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In this episode Scott and Kenzie chat about Explore Washington State.  From the beginning focus to our current efforts we chat about the journey we have taken as we Explore Washington State.This is a casual conversation between father and daughter and we share a few laughs as we bring you our vision for Explore Washington State and the Exploring Washington State Podcast. If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

Scott chats with Garrett Hanson to talk about Garrett's newest article for the Explore Washington State website. They talk about how Garrett got into the profession, the gear he uses, and some of the techniques he describes in his article.If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

Thunderboats memories from our childhood.David Williams has been a fan of hydroplanes since he was five.  Now he is the Executive Director of the Hydroplane and Race Boat Museum in Kent.  In this episode we chat with David and we learn about Washington State Hydroplane history.  Seafair, The 1962 Worlds Fair, The Seattle Pilots, The Seattle Supersonics, and much more can be directly traced back to hydroplanes and the men that owned and raced them.   Learn how Hydroplanes helped shape Seattle in the 1950's and 1960's bringing Seattle into the spotlight as an American city.  David shares stories about the history of hydroplane racing.  Hydro's were instrumental in bringing advertising into modern sports.    Learn about the Hydroplane and Race Boat Museum. We chat about some of the boats that have been restored by the museum through the years.  Some of the boats are still used in demonstrations!    If you ever build a hydro out of scrap wood and pulled it behind your bike this episode is for you! If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

What is Fortuna Found?At its heart, Fortuna Found is the brain child of Nic O'Neill. It is a place to create, play, and fly kites, and a way to foster creating an environment for others to do the same. What does Fortuna Found mean? Well, you will have to listen to this episode to find out.In this episode I chat with Nic and we learn about kites. Ranging from flying indoors (yes you really can fly a kite indoors) to traction kites that will allow you to surf on water, or ski on snow.  Kites really are everywhere and Nic shares many interesting stories about kites and kite flying.Nic has a project that she is working on to visit each state park in Washington State and to document the kite flying potential of each park.  We are looking forward to hearing her adventures as she works though this project.Find out more about the kite community in Washington State and learn lots of great places to go and fly a kite throughout our state.If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

Lavender in Sequim.  Today Sequim is well known for Lavender.  In the 1990's that was not the case.  Mike Reichner went to a meeting one night and came home with a brand new plan.  Soon Lavender would be blooming and Sequim was on the way to be the Lavender capital of  Washington.  In this episode we chat about how Purple Haze Lavender Farm was named. We learn that there are many flavors of Lavender Ice Cream!  Purple Haze has a Lavender salad dressing and many other products using Lavender that we would of never imagined.  There is a story about a wooden statue in the back of the truck.  You will have to listen to hear the full story.Mike is a great story teller and you can hear just how passionate he is about Lavender, Sequim, and  Agritourism.  We know you will enjoy this episode.The farm is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Even when the farm is not in season you are allowed to walk the grounds and see all that is happening.  During the season the farm is hopping and thousands of people visit each year.Purple Haze has a retail location in downtown Sequim and is open seven days a week. You should stop by the shop and see all of the Lavender inspired products.We know you will enjoy this episode. We are looking forward to visiting the farm again in 2021.Dear listener.  Every now and then things don't go as planned. This episode is one of those times. Forgetting to bring equipment, failed memory card, first time doing a in person interview and more made this the most challenging episode that we have been involved with.  (to this point we're sure there will be other hiccups)  Mike and his wife were simply amazing and so patient.  We had a great time chatting with them both.  Thank you for having us as guests. The audio is not where we would like it to be but the content is wonderful.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

In this episode our guest host MacKenzie Passegger has a conversation with Jon Anés .   Who moved to Washington State recently. The draw to Washington State and North Bend which is where he calls home is that he can simply open the front door and he is simply a walk or short bike ride away from being able to climb.Jon, describes his hiking strategies, how to plan and prepare for a good hike. Having a plan B or C is something he is a big believer in.  Sometimes his best adventures are plan B'sHe is trying to summit Glacier Peak and it is currently his obsession.Lots of great conversation and information about hiking and climbing in Washington State.Some of the places mentioned in this episode.Glacier Peak located in Snohomish CountyRattlesnake Ridge is located south of North Bend If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

In this episode MacKenzie Passegger chats with Graham Silcher the founder of Ridge Line Rings.Learn how Graham started making rings out of Elk Antlers.Graham shares his origin story how he started crafting rings first for his mom and then for friends and family.  Soon it became obvious he was on to something that others would enjoy.As a one man show Graham shares with us his work routine and how he manages the day to day.We know you will enjoy this episode!Make sure you check out Ridge Line Rings online.  Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

