Thad Odell, a veteran math professor with nearly four decades of teaching experience and a master’s degree in theology, joins Jason to discuss the relationship between mathematics, philosophy, science, and faith. Together they explore questions about truth, the existence of God, and how logical reasoning—historically rooted in mathematics—has shaped philosophical thinking since the time of Socrates. The conversation also touches on relativism, identity, skepticism toward institutions, and the rise of agnosticism, while examining how scientific inquiry, probability, and the observable order of the universe intersect with the idea of intelligent design. Along the way, they reflect on what we believe, why we believe it, and how to begin exploring life’s biggest questions about meaning, purpose, and reality.

Show Links:

Stephen Meyer - https://stephencmeyer.org/

John Lennox - https://johnlennox.org/

C. S. Lewis - https://www.cslewis.com/us/

Frank Turek - https://crossexamined.org

Mt. St. Helens Creation Museum - https://www.mshcreationcenter.org/

🎙️ About the Podcast:

Ever wonder what’s actually happening behind the scenes in Lewis County? JAlves brings you face-to-face with the leaders and influencers of our region. Jason explores the lives and legacies of local politicians, entrepreneurs, and community pillars to understand their vision for our future. No soundbites, just real talk with the people who make Lewis County run.Subscribe for more deep dives into the stories of local leaders and entrepreneurs.

📢 BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST

Do you have a story to tell or a business to share? Are you an influencer, leader, or community member making a difference in Lewis County? Jason is always looking for new voices to feature on the show.

Get in touch to book a session: Email: [email protected]

Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/JAlvesShow

Growth is coming, but how do we grow without losing our roots?In this episode, we sit down with District 3 Lewis County Commissioner Scott Brummer to explore the evolving role of county government at a pivotal moment for our community. As population increases and development pressures mount, we discuss how local leaders are working to preserve agricultural lands, protect rural character, and maintain the small-town values that define us. We also tackle the complex relationship between state and local government, examining how state policies can shape—or limit—local autonomy and decision-making. This is a candid, insightful conversation about leadership, stewardship, and the future of our county.🎙️ *About the Podcast:*Ever wonder what’s actually happening behind the scenes in Lewis County? JAlves brings you face-to-face with the leaders and influencers of our region. Jason explores the lives and legacies of local politicians, entrepreneurs, and community pillars to understand their vision for our future. No soundbites, just real talk with the people who make Lewis County run.Subscribe for more deep dives into the stories of local leaders and entrepreneurs.📢 *BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST*Do you have a story to tell or a business to share? Are you an influencer, leader, or community member making a difference in Lewis County? Jason is always looking for new voices to feature on the show.*Get in touch to book a session:*Email: [email protected] Media: https://www.facebook.com/JAlvesShow

In this episode of the JAlves Podcast, we sit down with Centralia leader and entrepreneur Sarah Althauser. Sarah’s journey is a testament to the power of community investment—from her years as a kindergarten teacher and her service on the Centralia City Council to her current role as Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Lewis County.

Sarah shares the "behind-the-scenes" story of opening The Juice Box Public House with her husband, Levi. We discuss the challenge of revitalizing a historic downtown space and how they’ve turned a local taproom into a "community living room" for all ages.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The transition from education to local politics.

• The vision behind The Juice Box and its role in downtown Centralia.

• Balancing public service, business ownership, and family life.

• The future of the Pine Street Plaza and community growth.

This episode with Sean Swope offers a deep dive into the front-line issues of local governance and the personal convictions that drive his work as a Lewis County Commissioner.

Fiscal Responsibility and Community Conviction: A Deep Dive with Sean Swope

What does it take to lead through some of the most complex issues facing Lewis County today? In this episode of The JAlves Show, Jason sits down with Sean Swope, the County Commissioner for District 1, to explore the intersection of faith, business, and public policy.

Sean shares insights from his journey from a background in ministry and marketing to serving on the Board of County Commissioners, where he has become a vocal advocate for public safety, fiscal accountability, and the protection of parental rights.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Local Governance & Accountability: Sean’s approach to "manufactured deficits" and his fight for responsible state and local spending.

• Public Safety & The Drug Crisis: Insights into the ongoing efforts to address homelessness and drug addiction in our community.

• The "Light Police" Controversy: Sean explains his stand on the recent light pollution code enforcement and the importance of property rights.

• The Future of Energy: Why Sean believes the highest and best use for the TransAlta property is power creation to fuel local jobs.

• Faith & Business: How Sean’s personal history and convictions inform his decisions at the courthouse.

