On this episode, Jody Ellen Akerman, owner of Bright Eye’s Photography sits down with the crew.  Bright Eye’s Photography is located in Puyallup at 116 S Meridian #A.  Their mission is to take absolutely captivating portraits of their customers that even they didn't know could be possible!  Find them online and make your appointment today for a photo shoot consultation!     

00:10 – Randy Newman welcomes listeners to this episode, Justin introduces Jody, and talks about the circles they’ve run together in the past.  He talks about the newest toy he bought for the cats, the learning curve behind it, and Jody talks about what drew her into photography.  She talks about the need to fulfill her creativity side, what got her started in photography, and where her business is located.      

15:05 – Justin reflects on his visit to Big Whiskey in Puyallup, Jody talks about the vulnerability behind boudoir photography, and her lifetime love of capturing photos.  Justin talks about the dopamine rushes he gets with his creativity at work, Jody explains what customers can expect from start to finish of a photoshoot, and how long the process overall takes.      

30:02 – Justin talks about working with Jody to buy their house, his steampunk bar, and Jody talks about finding an amazing steampunk picture for it.  She talks about performing at the Spanish Ballroom in McMenamins, Scott shares his interesting experience while ghost hunting at Brandy’s Attic, and explains that The Union Club building was built crooked.   

44:30 – Each shares if they are on Team Jacob or Team Edward, Jody talks about the different types of shoots she does, and the administrative side of the business.  Justin talks about how having a team goes a long way, Jody recommends people find a good CPA, and the type of loan she took out for her business. 

Thanks, Jody for an awesome conversation and for sharing your love of art and music! Special Guest: Jody Ellen Akerman. Sponsored By:RCF Exteriors: Cut Wood. Not Corners.

RCF Exteriors specializes in Window and Door installation across the South Puget Sound region. 

RCF Exteriors is a customer service orientated company with 20+ years experience in window and door installation. Our efficient and knowledgeable team is dedication to making sure you are satisfied with not only the final product but throughout the entire installation process. 

Email: rcfexteriors@gmail.com
Phone: 253-446-8854

Support The Grit City Podcast Links:Boudoir Photography | Bright Eyes Photography | PuyallupBright Eyes Photography | Facebook — Welcome to Bright Eyes Photography & thank you so much for visiting! Union Club Tacoma — The Union Club is a coworking + event space in a historic building in the heart of downtown Tacoma. Built in 1888, Union Club contributes to Tacoma’s growing artistic and entrepreneurial communities.Colleen (@cookiecolleenk) • Instagram photos and videosBright Eyes Boudoir • Instagram photos and videosJody Ellen | Facebook

GCP: Bright Eyes Photography - Jody Ellen Akerman

The Grit City Podcast is a weekly audio experience like no other! Hosted from the vibrant city of Tacoma, Washington - also known as "Grit City," our show has been entertaining and informing listeners since 2014. And what a ride it's been! 
Every week, we release a new episode that introduces you to the dynamic and inspiring individuals who call the Pacific Northwest home. From local business owners and entrepreneurs to authors, artists, and unique characters, our guests embody the hard-working, blue-collar spirit that Grit City is known for. And let's not forget the occasional drug-fueled weirdo we may have met at a comedy club the night before!
The Grit City Podcast first launched back in the summer of 2014 and quickly built a loyal fanbase of listeners who appreciated the show's unique perspective on the Seattle/Tacoma area. After a brief hiatus in 2017, the podcast was rebooted in 2018, with even more friends and family members involved. It quickly regained its "must listen to" status and went on to deliver an impressive 275 episodes and counting, delivering over 280 hours of audio content to our fans since. With no signs of slowing down soon!
Our mission at The Grit City Podcast is simple: to bring the hard-working spirit of the Pacific Northwest to the world and have a good time doing it! We aim to create a community of listeners who understand and appreciate the concept of "grit". With a focus on local business owners, entrepreneurs, and unique characters, sprinkled with a good dose of humor, The Grit City Podcast is a one-of-a-kind audio experience that you won't want to miss.
So, if you're looking for a weekly dose of inspiration, laughter, and a celebration of the human spirit, look no further than The Grit City Podcast! Subscribe now and join us for the ride!
We would love to hear how you found us.  Get in touch here (/contact/) or: info@gritcitypodcast.com
Looking for a way to support the show?  
Stop by the Store (/store) and pick up some Merch or Check out our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/GritCityPodcast):  https://www.patreon.com/GritCityPodcast

