Bend Don't Break

The Source
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Podcasts powered by The Source, a weekly newspaper in beautiful Bend, Oregon.

  1. Peter Madsen, Investigative and Features Reporter for the Lay It Out Foundation

    12/24/2025

    Peter Madsen, Investigative and Features Reporter for the Lay It Out Foundation

    In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Peter Madsen, an investigative and features reporter supported by the Lay It Out Foundation. Peter shares his journey from writing for Vice and Thrasher in New York City to becoming one of Central Oregon’s most prolific storytellers. The conversation dives into Peter’s passion for long-form journalism, the challenges of investigative reporting in a small community, and why he believes local news is essential for a healthy democracy. From his early days as a bike messenger in Manhattan to his current work uncovering stories that matter in Bend, Peter reflects on ambition, integrity, and the evolving role of media in our lives. Tune in for a candid discussion about local storytelling.

    34 min
  2. Bend Don't Break: Melissa Steele, Deputy Fire Marshal of Wildfire Preparedness for Bend Fire & Rescue

    12/17/2025

    Bend Don't Break: Melissa Steele, Deputy Fire Marshal of Wildfire Preparedness for Bend Fire & Rescue

    In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Melissa Steele, Deputy Fire Marshal for Wildfire Preparedness at Bend Fire and Rescue. Melissa brings more than two decades of experience in firefighting and prevention, including years with Cal Fire during the devastating Paradise fire, to her new role in Central Oregon. Melissa shares her journey from the front lines of catastrophic wildfires to leading efforts that help homeowners reduce risk and protect their communities. The conversation explores the realities of urban wildfire, the importance of defensible space and home hardening, and why proactive planning matters more than ever. Melissa also offers practical tips for residents and insight into how Bend is preparing for the future. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion about resilience, responsibility, and what it takes to keep our neighborhoods safe.

    36 min
  3. Kat Mastrangelo, Executive Director of Volunteers in Medicine

    12/10/2025

    Kat Mastrangelo, Executive Director of Volunteers in Medicine

    In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Kat Mastrangelo, Executive Director of Volunteers in Medicine, a free clinic serving uninsured adults across Central Oregon. Kat shares her journey from a career in health policy and hospital administration to leading an organization that provides critical care for those who fall through the cracks of the healthcare system. Together, they explore the challenges of rising insurance costs, the impact of expiring subsidies, and the growing need for accessible medical services in our community. Kat also highlights the power of volunteerism, the unique role of charitable pharmacies, and how her team is preparing for a surge in demand. Tune in for an insightful conversation about healthcare equity, community resilience, and the importance of local solutions.

    30 min
  4. Bend Don't Break: Greg Pereira, President of COCC

    11/26/2025

    Bend Don't Break: Greg Pereira, President of COCC

    In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Dr. Greg Pereira, the seventh president of Central Oregon Community College. Greg shares his remarkable journey from growing up in Clackamas to leading one of Oregon’s most respected colleges. His career path spans work in homeless shelters, nonprofit leadership, and higher education administration, giving him a unique perspective on the power of education to transform lives. The conversation explores Greg’s vision for COCC as a first-choice college, the challenges and opportunities in post-pandemic higher education, and the importance of accessibility and affordability for today’s students. Greg also reflects on meeting hundreds of faculty and staff to understand the heart of the institution and outlines goals for sustainability and innovation. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about leadership, community, and the future of education in Central Oregon.

    28 min
  5. Bend Don't Break: Todd Dunkelberg, Director of the Deschutes County Libraries

    11/19/2025

    Bend Don't Break: Todd Dunkelberg, Director of the Deschutes County Libraries

    In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Todd Dunkelberg, Director of the Deschutes Public Library and unexpected TikTok sensation. Todd shares his journey from graduating in library science at the University of Texas to leading one of Oregon’s most dynamic library systems. He reflects on the evolution of libraries from traditional book lending to makerspaces, 3D printing, and digital literacy and how these changes are shaping community life in Central Oregon.The conversation explores the ambitious new library projects, the role of meeting spaces in fostering connection, and why libraries remain vital in a digital age. Todd also gives a behind-the-scenes look at the viral video that made him a social media star. Tune in for an engaging discussion about innovation, accessibility, and the future of public libraries.

    27 min

  6. 11/14/2025

    Bend Don't Break: Michael Gesme, Conductor of the Central Oregon Symphony and Professor at COCC

    In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Michael Gesme, conductor of the Central Oregon Symphony and longtime professor at COCC, as he prepares to retire after 30 years of shaping the region’s classical music scene. Michael reflects on his journey from the Midwest to Bend, the evolution of local performance spaces, and the community partnerships that have sustained everything from chamber music to full symphonic productions.Together, they explore the therapeutic power of music, the challenges of arts funding, and the renewed momentum behind a Central Oregon Performing Arts Center. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about legacy, leadership, and the enduring joy of making music in—and for—your community.

    34 min
  7. Bend Don't Break: Katy Brooks, City of Bend’s Economic Development Officer

    11/06/2025

    Bend Don't Break: Katy Brooks, City of Bend’s Economic Development Officer

    In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer reconnects with Katy Brooks, now serving as Bend’s Economic Development Officer, to talk about her shift from Chamber CEO to city strategist. Katy shares her vision for supporting small businesses, improving infrastructure, and making Bend more welcoming to new and growing industries. They explore urban renewal plans, housing challenges, and how Katy’s role connects departments to drive long-term economic vitality. Tune in for a thoughtful look at civic leadership and Bend’s evolving future.

    30 min
  8. Bend Don't Break: Cyrus Mooney, City of Bend Business Advocate

    09/25/2025

    Bend Don't Break: Cyrus Mooney, City of Bend Business Advocate

    In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron sits down with Cyrus Mooney, Business Development Manager for the City of Bend, whose path from student affairs to civic leadership reflects a deep commitment to service and connection. With roots in Sherwood and a decade in Corvallis, Cyrus brings a rare blend of empathy, adaptability, and strategic insight to Bend’s evolving economic landscape.They talk about what it means to lead from the middle—liaising between city departments, business associations, and everyday residents—and how Cyrus balances policy work with human relationships. From his early days managing 70 student employees at OSU to his current role shaping Bend’s economic development strategy, Cyrus shares how he stays grounded in purpose while navigating the complexity of civic life.

    22 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Podcasts powered by The Source, a weekly newspaper in beautiful Bend, Oregon.

Information

  • Creator
    The Source
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    378
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Source
  • Show Website
    Bend Don't Break