Spent the Rent Podcast

Guest is congressional candidate Melissa Bird, who is running to represent Oregon’s 4th District is available now on all streaming platforms and @ strpod.com

This seat was held for 36 years by Peter DeFazio before being passed to current incumbent Val Hoyle in 2022. Now, Bird is stepping forward with a platform rooted in social work, Indigenous identity, and advocacy for working-class communities.

In this episode, we talk about:

• How her background as a social worker shaped her path to politics

• Representing marginalized voices and tribal communities

• What separates her vision from the current leadership

• Public safety, transparency, and trust in government

• Rural vs. urban priorities in Oregon’s 4th District

• Her “Rural New Deal” and “Food as Medicine” approach

• Building bridges across political divides

• The realities of running a grassroots campaign

We also reflect on progressive campaigns in Oregon, including figures like Doyle Canning, and what it takes to challenge the political status quo.

If you're trying to understand where the district is headed and who’s stepping up to lead it, this is a conversation worth hearing.

In this episode Patty Rose is joined by Eric Dziura, a candidate for EWEB board of Commissioners. Dziura is a veteren, working as a fighter pilot amoung other things. He has also spent a good ammount of time working in education and as a mechanical engineer.

Check out more about his campain

@ eric4eweb.com

for more episodes go to strpod.com

On this episode, we sit down with Thomas Hiura, who is running for West Lane County Commissioner, District 1. Known throughout the community for his strong relationships, thoughtful leadership style, and ability to bring people together, Thomas has built a reputation as someone who listens first and leads with intention.

We dive into his political journey—what got him involved in public service, the experiences that shaped his perspective, and why now is the time he’s stepping up to run. Thomas talks about his deep connection to Lane County, the challenges facing West Lane, and how he plans to approach issues with a balance of collaboration and decisiveness.

We also explore how he works with people he disagrees with, why he’s earned broad support and endorsements across different groups, and what it really takes to build trust in local politics. Plus, we get into the personal side—his love for music and how it influences who he is outside of the political arena.

If you want to understand the person behind the campaign and what he hopes to bring to Lane County, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

stream at strpod.com

Dale Borland, Fire Chief for Lane Fire Authority, joins the podcast to talk about ballot Levy 20-378 and how if not passed could lead to catastophic consequences.

Ky Fireside Interview | State Representative District 7 (Springfield) | Episode 251

In this episode, we sit down with Ky, who is running for State Representative in Oregon’s District 7, representing Springfield. We talk about why they’re running, what they’re hearing from people in the community, and how they plan to take on the biggest challenges facing working families today.

From affordability and housing to public safety, education, and supporting small businesses, this is a straightforward conversation about what Ky says needs to change—and how they plan to fight for it.

We also touch on how they compare to their opponent, Kori Rodley, and what sets their approach apart in this race.

If you live in Springfield or District 7—or just want to stay informed on local politics—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

#OregonPolitics #SpringfieldOregon #District7 #StateRepresentative #LocalElections #Podcast #KyFireside

Kori Rodley is a City Councilor running for State Representative in Oregon to represent Springfield at the State Level.

Patric Miller ( ShopLocal541.com ) joins the podcast with host Patty Rose for the 9th installment of Two Pats in a Pod.

In this episode, we sit down with Sean VanGordon, current Mayor of Springfield, Oregon, who is now running for Lane County Commissioner.

We dig into why he’s making the move from city to county leadership, what most people misunderstand about the limits of a mayor’s power, and why county commissioners play a critical role in disaster response, infrastructure, and regional decision-making.

We also take a hard look at VanGordon’s record as mayor — successes, shortcomings, and lessons learned — including roads, budgeting, and long-term planning.

Finally, we discuss the race itself and the contrast with his opponent, David Loevall, including critiques of Loevall’s voting record, priorities around treatment facilities, and broader differences in governing philosophy.

No slogans. No gotchas.
Just context, accountability, and real conversation.

🔗 strpod.com
🎧 Spent the Rent Podcast

Eugene rapper, KI Design, gets his haircut at StutzCutz Barbershop and talks about new music, being forced to use social for promotion, and why comedy sucks now, among other things

In Episode 246, Patty Rose sits down with Eugene artist and activist Plaedo for an open, free-flowing conversation about creativity and more all while he gets a fresh cut at StutzCutz Barbershop in Eugene, Oregon

Listen, subscribe, and support the show at strpod.com