Exploring Washington State
The Exploring Washington State Podcast is for you if you are looking for ideas and inspirations of great places to visit, fantastic places to grab a bite to eat and drink. If you want to know more about the businesses that call Washington State home, learn about the amazing artists who are creating artwork.The State of Washington is an amazing place to live and a great place to visit. The Exploring Washington State Podcast helps to showcase the splendor of Washington State. Remember "there is always more to explore!”
Episodes
What does it really take to train, fuel, and push through 70.3 miles? Athlete & coach Jennifer Comfort shares her raw, behind the scenes look at the Tri Cities Ironman from first timer jitters to race day breakthroughs. Expect grit, laughs, and stories you will not hear anywhere else.
When Daisey James picked up a disc during COVID, she didn’t plan on building a movement. Now, she’s the co-owner of Far From Par, president of the Whatcom Disc Golf Club, and the unofficial “lost disc” hero of Bellingham — having reunited over 2,200 lost discs with their owners.
But this story isn’t about frisbees.
It’s about how a simple, accessible sport created a ripple effect of community, stewardship, and connec...
“I just loved fishing.” That simple passion sparked a journey that led Sean Visintainer from a Spokane kid casting in the backyard to the owner of one of the Pacific Northwest’s most respected fly shops—Silver Bow Fly Shop.
In this episode, Sean shares how he turned his love for the water into a thriving business rooted in community, curiosity, and calm leadership. You’ll hear about:
- The early days of Silver Bow ...
What do craft breweries, vineyards, and city parks have in common with saving wild salmon? This episode explores how Salmon Safe is reshaping land use across the Pacific Northwest through voluntary conservation.
Learn how farmers, developers, and even college campuses are changing practices to protect clean water, restore habitat, and reduce chemical runoff—without regulatory mandates. Brian Muegge, Farm Program Manager...
What happens when a quiet forest meets bold imagination? The Price Sculpture Forest on Whidbey Island blends nature and creativity in a way that’s both unexpected and unforgettable.
Scott Price shares how a simple idea to preserve forested land evolved into a community-powered haven for outdoor art, discovery, and wonder. From saving trees to showcasing sculpture in the wild, this is the story of a vision that took root...
This episode we’re talking Snowy Plovers, parks, and prairie remnants with Andrea Thorpe, PhD, Natural Resource Program Manager for Washington State Parks. From her childhood in Oregon to protecting Washington’s wild places, Andrea shares stories of endangered species, unsung park heroes, and how a rough-skinned newt stole her heart. You’ll also get hidden park picks, Olympia food tips, and one very important reason to kee...
Chris Voigt ate nothing but potatoes for 60 days—and it wasn’t a gimmick. Learn why, and discover how Washington’s potatoes became world-class. From tater tots to policy fights, this episode digs deep into one of the state’s most iconic crops. A surprising and satisfying listen for food and farming fans.
Paul Tolmé of Cascade Bicycle Club joins us to talk epic Washington bike rides, bold advocacy, and how the club is transforming lives—one pedal at a time. From the STP to food rescue by bike, this episode goes way beyond the handlebars. Tune in and get inspired.
Jennifer Hackett, founder of Northwest Portal, shares how she built a statewide recreation map featuring over 20,000 trails, parks, and outdoor sites. From fire closures to off-leash dog areas and seasonal access info, learn how thoughtful mapping helps people explore Washington with confidence and curiosity.
She didn’t grow up swirling wine glasses—Hailey Bohlman just wanted to travel. But a trip to Spain lit the spark, and now she’s helping others fall in love with wine (without the snobbery). We talk about starting Cork & Fizz, going from comp-sci to cabernet, and why Washington wine is worth exploring—no decoder ring required
Behind the Scenes at the Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival
Rochelle Robinson joins us to talk about the ninth annual Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival in Bellingham. From her work on the board to her passion for storytelling, Rochelle shares what makes this unique celebration of women-directed films so impactful.
We also dive into her work with Hamlet Literary Journal, community writing, favorite local...
What happens when musical chemistry sneaks up on you—and never lets go? In this episode, Scott sits down with Jessiand Jared Fredeen, the heart and soul of Tacoma’s genre-defying band Champagne Sunday.
From meeting in a California restaurant to building a life of music, love, and relentless connection, the duo shares stories that are equal parts hilarious and heartfelt.
They talk about creating a band and a marria...
Seattle’s cherry blossoms are more than just a stunning spring spectacle—they’re part of a rich history, a scientific research project, and a race against time. 🌿
In this episode, we’re diving deep into the fascinating world of UW’s iconic cherry trees with Marlee Theil, sustainability coordinator and lead researcher for the Cherry Tree Phenology Project. Marlee and her student volunteers are tracking each bloom stage ...
In this Exploring Washington State Podcast episode, Scott sits down with returning guest Jessica Alexanderson, also known as Scuba Jess. While she’s usually diving deep into Washington’s waters, today she’s surfacing with an urgent mission: collecting two million aluminum cans to help schools nationwide.
Jessica shares how this national recycling contest is making a difference, from funding playgrounds to providing scho...
Kells Irish Pub isn’t just a bar—it’s a Seattle institution.
Join Patrick Pearse McAleese as he shares the history, stories, and legacy of this iconic pub, from its deep Irish roots to its lasting impact on the community.
Discover what makes Kells a beloved gathering place for generations.
In this episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast, Scott Cowan welcomes Kendall Jones, founder of the Washington Beer Blog, to discuss the history and future of craft beer in Washington State. Kendall shares his journey from an aspiring rock star to a renowned voice in the beer community, weaving together stories of personal discovery, local breweries, and the unique character of Washington beer.
From Bellevue t...
Welcome back to another inspiring episode of the Exploring Washington State Podcast! This time, Scott Cowan sits down with Meghan Storey, a talented musician with an extraordinary story of resilience, creativity, and passion. From her challenging beginnings on the streets of Seattle to becoming a celebrated artist, Meghan shares her incredible journey of triumph over adversity.
Episode Highlights:
- A Musical Child...
Today’s guest is Tim Nyhus, a passionate explorer uncovering the hidden treasures of ghost towns and abandoned mines across the state.
Episode Highlights
- A Journey into Washington’s Forgotten Past
- Tim shares how his love for history and family road trips inspired him to explore ghost towns and mines, starting with the abandoned coal town of Melmont in 2009. Hear about his first-hand experiences uncovering these histor...
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...
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 Gems
- Think you know Skagit? Think again! ...
Popular Podcasts
UConn basketball star Azzi Fudd brings her championship swag to iHeart Women’s Sports with Fudd Around and Find Out, a weekly podcast that takes fans along for the ride as Azzi spends her final year of college trying to reclaim the National Championship and prepare to be a first round WNBA draft pick. Ever wonder what it’s like to be a world-class athlete in the public spotlight while still managing schoolwork, friendships and family time? It’s time to Fudd Around and Find Out!
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.