Society & Culture

Personal Journals

History

Philosophy

Places & Travel

Comedy

This Friday Night Grit, the crew discusses Crypticon, upcoming guests, car problems, public transportation, moon talk, Over The Moon Café, and AI music.

01:34 – Derek reflects on harassing Discord live stream during the recording of the last episode, each expresses their love of partying, and Justin shares their excitement for the upcoming Crypticon. He talks about the 13th-floor parties happening at the event, they discuss the celebrities attending this year, and Justin discusses upcoming GCP guests.

24:25 – Justin talks about the shindig happening after they record at Union Club at the end of May, the upcoming Static-X and Seven Dust concert, and his recent car troubles.  He shares the incredible journey the event took him on, gives appreciation to his grandpa for fixing cars as a kid, and Scott talks about baby Kei trucks.  

45:36 – Justin and Scott make plans to be train-to-Seattle buddies, Justin reflects on his past nerd rage, and they give their reviews of the card game Exploding Kittens.  Derek talks about him and his wife getting back into board games, Justin dives into moon talk, and shares his experience at the Over The Moon Café. 

72:45 – Justin talks about the amazing love notes on the tables at the café, getting emotional while reading them, and highly recommends people check the place out.  He expresses his love of that area in Tacoma, the dress attire of the restaurant, and Jeff talks about loving the excuse to dress up while on a cruise.     Sponsored By:Uneasy Events: Make Memories, Forge Friendships

That's our mission. We've designed our games to be optimal for conversations amongst teammates. Our hosts have seen recent transplants make their first friends, watched good-natured team rivalries form, and helped form countless memories.
Small. Diverse. Local. Good.
Those are our values, and we consider them all when making any business decision.

Small
We only work with owners who operate three or fewer establishments. No real estate developers, no chains, just hands-on restaurateurs. 

Diverse
We continue to work to make sure our content writers, fact-checkers, and fun-checkers represent our players.

Local
Rounds on PNW history, prizes from other small businesses, and customized games for each one of our venues. 

Good
We generate money for good people. We visit every site that applies or is recommended, and make sure the hourly staff are treated well. Support The Grit City Podcast Links:Crypticon Seattle › Largest Fans of the Macabre in the NWRainy Day Rabbit Holes Podcast | Pacific Northwest History — Journey through PNW's best stories with your hosts Shea & Jody.ThreadsStatic-X and Sevendust Announce 3rd Leg of the Machine Killer Tour andThe Grit City Podcast: SPICE! Dances of the African and Arab DiasporaThe McGuire Twins - WikipediaExploding Kittens | Party card games, puzzles, greeting cards & moreUneasy Events — Make Memories, Forge FriendshipsUneasy Events (@uneasyevents) • Instagram photos and videos — Original trivia, music bingo & puzzles for the nerds of TacomaWeekend Update: Gumby Returns - SNL - YouTubeOver The Moon Cafe'One Woman Spa - Tacoma's One Spa for All Your Needs! - One Woman Spa — One Woman Spa is a Boutique Spa located in the heart of South Tacoma. Udio - Wikipedia — Udio is a generative artificial intelligence model that produces music based on prompts.

GCP: Friday Night Grit - Car Problems, AI Music, and Things Happening

This time the crew discusses 4/20 partakings, Fallout, GCP Coloring Book, Jeff’s Capades, Crypticon, and much, much more!

