By Explore Washington State -Scott Cowan
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The podcast currently has 310 episodes available.
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 can look like.
To kick things off, Jesse updates us on his famous yacht, which he uses as a floating office. After a complete restoration, it's still going strong, and I even took a trip to Poulsboo for some relaxation. As Jesse says, it's a labor of love—a new engine, a rebuilt transom, and the whole deal. It's clear that for him, hospitality isn't just about running hotels or lodges. It's about creating experiences; sometimes, that means turning a boat into your workspace!
Scott's questions about Jesse's Pacific Dunes property, and Jesse is more than happy to give us the scoop. They've been adding to the "vintage vibe" of the place with a new coffee shop, a gift shop, and even a beer garden. Plus, there's that bridge Scott had to ask about. It's not just a metaphor—Jesse and his team really built a bridge to give guests easy access to the beachfront. Instead of a long walk, it's a quick 5-minute stroll to get your toes in the sand.
Details like these make Pacific Dunes more than just a place to stay. Jesse's vision for the property is all about offering guests more than just a room—it's about giving them an unforgettable experience. Whether sipping coffee at the new shop or enjoying a local beer in the garden, it's clear that Pacific Dunes is becoming a destination in its own right.
But it's not just about yachts and bridges. Jesse's been hard at work expanding the accommodations at Pacific Dunes, too. They've added tiny homes, glamping tents, and more RV stalls, making it the perfect spot for group events like weddings. And it's not just about sleeping under the stars—guests can rent out an entire "glamping village," combining the best of both worlds: the comfort of private lodging with the charm of an outdoor adventure
.Growing Beyond Washington StateHearing about JET Hospitality's growth is one of the most exciting parts of the conversation. Jesse shares that they've expanded beyond Washington into states like Wyoming, Utah, and Idaho, with 10 locations across five states. But don't worry, Washington State still holds a special place in Jesse's heart, and he hints that there are always new projects on the horizon in the Evergreen State.
Jesse's passion for restoring and revitalizing old properties is contagious. Whether he's turning a forgotten motor inn into a boutique roadside stop or transforming a historic haunted hotel in Wyoming, he's all about preserving history while giving it a modern twist. His latest purchase, the Virginian Hotel, comes with a rich history—and a few friendly ghosts, according to Jesse!
So, what's next for Jesse and his team? Plenty. JET Hospitality is diving into new territory with its "motor inn" concept, refreshing old roadside motels and adding modern touches like electric vehicle charging stations and on-site coffee trucks. The idea is to compete with major hotel brands while offering something that feels more personal and unique. Jesse says they're not afraid to tackle projects others might shy away from, making JET Hospitality's portfolio so exciting.
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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 and unique lifestyle.
Lisa's passion for photography began with family photos during the "film days," capturing memories of her children. As she started hiking Washington's trails, her focus shifted to landscapes. She transitioned from film to digital with a Pentax camera, later embracing Nikon's mirrorless cameras for their efficiency and advanced features. Despite her professional gear, Lisa often uses her iPhone, saying, "The camera you have with you is better than no camera."
Autumn is Lisa's favorite season for photography, and her work has been featured on Explore Washington State. Lisa captures stunning fall road trip scenes from Mount Baker's Artist Point to the North Cascades Highway. One standout shot is of a Japanese maple tree at Kubota Garden, a photo that has captivated her audience. Her secret? Patience, persistence, and finding the right light.
Lisa is passionate about teaching others, offering workshops that take photographers to some of Washington's most scenic spots. Her workshops focus on helping participants find their unique compositions. She emphasizes that great shots take time and practice. Only two out of 30 photos of the Kubota Garden tree stood out as exceptional. Her advice for beginners: Don't be discouraged by the numbers.
Lisa has lived on a 42-foot powerboat in Puget Sound for the past four years. While boat life presents challenges like cold winters and small hot water tanks, the breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and sunsets make it worthwhile. Lisa cherishes her lifestyle, which complements her passion for capturing Washington's natural beauty.
As Lisa continues to explore and photograph Washington's landscapes, she remains dedicated to sharing her experiences through her workshops and personal work. Her advice? "Just go and see." Whether you're an aspiring photographer or a seasoned traveler, Washington's beauty awaits you.
With her camera and adventurous spirit, Lisa reminds us to appreciate the beauty around us—whether on a hike through the Cascades or from the deck of a boat in Puget Sound.
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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 design and marketing to create Island Time Coffee.
Chris's love for coffee and design naturally led to the founding of Island Time Coffee on Whidbey Island. He explained the brand concept through a Venn diagram, showcasing what makes his coffee unique—from its intense blends to the island lifestyle it represents.
