Best Jacob Espinoza Podcasts (2025)

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Coffee Breaks: Halloween Spirit, Food Insecurity Concerns, and Downtown Development Updates 11:14

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2d ago11:14

11:14

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this Coffee Talk edition—a new series in partnership with Salem Reporter—Jacob Espinoza sits down with Rachel Alexander from Salem Reporter to discuss: The upcoming Halloween weekend and growing Day of the Dead celebrations in Salem The impact of potential SNAP benefit interruptions on lo…

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Coffee Breaks: Halloween, Homeless Camps, and Immigration in Salem 11:00

9d ago11:00

11:00

Welcome to this week's episode of Coffee Breaks! In this episode of our new series in partnership with Salem Reporter, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Rachel Alexander to discuss: Top Halloween activities in Salem, from Rocky Horror at the Grand to the Lost Forest Zombie Shoot Mayor Julie Hoy's petition to repeal state homeless camp sweep regulations…

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Building Bridges: How Salem Leadership Foundation Connects Community 41:42

10d ago41:42

41:42

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Kyle Dickinson, Executive Director of Salem Leadership Foundation, to discuss the organization's vital behind-the-scenes work connecting and empowering Salem's community. Topics include: How Salem Leadership Foundation serves as a connector and …

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Coffee Breaks: New City Manager, Safety Program Expansion, and Airport Funding 10:21

15d ago10:21

10:21

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this inaugural Coffee Breaks segment—a new partnership with Salem Reporter—Jacob Espinoza and Rachel Alexander deliver a quick 10-minute update on local news and community developments. This week's episode covers: Christian Ambury's unanimous appointment as Salem's official city manager (…

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Salem News: School Improvements & Downtown Reality Check 28:28

27d ago28:28

28:28

Welcome to this episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Rachel Alexander from Salem Reporter to discuss the state of local news and pressing issues facing our community: Topics covered: Salem-Keizer schools' first positive test score improvements since COVID The reality of downtown Salem vs. public percepti…

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Vanessa Nordyke on Salem's Mayoral Race: Homelessness, Public Safety & Downtown Revival 40:22

28d ago40:22

40:22

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, host Jacob Espinoza sits down with Salem City Councilor and mayoral candidate Vanessa Nordyke to discuss her campaign for mayor and vision for Salem's future. Topics include: Why Nordyke is running for mayor after nearly six years on the city council Salem's three-pronged ap…

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Building a Wine Business Without Millions 45:23

1M ago45:23

45:23

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! Ever wondered what it takes to break into the wine industry without millions of dollars? Host Jacob Espinoza sits down with Sam Parra from Parra Wine Co., a trailblazing Latino winemaker who's proving you can build a successful wine business from the ground up in the Willamette Valley. From …

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What is it Like to Own a Restaurant in Salem? 59:37

1M ago59:37

59:37

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! Jacob Espinoza sits down with two industry veterans to explore the reality of owning a restaurant in Salem, Oregon, in 2025. Joined by Cecilia Ritter, restaurateur and owner of Wild Pear with 25 years in the industry, and Jason Brandt, President and CEO of the Oregon Restaurant and Lodging A…

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Why Nat Borchers is Investing in Salem 37:29

1M ago37:29

37:29

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! Two-time MLS Cup champion Nat Borchers is betting BIG on Salem - and he's putting his money where his mouth is. From the 45th Parallel to downtown's JCPenney building, this soccer legend turned real estate mogul is transforming Salem one property at a time. In this powerhouse conversation, d…

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Helping Salem Train for Their First Iron Man 55:58

1M ago55:58

55:58

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! Jacob Espinoza sits down with three local experts to dive deep into training for Salem's Ironman 70.3 triathlon. Joining the conversation are John Moore from the Physical Therapy Project, Moses Keener and Scott Cycle, and Conrad Venti, who completed his first half Ironman this year. In this …

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Can We Still Grow Here? A podcast episode about farming in Oregon. 53:09

3M ago53:09

53:09

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Brian Zielinski from Scenic Valley Farms and Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell for an in-depth discussion about the recent DLCD (Department of Land Conservation and Development) farm stands rulemaking proposal that sparked statewide co…

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What Happened With Avelo and the Salem Airport? 1:12:29

