Exploring Washington State

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 that keeps Wallace Falls accessible year-round. You’ll also hear a ranger’s perspective on lesser-known areas, changing trail conditions, and what makes this park such a standout in the Cascade foothills.Whether you’ve hiked Wallace Falls dozens of times or it’s still on your list, this conversation gives you a deeper appreciation for the place and the people who care for it.

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 to get outside and take care of the lands they love. From idea to printed page, she breaks down the journey with honesty and encouragement.Whether you daydream about writing your own outdoor book, love Northwest trail culture, or just want a behind-the-scenes look at a cornerstone of our outdoor community, this conversation offers inspiration and insight for anyone who feels most at home outside.

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 time-crunched travelers alike. You’ll hear about:A world-class coffee culture where $1.50 Ethiopian brews and bubble tea tasting flights coexistThe Maury Island Incident, a little-known UFO case older than Roswell—with the first U.S. “Man in Black” sightingApp-guided trails that lead you to 24 bubble tea shops within 2 miles of the airport—plus happy hours and UFO hotspotsWhether you’ve lived here for decades or have a long layover ahead, this episode will change how you see Seattle’s southside.🎙 Guest: Mark Everton, President & CEO, Explore Seattle Southside

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.

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, stewardship, and connection in a town where outdoor culture runs deep. From cleaning up abandoned lots to transforming them into public disc golf courses, to building a retail shop that feels like a local hub, Daisey’s journey is as much about people as it is about play.We talk disc golf 101 (yes, Scott still asks the beginner questions), the quirks of Bellingham’s disc scene, and the power of saying “yes” to your local community.If you’ve ever wondered how a hobby turns into a passion, and a passion turns into purpose—this one’s for you.

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 Muegge, Farm Program Manager at Salmon Safe, shares stories from the field and explains how certification connects what we drink, build, and grow to the health of our rivers.It’s a conversation about practical impact, regional resilience, and how small choices across thousands of acres are making a difference—one stream, one field, one partner at a time.

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 very important reason to keep your dog leashed on the beach this summer.

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.

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

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.

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!

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 Blogging Kendall’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 Washington Washington’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 Beer Beyond 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 Matters Washington’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.