Exploring Washington State

Explore Washington State -Scott Cowan
  • 4.8 (41)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Exploring Washington State

The Exploring Washington State Podcast is for you if you are looking for ideas and inspirations of great places to visit, fantastic places to grab a bite to eat and drink. If you want to know more about the businesses that call Washington State home, learn about the amazing artists who are creating artwork.The State of Washington is an amazing place to live and a great place to visit. The Exploring Washington State Podcast helps to showcase the splendor of Washington State. Remember "there is always more to explore!”

  1. 17 HR. AGO

    Deck the Docks: 20 Years of Holiday Magic at Alderbrook with Mark Phelan

    Meet Mark Phelan, Director of Marketing at the stunning Alderbrook Resort and Spa. If you've ever wondered what it's like to work at one of Washington's most cherished destinations—or if you're seeking inspiration for your next getaway—this conversation is packed with insights, humor, and nostalgia. Mark Phelan: 20 Years at Alderbrook and Counting Mark kicks things off by sharing his incredible 20-year journey with Alderbrook. In hospitality, staying at one place for two decades is rare—and Mark isn't alone. With a core team of longtime staff, including a server and restaurant manager who've been there just as long, Alderbrook's deep sense of community creates a memorable environment for both staff and guests. Mark's path to Alderbrook started in an unexpected place: wildlife biology, after earning his degree from the UW. Mark left his native New York City to embrace the PNW and never looked back. His career shift to hospitality may have surprised him. Still, it's clear from this conversation that Alderbrook has become his second home. Alderbrook's Evolution: From Historic Resort to Modern Haven The story of Alderbrook is as rich as the experiences it offers. Mark discusses the resort's humble beginnings in 1913 when visitors arrived by steamship and camped on the beach. Fast-forward to 2004, the resort was reborn following a major renovation—and it hasn't stopped evolving. A recent remodel revitalized the resort's public spaces, including the cozy Drinkery and a wine and coffee bar behind the front desk. Alderbrook has expanded its offerings with miles of hiking trails, a 54-foot yacht (the Lady Alderbrook), and even a secret dining venue hidden deep in the woods. Whether planning a family vacation or a romantic getaway, Alderbrook offers a blend of history, adventure, and comfort. Holiday Magic and Seasonal Highlights Mark's favorite time at Alderbrook? The holiday season! Starting the day after Thanksgiving with their annual Holidays on the Canal event, the festivities are magical. Picture Santa Claus arriving on the Lady Alderbrook, followed by fireworks, holiday treats, and family-friendly activities. If that's not enough, Cocoa Cruises with Santa is offered every weekend in December. With this intimate experience, kids and parents can meet the big man in red.  When winter settles in with its signature drizzle, Alderbrook offers many ways to stay cozy. Guests can unwind by the fire in the lodge, enjoy wellness classes, or indulge in spa treatments. Mark assures us that Alderbrook's quiet season is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and embrace a slower pace of life. Alderbrook's Culinary Delights Mark's enthusiasm shines when he talks about Alderbrook's food scene. From freshly harvested oysters to the famous Grand Marnier prawns, there's something for every foodie to love. Mark hints at an insider favorite: private dinners in the Gathering Grove. In this hidden outdoor dining space, guests enjoy meals surrounded by towering trees and dappled sunlight. Whether you crave local oysters or a quiet fireside meal, Alderbrook's culinary offerings are worth the trip alone. Looking Ahead: What's Next for Alderbrook? As 2025 approaches, Alderbrook is gearing up for another exciting year. Mark teases potential new adventures, like themed events, expanded wellness programs, and even unique accommodations like treehouses or houseboats. While nothing is set in stone, it's clear that Alderbrook is constantly evolving to surprise and delight its guests. Join Us on the Next Adventure Whether you're a longtime fan of the resort or planning your first visit, you'll find something to inspire you in this conversation. Tune in to learn more about this Pacific Northwest gem and plan your next adventure at Alderbrook Resort and Spa! And don't forget—if Santa keeps returning year after year, maybe you should, too.