Launching a new brand during a pandemic comes with its set of challenges. Chris faced significant supply chain issues, with costs skyrocketing shortly after his product hit the market. However, he adapted by scaling back and focusing on growing the business organically.
As of September 2024, Island Time Coffee has expanded to about 40 retail locations, particularly thriving in small, privately owned boutique stores. Recently doubling his footprint, Chris anticipates solid growth in these new stores over the next year.
Chris plans to maintain the brand's purposeful nature, focusing on the Greater Seattle and Puget Sound region and potentially expanding to the San Juan Islands. He stressed the importance of remaining true to the island lifestyle that defines Island Time Coffee.
Aside from coffee, Chris indulged in artistic endeavors through art cars during his time in Seattle. These cars, covered in toys and artistic materials, were a hit at events like the Fremont Fair. Even though he faced challenges with ferry inspections, the experience added a unique twist to his journey.
Chris is passionate about giving back to the community. He collaborates with Orca Network, a nonprofit focused on whale awareness. By donating a portion of his coffee sales and using authentic whale photos, Chris combines his business with meaningful contributions to local causes.
If you enjoy coffee I know you will LOVE Island Time Coffee Thanks for listening to the episode.
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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.
That is not why she is our guest. 😉
The centerpiece of Kelly's current endeavors is her book project, "Seattle Samurai," which pays tribute to her father's cartoon career. Kelly has meticulously curated and presented her father's cartoons, aiming to create a comprehensive narrative despite the challenges. The beautifully designed book embodies honor and respect, core themes of the Bushido code, and is a testament to her father's artistic contributions.
Creating "Seattle Samurai" was no small feat. Kelly spent countless hours refining the book, facing significant setbacks and sleepless nights. An epiphany about organizing the book around the character Samurai Shigeru and the Bushido code helped her overcome creative blocks. With support from Chin Music Press and dedicated editorial team members, Kelly ensured the book honored her father's legacy while adhering to historical accuracy and thematic consistency.
Kelly's family's approach to art and life embraces the beauty of imperfection, a philosophy known as Wabi-Sabi. This ethos is evident in their practical mindset and love for handcrafted solutions, whether a modified toilet paper holder or intricate engravings on teeth. The Goto family's collaborative spirit and dedication to preserving history and art shine through in their creations and storytelling.
Through her book, Kelly commemorates her father's artistic contributions and celebrates her family's shared creative journey. Her book tour offers an opportunity to connect with new audiences, bridging generations and communities. As Kelly navigates the excitement and nerves of sharing her father's legacy, her dedication to preserving and honoring their story remains unwavering.
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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.
Did you know the Suciasaurus is the official Dinosaur of Washington State? Kelly has written a book that details the story of the Suciasaurus dinosaur fossil was found in the unlikely place of Sucia Island here is Washington. During our conversation we discuss the research that goes into writing a children's book and the process of having a book published.
During our conversation, Kelly shared her writing journey, highlighting the challenges and motivations that drive her. Her tenacity and ability to turn frustration into inspiration are evident. We gain insight into her diverse collection of books on cryptids and other unconventional topics, showcasing her unwavering dedication to her craft.
From growing up in Texas to embracing her passion for the weird and wonderful, Kelly's journey provides a rich tapestry of experiences. Her transition from investigative journalism to writing books for kids signifies a pivotal moment in her life. We learn about her resilience in overcoming setbacks and her relentless pursuit of empowerment, a narrative that resonates deeply.
Kelly's powerful message about embracing individuality is a call to celebrate our uniqueness. Her unwavering dedication to educating children about critical thinking and research skills leaves a lasting impact. This aspect of her character shines through, sparking inspiration in us all.
Kelly's website The Wonders of Weird
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Welcome to the latest edition of the Exploring Washington State podcast, where we bring you the best of Washington State.
In this episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Juliet Kennedy, the marketing director for the Twisp Chamber of Commerce. Juliet shared her insider knowledge of the hidden gems and unique experiences in Twisp and the beautiful Methow Valley.
We hear about Twisp Fest which is being held on September 27th and 28th 2024. This annual event features a community potluck, art walk, and much more. Juliet shares some of the special events happening this year at Twisp Fest.
Perhaps you want to see fireworks in winter? Christmas at the End of the Road is just for you. This annual event is held in Winthrop and is the celebration of the beginning of the holiday season. Maybe Mistletoe is your thing. Juliet shares details about Mistletoe Madness in Twisp.
Spring time brings wild flowers and outdoor activities throughout the Methow Valley. Juliet shares some of her favorite hikes in the area.