3M ago1:12:29

1:12:29

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanor Ryan are joined by Brent DeHart from Fly Salem for an in-depth conversation about the past, present, and future of commercial aviation at Salem-Willamette Valley Airport. This discussion comes on the heels of Avelo Airlines' announcement that they'…

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Maeghan Egli on Balancing Pro Bodybuilding and a Career in Real Estate 1:05:50

4M ago1:05:50

1:05:50

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanore Ryan are joined by Maeghan Egli, a professional IFBB bodybuilder and Sales Director at Ticor Title, for a fun and insightful conversation about the discipline of professional bodybuilding, the power of mindset, and how a calling can find you in un…

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Tiffany Bulgin on Isaac's Room and Salem's Youth Development 1:06:19

4M ago1:06:19

1:06:19

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this first live episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanor Ryan sit down with Tiffany Bulgin from Isaac's Room and the IKE Box to discuss: The inspiring story behind Isaac's Room. The power of community support during life's most challenging moments. Downtown Salem's revitalization with new loca…

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Fire Chief David Gerboth on Salem’s Community Safety Innovation 55:36

4M ago55:36

55:36

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanore Ryan sit down with Salem Fire Chief David Gerboth to discuss: The major transition bringing Salem’s ambulance service back in-house with 60 new hires. Plans for alternative service delivery to preserve resources for major emergencies. Preparing fo…

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Karlee Flores on Building Floso's Dirty Soda Empire 1:14:51

4M ago1:14:51

1:14:51

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanore Ryan speak with Karlee Flores about: How Karlee built Floso with a community-first approach and experience in content marketing. The realities of entrepreneurship, social media visibility, and managing growth with integrity. Staying grounded and a…

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Brandon Eastman on Building Bentley's Coffee Empire 1:03:11

4M ago1:03:11

1:03:11

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanore Ryan speak with Brandon Eastman, founder of Bentley’s Coffee, to discuss: Brandon’s journey founding Bentley’s Coffee and the hard lessons he learned building a beloved local brand. The culture of growth and loyalty at Bentley’s, including employe…

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Mickey Walker on the Future of Salem-Keizer Volcanoes Baseball and Community Entertainment 1:01:02

5M ago1:01:02

1:01:02

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza speaks with Mickey Walker and Eleanore Ryan about: Mickey Walker’s journey from shagging home run balls as a kid to leading the Mavericks League and Roto Rooter Park in Salem. The transformation of Volcanoes Stadium into a vibrant community venue blending base…

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Chad Johnson on Salem's Comedy Scene and Building Community Through Laughter 57:17

5M ago57:17

57:17

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza speaks with Chad Johnson and Eleanore Ryan about: Chad’s foundational role in building Salem’s comedy scene and how it’s grown from just eight comics to a thriving community. The unique challenges and rewards of producing live comedy shows, including the grass…

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Alyssa Lockwood on Sip and Stroll and Salem's Nonprofit Community 1:07:22

5M ago1:07:22

1:07:22

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza speaks with Eleanore Ryan and Alyssa Lockwood about: Eleanore's rapid rise in comedy, balancing shows in Eugene, Albany, and Salem, and the evolution of her personal style and confidence onstage. Alyssa’s role at Garten Services and how they empower individual…

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Maria Hinojos Pressey and Allan Pollock on Salem's Public Transportation 59:06

5M ago59:06

59:06

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanore Ryan speak with Allan Pollock and Maria Hinojos Pressey from Cherriots about: Maria and Allan’s shared commitment to making public transportation more accessible and sustainable in Salem. How Cherriots is expanding service, adding electric buses, …

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Chelsea Opfer on Salem's Dark History and Underground Tunnels 41:21

6M ago41:21

41:21

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers speak with Chelsea Opfer of Ghost of the Grand about: Chelsea’s deep dive into Salem’s haunted history and the revival of ghost tours through immersive storytelling. The mysterious tunnels beneath downtown Salem and their ties to Chinese im…

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Superintendent Castañeda and Eleanore Ryan on School Budgets and Student Support 59:00

6M ago59:00

59:00

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza speaks with Superintendent Andrea Castañeda and comedian Eleanore Ryan about: Andrea's experience leading the Salem-Keizer School District through financial hardship and her commitment to transparency and growth. The increasing need for behavioral and mental h…