01:23 – Justin kicks off the episode reflecting on recording the day before, what they did post their 4/20 recording, and Derek talks about binge watching Fallout.  Justin talks about the bonuses Patrons get, how Discord has been a savior for the podcast, and he gives a rundown of his weekend events.  He talks about watching his favorite band of all time and the last time he saw them play live.

15:22 – Justin talks about the kick-ass present the GCP Patron and friend, Klackwax gave him, his visit to 7 Seas Brewery, and encourages listeners to give feedback on the new Grit City Pop Quiz.  Jeff talks about creating the GCP color book and plans to do a digital copy for the Patrons, and they dive into Jeff’s Capades.  

31:28 – Jeff talks about the luck penny that was left at his door, Justin encourages people to always report events to FIRST 311, and speaks to how knowledge is power.  He talks about the haps at Crypticon, the various panels he’ll be a part of over the weekend, and Scott talks about the hearse show that’s there.

45:18 – Derek speaks to the truth behind the Pax Plague, Justin reflects on refereeing KY Jelly Wrestling matches, and plans for the upcoming Putt Stuff Two.  He announces when the Northwest Pinball and Arcade show is going on, talks about what people can expect when going to the Tacoma Porchfest Event, and Scott reflects on who was the best player on his golf team. Sponsored By:RCF Exteriors: Cut Wood. Not Corners.

RCF Exteriors specializes in Window and Door installation across the South Puget Sound region. 

RCF Exteriors is a customer service orientated company with 20+ years experience in window and door installation. Our efficient and knowledgeable team is dedication to making sure you are satisfied with not only the final product but throughout the entire installation process. 

Email: rcfexteriors@gmail.com
Phone: 253-446-8854

Cosmic Bottles: Tap into the universe of craft beer!
CRAFT BEER FOR YOU!

Tired of the same old grocery store beer selection? Looking for a beer selection that caters to your taste?
At Cosmic Bottles the choice is always yours.

Every day: 11am - 10pm

27116 167th Place SE
Suite 108
Covington, WA 98042Support The Grit City Podcast Links:7 Seas BrewingByron Pullen Real Estate | University Place WA | Facebook — If you’re in the market to buy or sell a home, you’ve come to the right spot. Whatever your realCrypticon Seattle › Largest Fans of the Macabre in the NWNorthwest Pinball and Arcade ShowTacoma Porchfest

GCP: Sunday Sermon - The Next Day, The Coloring Book, and Neighbors

The guys chat about the recent Best Of, Jury Duty, Scott Topics, the Fallout show, and local sporting events.  

00:02 – The official GCP Robot sings us into this episode, Justin starts off discussing the events around the recent eclipse, and Mercury retrograde.  He gives a shout-out to CNote who has been re-discovering GCP episode gems, being recently summoned to Jury Duty, and manifesting the case being resolved before trial.  

15:49 – Justin talks about Kaysha enjoying Cosmic Bottles, plans to redo his deck, and gives a shout-out to GCP's amazing listener, Autumn.  He talks about donating board games to his local public library, the ability to take your own items, at no additional charge, to be smashed at Brainyactz, and Derek talks about the cathartic feeling that comes from smashing old dishes. 

30:01 – Emily gives the guys a little bit of a taste of what types of trivia people can expect at an Uneasy Events, Justin brings back Scott Topics, and Scott talks about what people can find in the awesome city of Westport.  Justin talks about his love of Ocean Shores, his favorite time to visit, and Derek talks about his first recent visit there.  

46:26 – Scott talks about watching surfers on the coast, Erik jumps in and talks about some upcoming sporting events, and his back into attending social group rides like Tacoma’s TNR.  Justin talks about getting geared up for Fallout, Derek expresses his appreciation of the show’s creators, and they share their love of the Walton Goggins.      Sponsored By:Uneasy Events: Make Memories, Forge Friendships

That's our mission. We've designed our games to be optimal for conversations amongst teammates. Our hosts have seen recent transplants make their first friends, watched good-natured team rivalries form, and helped form countless memories.
Small. Diverse. Local. Good.
Those are our values, and we consider them all when making any business decision.