    49 min

  2. OCT 16

    Growing Trees, Growing Futures: Ecological Forestry with Kirk Hanson"

    In this episode, we talk with Kirk Hanson, Director of Forestry at the Northwest Natural Resource Group, about his journey from Minnesota to Washington State and his work in sustainable forestry. Kirk has spent years promoting ecologically sound forestry practices that benefit both forest health and landowners’ financial interests. His passion for nature has driven him to create a balance between conservation and economic gain for small forest landowners. Kirk Hanson’s Forestry Path Kirk’s love for the outdoors began in Minnesota, where he developed a fascination for nature and gardening. Upon moving to Washington State, he became captivated by the region’s lush forests and their potential. This inspiration led him to shift from public sector work to a nonprofit role at NNRG, where he now helps landowners manage their forests sustainably. His role focuses on guiding forest owners to balance economic returns with conservation, using methods that promote long-term forest health. Sustainable Forestry vs. Industrial Forestry In this episode, Kirk discusses the differences between sustainable forestry and traditional industrial methods. Industrial forestry often relies on clear-cutting, which can damage the environment, deplete biodiversity, and degrade soil quality. Instead, Kirk advocates for perpetual thinning, a practice that selectively removes weaker trees to promote the growth of stronger ones. This method maintains biodiversity, supports forest resilience, and improves the long-term productivity of the land. Kirk emphasizes that sustainable forestry can be both environmentally friendly and financially viable. Practices like tree pruning, habitat creation, and pre-commercial thinning ensure forests remain healthy while still generating revenue for landowners. Timberland as a Sustainable Investment Kirk also explores how timberland can be a sound investment, especially when approached from a sustainable perspective. He recommends purchasing properties with restrictive easements, which lower acquisition costs and guarantee responsible management. This allows for long-term access while maintaining the ecological value of the land. For forest owners, managing their timberland with these principles can offer both privacy and economic returns over time. FSC Certification Kirk discusses the importance of FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification, which ensures responsible forest management practices. He outlines how small forest landowners can navigate the certification process, which can open doors to new markets and help them sell timber at a higher value. Though challenging, FSC certification is a rewarding way for landowners to support sustainability while profiting from responsible forestry practices. Looking Ahead: New Projects Kirk also shares his plans for future projects, including a potential book on permaculture principles in forestry and women’s involvement in forest management. His future work will continue to explore ways landowners can take a more active role in sustainable forestry while blending it with broader ecological practices. Key Takeaways: Sustainable forestry balances conservation with economic returns. Perpetual thinning and tree pruning enhance forest health. Timberland investment can be both profitable and ecologically responsible. FSC certification supports sustainability and opens new market opportunities. Kirk Hansen’s future work will continue to focus on practical, sustainable forestry solutions. Links & Resources: Learn more about Kirk Hansen and the Northwest Natural Resource Group: Read Kirk’s co-authored book on ecological forest management:

    1h 12m

  3. OCT 9

    Unlock Europe's Hidden Trails with Cassandra Overby

    Cassandra Overby, author of "Home Base Hiking Europe," shares her journey from a business student to a writer inspired by her extensive travels. Rediscovering travel through hiking and connecting with locals, she found it more fulfilling than traditional sightseeing. Her European travels were extended thanks to remote work opportunities, showcasing technology's flexibility. This experience inspired her book on hiking-based European travel, emphasizing safety and navigation using GPX tracks. She also discusses practical aspects like comfortable footwear and the challenges of hiking with young children, leading to home-based hiking adaptations in Europe. Cassandra recounts an accidental European tour with her 14-month-old daughter, which sparked the idea for day hikes between Austrian towns and writing a guide for foot exploration enthusiasts. Her family spent three months in Europe hiking and finalizing routes for the book, which was completed over five months due to parenting responsibilities. The text highlights Austria's Vakau Valley as a family-friendly destination and promotes walking-based travel as budget-friendly. It also mentions affordable travel options from Seattle to Europe. It offers tips on exploring destinations from a hiker's perspective, including coffee experiences and enjoying German cuisine, particularly in Bavaria. Cassandra collaborated with Rick Steves on hiking in Europe, who became her mentor and wrote the foreword for her book. Her book is available in stores and online, with plans for more European hiking guides. They run a website for planning hiking itineraries and offer travel consultations. Cassandra enjoys hiking in Snohomish, Washington, with her family and group, engaging in local activities like mini-golf, and recommending dining spots. She prefers pie over cake and cherishes exploring natural beauty while appreciating familiar places anew. Connect With Cassandra 🥾 Visit Cassandra's Website 🐑 Follow Cassandra on Facebook Connect With Us 📬 Subscribe To The Newsletter 🐑 Follow Us On Facebook 📷 Check Us Out On Instagram 📽️ Join Us On YouTube 🐤 Connect on Twitter 🌲 Visit Our Website Help Us Out 🟢 Leave Us a Rating on Spotify 💜 Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts 🤝 Introduce Us to a Potential Guest

    1h 5m

  4. OCT 2

    Small Town, Big Dreams: Jesse Baker on Expanding JET Hospitality's Unique Retreats