Whether you are a resident of District 1 or just interested in how local government actually works, Sean’s candid take on the challenges and opportunities in Lewis County is a must-listen

In this episode Caleb and Jason discuss ANOTHER dominant performance by the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX over the New England Patriots to become Champions of the NFL.🎙️ *About the Podcast:*Ever wonder what’s actually happening behind the scenes in Lewis County? JAlves brings you face-to-face with the leaders and influencers of our region. Jason explores the lives and legacies of local politicians, entrepreneurs, and community pillars to understand their vision for our future. No soundbites, just real talk with the people who make Lewis County run.Subscribe for more deep dives into the stories of local leaders and entrepreneurs.📢 *BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST*Do you have a story to tell or a business to share? Are you an influencer, leader, or community member making a difference in Lewis County? Jason is always looking for new voices to feature on the show.*Get in touch to book a session:*Email: [email protected] Media: https://www.facebook.com/JAlvesShow

Your vote, your schools, and the future of Centralia. 🗳️🍎

In this episode, Jason Alves sits down with Dr. Lisa Grant, Superintendent of the Centralia School District, to discuss the upcoming Replacement Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy on the February 10, 2026, ballot.

Since taking the helm in 2020, Dr. Grant has been a pivotal figure in Lewis County education, even being named The Chronicle’s Person of the Year for her leadership. Today, she joins the show to provide transparency and clarity on how local levy funds directly impact our students, teachers, and facilities.

What we cover in this episode:

• The "Why" Behind the Levy: Understanding the gap between state funding and the actual cost of running our schools.

• The Financial Breakdown: A look at the proposed $1.70 rate and what it means for your property taxes.

• Programs at Stake: How these funds support athletics, safety, technology, and extracurriculars.

• The Future of Centralia: Why strong schools are the backbone of a thriving local economy.

Important Election Dates:

• Ballots Mailed: Mid-January

• Election Day: Tuesday, February 10, 2026

• District Info: Centralia School District Website

• Election Details: Lewis County Elections

About The JAlves Show:No soundbites, just real talk with the leaders of Lewis County. Subscribe for more deep dives into the stories and issues shaping our community.

#CentraliaWA #CentraliaSchools #SchoolLevy #LewisCounty #Education #JAlvesShow #LocalPolicy #CommunitySupport

On this episode Caleb and Jason discuss ANOTHER dominant win against the 49er's in the Divisional round, reactions to the NFC Championship Game, and the Super Bowl LX Matchup between the Seahawks and the Patriots.🎙️ *About the Podcast:*Ever wonder what’s actually happening behind the scenes in Lewis County? JAlves brings you face-to-face with the leaders and influencers of our region. Jason explores the lives and legacies of local politicians, entrepreneurs, and community pillars to understand their vision for our future. No soundbites, just real talk with the people who make Lewis County run.Subscribe for more deep dives into the stories of local leaders and entrepreneurs.📢 *BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST*Do you have a story to tell or a business to share? Are you an influencer, leader, or community member making a difference in Lewis County? Jason is always looking for new voices to feature on the show.*Get in touch to book a session:*Email: [email protected] Media: https://www.facebook.com/JAlvesShow

How do we balance industrial growth with environmental preservation in Lewis County? 🌲🐟

In this episode, Jason Alves sits down with Bob Russell, a retired Navy veteran, Aeronautical Engineer, and Certified Wetland Specialist who has lived in Chehalis for over 20 years.

Bob and Jason first met serving together on the Lewis County Planning Commission, and they bring that insider perspective to a deep-dive conversation about the local policies and projects shaping our region.

Highlights of this episode include:

• Land Use & Codes: The reality of light pollution and critical area enforcement in Lewis County.

• Building on Wetlands: What every property owner needs to know about local regulations.

• Salmon Restoration: Understanding "Salmon Highways" and Bob’s work with the Conservation District.

• The Future of Energy: Bob’s USDA-funded study on woody biomass and the creation of a national-first "Biozone" right here in Lewis County.

Whether you're a local landowner or just interested in the future of our natural resources, Bob Russell’s expertise offers a fascinating masterclass in community stewardship.

In this episode Caleb and Jason discuss the Seahawks DOMINANT week 18 win over their Division rival the San Francisco 49er's and look back at the 2025 season for the Hawks with a few behind the scenes stories thrown in.

🎙️ *About the Podcast:*Ever wonder what’s actually happening behind the scenes in Lewis County? JAlves brings you face-to-face with the leaders and influencers of our region. Jason explores the lives and legacies of local politicians, entrepreneurs, and community pillars to understand their vision for our future. No soundbites, just real talk with the people who make Lewis County run.Subscribe for more deep dives into the stories of local leaders and entrepreneurs.📢 *BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST*Do you have a story to tell or a business to share? Are you an influencer, leader, or community member making a difference in Lewis County? Jason is always looking for new voices to feature on the show.*Get in touch to book an appearance:*Email: [email protected] Media: https://www.facebook.com/JAlvesShow

Jessica is the owner of JJ’s to Go