Small
We only work with owners who operate three or fewer establishments. No real estate developers, no chains, just hands-on restaurateurs. 

Diverse
We continue to work to make sure our content writers, fact-checkers, and fun-checkers represent our players.

Local
Rounds on PNW history, prizes from other small businesses, and customized games for each one of our venues. 

Good
We generate money for good people. We visit every site that applies or is recommended, and make sure the hourly staff are treated well. Cosmic Bottles: Tap into the universe of craft beer!
CRAFT BEER FOR YOU!

Tired of the same old grocery store beer selection? Looking for a beer selection that caters to your taste?
At Cosmic Bottles the choice is always yours.

Every day: 11am - 10pm

27116 167th Place SE
Suite 108
Covington, WA 98042Support The Grit City Podcast Links:New Frontier Lounge – Tacoma – food, spirits,live music, bar,resaurant,cocktailsRCF ExteriorsAlexandriaRPG.com — We are a nonprofit charity based in Washington State.  We travel with a lending library to events to share role-playing games with others.Brainy Actz Escape Rooms - California, Nevada, Arizona, & WashingtonUneasy Events — Make Memories, Forge FriendshipsUneasy Events (@uneasyevents) • Instagram photos and videos — Original trivia, music bingo & puzzles for the nerds of TacomaTacoma Runners | Facebook — The Tacoma Runners share a common interest in running and Tacoma. Watch Fallout - Season 1 | Prime Video — Based on one of the greatest video games of all time, Fallout is the story of haves and have-nots in a world in which there’s almost nothing left to have.THE TACOMPTON FILES - YouTube — THE TACOMPTON FILESThe Grit City Podcast - Tacompton Files — Tacompton Files has been a guest on 5 episodes.EclipsesTacoma TNR | Facebook

GCP: Saturday Night Grit - Eclipse, Rage Rooms, & Fallout

This week's episode is a blast from the past.  The crew brings you a Best Of where they talked to local Seattle rapper Streetball Supe back in 2019. Streetball Supe is an independent artist from Seattle's Central District. You can find him on your favorite music streaming service including Apple Music or Spotify.  Special props to GCP friend Cnote for suggesting the replay of this episode!  

5:46 - Justin apologizes to Brogan for hijacking his backpack 22 years ago, Supe introduces himself, and plays Judge Judy determining that Justin needs to buy Brogan a new backpack. He tells the guys how long he’s been rapping, what got him into it, and he gave a shout-out to his producer Spaz on the Beat. He shares the want to move to a more positive life after his release from prison, the love of supporting his craft, and gives his reviews of the other amazing hip-hop artists from Seattle.

14:39 – Supe gives a shout-out to The Crocodile venue in Seattle, the process he went through to get his latest EP out, and he talks about being hit in the neck with an axe 9 months ago. He shares being in downtown Seattle and seeing a guy walking towards him, him looking up and realizing he had been hit in the neck. He gives a shout-out to Harborview Hospital, his steps towards recovery, and his quickness to get back into rapping a week after he was out of the hospital.

24:12 – Supe shares his love for his new song, Name Offa Work, shares how he came up with the name, and his shock at the amount fans that visited him while he was in the hospital. He shares his close connection with his family, talks about his recent video, and where people can find it online.

33:45 – Supe talks about his want to turn his music into a career, he explains the importance of networking and promoting fellow artists, and Brogan talks about the power behind simply sharing stories and promotions on social media. Supe talks about his like to meet his listeners in person, Justin gives Supe props for the remarkable message he has to share, and how people can find him online.

