Exploring Washington State

From Chewed Leashes to a Thriving Business: How One Rescue Dog Inspired Bolder K9

Hey there, friends! In this episode of the Exploring Washington State podcast, your host Scott Cowan dives into a fun and heartwarming conversation with Jake Eberhart, the innovative mind behind Bolder K9 Jake shares his journey of moving to Washington, adopting a rescue pup, and turning a chewed-up leash into a thriving business that gives back to animal rescues and shelters.What’s Inside This Episode?🐾 The Bolder K9 Story: Jake talks about how a destroyed leash inspired him and his wife to start crafting durable, custom leashes and collars.🌲 Moving to Washington: Discover how Jake and his wife found their way from New York to the Pacific Northwest, complete with cross-country adventures and unexpected pit stops.🐕 Rescue Stories: Learn about Theobold, the German Shepherd who sparked Bolder K9’s mission, and the incredible work Jake does with True North GSD Rescue.🎨 Customization and Craftsmanship: From 33 leash colors to innovative FrogClips, Jake explains how Bolder K9 stands out by blending creativity, durability, and functionality.🥾 Hiking with Dogs: Jake shares his favorite dog-friendly hiking spots in Washington, including hidden gems like Anderson and Watson Lakes.🛠️ Nonprofit Partnerships: Hear about Bolder K9’s work with organizations like Forgotten Dogs for Forgotten Vets, connecting rescue dogs with veterans in need.Why You Should ListenThis episode is packed with inspiration for dog lovers, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about Washington’s outdoor adventures. Jake’s passion for helping animals and creating quality products shines through every story he shares. Plus, you’ll hear some great tips on local hikes and even where to find amazing gluten-free pastries in Kenmore!Where to Find Bolder K9Website: Instagram:Facebook:Mentioned in This EpisodeTrue North GSD Rescue: Supporting German Shepherd rescues.Forgotten Dogs for Forgotten Vets: Pairing rescue dogs with veterans in need.Diva Espresso in Kenmore: Jake’s go-to spot for gluten-free pastries and coffee.Favorite Hikes: Anderson and Watson Lakes, Kulchuck Lake, and Barclay Lake.Let’s Stay ConnectedIf you enjoyed this episode, please share it with fellow dog lovers or outdoor enthusiasts. Your support helps grow the show! And don’t forget to leave a review or reach out on social media to let us know what you think.

From Tulips to Snowfields: What Makes Skagit County Perfect Year-Round

Are you ready to uncover Skagit County's hidden treasures? Join host Scott Cowan as he chats with Kristen Keltz, CEO of the Skagit Tourism Bureau, to explore everything this remarkable region has to offer—from breathtaking landscapes and charming small towns to vibrant cultural events and unique culinary experiences.What You'll Discover in This Episode:Skagit County's Hidden GemsThink you know Skagit? Think again! Kristen shares the lesser-known highlights of the area, including delightful towns like Edison and Concrete, incredible hiking spots, and awe-inspiring views that stretch from the water to the mountains.Coffee, Food, and Local FlavorWhether sipping coffee at cozy shops like Penguin Coffee or enjoying a meal featuring locally sourced ingredients, Skagit County is a foodie's dream. Kristen dishes out her top recommendations to fuel your next adventure.The Iconic Tulip Festival and BeyondWhile the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is world-famous, Kristen reveals why every season in Skagit County offers something special—from vibrant summer markets to winter birdwatching and holiday magic in its charming towns.Tourism's Role in the CommunityKristen explains how tourism fuels Skagit County's economy and helps create lasting memories for visitors, highlighting the importance of sustainable travel practices.Why Skagit Feels Like HomeFrom her early days in hospitality to becoming the CEO of the Skagit Tourism Bureau, Kristen's deep-rooted love for the region shines through as she shares what makes it unique.Why You Should Listen:Whether you're planning your next weekend getaway or love hearing about incredible places, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Kristen's passion for Skagit County will make you itching to pack your bags and discover this magical destination.Your Next Steps:Visit Skagit County: Plan your trip today! Explore hidden gems, savor local flavors, and experience a slower, more connected way of life.Explore Events: Visit Skagit Valley.com to check out its exciting lineup of events, from lighted boat parades to scenic winter hikes.Follow the Podcast: Don't miss a single episode! Subscribe to the Exploring Washington State Podcast for more stories, tips, and travel inspiration.Share the Love: Know someone who loves discovering new places? Share this episode and help spread the magic of Skagit County!Tune in now and discover why Skagit County is more than just a stop along I-5—a destination that deserves exploring. Click play and start your adventure!

