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What makes a brand more than just a business? The answer lies in the deeply human stories behind the logos, products, and mission statements.

Birth of the Brands takes you on an intimate journey with Central Oregon's most promising entrepreneurs as they navigate the thrilling, terrifying path from inspiration to launch. Host Adam Short sits down with eight founders from the 2025 Bend Outdoor Worx Outdoor Accelerator Program to uncover the pivotal moments that shaped their vision and the personal experiences that fuel their passion.

You'll meet Tiffany Huey, who's breathing new life into her great-grandfather's leather care company while honoring its nearly century-old legacy. Through touching testimonials from longtime users like Richard Bryant, we discover how quality craftsmanship creates generational impact. "I've used it on furniture, belts, boots, everything is leather," Bryant shares, revealing how this product has supported his ranching livelihood for over 60 years.

Then there's Tim Karpinski, co-founder of the iconic Grenade Gloves, who candidly discusses his journey through addiction to sobriety and how that transformation led to creating Spiral Wax Company with pro snowboarder Max Warbington. "I got super into self-care, meditation... I wonder if I could bring some of that into snowboarding," Tim reflects, showcasing how authentic personal growth translates into business innovation.

We also follow recent OSU-Cascades graduates Kai Nevers and Kate Raber, whose childhood memories of family road trips inspired Wanderhut—a company creating accessible car camping solutions born from their own experience of "sleeping out of the back of the car probably four nights a week" while balancing student life with their passion for the outdoors.

These are only three of the eight founders and brands that we'll be introducing. Each episode goes beyond business strategies to explore the mentors, families, friends, and customers who breathe life into something new. Listen this fall wherever you get your podcasts and discover why great businesses aren't just built—they're born.

Support The Circling Podcast:

Email us at: [email protected]
Join the Circling membership: patreon.com/Thecirclingpodcast
Follow us on Instagram @thecirclingpodcast @bendmagazine
Cover Song by: @theerinsmusic
Bend Magazine. Remember to enter promo code: Podcast at checkout for your five-dollar annual subscription. https://bendmagazine.com.
BOSS Sports Performance: https://www.bosssportsperformance.com
Back Porch Coffee: https://www.backporchcoffeeroasters.com
Story Booth: https://www.storyboothexperience.com

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Ever found yourself captivated by stories from places you've never been? That's the magic we've discovered with The Circling Podcast. What started as a celebration of Central Oregon's unique character has evolved into something that transcends geography – authentic stories that offer meaning and perspective to listeners everywhere.

As the natural rhythms of spring and summer unfold in our beautiful region, I've made the decision to temporarily pause production of new episodes. This wasn't easy, but it feels right for this season as I focus on growing StoryBooth, my audio storytelling business. Consider this less a goodbye and more an intermission in our ongoing conversation.

The exciting news? This fall, we're returning with something fresh and powerful. In collaboration with Oregon Media and Bend Magazine, we're launching "Birth of the Brands" – a new podcast series spotlighting local entrepreneurship and brand development. Our first season will feature eight remarkable companies from the 10th annual Bend Outdoor Works Startup Accelerator, diving deep into their founder journeys, challenges, and breakthroughs. Want to experience this entrepreneurial energy firsthand? Join us at the Bend Outdoor Works breakout pitch event on October 25th, where these innovative companies will compete for prizes and you can cast your vote for your favorite. Learn more at bendoutdoorworks.com and stay tuned for our return – it'll be worth the wait. Until then, get outside and remember: the health of our community depends on us all.

Support The Circling Podcast:

Email us at: [email protected]
Join the Circling membership: patreon.com/Thecirclingpodcast
Follow us on Instagram @thecirclingpodcast @bendmagazine
Cover Song by: @theerinsmusic
Bend Magazine. Remember to enter promo code: Podcast at checkout for your five-dollar annual subscription. https://bendmagazine.com.
BOSS Sports Performance: https://www.bosssportsperformance.com
Back Porch Coffee: https://www.backporchcoffeeroasters.com
Story Booth: https://www.storyboothexperience.com

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When April Lawyer opened Vanilla in Bend's Old Mill District back in 2005, she was still racing professionally as a downhill mountain biker. Today, as her boutique celebrates nearly 20 years in business, her remarkable journey from action sports athlete to successful entrepreneur reveals how our past experiences shape unexpected futures.

