Ever Onward Podcast

Ahlquist.
  • 4.4 (27)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

The Ever Onward Podcast is your go-to business podcast, offering engaging discussions and diverse guests covering everything from business strategies to community issues. Join us at the executive table as we bring together industry leaders, experts, and visionaries for insightful conversations that go beyond the boardroom. Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply curious about business, our podcast provides a well-rounded experience, exploring a variety of topics that shape the business landscape and impact communities. Brought to you by Ahlquist. 

  1. Are Idaho’s Public Lands at Risk? Rep. James Petzke | Ever Onward - Ep. 123

    2D AGO

    Are Idaho’s Public Lands at Risk? Rep. James Petzke | Ever Onward - Ep. 123

    Send us Fan Mail In part two of our public lands series, we’re joined by Idaho State Representative James Petzke and Idaho Wildlife Federation Executive Director Nick Fasciano for a deeper conversation on one of the most important issues shaping Idaho’s future. Public lands are more than just places to recreate—they’re a defining part of why people choose to live, work, and stay in Idaho. From the Frank Church Wilderness to the Sawtooths, Clearwater, and Owyhees, these landscapes drive quality of life, economic growth, and the culture of the state. In this episode, we go beyond the surface to talk about what’s really happening: • The recent federal land sale conversations and what they mean for Idaho • Why public lands are one of the biggest drivers of population growth • The challenge of funding and maintaining non-motorized trails • The role of the legislature in protecting access and balancing priorities • State endowment lands, recreation access, and long-term decision making We also explore the tension between access and preservation, the realities of policymaking, and what it actually takes to protect these places for future generations. If you care about Idaho, the outdoors, or the future of growth in the West—this conversation matters. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

    54 min
  2. Why Public Lands Matter to Idaho with Nick Fasciano & Dan Waugh | Ever Onward - Ep. 122

    APR 27

    Why Public Lands Matter to Idaho with Nick Fasciano & Dan Waugh | Ever Onward - Ep. 122

    Send us Fan Mail Public lands are a defining part of Idaho — shaping our lifestyle, economy, and identity. In this episode of the Ever Onward Podcast, Tommy Ahlquist sits down with Nick Fasciano, Executive Director of the Idaho Wildlife Federation, and Dan Waugh, Executive Director of the Idaho Recreation Council, to break down why public lands matter to Idaho and the growing conversations surrounding their future. With more than 60% of the state made up of public land, the impact stretches far beyond recreation. From hunting and fishing to hiking, motorized access, rural economies, and conservation, these lands play a critical role in how Idaho functions today — and what it becomes moving forward. This conversation covers the recent national debate around selling public lands, the importance of keeping them public, and the real challenges tied to management, funding, wildfire, and access. You’ll also hear perspectives on how hunters and anglers drive conservation, why outdoor recreation has become a multi-billion-dollar industry in Idaho, and what needs to happen to better manage these lands for future generations. Topics include: • Idaho public lands and federal land ownership • Outdoor recreation economy and growth • Hunting, fishing, and conservation funding • Wildlife management and habitat health • Forest management and wildfire challenges • Rural county impacts and funding gaps • Motorized vs. non-motorized access • The debate over selling public lands • The future of public land policy in Idaho Whether you spend time in the outdoors or simply care about the future of Idaho, this episode provides important context on one of the most impactful issues facing the state today. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

    1h 6m
  3. What Every Idaho Parent Should Know About Schools with Jennifer Swindell of Idaho Education News | Ever Onward - Ep. 121

    APR 20

    What Every Idaho Parent Should Know About Schools with Jennifer Swindell of Idaho Education News | Ever Onward - Ep. 121

    Send us Fan Mail What’s really happening in Idaho’s education system—and where is it headed next? In this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist and Roger Quarles sit down with Jennifer Swindell, CEO, founder, and editor of Idaho Education News, to unpack the realities behind education across the state. From her early career as a journalist and the first female sports editor in the country to building Idaho’s leading education news platform, Jennifer brings a unique perspective on the intersection of education, policy, leadership, and data. Together, they dive into the most important topics shaping Idaho education today, including the rise of school choice, the role of parent involvement, and why leadership is often the biggest driver of success—not funding alone. The conversation also explores challenges facing rural school districts, the growing importance of data and accountability, and how communities can better engage with their local schools. With over two million annual page views, Idaho Education News has become a trusted resource for parents, educators, and leaders looking to better understand the system and make informed decisions. If you care about the future of Idaho, education, or your community—this is a conversation worth listening to. Episode Highlights Jennifer Swindell’s journey from journalism to education leadershipThe origin and mission of Idaho Education NewsSchool choice and its impact across IdahoLeadership vs. funding in driving school performanceRural education challenges and community identityWhy parents play a bigger role than ever beforeUsing data to improve outcomes and accountabilityFollow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

