This week, Scott sits down with Margot Kravette, an inspiring photographer and blogger who turned her milestone 70th birthday into a journey across Washington State. Margot shares how her lifelong passion for photography—sparked in the 1970s at Walter Reed Hospital—led her to create InspiredJourneys.live, a website documenting her exploration of Washington’s most unique and captivating locations….
This week on the Exploring Washington State Podcast, we sit down with Steve Pearson—Seattle’s rock and roll legend. From his iconic days with The Heats to the raucous adventures of the Rangehoods, Steve takes us on a nostalgic journey through the highs, lows, and everything in between of his musical career. The Heats From Garage Gigs…
Editor’s note, October 2026: Pintxo by Valdemar has closed. Its space in the Schoolhouse District is now Jackson House, a restaurant and craft cocktail bar. For what’s open around town now, see our Woodinville guide. What happens when a Spanish based winery hires a chef from Australia to oversee the kitchen of their Woodinville based…
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…
Have you ever gone snowshoeing trails during the winter? Washington State is full of seasonal snowshoe trails, from the Cascade Mountains to Central and Eastern Washington. Get started this winter with our beginner’s guide to snowshoeing in Washington. Choose Your Trail Before setting out, pick a light to moderate trail for your earliest snowshoe ventures….
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…
Winter in Washington can bring magnificent snow, but what if you are not a downhill skier? Have you tried snowshoeing? Snowshoeing is a wonderful way to get out into the snow, see gorgeous views, have some adventures and get some exercise! We are going to cover a six beginner shoeshoe hikes to make you comfortable…
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…
Updated February 2024 Planning a trip to Tacoma? Start with our complete Tacoma Visitor Guide → Tacoma’s reputation precedes itself. For all the negativity that has clouded perceptions of Tacoma, the narrative has drastically changed over the past decade. There’s been a collective awakening about the virtues of this town, which has been a blessing…
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…