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Ali Virtue, MS NTP, on Nutrition and Healthy Eating in Salem 45:07

6M ago45:07

45:07

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with nutritionist Ali Virtue, MS NTP, to discuss: Practical approaches to healthy eating and fitness that work for busy lifestyles. Budget-friendly strategies for eating healthy in Salem. Simple habits that create major health improvements. And much …

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Commissioner Bethell on Addiction Treatment Funding Cuts 38:37

6M ago38:37

38:37

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell to discuss: The recent $3 million funding cut to Bridgeway Community Health, Salem's largest addiction treatment provider. How the Oregon Health Authority's grant allocation process impacts local treat…

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Dr. Jessica Howard on Chemeketa's Future and Workforce Innovation 44:03

7M ago44:03

44:03

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with Dr. Jessica Howard, President of Chemeketa Community College, to discuss: How Chemeketa is adapting to rapidly changing workforce needs through innovative programs The upcoming May renewal bond that will maintain current tax r…

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Congresswoman Salinas on Tariffs and Federal Budget Impacts 38:11

7M ago38:11

38:11

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Congresswoman Andrea Salinas to discuss: The economic impacts of proposed tariffs and market volatility on Oregon businesses. How federal budget cuts directly affect Salem communities - from Social Security office closures to education funding. …

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Max Carnage on Salem's Best Breakfast Burritos 38:47

7M ago38:47

38:47

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Max Carnage, Salem's favorite foodie, to discuss: His journey creating over 60 food review videos on YouTube. The quest to find Salem's best breakfast burrito. The importance of supporting local restaurants. And much more! Timestamps: 07:18 - Ma…

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Britany Randall on Housing Regulations and Senate Bill 1537 50:00

7M ago50:00

50:00

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Britany Randall, land use expert and consultant, to discuss: Senate Bill 1537 and its impact on housing development. The challenges of housing affordability in Salem. Ways to improve housing production And much more! Timestamps: 05:10 - Workforc…

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Jordan Truitt on Salem's Wildfire Response and Community Leadership 49:08

8M ago49:08

49:08

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with Jordan Truitt to discuss: His experience leading the relief efforts during the 2020 wildfires. How the community came together during crisis to support those affected. The lasting impact of volunteer work on personal growth. A…

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Punx With Purpose on Supporting Unhoused Youth 55:55

8M ago55:55

55:55

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with Hailey and Cheyenne from Punx With Purpose to talk about: How they created a nonprofit serving unhoused and at-risk youth in Salem through low-barrier, youth-driven programs. Why prevention and youth mental health support are …

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Jodi Blackman on United Way's Evolution and the Awesome 3000 43:46

8M ago43:46

43:46

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with Jodi Blackman from United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley to discuss: The evolution of United Way over the past decade. Taking over the Awesome 3000 community event. How nonprofit funding is changing. And much more! Timestamp…

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Paul Tigan on Salem's Budget Solutions and Livability Levy 40:02

8M ago40:02

40:02

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with City Councilor Paul Tigan to discuss: Salem's current budget challenges. The upcoming livability levy proposal. Why local government matters in our daily lives. And much more! Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and welcome 03:39…

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DJ Vincent on Supporting Salem's Unhoused Community 46:37

8M ago46:37

46:37

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with DJ Vincent from Church at the Park to discuss: The premiere of the Barriers for Bridges documentary. Church at the Park's evolution and mission. The reality of Salem's unhoused crisis. And much more! Timestamps: 05:06 - Church at the Park's orig…

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Charles Weathers on Downtown Salem's Development and Future 39:36

9M ago39:36

39:36

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Charles Weathers, local developer and visionary, to discuss: Downtown Salem's evolution and future. The challenges and opportunities in urban development. Creating vibrant community spaces. And much more! Timestamps: 01:07 - Charles's journey fr…

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Police Chief Trevor Womack on Salem's Public Safety and Community Trust 37:00

9M ago37:00

37:00

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack to discuss: His four years leading Salem's police department. The upcoming city budget challenges. Changes in policing since 2020. And much more! To RSVP the 2025 Breakfast with the Chief visit: https://salempoli…

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Maddie Leutwyler on Salem Free Clinics' Healthcare Mission 37:20

