Podcast

Curious about RV life, jaw-dropping destinations, and why coffee and bourbon are central to camping? This week’s Exploring Washington State podcast delivers an unscripted chat between host Scott Cowan and RV enthusiast Brooks Smothers. From navigating the Pacific Northwest’s unparalleled natural beauty to tackling the quirks of rolling earthquakes (a.k.a. RVs), Brooks shares why RVing is the...

Welcome to Exploring Washington State! Host Scott Cowan sits down with Dennis Berg, a bartender who’s called the Space Needle his workplace for an astounding 43 years. In this episode, recorded at Here Today Brewery and Kitchen, Dennis shares decades of stories, insights, and memories from Seattle’s most iconic landmark, along with his passion for...

Prepare for an epic conversation with adventure, history, and quirky insights! In this episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast, host Scott Cowan reunites with guest Tami Asars to discuss the second edition of her book, Hiking the Wonderland Trail. But this isn’t just any trail story—it’s a deep dive into one of Washington’s most beloved trails,...

Meet Mark Phelan, Director of Marketing at the stunning Alderbrook Resort and Spa. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work at one of Washington’s most cherished destinations—or if you’re seeking inspiration for your next getaway—this conversation is packed with insights, humor, and nostalgia. Mark Phelan: 20 Years at Alderbrook and Counting Mark kicks...

In this episode, we talk with Kirk Hanson, Director of Forestry at the Northwest Natural Resource Group, about his journey from Minnesota to Washington State and his work in sustainable forestry. Kirk has spent years promoting ecologically sound forestry practices that benefit both forest health and landowners’ financial interests. His passion for nature has driven him...

Cassandra Overby, author of “Home Base Hiking Europe,” shares her journey from a business student to a writer inspired by her extensive travels. Rediscovering travel through hiking and connecting with locals, she found it more fulfilling than traditional sightseeing. Her European travels were extended thanks to remote work opportunities, showcasing technology’s flexibility. This experience inspired...

Since our last conversation, Jesse’s been hard at work restoring unique properties across Washington and beyond, bringing a mix of rustic charm and modern convenience to places you might never expect. From fixing up a yacht that doubles as an office to building bridges—literally—at his Pacific Dunes property, Jesse shares how he’s redefining what hospitality...

Exploring Washington: Autumn Photography, Iconic Landscapes, and Life on a Boat Washington State is a photographer’s paradise, offering a rich diversity of landscapes—from the North Cascades to the waters of Puget Sound. Photographer Lisa Mize captures this beauty while living full-time on a boat. In a recent Exploring Washington State Podcast episode, Lisa shared her photography journey...

Meet Chris Baldwin: A Blend of Art and Coffee Our guest, Chris Baldwin, is a true craftsman. As a designer and artist by profession, Chris has always had a passion for branding, commercial art, and graphic design. His journey led him to Whidbey Island, where he combined his love of coffee with his background in...

Meet Kelly Goto Kelly Goto is a trailblazing American entrepreneur renowned for her user experience design and contextual research. Kelly began using ethnography, where she was among the first to delve into this innovative approach, reshaping how we understand and improve user interactions. Planning a trip to Seattle? Start with our complete Seattle Visitor Guide...

In this episode, we’re transported back to the dawn of prehistoric times as we accompany the passionate author, Kelly Milner Halls, on a thrilling adventure. Let’s embark on a journey that uncovers the fascinating discovery of a T-Rex cousin right here in our own backyard. A Dinosaur for Washington: The True Story of Suciasaurus Did...

Welcome to the latest edition of the Exploring Washington State podcast, where we bring you the best of Washington State. Planning a trip to Twisp? Start with our complete Twisp Visitor Guide. In this episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Juliet Kennedy, the marketing director for the Twisp Chamber of Commerce. Juliet...