Best Jeff Slakey Podcasts (2025)

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Mason County Overdose Awareness March & Resource Fair – Community, Recovery & Prevention 10:27

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7d ago10:27

10:27

This year marks the 9th Annual Mason County Overdose Awareness Marches and Fairs. Jeff Slakey sits down with organizers Jamie Ellertson and Abe Gardner to talk about the two-day event in Belfair and Shelton, the growth of resources and sponsors, and why community support and conversations around recovery matter more than ever. Hear about new locati…

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Shelton School District Finance Director Clinton Sherman Explains Budgets, Levies & Community Investment 38:32

8d ago38:32

38:32

School budgets can seem complicated; they affect every family, taxpayer, and student in the community. In this episode, Jeff sits down with Shelton School District’s new Executive Director of Finance, Clinton Sherman, for a candid, plain-spoken conversation about how education funding works in Washington state. Clinton shares his journey from small…

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Shuck & Strum Spotlight: Chris Eakes, Hoodstock Heat, and an October Album 14:17

11d ago14:17

14:17

Hoodstock was electric—and local favorite Chris Eakes tells us why. Fresh off a buzzworthy set with the “Union supergroup,” 5 Guys & A Flute, Chris breaks down the band’s chemistry, what makes the Hood Canal audience different, and how that energy shapes the sound you’ll hear at his solo performance during Shuck & Strum this Thursday, August 21, at…

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Shelton Schools Update: Literacy Gains, Fewer Suspensions, and a Phone-Free Class Year 31:21

13d ago31:21

31:21

Shelton School District is starting the year with momentum—and a headline win: No. 1 in Washington for early-literacy growth. Superintendent Wyeth Jessee walks through what that means for third-grade readers, how attendance climbed from 81% to 86%, that’s about 215 fewer chronically absent students, and why suspensions dropped from 865 to 200 by fo…

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From Beatles-Style Beginnings to Songwriter Stage Legacy – A Conversation with Robert Poole 39:27

17d ago39:27

39:27

We’re taking a trip down memory lane with Robert Poole — a musician, storyteller, and the man behind the beloved Songwriter’s Stage on KMAS. In this reflective, reintroduction interview, Poole shares how his musical spark ignited in his teens, from playing in a Beatles-inspired band in Tacoma to rubbing elbows with rock legends like The Kinks and T…

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Golf Balls from Heaven: Love INC's Charity Tournament Returns to Alderbrook 8:43

24d ago8:43

8:43

🏌️‍♂️ Helicopters, golf balls, and giving back—what more could you ask for? In this special episode, Jeff Slakey chats with longtime Love INC supporter and board member Dan Partridge about the annual Love INC Golf Tournament at Alderbrook. Hear how this community-powered event supports hundreds of families in Mason County, and why the famous “Golf …

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Shelton Schools Update With Superintendent Jessee: Big Wins, Big Challenges 18:21

25d ago18:21

18:21

In this episode, Shelton School District Superintendent Wyeth Jessee talks with Jeff Slakey for a candid conversation on the district’s financial outlook, record-setting literacy growth, and the exciting programs launching this school year. From budget pressures to preparing classrooms, we unpack the realities facing public education today. Plus, l…

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Mason County Fires, Leadership Shifts & New Tools to Fight Fentanyl – Sheriff Sit-Down with Ryan Spurling 26:55

28d ago26:55

26:55

Recorded 8/1/25. In this August edition of the Sheriff Sit-Down, presented by Our Community Credit Union, Jeff Slakey is joined by Mason County Sheriff Ryan Spurling for a timely conversation recorded in smoke-filled Hoodsport. They cover the latest on the Bear Gulch Fire, what Level 2 evacuations mean for residents, and how the sheriff’s office is…

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Meet North Mason’s New Superintendent — Dr. Kristine Michael on Budget Fixes, Community Vision & the 2025-26 School Year 31:14

29d ago31:14

31:14

Get an inside look at North Mason School District’s new leader. In this long-form conversation, host Jeff Slakey sits down with Superintendent Dr. Kristine Michael, EdD, to trace her journey from Ohio to Belfair, unpack the district’s looming replacement-levy vote, and preview what students and families can expect this fall. From class-size pressur…

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National Night Out in Mason County: Hot Dogs, Fire Trucks & Community Connection 12:25

1M ago12:25

12:25

National Night Out returns on the first Tuesday in August—and here in Mason County, it’s not just law enforcement getting involved. Jeff Slakey is joined by representatives from North Mason, South Mason, and Central Mason Fire to talk about how this once police-focused evening has grown into a full-on first responder celebration. Abe Gardner, Amber…

