Ali & Callie Artcast

Welcome to another music-filled episode of the Ali & Callie Artcast as we catch up with two familiar faces in North Idaho’s arts scene—Max Mendez and Ruth Pratt. Our conversation begins with a preview of the 2026 Riverstone Concert Series, the beloved free summer music tradition presented by the Coeur d'Alene Arts & Culture Alliance. Beginning July 9, the series returns to Riverstone Park with six evenings of live music, community connection, and summer fun in one of Coeur d’Alene’s favorite outdoor gathering places. But this episode is about much more than a concert series. Max shares details about his exciting new venture, Mendez Vocal Works, where he is helping singers of all ages develop confidence, technique, and artistic expression through personalized vocal instruction. He also celebrates a special milestone as he officially joins the Ali & Callie Artcast "5-Timers Club," making his fifth appearance on the podcast and proving once again that he’s always got a new creative adventure up his sleeve. @mendezvocalworks.com Ruth talks about her latest musical journey as a member of the Tom Tucker Band, bringing her signature talent, energy, and love of performance to audiences throughout the Inland Northwest. Along the way, we explore the power of live music, the excitement of new beginnings, and why both Max and Ruth continue to find fresh ways to connect with their communities through performance, education, and collaboration. To learn more about the 2026 Riverstone Concert Series, view the lineup, sign up as a volunteer, or make a donation to help support this free community event, visit artsandculturecda.org Join us for a lively conversation about music, mentorship, community, and the creative spirit that keeps North Idaho singing all summer long.

In this special episode, Ali & Callie sit down with Theresa Wild, co-founder of Matt’s Place Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting families facing the devastating challenges of ALS. Theresa shares the deeply personal story behind the foundation, the innovative housing solutions they’ve pioneered, and the community-driven mission that keeps their work moving forward. Her passion, resilience, and commitment shine through as she talks about the families they serve and the hope they work to protect every day. As we close out the year, we invite our listeners to join us in supporting Matt’s Place Foundation—Ali & Callie’s charity of choice in honor of our friend, the late Steve Gibbs. Your end-of-year gift can make a meaningful difference for families navigating ALS and help continue the incredible work Theresa and her team are doing. For more information or to make a donation visit mattsplacefoundation.org.

Brian Crain is an American pianist and composer whose music has been streamed more than six billion times. Born in Hollywood, Brian grew up creating melodies by ear—often whistling tunes he made up on the spot. His father was an award-winning educational filmmaker, and Brian spent part of his youth helping with film projects, which sparked his interest in writing music for pictures. Though he briefly took piano lessons as a child, he mostly taught himself by improvising at the family piano between baseball practices—balancing dreams of being a professional ballplayer with a growing pull toward composition. In his early twenties, Brian began writing music for films alongside his father, before releasing his own solo piano albums. His breakout came with Morning Light, leading to a career of more than twenty albums that blend contemporary classical, cinematic storytelling, and minimalist elegance. His duet albums Piano and Cello Duet and Piano and Violin Duet have inspired musicians around the world to perform his work, and pieces like Butterfly Waltz and Song for Sienna have become global favorites. Brian’s music has been featured in films, commercials, and broadcasts internationally, and in 2013 he was named Honorary Cultural Ambassador for Yeongwol, South Korea. Today, he continues to compose and perform music rooted in curiosity, emotional resonance, and the simple joy of creating. You can find his music on any streaming app, or visit his website at briancrain.com

We’re joined by Gatieh Nacario and Anna Caldwell, founders of the Kultura de Filipino Dance Company — a passionate, independent Filipino cultural dance company in Spokane dedicated to preserving and showcasing the beauty of their heritage through authentic performances. More than just a dance group, Kultura de Filipino is committed to artistic excellence, cultural education, and the personal growth of their dancers. Their performances celebrate the rich traditions of the Philippines through movement, storytelling, and traditional attire. Their dances include: Phase 1 - Dances of the Cordillera Region; Takiling, Ragragsakan, Salip and Uya-uy Phase 2 - Spanish-influence Dances; Jota Quirino, Sinakiki, Polkabal, Miligoy, Sinulog Phase 3 - Exotic Mindanao Dances; Pig-apir, Panghalay, Kapa Malong Malong, Sagayan, Dugso Phase 4 - Palawan and the Visayas Dances: Karatong, Kuradang, Itik-Itik Sibonga, Tinikling Their next performance is scheduled for Saturday, November 8 at the Spokane Folk Festival at Spokane Community College. For exact times and other performances visit spokanefolkfestival.org. To learn more about Kultura de Filipino Dance Company, visit kulturadefilipinodc.com or find them on Facebook or YouTube @KulturadeFilipinoDanceCompany.

We sit down with Crystal Bain, Owner and Artistic Director, and Jessie Tulleners, Assistant Artistic Director of Ripple Dance Company — the first and only professional contemporary-modern dance company in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Founded by Crystal, Ripple Dance Company gives advanced and professional-level dancers the opportunity to continue their artistic journeys right here in our community. The company also offers youth apprenticeships, produces both live and screen dance performances, and even hosts an annual dance film festival. Crystal shares her recent honor as the 2025 Dance Teacher of the Year by the Idaho Dance Education Organization and reflects on her journey as a teacher, choreographer, and creative force shaping the local arts scene. Together, Crystal and Jessie talk about their mission to make a ripple in the community — inspiring others through innovation, education, and a genuine love for movement. Learn more at www.rippledance.com.

The fabulous Junk2Funk is back for Lucky #13! We sat down with event MC Shannon Irwin and artist/model Brooke Wood for a lively chat about this wildly popular event happening Saturday, October 18. Junk2Funk isn’t just a fashion show — it’s a “trashion” extravaganza! Every outfit on the runway is crafted from at least 80% recycled or repurposed materials. From plastic water bottles and used grocery bags to old CDs and whatever one might throw away, artists young and old turn literal garbage into high-fashion glory. Expect:• Hilarious hosting from Shannon Irwin• Show-stopping designs strutted down the catwalk• A loaded, creative silent auction• One unforgettable night supporting KEA, one of the area’s longest-running fundraisers At the Eagles Ballroom - upstairs - a 209 Sherman in Downtown Coeur d’Alene. Doors at 6pm, show starts at 7pm. Get ready for an evening of art, imagination, and a fabulously trashy good time! For tickets and details, visit keaalliance.org