    47 min
  4. The Truth About Idaho Education with Debbie Critchfield | Ever Onward - Ep. 120

    APR 13

    The Truth About Idaho Education with Debbie Critchfield | Ever Onward - Ep. 120

    Send us Fan Mail Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield returns to Ever Onward with Tommy Ahlquist and Roger Quarles for a candid conversation on what’s really happening inside Idaho schools. From record K–3 reading gains to ongoing struggles in middle school math, this episode breaks down where Idaho education is improving—and where it’s still falling short. They dive into: Why students often fall behind after 6th gradeHow career technical education (CTE) is making school more relevantThe real debate around school choice and taxpayer accountabilityWhy funding isn’t the main issue—how it’s used isThe leadership gap in education and why it matters more than everThe urgency behind every graduating classDebbie also shares what drives her resilience, how she approaches decision-making at the state level, and why developing strong leaders—not just administrators—is critical for the future of education. With over 20,000 students graduating each year in Idaho, the stakes couldn’t be higher. This is a grounded, honest look at the challenges, progress, and future of education in Idaho. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

    50 min
  5. Why School Choice Is Growing in Idaho with Terry Ryan, CEO of BLUUM | Ever Onward - Ep. 119

    APR 6

    Why School Choice Is Growing in Idaho with Terry Ryan, CEO of BLUUM | Ever Onward - Ep. 119

    Send us Fan Mail What does it really take to transform education in Idaho? On this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist and co-host Roger Quarles sit down with Terry Ryan, CEO of BLUUM, Idaho’s leading nonprofit incubator for high-performing public charter schools. Terry shares his remarkable journey—from Illinois to Poland to Idaho—and how that path led him to help launch and expand dozens of schools serving students and families across the state. This conversation explores the future of school choice, why traditional systems can struggle to adapt, and how Idaho has become a model for innovation in public charter education. Terry also breaks down how BLUUM identifies talent, supports school founders, funds growth, and helps create schools built around the unique needs of each community. From rural school preservation to career-technical education, online learning, classical academies, and high-impact charter models like Elevate Academy and Gem Prep, this episode is a deep look at what’s possible when mission, leadership, and community come together. In this episode: • Terry Ryan’s powerful personal journey into education and policy • Why school choice and mission-driven schools matter • How BLUUM has helped launch and expand schools across Idaho • What makes great charter schools work • The role of talent, leadership, and long-term investment in education • Why Idaho is becoming a national model for public charter innovation If you care about the future of education, leadership, and creating opportunity for the next generation, this is a conversation worth hearing. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

    57 min
  6. The Future of Education in Idaho | Roger Quarles on AI, Leadership & What’s Next | Ever Onward - Ep. 118

    MAR 30

    The Future of Education in Idaho | Roger Quarles on AI, Leadership & What’s Next | Ever Onward - Ep. 118

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist sits down with Roger Quarles, Executive Director of the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Foundation, for an in-depth conversation on the present and future of education in Idaho. Roger brings a rare, full-spectrum perspective—having served as a teacher, principal, superintendent, chief deputy state superintendent, and university leader at Boise State. Few people understand Idaho’s education system—from classrooms to policy to innovation—at the level he does. This conversation goes far beyond surface-level talking points. It explores the structural realities, challenges, and opportunities shaping education today—and what must change to prepare the next generation. Key topics include: 1. The State of Education in Idaho How Idaho’s system has evolved over the past 20+ yearsWhere real progress is happening (and where it’s not)The growing gap between urban and rural accessThe role of community identity in shaping school systems2. The Future of Learning in an AI-Driven World Why the traditional education model is becoming increasingly outdatedHow AI, automation, and instant access to knowledge are changing what students need to learnThe shift from memorization to learning how to learnWhat the next 10–20 years could look like for students and educators3. School Choice, Access, and Opportunity What school choice really means for Idaho familiesDifferences between public, charter, and private pathwaysWhy access to opportunity looks very different depending on locationThe tension between efficiency, funding, and community control4. Leadership, Culture, and Hiring Why “culture eats strategy” in both schools and organizationsWhat Roger looks for when hiring leaders at a high levelThe importance of character, humility, and coachabilityBuilding teams that can navigate uncertainty and change5. What Young People Actually Need to Succeed Why being a good human being still matters mostThe increasing importance of communication, awareness, and real-world skillsThe changing value proposition of college and higher educationPractical advice for parents, students, and future leadersThroughout the episode, Roger shares grounded, experience-based insight on how to navigate a rapidly changing world—while staying rooted in values that don’t change. This is a must-listen for: Parents and families in IdahoEducators and school leadersBusiness owners and employersAnyone thinking about the future of work, leadership, and communityFollow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