Summertime it's all about staying cool. Juliet shares some fun things to do in Twisp during the summer including checking out the Twisp Farmers Market. One of the oldest farmers markets in Washington State. Of course Twisp has a 4th of July parade that features all of the creative and fun things and people in the Methow Valley.
Listening to this episode will make you pack up your car and drive to Twisp. There is so much to do and see in Twisp and the Methow Valley on of Washington States true gems.
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Meet Steve Duda. Originally from Detroit now living in Seattle. Steve is currently the Head of Fish Tales for Patagonia. Steve was introduced to Fly Fishing when he was listing in Boise. Quickly Fly Fishing "hooked" him. Moving to Seattle and working at the Rocket Magazine and Amazon Music Steve started writing about Fly Fishing. Steve has recently published his first book River Songs.
📖 Dive into the Book: "River Songs, Moments of Wild Wonder in Fly Fishing" captivated us with its stunning woodcut illustrations by Matthew DeLorme and tales of fishing adventures.
Steve shares stories about his favorite foods when out fishing. We learn about "capping" a prank that Steve and his fishing buddies We wrap up with Steve's preference between cake and pie.
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Step right up, folks! In this episode of *Exploring Washington State*, we get the scoop from the delightful Kristina Paquette about her thrilling experiences at the Kittitas County Fair.
Gather 'round as we unravel the enchantment of fairgrounds, cotton candy dreams, and the tantalizing array of food offerings that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance!
Kristina takes us on a mesmerizing tour of the Kittitas County Fair, where she wears many hats, from promoting and ticket sales to overseeing exhibitor entries.
Delve into the fair's rich history, from its origins in 1885 to its evolution into a dazzling extravaganza held at the Kittitas Valley Event Center from August 29th to September 2nd, 2024.
Discover the insider's guide to the Kittitas County Fair, including tips on parking, admission discounts, and the not-to-be-missed pre-show events. Uncover the heartwarming tales of community support, the magic of livestock auctions, and the vibrant energy of over 1100 exhibitors showcasing their talents.
Kristina is the mastermind behind the delightful Cherry on Top Cart Company, serving up the fluffiest, naturally flavored cotton candy in town. She dishes on her journey from university to launching her mobile cotton candy venture, with exciting plans to expand into frozen drinks and popcorn. You can almost taste the magic of her favorite flavors – coconut, root beer, key lime, and cherry!
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Let's dive into the world of Kinley Schmidt and Lauren Trivison, the passionate founders of Gals Need Pals, a community for women based in Spokane Washington.
During our conversation they share their experiences, favorite places, and the journey of creating a space for women to connect, support each other, and enjoy meaningful experiences.
The spark that ignited the Gals Need Pals events is turned into a blaze of vibrant experiences with events like the Bridgerton-themed brunch, creating a welcoming haven for women. The pride in working with local businesses, from hosting events to social media collaborations, radiates through their stories, detailing the heart and soul behind their community-building efforts.
The journey continues with an inspiring look at their event series, expansion plans, and the potential nationwide reach of Gals Need Pals. Their thoughtful deliberation on selecting new locations and collaborating with vendors reveals not just a business expansion, but a deep commitment to creating meaningful and inclusive experiences for women across the country.
In a rapidly changing world, where human connections are often strained, the tale of Gals Need Pals resonates deeply, offering a guiding light for anyone seeking meaningful connections and heartfelt experiences.
As the episode draws to a close, the deep impact of community, friendship, and shared moments echo vividly, urging all listeners to seek out their own Gals Need Pals space, wherever they may be.
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Rob Kenney's journey is a testament to the unpredictability of life's pathways. Starting his career in sales despite being an introvert, he embraced the challenges, demonstrating that sometimes, the greatest successes stem from unexpected beginnings. His willingness to pivot, adapt, and find success while navigating panic attacks and social anxiety is both admirable and relatable.
Through his YouTube channel, Rob Kenney aims to offer practical life wisdom, honesty, and empathy, targeting a wider audience. His commitment to providing useful content, maintaining mental well-being, and balancing the demands of social media with a semi-retired life are anecdotes worth applauding. His gentle reminder to prioritize content's value over the allure of virality is a breath of fresh air in an age of digital metrics.
Rob Kenney's emphasis on the value of community college, 2-year degrees, and transfer protocols offers invaluable guidance for individuals navigating higher education. His reflections on his journey from the gas station to Boeing, coupled with his commitment to helping others through similar experiences, highlight the transformative power of accessible education and mentorship.
Rob's genuine willingness to provide hands-on guidance, evident through emails from viewers seeking advice on fixing drains or tying ties, epitomizes the compassion and empathy that defines his platform. His dedication to offering useful content for everyone, regardless of age or gender, serves as an inspiring call to leverage our experiences to uplift and support others.
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