Following the Emigrant Trail through Washoe County

Following the Emigrant Trail through Washoe County

Long before railroads and highways crossed the West, thousands of emigrants traveled through what is now northern Nevada in search of new opportunities. In this episode of Washoe Life's America250 Nevada series, we chat with Adam Michalski, Curator of History at the Nevada State Railroad Museum, to explore the history of the Emigrant Trail. Learn why Nevada was a vital crossroads during westward expansion, what life was like for families on the trail, and what traces of this remarkable journey can still be found today. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, discover how the Emigrant Trail helps tell the larger story of the nation's growth, challenges and transformation.

A Spotlight on Northern Nevada’s Rising Stars: Waylon & Dino Parr

This episode shines a spotlight on two of northern Nevada's most ambitious young creators, brothers Dino and Waylon Parr. Waylon created a buzz with his recent short film “A15,” which debuted in May, while Dino will be entering his senior year in high school with radio and film credits to his name. These are two young visionaries and entrepreneurs whose stars are rising, and we are here to witness their launch.

Where Community Grows: The Work of Soulful Seeds

In this episode, we sit down with the co-founder and the program coordinator from Soulful Seeds to talk about their mission-driven work growing food, connection, and resilience across our community. They share how neighborhood gardens, inclusive programs, and partnerships help address food insecurity and support underserved residents in Northern Nevada. It’s a grounded, hopeful conversation about meeting people where they are and growing change from the ground up.

Behind the Ballot Scenes with Registrar of Voters Andrew McDonald

What does it really take to run an election? In this episode of Washoe Life, Registrar of Voters Andrew McDonald takes us behind the scenes of Washoe County’s 2026 election. We break down what’s changing this year, from how vote centers are chosen and made accessible, to new locations, curbside ADA voting, and updated ballot marking devices that blend technology with paper ballots. The conversation wraps up with a thoughtful look at election trust and how the system works to ensure every vote counts.

Planning, Development, and the Future of the Truckee Meadows

Growth can be a complicated, and often emotional, topic. In this episode of Washoe Life, we dig into how development really happens in Washoe County and across the Truckee Meadows, and why planning is about much more than approving or denying projects.  Joined by Assistant County Manager Dave Solaro and Truckee Meadows Regional Planning Agency Director Jeremy Smith, we explore how regional planning, infrastructure, natural resources, and economic forces all shape the communities we live in. From population forecasts and regional plans to zoning, property rights, and the realities of “Not In My Back Yard” sentiment, this conversation helps clarify how decisions are made and how residents can stay informed and get involved early.  Whether you’re curious about future growth, concerned about a project near you, or just want to better understand how our region plans for what’s next, this episode offers insight, context, and practical takeaways.