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What’s at Stake for Shelton Schools: Federal Cuts, Local Impact, and the Fight to Keep Services Going 21:39

1M ago21:39

21:39

Federal education funding cuts are looming and rural districts like Shelton are feeling it first. In this important conversation, Jeff Slakey is joined by Shelton School Superintendent Wyeth Jessee to break down what these sudden changes mean for students, staff, and the broader community. With 9% of the district's budget coming from federal source…

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Terry Mutter performs at Shuck & Strum - 7/10/25 1:24:20

1M ago1:24:20

1:24:20

Recorded live on the Finch Creek Stage at the Fjord Oyster Bank in Hoodsport, this set features Terry Mutter—a singer-songwriter with a voice as rich as the stories he tells. Rooted in Americana and built on the timeless power of a well-crafted lyric, Terry’s music explores the joys and complexities of the human spirit. Whether he's strumming throu…

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What the One Big Beautiful Bill Means for Rural Hospitals: A Deep Dive with Mason Health’s CEO 31:11

2M ago31:11

31:11

What does the future of rural healthcare look like after the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act? In this powerful episode, Jeff Slakey sits down with Eric Moll, CEO of Mason Health, to unpack the fears, facts, and forward-looking strategies surrounding recent Medicaid and Medicare cuts included in the bill signed on July 4, 2025. Mason Gener…

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20 Years of Pickin’ and Grinnin’: Bluegrass From The Forest Celebrates a Musical Milestone 14:04

2M ago14:04

14:04

Get ready to tap your toes! In this episode, Jeff Slakey talks with festival organizer Greg Linder about the 20th anniversary of Bluegrass From The Forest, happening this weekend in Shelton, WA. What started as a local idea in a parking lot has grown into one of the Pacific Northwest’s premiere bluegrass events, attracting bands from Nashville to O…

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Grammy Winners & Songwriting Legends Unite in Union for Peace, Love & Music 13:12

2M ago13:12

13:12

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind weekend in Union, Washington! In this interview, Jeff Slakey talks with festival founder Rob Hill about the 2025 Peace, Love & Union Saltwater Songwriters Festival, an acoustic celebration of award-winning songwriting, deep community connections, and breathtaking scenery. Hear how Grammy-winning artists like Christian …

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Shuck & Strum Concert Series - Randy Baugh & The Rehearsals | June 26, 2025 1:06:46

2M ago1:06:46

1:06:46

Broadcast live from the Finch Creek Stage at the Fjord Oyster Bank in Hoodsport, this 80-minute set spotlights Randy Baugh & The Rehearsals—a jazz-pop fusion group with lyrical depth, smooth grooves, and effortless charm. Led by the introspective songwriting of Randy Baugh, The Rehearsals blend warm acoustic rhythms, subtle jazz textures, and poeti…

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2025 Shelton Art Walk Preview 9:42

2M ago9:42

9:42

Get ready for a color-soaked stroll through downtown Shelton! 🎨 In this conversation, Jeff Slakey previews the 2025 Shelton Art Walk—happening Saturday, June 28, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.—with three creative catalysts: Amy Cooper – Photographer, business owner & driving force behind Shelton’s emerging Creative District Molly Wheat Baker – local artist/educato…

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Candidate Conversation: Pastor Doug Peterson’s Vision for Shelton—Housing Help, Small-Biz Boosts & Faith-Driven Service 35:56

2M ago35:56

35:56

Pastor Doug Peterson—running for Shelton City Council Position 3—joins host Jeff Slakey at Marmo coffeehouse for a 36-minute chat that blends policy, faith and hometown pride. Below are the exact questions Jeff poses so listeners (and voters!) can jump straight to the answers they need: Who is Doug Peterson? Tell us about your background and minist…

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Shuck & Strum Concert Series - Aaron Gorton | June 19, 2025 1:14:37

2M ago1:14:37

1:14:37

Turn up the volume for the next chapter of KMAS Radio’s Shuck & Strum summer series! 🎶 Recorded live on the Finch Creek Stage at the Fjord Oyster Bank in Hoodsport, this 75-minute set features Aaron Gorton—the Pacific Northwest’s premier One-Man Jam Band. A master looper and multi-instrumentalist, Aaron layers guitar, keys, and percussion in real t…

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Shuck & Strum Concert Series - Adam Thorne | June 12, 2025 1:13:49