Your host Scott Cowan sits down with Jasmine Donovan, President and CFO of Dick's Drive-in to discuss the iconic burger experience of the Puget Sound region. Jasmine describes the history of the company and how they became such an intrinsic part of Seattle and surrounding communities, including many of the famous people who patronize the various stores.They also talked about the upcoming venture into the world of food trucks while Scott lobbies heavily for the truck visiting Wenatchee.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

In this episode we talk to Mike Mondello, President of SeaBear Wild Salmon headquartered in Anacortes Washington. Mike explained the history of SeaBear, including how they created the name. Another interesting story is how they invented the special pouch that lets them ship fresh smoked seafood anywhere in the world without refrigeration.Warning: This episode contains vivid descriptions of scrumptiousness. It's really a good idea to have a snack before listening. Really.Mike talks about a couple of his favorite ways to enjoy SeaBear smoked salmon including the tailgate roll and the amazing smoked salmon martini. He shares his favorite places to eat around the Seattle area and a few favorite things to do when entertaining friends.Links to things mentioned in this episode:San Fermo, BallardPortal - virtual reality experience ("the Plank")SeaBear Wild SalmonIf you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State. Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

In this episode we talk to the husband and wife content team the Mandagies. Berty and Emily Mandagie produce a travel blog (themandagies.com) featuring world-class photography and stories of their travels and adventures. We talk about how they got their start during their time at the University of Washington in Seattle, how taking photos of friends for their weddings and trips led to a business, and how Emily began writing the stories to accompany Berty's photos.We talk about their move to Spokane and their adventures as new home owners. They told us about their favorite places to visit and eat in the greater Spokane area. They described the joy of photographing New York city from an open door helicopter on a recent job.Places and things described in this episode:The Mandagies websiteThe Davenport Grand HotelIndaba Coffee - Riverside CaféPalouse FallsIf you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State. Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

In this episode we have a conversation with Kathleen of Kathleen Elizabeth Photography. Kathleen is a Adventure Elopement Photographer. During this episode you will learn about Adventure Elopement and how to have a successful wedding day in the wild.We talk about having Dicks Drive-In as the catered food. =) We talk about her photo gear that she uses on the photo shoots.I never had heard of Adventure Elopements before this episode. I learned a lot and had a lot of fun chatting with Kathleen. I hope you will enjoy the episode and perhaps be inspired to have an Elopement Adventure of your own.Here are some links to places mentioned in the podcast.Kathleen Elizabeth Photography.  Learn more about the services that Kathleen provides.Twin Sisters Brewing Company One of the breweries mentioned by Kathleen.Nasai Teriyaki  Kathleen's go to Teriyaki in Washington State.US National Park Services.  Link to Commercial Filming and Still Photography.Franklin Falls. One of the places Kathleen has hiked that would be good for elopement.Kathleen's Instagram page.If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State. Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

In this episode we have a conversation with Heritage Distilling Chief Marketing Officer Hannah Hanley.  We learn the history of Heritage Distilling from the inspiration to open a distillery while drinking scotch around a campfire to their most recent collaboration with the Chehalis Tribe opening the Talking Cedar Distillery and Brewery. The first distillery on tribal land in the United States.We also learn more about some of the special projects that Heritage is participating in. The  Special Forces Whiskey Project that donates a portion of all proceeds to help the Special Forces Group GoldStar Families, Chapter XVI SFA Scholarship Program, and The Specials Forces Association Chapter XVI.You will hear how you can have a cask of your own by participating in the Cask Club where you can create and customize spirits of your own choice.We cover a lot of ground in this episode.  We hope you will enjoy listening to it as much as we enjoy recording it.Here are some links to places mentioned in the podcast.Heritage Distilling Co. The site is full  of inspiration!Cask Club at Heritage Distilling.  Put your name on a cask and enjoy.Talking Cedar Brewery Distillery Restaurant. Pt Defiance Tacoma Hannah shares places she enjoys in Washington.If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

In this episode we chat with Brooke Martinez of 2232° Ceramics in Spokane. The host for this episode is MacKenzie Passegger. Brooke describes her workflow for her amazing mugs. Do you know what a cone stick is?  We didn't either.  After listening you will know what a cone stick is and what its used for. Brooke shares stories about mugs exploding in the kiln and other pottery mishaps.Her mugs are selling out in five minutes!  That is amazing. The demand for her mugs is off the charts. We featured her work in our Shop Small and Support Washington Creatives during Coronavirus series. Earlier this year we partnered in a giveaway for one of her mugs.  The number of entries almost broke the giveaway software. You can find 2232° Ceramics on her Etsy shop here.Brooke's amazing Instagram profile.If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

In this episode our host Scott Cowan chats with Brandon Fralic and Rachel Wood.  Rachel and Brandon have just published their latest book Urban Hikes Washington. We chat about the book and we learn how they went about doing their research  (seems like a lot of walking to me) =). We also chat about some of their favorite hikes in Washington State. I asked them to pick their favorite hike from the book and they were unable to narrow it down to just one.  You will have to listen to hear what hikes are their favorites.Bellingham is discussed along with craft brewing, great coffee shops and more.We hope you will listen to and enjoy this episode. It was another fun one to recordHere are some links to places mentioned in the podcast.Cairn Brewing Where Rachel is a beertender.Beers at the Bottom a Beer Lover's Hiking Guide Brandon and Rachels Website.If you want to purchase a copy of their book which we highly recommend you do!  You can purchase it from BookShop.org.  Here is direct link (affiliate link for Brandon and Rachel)If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

In this episode our host Scott Cowan has a wide ranging conversation with Eliana Sheriff nightly news anchor for KEPR News in Tri-Cities.Learn just what is a Spudnut.What is the best indoor climbing gym in Washington?  Where is good place for a hike in Tri-Cities.All this and more in Episode 12 of the Exploring Washington State PodcastHere are some links to places mentioned in the podcast.Badger Mountain great place to take a hike bring fido!Roasters Coffee Grab a tasty cup of locally roasted coffee.Porters Real Barbecue Eliana loves the sides.If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

In this episode our host MacKenzie Passegger has a wide ranging conversation with Mike of Michael Weldon Photography.  Episode is full of all sorts of love for Tacoma!Get geeky with some chatter about crop sensors and megapixels.Learn about some of the best places to go for a quick outing in Tacoma.Where is the best sandwich in Tacoma?  This vital question be answered.All this and more in Episode 11 of the Exploring Washington State PodcastHere are some links to places mentioned in the podcast.Michael Weldon Photography our guest for this episode and a great photographer.MSM Deli Where Kenzie had her first taste of the Mikes DeluxePeterson Bros. 1111 A sandwich shop and bar on Hilltop in Tacoma.Melon Seed Deli Sandwich shop and Frozen Yogurt in the Oakland Dist. of TacomaIf you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

In this Episode our guest host MacKenzie Passegger chats with Devan Nichols the owner of Contour Creative. This wide ranging conversation talks about her business, burritos, farmers markets, hiking and more.Learn about how Devan creates each of her pieces by hand from carving the stamps to pressing etc.  She even stands on her stamps just to make sure the ink is properly applied.Devan shares her favorite place to grab a burrito in Washington State. Hint.... center of the state.Learn her 3 favorite Farmers MarketsGreat hikes to take your dogYou can learn more about Contour Creative by visiting her website here.Check out her Instagram. Full of inspiration! If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

Listen in as we chat with Ryan Christensen about hiking and climbing in Washington State. Ryan is a avid hiker and climber who has been a friend for a number of years.  You will hear about Ryan's three favorite hikes in Washington and he shares a story involving skinny jeans and a Grizzly Bear....=)Even though I am not much of a hiker and certainly I am not a climber I enjoyed my conversation with Ryan and I believe you will as well.If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

This episode is a conversation with Tana Granack the Operations Director for The Spark Museum of Electrical Invention in Bellingham, Washington.You will hear about Tesla Coils, Theremins, priceless light bulbs and much more during our chat about the museum.The Spark Museum focusing on bringing electricity to life and makes learning fun for everyone who visits the museum.  We chat about some of the exhibits and how visitors can interact with the exhibits.You will learn about the Mega Zapper and hear about the 9ft Tesla Coil that sends bolts of electricity shooting at the cage while you stand inside.  Are you brave enough? I don't think I am....Make sure you check out the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention here. Spark has a Facebook Page that you can follow.Check them out on YouTube.Learn more Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)

This episode is a conversation with the owner of Archie McPhee Mark Pahlow and Shana the High Priestess of Rubber Chickens at the Rubber Chicken Museum located in the Archie McPhee store.   We talk about the history of Archie McPhee from Mark's youthful business adventures to the retail store location of today.  Including a strange coincidence  between liquor stores and Archie McPhee.The Rubber Chicken Museum and how it came into existence is covered. Shana provides a complete rundown on the museum and much more.This was a very fun conversation and I am very happy that I was able to spend over a hour learning more about Archie McPhee and all of the zany things that they do to make it so you can have weird and fun things in your life.  Especially today we all need to make time to have fun and be a bit silly.You can find Archie McPhee here.If you want other great ideas of places to visit, or to find out more about people who are making amazing things in Washington State you can visit Explore Washington State.Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ExploringWash)