    1 hr
  7. What’s the growth plan for the Treasure Valley? Craig Raborn of COMPASS | Ever Onward - Ep. 117

    MAR 23

    What’s the growth plan for the Treasure Valley? Craig Raborn of COMPASS | Ever Onward - Ep. 117

    Send us Fan Mail What’s the plan for the Treasure Valley as we continue to grow? In this episode of Ever Onward, Tommy Ahlquist and Garrett Lofto sit down with Craig Raborn, Executive Director of COMPASS (Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho), to talk about the future of growth, transportation, and regional planning across Ada and Canyon County. Craig brings nearly 25 years of experience from some of the fastest-growing regions in the country, including Las Vegas and Houston. Now in Boise, he shares how the Treasure Valley compares, what challenges lie ahead, and why getting aligned on a long-term vision is critical right now. This conversation breaks down: What COMPASS actually does and why it mattersWhy growth needs to be planned 20–30 years in advanceThe concept of “growth paying for growth”Lessons from regions like Salt Lake City and Envision UtahThe role of the business community in shaping the futureWhy vision without execution doesn’t workThis episode is about more than infrastructure. It’s about stewardship, collaboration, and building a region that works for the next generation. Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

    48 min
  8. Why Traffic Feels Different in Boise Now - Ryan Head, ACHD Executive Director | Ever Onward - Ep. 116

    MAR 16

    Why Traffic Feels Different in Boise Now - Ryan Head, ACHD Executive Director | Ever Onward - Ep. 116

    Send us Fan Mail Today on the Ever Onward Podcast, Tommy Ahlquist and Garrett Lofton sit down with Ryan Head, Executive Director of the Ada County Highway District, to talk about why ACHD matters more than ever as the Treasure Valley continues to grow. Ryan shares his journey as a Boise native who worked his way up through ACHD, from writing grants and managing long-range planning to now leading one of the most important public agencies in Ada County. The conversation covers the history of ACHD, why its structure is so unique, how road funding actually works, and what it takes to plan for growth years before the public ever sees pavement go in. They also get into the biggest transportation issues facing the valley today, including impact fees, congestion, safety, Highway 16, Micron’s expansion, and the long-term planning needed to support future growth across Ada County. Ryan also explains why collaboration between cities, businesses, developers, and the public is critical if the Treasure Valley wants to stay ahead of growth instead of constantly reacting to it. This is a valuable conversation for anyone who cares about the future of Boise, Ada County, and how we keep Idaho moving. Episode Summary: Ryan Head of ACHD joins Ever Onward to talk about Boise growth, traffic, road funding, safety, Micron, Highway 16, and the future of transportation in Ada County. Keywords: ACHD, Ada County Highway District, Ryan Head, Boise growth, Treasure Valley traffic, Boise roads, Idaho transportation, Micron Boise, Highway 16, Ada County development, infrastructure, Ever Onward Podcast Chapter Markers: 00:00 Welcome and why ACHD matters 01:51 Ryan Head’s background and Boise roots 04:30 The history and purpose of ACHD 06:53 Road maintenance, quality, and chip seal 08:28 Growth, impact fees, and infrastructure planning 14:43 How ACHD prioritizes projects 18:56 Funding challenges and vehicle registration fees 23:51 ACHD’s relationship with cities 28:31 Safety, schools, and rapid-response improvements 33:03 Highway 16, Micron, and southern growth 38:53 Right-of-way preservation and future bypass planning 41:51 How the business community can help 43:53 Final thoughts and closing Follow Ahlquist on Social Media:  LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/ahlquist/⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ahlquistdev/ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@ahlquistdev X (Twitter): ⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/ahlquistdev Meta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ahlquistdev/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ahlquistdev?si=ejOXPKRqQjtsdVFE

    45 min
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4.4
out of 5
27 Ratings

About

The Ever Onward Podcast is your go-to business podcast, offering engaging discussions and diverse guests covering everything from business strategies to community issues. Join us at the executive table as we bring together industry leaders, experts, and visionaries for insightful conversations that go beyond the boardroom. Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply curious about business, our podcast provides a well-rounded experience, exploring a variety of topics that shape the business landscape and impact communities. Brought to you by Ahlquist. 

Information

  • Creator
    Ahlquist.
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    191
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Ever Onward Podcast
  • Show Website
    Ever Onward Podcast

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