2M ago1:13:49

1:13:49

Feel the energy of KMAS Radio’s Shuck & Strum summer kickoff—now on demand! 🎸 Recorded live on the Finch Creek Stage at the Fjord Oyster Bank in Hoodsport, Washington, this 70-minute set captures Kitsap County singer-songwriter Adam Thorne (@adamthornemusic) at his eclectic best. A 16-year Navy veteran by day and guitar-slinging troubadour by night…

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Ken Mobley’s Vision for Shelton: Economic Growth, Youth Engagement & Real Talk on Homelessness 53:14

3M ago53:14

53:14

In this in-depth Candidate Conversation, host Jeff Slakey sits down with retired Navy Senior Chief Ken Mobley, one of four contenders for Shelton City Council Position 3. Mobley shares his journey from aircraft-carrier leadership to life in Shelton, explains why economic growth can’t come at the expense of natural beauty, and lays out four pillars—…

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Shelton Schools 2024-25 Wrap-Up: Wins, Budget Pain & Graduation Gains with Superintendent Wyeth Jessee 46:48

3M ago46:48

46:48

Superintendent Wyeth Jessee joins Jeff Slakey for a deep-dive year-end recap of the Shelton School District. Below are the key questions Jeff asks so you can jump right to the info you need: Big Wins: What are you most proud of as the 2024-25 school year closes? Post-COVID Classrooms: Is rising student engagement tied to finally moving past pandemi…

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Sheriff’s Sit-Down: Peelian Policing, New Gun Law 1163 & Homelessness—Community Action in Mason County 29:24

3M ago29:24

29:24

On this month’s Sheriff’s Sit-Down—recorded live at the Fjord Oyster Bank—Mason County Sheriff Ryan Spurling joins host Jeff Slakey to tackle the big questions facing local law enforcement and the community they serve. Forest Festival recap: why joint visibility with Shelton Police, State Patrol and Squaxin Tribal PD matters. History lesson: Sherif…

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Shuck & Strum Kick-Off: Adam Thorne’s Eclectic Country-Rock Hits the Fjord Oyster Bank 11:32

3M ago11:32

11:32

KMAS is launching its brand-new Shuck & Strum summer concert series, live from the Fjord Oyster Bank in Hoodsport, Washington—and we’re starting strong with Kitsap County singer-songwriter Adam Thorne (@adamthornemusic). Host Jeff Slakey chats with the 16-year Navy veteran about juggling submarine communications by day and guitar strings by night, …

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Master Your Money: Budgeting Tips with Peninsula Credit Union | Mason Matters 41:34

3M ago41:34

41:34

Join KMAS Radio host Jeff Slakey as he sits down with Peninsula Credit Union’s Community Financial Educator, Darrell McVea, for a candid talk on conquering financial stress. Discover why budgeting doesn’t have to feel restrictive, how emergency funds create true peace of mind, and the “free-money” power of 401(k) matches. From daily coffee habits t…

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The Future of Mason County: Inside Economic Growth with the EDC’s Kevin Shutty 50:49

3M ago50:49

50:49

Wonder what an Economic Development Council actually does? Or how they measure success when it comes to growing jobs, attracting businesses, and supporting housing in a rural county? In this episode, KMAS’s Jeff Slakey sits down with Kevin Shutty, Director of the Economic Development Council of Mason County, for a candid conversation about what’s r…

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Sound to Sea Workshop: WSU & COHORT Unite for Hood Canal Resilience 13:18

3M ago13:18

13:18

Get the inside scoop on Sound to Sea – Working Together to Build Resilient Coastal Communities, a hands-on workshop coming to the newly renamed Sacred Waters Center for Restoration & Retreat (formerly Harmony Hill) on June 5, 2025. Host Jeff Slakey sits down with Mason County WSU Extension’s Tessa Halloran and Kayla Wells-Yoakum to explore why coas…

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Inside the 81st Mason County Forest Festival: Carnival, Parade & Logging-Show Preview 23:53

3M ago23:53

23:53

Join KMAS host Jeff Slakey for an upbeat, behind-the-scenes look at the 81st annual Mason County Forest Festival (May 29 – June 1, 2025). Festival president Amy Cooper breaks down the bonus-weekend carnival, free Friday Family Fun Night, wildfire-prevention displays, and Saturday’s packed schedule—from the Goldsboro Creek Run to the nighttime firew…

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Day of Champions Returns to North Mason 5/29 11:16

4M ago11:16

11:16

The Day of Champions is back! On May 29th, North Mason High School will host this heartwarming track and field event for special needs students across Mason County. With 140 participants, 100 volunteers, and loads of joy (plus rubber chickens), this Kiwanis-led event is one you won’t want to miss.By Jeff Slakey