    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! What's Happening at Pacific Dunes? 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. The Rise of Tiny Homes and Glamping 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 State Hearing 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! What's Next for JET Hospitality? 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. Connect With Jet Hospitality 🏚️ Visit their Website 📸 Follow on Instagram 🔗 Check Jet Hospitality on LinkedIn 🐑 Find them on Facebook Connect With Us 📬 Subscribe To The Newsletter 🐑 Follow Us On Facebook 📷 Check Us Out On Instagram 📽️ Join Us On YouTube 🐤 Connect on Twitter 🌲 Visit Our Website Help Us Out 🟢 Leave Us a Rating on Spotify 💜 Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts 🤝 Introduce Us

    44 min

  5. SEP 25

    Exploring Washington’s Autumn: Photography, Adventure, and Life on a Boat with Lisa Mize

    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. From Film to Digital 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." Capturing Autumn in Washington 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. Sharing Knowledge 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. Life on a Boat 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. Looking Forward 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. Connect With Lisa 📸 Visit Lisa Mize Photography 🐑 Follow Lisa on Facebook 🎥 Check out Lisa's photography on Instagram Connect With Us 📬 Subscribe To The Newsletter 🐑 Follow Us On Facebook 📷 Check Us Out On Instagram 📽️ Join Us On YouTube 🐤 Connect on Twitter 🌲 Visit Our Website Help Us Out 🟢 Leave Us a Rating on Spotify 💜 Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts 🤝 Introduce Us to a Potential Guest

    58 min

  6. SEP 18

    Explore the Richness of Island-Inspired Coffee: An Interview with Chris Baldwin

    Meet Chris Baldwin: A Blend of Art and Coffee 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. Island Time Coffee: A Brand Born from Passion 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 Island Time Coffee 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. Island Time Coffee's Growing Reach 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. Future Plans and Brand Strategy 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. Fun with Art Cars and Whidbey Island Activities 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. Community Involvement and Orca Network 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. Connect With Chris and Island Time Coffee 🐑 Follow Island Time Coffee on Facebook ☕️ Visit Island Time Coffee's Website 📸 Check Island Time out on Instagram Connect With Us 📬 Subscribe To The Newsletter 🐑 Follow Us On Facebook 📷 Check Us Out On Instagram 📽️ Join Us On YouTube 🐤 Connect on Twitter 🌲 Visit Our Website Help Us Out 🟢 Leave Us a Rating on Spotify 💜 Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts 🤝 Introduce Us to a Potential Guest

    1h 12m

  7. SEP 11

    Discover the Story of 'Seattle Samurai': Kelly Goto’s Tribute to History

    Meet Kelly Goto 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. 😉 Introducing Seattle Samurai: A Book Project Honoring a Creative Legacy 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. Trials and Triumphs: The Creative Process Behind "Seattle Samurai" 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. Embracing Imperfection: Wabi-Sabi and the Goto Family Ethos 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. A Journey of Remembrance and Connection 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. Connect With Kelly Goto ✅ Find Out More About Kelly 📓 Visit The Seattle Samurai Book Website Connect With Us 📬 Subscribe To The Newsletter 🐑 Follow Us On Facebook 📷 Check Us Out On Instagram 📽️ Join Us On YouTube 🐤 Connect on Twitter 🌲 Visit Our Website Help Us Out 🟢 Leave Us a Rating on Spotify 💜 Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts 🤝 Introduce Us to a Potential Guest

    1h 14m

  8. AUG 28

    Kelly Milner Halls - From Fossils to Sea Monsters: The Weird World of Children's Books

    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. A Dinosaur for Washington: The True Story of Suciasaurus 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. The Power of Inspiration in Unexpected Places 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. Navigating Life's Crossroads 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. An Invitation to Embrace Individuality 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. Connect With Kelly Kelly's website The Wonders of Weird Connect With Us 📬 Subscribe To The Newsletter 🐑 Follow Us On Facebook 📷 Check Us Out On Instagram 📽️ Join Us On YouTube 🐤 Connect on Twitter 🌲 Visit Our Website Help Us Out 🟢 Leave Us a Rating on Spotify 💜 Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts 🤝 Introduce Us to a Potential Guest

    1 hr
See All (310)

4.8
out of 5
41 Ratings

About

The Exploring Washington State Podcast is for you if you are looking for ideas and inspirations of great places to visit, fantastic places to grab a bite to eat and drink. If you want to know more about the businesses that call Washington State home, learn about the amazing artists who are creating artwork.The State of Washington is an amazing place to live and a great place to visit. The Exploring Washington State Podcast helps to showcase the splendor of Washington State. Remember "there is always more to explore!”

Information

  • Creator
    Explore Washington State -Scott Cowan
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2024
  • Episodes
    310
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 T212 Media LLC
  • Show Website
    Exploring Washington State

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada