On this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron sits down with Dr. Sarah Hellmann, a board-certified OB-GYN at St. Charles Health System and co-host of the podcast Wine with Your Gyn. From her journey from social work to women’s health, to creating a podcast that blends humor and honesty around often-taboo topics, Dr. Hellmann shares her passion for bui…

In this episode, Aaron sits down with Sharon Smith, a passionate nonprofit leader who brings decades of experience in community programming and the arts to her current role as Executive Director of the High Desert Food & Farm Alliance (HDFFA). After relocating from Long Island to Bend in 2019, Sharon quickly immersed herself in the local nonprofit …

On this episode of Bend Don’t Break, we’re joined by Redmond Mayor, Ed Fitch, longtime Redmond resident and dedicated public servant. After growing up just outside of Chicago as the ninth of eleven children, he earned both a Bachelor's and Master’s degree in history from Marquette University, followed by a law degree from Willamette Law School in 1…

This week on Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Crista Munro, Executive Director of SFF Presents, to talk about the rich history and evolving mission of the Sisters Folk Festival. More than just a weekend event, SFF Presents now offers year-round programming designed to bring art, music, and creativity to the Central Oregon communi…

On this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Gwenn Wysling, Executive Director of Bethlehem Inn. Since 2010, Gwenn has been at the helm of the Central Oregon-based shelter, leading its mission to provide emergency housing and support services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. With a background in hosp…

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, we sit down with Kisky Holwerda, the driving force behind Bend, Oregon’s Ponderosa Players. A passionate theater director and educator, Kisky shares how this innovative troupe is fostering creativity, building community, and bringing bold, original performances to life. From the joys of working with young actors…

We sit down with Trever Hawman, owner/brewer of Bridge 99 Brewery in northeast Bend's "Brewers District" to discuss Bridge 99 Taproom's recent 10-year anniversary and how the taplist has evolved over the past decade including how and why nearly every beer is now gluten free. (But you can't taste the difference!) And why there's a non-alcoholic beer…

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Gregory Deffenbaugh, the new News Director at KTVZ-TV, to discuss his journey through the evolving world of news. From his early days in the newsroom to leading award-winning teams across multiple markets, Gregory shares insights into the changing landscape of journalism and how…

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Marney Smith, General Manager at Hayden Homes Amphitheater, to explore her remarkable journey in the live entertainment industry. Marney shares how she navigated her career path to eventually manage one of the most iconic outdoor venues in the Pacific Northwest.…

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with longtime arts advocate Cate O’Hagan to discuss the impact of public art in Central Oregon. Cate shares insights from her decades-long career in the cultural sector, from her work with the Portland Art Museum and Oregon Symphony to her leadership at Arts Central and beyond.…

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Peter Hoover, Executive Director of Sisters Habitat for Humanity. Peter shares his journey from a career in financial services and city management to leading a nonprofit dedicated to creating affordable housing in Sisters, Oregon.…

n this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with award-winning author and poet Ellen Waterston, the 2024 Oregon Poet Laureate. With four poetry collections and four literary nonfiction titles to her name—including her most recent release, We Could Die Doing This (2024)—Waterston is a force in the literary world.…

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer chats with Melissa Burr, Founding Winemaker of Stoller Family Estate, about her fascinating journey from studying naturopathic medicine to becoming a trailblazer in the Oregon wine industry. An Oregon native, Melissa discovered her passion for winemaking while pursuing her Bachelor of Science …

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with a passionate Bend local who has turned a love for board sports into a mission to give back to the community. Born in the Pacific Northwest, this week’s guest was drawn to Bend from a young age, inspired by its mountains, rivers, and endless adventures. After 14+ years of calling…

In this week’s episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Sally, Executive Director of Think Wild, a Bend-based wildlife conservation center. Sally shares her inspiring journey from working at the Newport Aquarium to leading a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to wildlife rescue, education, conservation, and habitat restoration acro…

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer is joined by Dr. Aimee Snyder to discuss the transformative power of integrating public health programs into school systems. Dr. Snyder shares her journey from being a middle school teacher in coastal Georgia to earning her doctoral degree in Public Health and specializing in school-based prev…

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Jeff Knapp, the newly appointed CEO of Visit Bend, to delve into his journey from a humble start in hospitality to leading one of Oregon’s most celebrated visitor bureaus. Jeff shares stories of his early days in the industry, moving from bussing tables to managing Direct to Consumer…

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, Aaron Switzer speaks with Michelle Healy, Executive Director of Bend Park and Recreation District, about what makes Bend’s parks and trails some of the most cherished community assets. Michelle shares insights from her extensive background in parks and recreation, which spans from lifeguarding and supervising re…

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Paula Dreyer, a classically-trained pianist and composer based in Bend, Oregon, whose distinctive music draws from Romantic, Impressionistic, and Spanish influences. Paula shares her inspiring journey from early piano lessons to becoming an internationally recognized musician, e…

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Emily Kirk, a familiar face on Central Oregon Daily News, to talk about her journey into local television and her deep connection to the Central Oregon community.By The Source - Bend, Oregon

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, Aaron Switzer talks with Bill Kowalik, PhD, founding board member and Chairperson of DarkSky Oregon. Bill shares the mission behind DarkSky Oregon, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Oregon’s dark skies and combating light pollution for the health and well-being of all life. They discuss the importance of raisi…

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Abby Rowland, Executive Director of Saving Grace, to discuss Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the vital services Saving Grace provides to survivors. Abby shares her journey, explaining what drew her to Saving Grace and her passion for working in direct services.…

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, Aaron Switzer chats with Kris, Program Director and On-Air Personality at 92/9FM, about her journey from working in record production to becoming a leading voice on Bend's radio scene. Kris shares her insights on the growing local music community, the excitement of discovering new bands, and her passion for brin…

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, Zak Boone, VP For College Advancement & Executive Director, COCC Foundation, shares his extensive experience working in Central Oregon’s nonprofit sector since 2007. Zak talks about his early leadership roles, including Executive Director of the Bend Ronald McDonald House and Associate Director of the Deschutes …

In the latest episode of Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with John Kish, founder of "Somewhere That's Green" and "The Greenhouse Cabaret." John shares his unique journey from growing up in small-town Philomath, Oregon, to pursuing passions in plants and musical theater in Seattle and New York City. Now one of Bend’s most prominent qu…

Grand Craft Bend podcast talks to Courtney Stevens, co-owner of Bend's Craft Kitchen & Brewery about launching the brewpub with her husband, Mark, and hosting tons of events including open-mic stand-up comedy, where Courtney sometimes performs her own material.By The Source - Bend, Oregon

On this week's episode of Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer, Publisher of The Source Weekly, sits down with Clifford Evelyn, Redmond City Councilor, to explore the dynamic evolution of Redmond. They delve into the city's past, its rapid growth, and the ripple effects this expansion has on all of Central Oregon. The conversation also touches on t…

On this episode of Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Lexie Park, the Outreach Coordinator at Locavore, to explore her extensive work in food access and education. With over eight years of experience in the NGO sector, Lexie has worked both domestically and internationally, dedicating herself to addressing food insecurity and promo…

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Bill Lynch, the Board President of the Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA). Bill, who has been an integral part of COTA since 2021 and a full-time Bend resident since 2020, shares his journey from Iowa to the trails of Central Oregon. With a deep passion for mountain biking that sta…

In this episode of the "Bend Don't Break" podcast, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Matt Muchna, the Executive Director of Envision Bend. Envision Bend is a nonprofit organization focused on shaping Bend’s future through community engagement and strategic planning. Matt discusses his background in sustainability and community development, sharing …

In this episode of the Bend Don't Break podcast, Aaron Switzer sits down with Dave Clemens, a well-known radio personality in Central Oregon. Dave shares insights about his long-standing history in Bend and what it's like to be a familiar face in a tight-knit community.By The Source - Bend, Oregon

Grand Craft Bend podcast talks to Bend's best beer hunters (as in, they're on the hunt for Bend's best brewery)--Adam, Joe, Justin, and Matt--as we discuss launching their second round of their hunt for the best brewery in Central Oregon based on a largely scientific/entirely fun method of tasting through local beers to determine which is the best …

In this episode of "Bend Don't Break," host Aaron Switzer sits down with Dr. Laurie Chesley, the esteemed President of Central Oregon Community College (COCC). As she prepares to retire in June 2025, Dr. Chesley reflects on her distinguished career in higher education, spanning nearly four decades.By The Source - Bend, Oregon

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Katy Brooks, the dynamic CEO and President of the Bend Chamber of Commerce. Katy shares her fascinating journey from working in economic development for the Port Authority of Vancouver, Washington, to her current role in Bend, Oregon.…

In this episode of the Bend Don't Break podcast, Ami Formica, co-founder of Well Wired, joins Aaron to discuss the profound impact of technology on children. They explore how smartphones and social media affect kids' development, social skills, and mental health, highlighting the unique challenges faced by the first generation growing up with these…

Full Summary:In this episode, Aaron sits down with Lisa Birk, the newly appointed Deputy Superintendent of Bend-La Pine Schools. Lisa shares insights into her career trajectory, highlighting her extensive experience and dedication to education within the district.By The Source - Bend, Oregon

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Ryan Houston, the executive director of the Oregon Natural Desert Association (ONDA), as he chats with Aaron about his extensive history in Central Oregon's conservation efforts and his work in the nonprofit sector. In this episode, Ryan shares his journey of protecting natural spaces, highlights ONDA's…

Grand Craft Bend podcast returns with Bevel Craft Brewing's co-owners Nate and Valerie Doss as we discuss Bevel's 5th anniversary party this weekend, their segue from professional disc golfers to pro brewers, and something called a "tropical cold IPA" from one of Bend's most hop-forward breweries that will debut at the Bend Bands & Brewers Bash on …

In this episode, Source Weekly publisher Aaron Switzer sits down with Joe Franco, owner of The Americana food truck and recent recipient of the Best Food Cart of the Year award. They discuss Joe's journey with The Americana, from its humble beginnings to becoming a beloved local favorite. The conversation delves into the challenges and triumphs of …

In this week's episode of “Bend Don’t Break,” we sit down with Judy Stiegler, former Oregon House Representative for District 54 and current political science instructor at OSU - Cascades. Judy shares her extensive experience in Bend’s political landscape, having been actively involved for over 42 years. Join us as we explore Judy's unique perspect…

The Bend Don't Break Podcast returns! In this episode, Source Weekly publisher Aaron Switzer sits down with Derek Berry, President and CEO of the Central Oregon Sportsplex Alliance. They discuss Derek's ambitious plans for the Central Oregon Sportsplex, a proposed multi-sport facility set to transform the region's sports and recreation landscape. T…

Grand Craft Bend podcast returns with Silver Moon Brewing owner James Watts as we discuss the brewery/venue's upcoming BevFest and Bend Bands & Brewers BashBy The Source - Bend, Oregon

Sample trackBy The Source - Bend, Oregon

In this episode Source Weekly publisher Aaron Switzer spends time with Nate Wyeth, VP of Marketing & Communications at Visit Bend. They talk about Nate's long tenure with the organization and how it has evolved over the years. In the lively conversation the pair also talk about destination management, sustainability, AI, golden retrievers and wande…

This episode of Grand Craft Bend welcomes Cascade Lakes Brewing's owner, Andy Rhine, and brewmaster, Ryan Schmiege. We discuss what's new with Central Oregon's second oldest brewery that's turning 30 years old, craft beer styles that have come, gone, and come back again during that time, and why the Rhine family recently converted it into Oregon's …

In this Bend Don't Break episode, Source Weekly publisher Aaron Switzer converses with the Executive Director of the Heart of Oregon Corps, Laura Handy. Laura has served Heart of Oregon Corps for 16 years, led the organization for over 10 years, and has extensive experience networking in the community and building solid partnerships with local chan…

Source Weekly publisher Aaron Switzer visits with the new executive director of the Center for Business, Industry and Professional Development at COCC, John J. Graham. John talks about his new position and why he was lured out of retirement to take it ... and also dives into AI and the exciting ways he thinks it can change our lives for the better.…

This episode of Grand Craft Bend welcomes Crux Fermentation Project's assistant brewmaster, Grand, er, Grant McFarren. With a brewery, er, fermentation project like Crux that has so many plates spinning from new beers using new hops to new locations like its pub in Portland (and perhaps another new spot in Bend), to its surprising best-selling offe…

Source Weekly publisher Aaron Switzer and Food Editor Donna Britt have a lively conversation with CCI Chef/Educator Thor Erickson. Winner of the 2013 International Association of Culinary Professionals Culinary Teacher of the Year award, Thor talks about his love of teaching, his trip to the White House, his television escapades on Little House on …

This episode of Grand Craft BEND welcomes Robin and Todd Clement, founders of Monkless Belgian Ales. The Clements personify a Hollywood love story, if Hollywood was a beer-soaked high desert town that focused on true and truly lovable characters. Whereas the Monkless Brasserie became the brewing company's sequel, we learn about the upcoming Monkles…