Growing up in Big Bear Lake, California, April's early entrepreneurial spirit emerged through a childhood lemonade stand that evolved into selling treats from her bedroom window. Her introduction to snowboarding came through free ski days at the local mountain, sparking a passion that would lead to professional career. Meeting legendary snowboarder Janna Meyen became a pivotal moment, offering April both friendship and mentorship.

The 1997 Winter X Games in her hometown of Big Bear was a defining moment for April, as she became the only female athlete to compete in both snowboarding and mountain biking. April's talent, work ethic and the media spotlight opened doors that took her across the globe, riding on both snow and dirt. However, a serious crash at the 1999 X Games in Crested Butte led to a head injury, gradually shifting her focus toward mountain biking.

During her eleven years racing professionally, April developed valuable relationships with brands and gained experience in product development. After witnessing a friend's serious accident, she began contemplating her future beyond racing. Working at a friend's boutique had given her a taste of retail, and the seed of an idea began to form.

With remarkable determination, April secured a space in Bend's Old Mill District before she even had a business name. Opening Vanilla while still racing professionally, she initially kept her athletic background separate, wanting the store to stand on its own merits. Today, the boutique has become a beloved Bend institution known for both its carefully curated merchandise and the genuine community April has fostered.

Through April's story, we see how the skills developed in one arena—determination, authenticity, community-building, and resilience—can translate into success in entirely different ventures. Her journey reminds us that sometimes our most meaningful chapters come after following unexpected paths.

The Circling Podcast is proud to be in partnership with Bend Magazine. Claim your five-dollar annual subscription when you visit www.bendmagazine.com and enter promo code: PODCAST at checkout. Your subscription includes 6 issues of our regions top publication celebrating mountain culture, and four bonus issues of Bend Home and Design, the leading home and building design magazine in Central Oregon. 

www.storyboothexperience.com 

Support The Circling Podcast:

Email us at: [email protected]
Join the Circling membership: patreon.com/Thecirclingpodcast
Follow us on Instagram @thecirclingpodcast @bendmagazine
Cover Song by: @theerinsmusic
Bend Magazine. Remember to enter promo code: Podcast at checkout for your five-dollar annual subscription. https://bendmagazine.com.
BOSS Sports Performance: https://www.bosssportsperformance.com
Back Porch Coffee: https://www.backporchcoffeeroasters.com
Story Booth: https://www.storyboothexperience.com

Remember, the health of our community, relies on us!

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Cornelius and Hannah Edison share their inspiring journey from professional athletes to business owners and parents, discussing the challenges of moving through life transitions. They emphasize the core values of resilience, community building, and the importance of vulnerability while pursuing their passions.

• Explore the transformation from pro sports to entrepreneurship
• Navigate the challenges of balancing family life with business
• Discuss the impact of injury and adversity on personal growth
• Share insights on mental health and vulnerability in conversations
• Outline goals for building a supportive community for youth
• Highlight the importance of resilience and hard work in achieving success

Art of Hustle Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/art-of-hustle/id1785035320
https://howwefeel.org/

The Circling Podcast is proud to be in partnership with Bend Magazine. Claim your five-dollar annual subscription when you visit www.bendmagazine.com and enter promo code: PODCAST at checkout. Your subscription includes 6 issues of our regions top publication celebrating mountain culture, and four bonus issues of Bend Home and Design, the leading home and building design magazine in Central Oregon. 

www.storyboothexperience.com 

Support The Circling Podcast:

Email us at: [email protected]
Join the Circling membership: patreon.com/Thecirclingpodcast
Follow us on Instagram @thecirclingpodcast @bendmagazine
Cover Song by: @theerinsmusic
Bend Magazine. Remember to enter promo code: Podcast at checkout for your five-dollar annual subscription. https://bendmagazine.com.
BOSS Sports Performance: https://www.bosssportsperformance.com
Back Porch Coffee: https://www.backporchcoffeeroasters.com
Story Booth: https://www.storyboothexperience.com

Remember, the health of our community, relies on us!

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Episode 62 of Bend Magazine’s The Circling Podcast brings together an inspiring conversation with Caitlin and Tryg Bjornstad, the visionary founders of the Board House Society. This nonprofit is on a mission to create not only the region’s only indoor skatepark—Buy also an inclusive multisue space that goes beyond skating. With plans for a multi-use venue that includes event spaces, community gathering areas, and retail offerings, Board House Society aims to foster a welcoming environment where people of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds can connect, skateboard year-round, and participate in meaningful community activities.