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Funding, First Graders & the Future of Shelton Schools 29:29

4M ago29:29

29:29

Shelton School District Superintendent Wyeth Jessee joins Jeff Slakey for a wide-ranging conversation about early literacy success, the impacts of state budget shortfalls, and how local levy dollars keep essential student services running. From the challenges of defining “basic education” to celebrating over 50 students attending Evergreen State fo…

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Flock Cameras, Community Safety & Tough Conversations — A Sitdown with Sheriff Spurling 16:58

4M ago16:58

16:58

In this episode of Sheriff’s Sitdown, Jeff Slakey catches up with Sheriff Ryan Spurling at the Oyster Bank in Hoodsport. They cover everything from the power of community engagement in law enforcement to homelessness challenges, the impact of Shelton’s new Flock camera system, and the importance of youth structure and service through NJROTC. Brough…

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💧 Septic Smart: Protecting Waterways & Wallets in Mason County 14:34

4M ago14:34

14:34

On this episode, Jeff Slakey talks with Tessa Halloran from the WSU Extension Office about the upcoming “Be Septic Smart” workshop happening May 15th in Shelton. They dive into why understanding your septic system is crucial for homeowners—especially those near waterways or with vacation rentals. From landscaping tips to warning signs and maintenan…

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Mother’s Day, Mock Mimosas & Community Care with South Mason Fire & Rescue 9:44

4M ago9:44

9:44

We’re back with Amber Anderson from South Mason Fire & Rescue to talk about one of Mason County’s favorite traditions—the Mother’s Day Pancake Breakfast! Happening this Saturday, May 10th from 9:30 AM to noon at Fire Station 4 on Arcadia Road, it’s more than just pancakes and mock mimosas. We dive into how this event supports vital community progra…

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Wildfire-Ready Neighbors: Getting Ahead of Fire Season with Amber Anderson 9:38

4M ago9:38

9:38

Fire season is coming fast, and Mason County is gearing up. In this episode, Jeff Slakey chats with South Mason Fire PIO Amber Anderson about the county-wide Wildfire-Ready Neighbors Fair happening Saturday, May 3, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the Shelton Civic Center parking lot (525 W. Cota St.). Hear how Central Mason Fire, South Mason Fire, DNR, Squaxin…

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Tax Tension and Tough Tradeoffs: Sen. Drew MacEwen Reflects on 2025 Session 19:55

4M ago19:55

19:55

Washington State Senator Drew MacEwen joins Jeff Slakey to unpack the just-completed 2025 legislative session. MacEwen shares his candid take on what he calls one of the most frustrating sessions he's experienced—highlighting $10 billion in new taxes, rising fees, and limited bipartisan cooperation. He discusses concerns over the budget's sustainab…

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Mason County Still Walking Strong: Relay for Life 2024 Preview 18:46

4M ago18:46

18:46

Mark your calendars for June 21st and 22nd at South Sound Stadium — that’s North Thurston High School in Lacey — where teams from across Thurston and Mason counties will gather for this powerful 22-hour event. Mason County is still proudly represented with teams like Boz Brigade, led by Deb Hill and Vicki Gonzalez, honoring loved ones lost and thos…

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35th Legislative Update with Representatives Griffey & Couture - 4/22/25 26:47

4M ago26:47

26:47

It’s been a busy session in Olympia, and the 35th District delegation is sounding the alarm on taxes, education equity, and small business impacts. In a recent update, Representatives Dan Griffey and Travis Couture shared concerns about what they’re calling some of the largest tax increases in state history — including $5 billion in B&O tax hikes t…

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🎧 Flashlights, Prizes & 15,000 Eggs?! 13:15

5M ago13:15

13:15

In this episode, Jeff chats with Kim Morris from the Armstrong Community Outreach Foundation about one of the most exciting community events of the year—the 13th Annual Easter Egg Hunt & Flashlight Egg Hunt happening Saturday, April 12 at South Mason Youth Soccer Fields. From a daytime egg hunt packed with games, a talent show, and kid vendors, to …

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Sheriff Sit-Down – April 2025 15:58

5M ago15:58

15:58

In this interview, I sit down once again with Mason County Sheriff Ryan Spurling at the Fjord Oyster Bank in Hoodsport, just ahead of the monthly Sheriff's Lunch. Sheriff Spurling dives deep into what leadership looks like inside the Sheriff’s Office—from West Point-inspired training to major promotions and a focus on building ethical, motivated te…