🎵Live Music Lives Again: Joel Myrene’s Vision for Wenatchee’s Next Generation of Musicians

In this episode of the Exploring Washington State podcast, Scott Cowan sits down with Wenatchee local and music enthusiast Joel Myrene for a lively conversation packed with nostalgia, community spirit, and a love of live music. Recorded in the historic Wenatchee Prosperity Lodge 301, Joel takes us on a journey from his punk rock roots to his mission of reviving Wenatchee’s music scene today.Joel shares his story of growing up in Wenatchee, discovering punk rock through skateboarding, and organizing his first shows in unlikely venues like the Odd Fellows Hall and the old Fifth Street Armory. With a deep commitment to creating opportunities for younger musicians, Joel reflects on the thriving music culture of the 90s and how he’s bringing that same energy back to Wenatchee with all-ages shows that inspire the next generation.We also dive into Joel’s role in organizing the Apple Valley Record Expo, a passion project born from the region’s hunger for vinyl and the absence of record stores within 90 miles. Joel recounts the challenges and triumphs of putting on this event, from coordinating vendors to drawing crowds hungry for rare finds.This episode is a love letter to Wenatchee, its creative spirit, and the power of music to connect generations. Whether you’re a fan of punk rock, an aspiring musician, or someone curious about Wenatchee’s evolving arts scene, this conversation will leave you inspired and itching to attend the next local show.🎸 Highlights:Joel’s early days organizing punk rock shows in Wenatchee in the late 90sThe return of live music to the historic Odd Fellows HallThe Apple Valley Record Expo and its impact on Wenatchee’s music loversWhy fostering opportunities for young musicians is Joel’s top priorityBehind-the-scenes stories of booking big names, like Krist Novoselic of Nirvana✨ Don’t miss this episode if you’re curious about how music, community, and a touch of punk rock DIY spirit are shaping Wenatchee today. Joel’s story proves that you don’t need a big stage to make a big impact.Listen now and discover why Wenatchee’s music scene is worth paying attention to!

70 Places for 70 Years: How Margot Kravette Turned Milestones into Masterpieces

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.From photographing majestic snow geese in Skagit to discovering hidden gems like the Western Flyer boat and the Georgetown steam plant, Margot's stories are filled with adventure, nostalgia, and creative inspiration. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or love learning about new places to explore in the Evergreen State, this episode has something for everyone.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeHow Margot rediscovered her passion for photography and why she chose Washington State as her canvas.Highlights from her project are photographing 70 locations to celebrate her 70th birthday.Why Cappadocia, Turkey, remains one of her all-time favorite photography destinations.Insights into her current mission to document something unique in every one of Washington's 39 counties.These are fun, behind-the-scenes stories from Margot's travels, like visiting the International Mermaid Museum and capturing the beauty of barn quilt trails in Kittitas County.Links & ResourcesVisit Margot's website: InspiredJourneys.liveExplore the Northern State Hospital: Read More on Margot's SiteLearn about the Western Flyer Boat Restoration: Read Margot's Blog

🎸 The Heats Are Back: Steve Pearson on New Music, Old Memories, and What’s Next🎙️

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.🎶 From Garage Gigs to Stadium CrowdsSteve’s story starts like many legends: with a young kid strumming Beatles tunes and dreaming of a bigger stage. But what happens when those dreams become reality? Steve recounts the serendipitous moments that took The Heats from an obscure garage band to headlining packed clubs and sharing stages with rock royalty. And then there’s that unforgettable gig at the Oregon Jam in front of 79,000 people. How did The Heats handle a live mic malfunction in the middle of their opening song? Let’s say Steve and Don didn’t miss a beat.💿 The Record That Changed EverythingWith tales of late-night rehearsals, fiery live shows, and the iconic Seattle Times article that skyrocketed their fame, Steve shares how The Heats became the band everyone had to see. But what happens when fame fades? Enter the Rangehoods—a band born of grit, rebellion, and a desire to shake things up again.🎤 New Music, Old FriendsDecades later, The Heats are back. With a new album on the way and reunion shows electrifying fans, Steve reflects on how the band’s music has stood the test of time. Hear firsthand how they recorded 10 songs in just four days, why Steve is still chasing the perfect guitar tone, and why he refuses to become a nostalgia act.🥧 Plus, Pie or Cake?Of course, no Exploring Washington State Podcast episode is complete without a bit of fun. Steve’s answer to our signature dessert debate may surprise you—and his reasoning is as rock and roll as it gets.