 In this episode, Tryg opens up about a deeply personal and formative experience—his time at the Spring Creek Lodge boarding school in Montana. He shares how the trauma he endured and the healing process that followed have shaped his passion and drive to create Board House as a safe and empowering space for others.

 Joining us is Trent Bowman, a key community partner with Board House Society and a Tactics skate team member. Trent shares how skateboarding has influenced his life, his involvement with the project, and his hopes for the future of this transformative park.

 You Tryg, I recently read this idea from author John David Mann: That is, what we have to give in life, we offer least through our words, more through our actions, but most of all through who we are. 

 I’m exicted to watch Board House come to life man. In fact, in many ways, I believe it already has.  

The Circling Podcast is proud to be in partnership with Bend Magazine. Claim your five-dollar annual subscription when you visit www.bendmagazine.com and enter promo code: PODCAST at checkout. Your subscription includes 6 issues of our regions top publication celebrating mountain culture, and four bonus issues of Bend Home and Design, the leading home and building design magazine in Central Oregon. 

www.storyboothexperience.com 

Support The Circling Podcast:

Email us at: [email protected]
Join the Circling membership: patreon.com/Thecirclingpodcast
Follow us on Instagram @thecirclingpodcast @bendmagazine
Cover Song by: @theerinsmusic
Bend Magazine. Remember to enter promo code: Podcast at checkout for your five-dollar annual subscription. https://bendmagazine.com.
BOSS Sports Performance: https://www.bosssportsperformance.com
Back Porch Coffee: https://www.backporchcoffeeroasters.com
Story Booth: https://www.storyboothexperience.com

Remember, the health of our community, relies on us!

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Bola Gbadebo, a journalist, poet, musician, and filmmaker, takes us on an inspiring journey of personal growth in the effort of redefining confidence. Through her unique lens, we explore how embracing vulnerability and understanding the power of community stories can transform our perception of self-belief. Bola's documentary, "Confidence," serves as a pivotal touchstone in our discussion, highlighting the courage it takes to embrace imperfections and the strength found in resilience.

Bola shares her inspiring career transition from sales to journalism during the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by her passion for storytelling and community engagement. With insights from friends and family, we uncover Bola's f pursuit of journalism as a platform for connection and self-challenge. The narrative delves into the intentionality and authenticity needed to build trust and relationships, while also exploring the creative process behind her documentary work. Through discussions of loss aversion and the courage to embrace growth, we gain valuable insights into the profound impact of empathy and vulnerability in shaping our shared human experience in the pursuit of confidence. 

The Circling Podcast is proud to be in partnership with Bend Magazine. Claim your five-dollar annual subscription when you visit www.bendmagazine.com and enter promo code: PODCAST at checkout. Your subscription includes 6 issues of our regions top publication celebrating mountain culture, and four bonus issues of Bend Home and Design, the leading home and building design magazine in Central Oregon. 

www.storyboothexperience.com 

Support The Circling Podcast:

Email us at: [email protected]
Join the Circling membership: patreon.com/Thecirclingpodcast
Follow us on Instagram @thecirclingpodcast @bendmagazine
Cover Song by: @theerinsmusic
Bend Magazine. Remember to enter promo code: Podcast at checkout for your five-dollar annual subscription. https://bendmagazine.com.
BOSS Sports Performance: https://www.bosssportsperformance.com
Back Porch Coffee: https://www.backporchcoffeeroasters.com
Story Booth: https://www.storyboothexperience.com

Remember, the health of our community, relies on us!

Send us a text

Discover the inspiring journey behind Bend Outdoor Worx (BOW) from its founding members, Gary Bracelin, Will Blout, and Justin Rae. Learn how they turned a simple idea into a powerful startup accelerator that has been shaping the outdoor industry since 2014. Through personal stories and shared experiences, hear about the collaborative spirit and unique challenges the founders faced, and how their vision has continued to thrive and evolve. This episode promises to offer invaluable insights into the world of outdoor entrepreneurship and the vital role mentorship plays in navigating the complex landscape of business.