9M ago37:20

37:20

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with Maddie Leutwyler from Salem Free Clinics to discuss: The incredible impact of providing free healthcare services to the Salem community. How Salem Free Clinics evolved from a church initiative to a vital community resource. Th…

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Cory Poole on Salem's Housing and Community Development 20:56

9M ago20:56

20:56

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Cory Poole, Chair of the Southeast Mill Creek Neighborhood Association (SEMCA), to discuss: The challenges facing manufactured home park operators. The potential impact of House Bill 3054 on housing. Salem's housing market and infrastructure nee…

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Sarah and Joe Ngo on Restaurant Life in Salem 52:19

9M ago52:19

52:19

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Joe and Sarah, former owners of Chubby Bao House, to discuss: Their journey from food truck to brick-and-mortar restaurant. The challenges facing restaurants in Salem's current economy. Their transition out of restaurant ownership. And much more…

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Rachel Alexander on Keeping Salem Informed 30:19

10M ago30:19

30:19

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with Salem Reporter Managing Editor Rachel Alexander to discuss: The evolution of local journalism. Challenges facing local news organizations. The importance of community connection in reporting. And much more! Timestamps: 02:17 -…

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Virginia Stapleton on Making Change Through City Council 30:44

10M ago30:44

30:44

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Salem City Councilor Virginia Stapleton to discuss: The importance of local government engagement. Her journey to becoming a City Councilor. Future plans and projects And much more! Timestamps: 02:28 - Virginia's new podcast 05:01 - Local govern…

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Brian Martin on West Salem's Sewer Emergency Response 28:55

10M ago28:55

28:55

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this first episode of 2025, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers are joined by Salem Public Works Director Brian Martin to discuss: The recent West Salem sewer line emergency. How the city responded to the infrastructure crisis. The impact on residents and the community response. And much m…

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Albert Ramon (DJ Inferno) on Salem's Nightlife Scene 32:47

11M ago32:47

32:47

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Albert Ramon (DJ Inferno) to discuss Salem's evolving music and entertainment scene, including: The journey of starting Rhythm and Flow events in Salem. Challenges of organizing shows in a smaller market. Building relationships with local venues…

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Pat Zajac on Salem's New Marion Berries Baseball Team 27:53

11M ago27:53

27:53

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Summers are joined by Pat Zajac to discuss Salem's newest sports team, the Marion Berries. You’ll learn about: The $6 million renovation of Willamette University's ballpark. Plans for community engagement and youth development. What the West Coast …

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Fire Chief David Gerboth on Salem's Emergency Services 25:28

11M ago25:28

25:28

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers are joined by new Salem Fire Chief David Gerboth to discuss: The comprehensive services provided by Salem Fire Department. Innovation and technology in emergency services. Community engagement initiatives. And much more! Timestamps: 01:07 -…

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We're Thankful for Salem 26:51

11M ago26:51

26:51

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this special Thanksgiving episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers reflect on: The growth and impact of What's Happening Salem Future plans for What’s Happening Salem Holiday preparations and upcoming events And much more! Timestamps: 01:32 - What drew Brandon to What's Happening Salem…

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Vanessa Nordyke on Salem's Budget Challenges 25:23

11M ago25:23

25:23

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Salem City Councilor Vanessa Nordyke to discuss: Salem's current budget challenges and potential solutions. Ways citizens can participate in local government. The statewide nature of municipal budget issues. And much more! Timestamps: 01:09 - Di…

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Max Carnage on Salem's Best Local Restaurants 26:43

12M ago26:43

26:43

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with competitive eater and food reviewer Max Carnage to discuss: Salem's best pizza spots and what makes them special. Top burger and shake combinations in the area. Hidden gems in Salem's food scene. And much more! Click here to learn more about Max…

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Dan and Brandon Sommers on Salem's Trade Industry and Business Culture 32:12

12M ago32:12

32:12

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers are joined by Dan Sommers, owner of Advantage Heating and Air Conditioning, and his son Brandon Sommers to discuss: The journey of building a successful family business. The importance of investing in employee training. Building a strong co…

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Developer Trent Michels Discusses Salem's Cannery Transformation 22:42

12M ago22:42

22:42

Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers are joined by Trent Michels to discuss Salem's upcoming Cannery development project, including: Trent's journey from Salem native to developer. Why Salem was chosen for this major development. Details about the project's timeline and constr…