In closing, keep in mind, that no matter how tough things get, it's still a win if you didn't catch an axe to the neck.  #perspective Special Guest: Streeball Supe. Sponsored By:Grit City Magazine: Grit City Magazine was founded on the notion that Tacoma has good stories to tell. We explore the places that define it, pay homage to the history that built it, and celebrate the people who make it what it is today.Grim Workshop: Grim Workshop specializes in the making and using of ultralight, reusable, and wearable everyday carry tools. Perfect for a standalone ultralight survival kit that you can keep on hand at all times or as an addition to an existing survival kit to remove unwanted weight.
A Family Owned and Operated Company
Grim Workshop is proudly family owned and operated deep in the heart of TexasThe Union Club: The Union Club is a coworking space contributing to Tacoma's growing artistic and entrepreneurial communities. It combines a maker studio, event hall, and office coworking space, in a 15,000 square foot historic building in downtown Tacoma, Washington.
Support The Grit City Podcast Links:The Grit City Podcast: Streetball Supe — This time the guys are joined by local Seattle rapper Streetball Supe. Streetball Supe is an independent artist from Seattle's Central District.GRIT CITY MAGAZINEStream StreetBall Supe music | Listen to songs, albums, playlists for free on SoundCloudStreetball Supe - Hit Different (Official Music Video) - YouTube

GCP: BEST OF - Streetball Supe

Michelle and David from Tacoma Handywoman join the crew on this episode.  Michelle, Tacoma’s local “Jill” of all trades has over 5 years experience as a handywoman.  She dedicates herself to serving the community by offering knowledgeable, affordable, and high-quality services.  Check out the website for information on the services they offer and conveniently book an appointment online!

00:00 – Justin starts the episode reflecting on their flat earther podcast, Michelle talks about what got her started as a handywoman, and speaks to how essential it is for people to update their home electrical wiring.  David talks about what drew him into doing handy work, Justin talks about the McDonalds Monopoly Scandal, and the hard work behind the physical trades.     

22:27 – Michelle talks about when she got her business license, starting out with grassroots advertising, and how much money it saved her.  Justin shares his drill bit experience, his upcoming home project, and Derek expresses the importance of home fix-it work being done correctly.  Justin dives into coaster questions and Michelle recommends what handy home tools people should get in their first apartment.

41:12 – Michelle talks about the craziest hack she’s ever run into, reflects on a recent electric switch repair, and the amount of DIYs she’s run into.  Scott talks about how Pythian Temple originally had gas lighting, Michelle shares the types of jobs she enjoys doing over others, and the number one mistakes people make when hanging things.   

66:22 – Michelle talks about other odd jobs she takes on, driving stick in Seattle, and some basic tips people should consider before embarking on home repairs.  David encourages people to try things on their own but know their limits and be prepared to call a professional. 

Michelle talks about enjoying teaching customers how to do the work themselves and the importance of having a no-contact tester.

Thanks, Michelle and David for the great conversation, we look forward to having you back on soon!    Special Guest: Handywoman. Sponsored By:Cosmic Bottles: Tap into the universe of craft beer!
CRAFT BEER FOR YOU!

Tired of the same old grocery store beer selection? Looking for a beer selection that caters to your taste?
At Cosmic Bottles the choice is always yours.

Every day: 11am - 10pm

27116 167th Place SE
Suite 108
Covington, WA 98042Die Cut Stickers: Use the code GRITCITY15 at checkout and get 15% off your entire order!
·         Insanely custom stickers crafted to survive the PNW and beyond! Promo Code: GRITCITY15The Union Club: The Union Club is a coworking space contributing to Tacoma's growing artistic and entrepreneurial communities. It combines a maker studio, event hall, and office coworking space, in a 15,000 square foot historic building in downtown Tacoma, Washington.
Support The Grit City Podcast Links:About — Tacoma Handywoman — Hi, I’m Michelle! With over five years of experience in the field of handy(wo)man work, I've dedicated myself to serving my community by offering knowledgeable, affordable, and high-quality services.Tacoma Handywoman | FacebookThe Grit City Podcast: Flat Earth with Mark SargentUnion Club TacomaTribal Electric LLCMcMillions - WikipediaBiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social NetworkNon-Contact Voltage Tester

GCP: Bright Eyes Photography - Jody Ellen Akerman

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