Get ready to be inspired by the story of Rob Little, one of BOW's first entrepreneurs, as he shares the transformative impact of mentorship beyond financial gains. From overcoming initial hurdles to building a supportive community, Rob's anecdotes illuminate the significance of having a dedicated mentor. The episode also explores the shifting dynamics of B2B and D2C sales models and how BOW has successfully guided numerous companies through these transitions. Understand how emotional preparedness, teamwork, and the right community can make all the difference in both the business world and the great outdoors.

Finally, delve into the deep connections between BOW and its alumni, highlighting the mutual growth and ongoing support that define this unique accelerator program. With reflections on community-building efforts and the collective commitment required to maintain impactful initiatives, this episode is a testament to the power of collaboration and the joy of seeing a shared vision come to life. Tune in to discover how Bend Outdoor Worx  continues to foster innovation and support within the outdoor industry, creating lasting relationships and thriving businesses.

The Circling Podcast is proud to be in partnership with Bend Magazine. Claim your five-dollar annual subscription when you visit www.bendmagazine.com and enter promo code: PODCAST at checkout. Your subscription includes 6 issues of our regions top publication celebrating mountain culture, and four bonus issues of Bend Home and Design, the leading home and building design magazine in Central Oregon. 

www.storyboothexperience.com 

Support The Circling Podcast:

Email us at: [email protected]
Join the Circling membership: patreon.com/Thecirclingpodcast
Follow us on Instagram @thecirclingpodcast @bendmagazine
Cover Song by: @theerinsmusic
Bend Magazine. Remember to enter promo code: Podcast at checkout for your five-dollar annual subscription. https://bendmagazine.com.
BOSS Sports Performance: https://www.bosssportsperformance.com
Back Porch Coffee: https://www.backporchcoffeeroasters.com
Story Booth: https://www.storyboothexperience.com

Remember, the health of our community, relies on us!

Send us a text

I recently came across the idea that photography is a universal language, one that transcends borders and can be understood by anyone, anywhere in the world. It's fascinating to think of the camera as an instrument that teaches us how to truly see the world, even when we're not actively using it.

In episode 59 of Bend Magazine’s The Circling Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with professional photographer Ben Kitching. We discussed the evolution of his passion for outdoor adventure and how his life’s journey has enabled him to turn this passion into a thriving career as an adventure photographer.

Ben shared the story of how, while in college, he made the bold decision to shift his focus from attending medical school to pursuing a life dedicated to the outdoors. This choice allowed him to deepen his knowledge and technical skills in the wild. He also talked about how his experience working as a wilderness therapy guide helped him develop a level of emotional fluency that, when combined with his technical expertise, makes him well-suited to work with a diverse range of athletes—whether they're in the mountains, on a river, or climbing a multi-pitch route.

Last year, Ben embarked on a personal project that centers on both professional and amateur outdoor adventure athletes. His goal is to share the inspiration he regularly draws from his subjects. Through dynamic and engaging photography, combined with a unique storytelling approach, the Oregon Outdoor Athlete Project showcases individual adventurers in their natural environments, highlighting their talents and sharing the personal motivations behind their lifestyles. Each athlete's story offers a glimpse into the opportunities for growth that their outdoor pursuits provide.

Ben, thank you for your time. It was a pleasure speaking with you, and I look forward to following your continued successes.

https://www.benkitchingphotography.com
https://www.oregonoutdoorathleteproject.com/
https://www.murillophoto.com/

The Circling Podcast is proud to be in partnership with Bend Magazine. Claim your five-dollar annual subscription when you visit www.bendmagazine.com and enter promo code: PODCAST at checkout. Your subscription includes 6 issues of our regions top publication celebrating mountain culture, and four bonus issues of Bend Home and Design, the leading home and building design magazine in Central Oregon. 

www.storyboothexperience.com 

Support The Circling Podcast:

Email us at: [email protected]
Join the Circling membership: patreon.com/Thecirclingpodcast
Follow us on Instagram @thecirclingpodcast @bendmagazine
Cover Song by: @theerinsmusic
Bend Magazine. Remember to enter promo code: Podcast at checkout for your five-dollar annual subscription. https://bendmagazine.com.
BOSS Sports Performance: https://www.bosssportsperformance.com
Back Porch Coffee: https://www.backporchcoffeeroasters.com
Story Booth: https://www.storyboothexperience.com

Remember, the health of our community, relies on us!

