook Coast. Here, we will dive into engaging discussions that highlight both visitor experiences and industry insights. We'll capture local voices, programs, and stories. From the lore of historic shipwrecks to the secrets behind the area's renowned culinary delights, each episode brings you...