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WA Senator Drew MacEwen Breaks Down the State Budget Battle 21:55

5M ago21:55

21:55

I had the chance to sit down again with State Senator Drew MacEwen as we inch closer to the end of the legislative session. It’s budget season, and we got into some deep conversation about what’s in—and what’s being cut from—the latest proposals. Right out of the gate, we talked about wildfire prevention, which is especially relevant here in the 35…

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Budget Battles, Public Safety, and Parents’ Rights with Reps Griffey & Couture 29:17

5M ago29:17

29:17

Had a great chat with 35th District Reps Dan Griffey and Travis Couture about what’s happening in Olympia. As we get closer to the end of the legislative session, things are heating up—especially around the budget, public safety, and education. Travis broke down the upcoming state budget, highlighting concerns about new taxes and proposed cuts, inc…

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Mason County Public Health teaming with UnitedWeCare for increase mental health support 10:13

6M ago10:13

10:13

Mental health support just got a whole lot easier in Mason County. I sat down with Dave Windom, Director of Mason County Public Health, to talk about a brand-new pilot program using the United We Care app. It’s a free, AI-powered platform that connects people to real support, whether that’s a trained listener, a coach, or a licensed therapist. We g…

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🚢 WA Ferries, Law Enforcement, and State Budget – A Sit-Down with Senator Drew MacEwen 26:04

6M ago26:04

26:04

In this conversation with State Senator Drew MacEwen, we cover some of the major issues facing Washington State right now. Ferries & Transportation: The state has been struggling with ferry service disruptions, and while electric ferries are the long-term goal, they’re not a realistic solution today. Drew shares why the focus should be on building …

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Funding Challenges & School Updates with Superintendent Wyeth Jessee 27:27

6M ago27:27

27:27

I had my scheduled interview with Shelton School District Superintendent Wyeth Jessee, below are some topics we covered. Mostly budget related stuff, but I did ask about things brought up by those attending the school board meetings and comments brought up on social media. Also I'm trying a new camera/sound setup. 🔹 State & Federal Funding Struggle…

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Childcare, Criminal Justice & More with 35th District Rep. Dan Griffey - 02.25.25 25:01

6M ago25:01

25:01

This week, 35th District Representative Dan Griffey and I are diving into some issues affecting our community—from childcare shortages to criminal justice concerns. We start with the challenges families face when it comes to affordable and available childcare. House Republicans are pushing for policy changes, including a tiered system for different…

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35th Update with Reps. Griffey and Couture - 2/18/25 24:54

6M ago24:54

24:54

Time for another deep dive into what's happening in Olympia! This week, we caught up with 35th District Representatives Dan Griffey and Travis Couture to break down some major legislative discussions and how they’re impacting our communities. We kicked things off with a heated debate over a proposal to remove George Washington’s image from the stat…

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Sheriff Sit-Down 2/13/25: Community, Accountability & Law Enforcement Support 21:26

7M ago21:26

21:26

Another Sheriff Sit-Down with Mason County Sheriff Ryan Spurling, and we covered a lot! We kicked things off talking about the Polar Plunge, which raised money for Mason County Emergency Services. It’s amazing to see the community step up year after year to support the dive team, fire halls, and chaplains who keep us safe. And yes—Sheriff Spurling …

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Sam Miller: Comedy, Recovery, and Finding Connection Through Laughter 17:00

7M ago17:00

17:00

Comedian Sam Miller, based out of Olympia but touring nationwide, joined me to talk about his comedy journey, recovery, and upcoming shows. Sam’s been doing stand-up for 11 years, with the last four as a full-time career. His comedy often draws from his past struggles with addiction and homelessness, blending humor with real-life experiences that r…

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Staying Connected, Cutting Bureaucracy, and Strengthening Parental Rights: A Conversation with Rep. Dan Griffey 22:22

7M ago22:22

22:22

35th District Representative Dan Griffey and I talked about the advantages of being close to the Capitol, allowing him to stay connected to both the legislative process and his community. He shared how returning home each night helps him stay grounded and in touch with the real concerns of his constituents. We also dug into the ongoing budget defic…

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Budget Challenges, Parental Rights, and Education Reform: This Weeks Conversation with Senator Drew MacEwen 17:36

7M ago17:36

17:36

Washington State Senator Drew MacEwen and I covered much ground in our conversation this week. We discussed the benefits of remote testimony and how technology is helping connect lawmakers with constituents across the state. On the state budget, Senator MacEwen pointed out that the deficit isn’t due to a lack of revenue but rather unsustainable spe…