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On episode 58 of Bend Magazine’s The Circling Podcast, I have the pleasure of chatting with Sarah Westhusing, the Founder and Owner of House of Milo, a distinguished interior design studio based here in Bend, Oregon.

Stay tuned as Sarah delves into how her exposure to her father's skilled woodworking and carpentry business at an early age influenced her unique design philosophy. From materials and colors to textures and scents, Sarah was immersed in the many facets of the design process, fostering an appreciation for how well-designed spaces can create meaningful connections between people.

Before founding House of Milo, Sarah worked as a global product line manager at Nike, specializing in product creation, branding, and merchandising. In 2016, she and her family relocated to Bend to be closer to family and find a better work-life balance. After a three-year stint at Hydro Flask, Sarah launched House of Milo Interior Design Studio in 2019, named in honor of her daughter.

Drawing from her experience at top brands like Nike, Sarah combines her keen observational skills with a critical eye for creating functional and beautiful spaces. Her goal is to design homes where vacations are rarely necessary, as the spaces themselves are a true reflection of the people living in them.Thank you for joining us on the podcast, Sarah. I'm a big fan of you, your work, and your family. Until next time, my friend.

The Circling Podcast is proud to be in partnership with Bend Magazine. Claim your five-dollar annual subscription when you visit www.bendmagazine.com and enter promo code: PODCAST at checkout. Your subscription includes 6 issues of our regions top publication celebrating mountain culture, and four bonus issues of Bend Home and Design, the leading home and building design magazine in Central Oregon. 

www.storyboothexperience.com 

Support The Circling Podcast:

Email us at: [email protected]
Join the Circling membership: patreon.com/Thecirclingpodcast
Follow us on Instagram @thecirclingpodcast @bendmagazine
Cover Song by: @theerinsmusic
Bend Magazine. Remember to enter promo code: Podcast at checkout for your five-dollar annual subscription. https://bendmagazine.com.
BOSS Sports Performance: https://www.bosssportsperformance.com
Back Porch Coffee: https://www.backporchcoffeeroasters.com
Story Booth: https://www.storyboothexperience.com

Remember, the health of our community, relies on us!

Send us a text

Ever wondered how small acts of kindness can change lives? Rob McDonald, co-owner of Stand on Liquid Paddleboards and Latitude 44 Sports, takes us on an inspiring journey from his humble beginnings as an underachieving kid to making significant impacts at tech giants Amazon and Apple.

Delve into his professional evolution from a substitute teacher and copy editor to a key player in the audiobook segments at Amazon and Apple, learning fro industry titans like Jeff Bezos and Steve Jobs. Rob’s reflections on overcoming self-doubt and embracing new challenges provide a powerful testament to personal growth and resilience.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at Rob's entrepreneurial ventures, including the upcoming Skyliner Club, a state-of-the-art health and wellness facility in Bend, Oregon. Learn about the highs and lows of managing a business during a pandemic, the rise of inflatable paddleboards, and the importance of community-focused retail. Rob's journey underscores the transformative power of outdoor experiences and the vital role of human connection in fostering emotional, mental, and physical well-being.

https://standonliquid.com/
https://www.latitude44sports.com/

Intro Music provided by: 
Dim Shandy by Blue Dot Sessions

 Jumbel by Blue Dot Sessions

The Circling Podcast is proud to be in partnership with Bend Magazine. Claim your five-dollar annual subscription when you visit www.bendmagazine.com and enter promo code: PODCAST at checkout. Your subscription includes 6 issues of our regions top publication celebrating mountain culture, and four bonus issues of Bend Home and Design, the leading home and building design magazine in Central Oregon. 

www.storyboothexperience.com 

Support The Circling Podcast:

Email us at: [email protected]
Join the Circling membership: patreon.com/Thecirclingpodcast
Follow us on Instagram @thecirclingpodcast @bendmagazine
Cover Song by: @theerinsmusic
Bend Magazine. Remember to enter promo code: Podcast at checkout for your five-dollar annual subscription. https://bendmagazine.com.
BOSS Sports Performance: https://www.bosssportsperformance.com
Back Porch Coffee: https://www.backporchcoffeeroasters.com
Story Booth: https://www.storyboothexperience.com

Remember, the health of our community, relies on us!