Mandy Episode

Roast House Episode

Where do I even begin...Roast House Crew is my favorite. If my job allowed it, I’d be there every day, sipping coffee, breathing in the roaster, and taking tours with Teddy. But for real, Aaron, Allison, and Evan have carried on the legacy of a legend, Deb. We were all first introduced at Radio Bar. Aaron and Evan gave me my first shot of Malört, and honestly, it was terrible, but it led to something better. We started talking, and somehow that conversation turned into a deep dive on Deb, the force behind Roast House and First Ave Coffee, and one of the most impactful people to learn about and talk about. What stuck with me most, and what still comes up in my life daily since recording this episode, is the values and mission behind Roast House. That was the thread that connected all of us in that moment, and it’s the thing I carry forward. To live like Deb. To never waver on those values. Give it a listen, and go check Roast House out, and make sure to get a tour from Teddy!

Darya and Rosie

What do you even say when an episode is this full of brilliance? This week on Casual Disasters, we are joined by the incredible women behind Creative Mornings in Spokane, Darya and Rosie, and this conversation is something special. We talk about the magic of Creative Mornings, a monthly meetup that brings artists together, highlights local creatives, and builds real connection in our community. But that is just the beginning. Rosie shares about her work as an artist and art teacher, while Darya dives into her role supporting Spokane’s growing creative districts. These two are powerhouses, thoughtful, creative, and deeply committed to making Spokane a more vibrant and connected place. And honestly, this episode only scratches the surface of everything they do. Give it a listen and get inspired! Thanks again to our amazing editor - Estimate!

Mandy Episode

You might know Mandy as the 2018 National Teacher of the Year — the educator who made headlines for bringing 45 letters from her immigrant and refugee students to President Trump at the White House. There was controversy around that moment, including claims she didn’t shake his hand, but her focus was always on amplifying her students’ voices and standing in her truth. (Ps she did shake his hand) Mandy and I originally met while training for the Washington Education Association, and both becoming culturally responsive classroom management trainers. Since then, she’s continued to be a light in spaces where so much is often hidden. In this episode we talk about: - Education, belonging, and relationships - Toxic positivity vs. genuine joy - Why some people resist hearing about real happiness - Leaving a good relationship - Falling in love -Coming out -And what it means to live honestly, even when it’s uncomfortable It was an amazing, honest, vulnerable conversation and I’m so grateful for the time with Mandy. Go give it a listen.

Connorsversations Episode

Riley Connors is a writer, comedian, filmmaker, and late night talk show host. This human does is truly a multifaceted artist. My first introduction to Riley was seeing the “hi” promo videos for his new late night show Connorsversations, and I was instantly intrigued. When he found my podcast and reached out to be on Casual Disasters, I was hyped. Our very first meet up became our interview, and it was hilarious from the start. Fast friendship energy. We talked about everything so buckle up. Hold on,. Don't get lost. We had both submitted films to the Spokane Comedy Film Festival, but Riley actually won it a few years back. It was awesome hearing about his experience and how that win shaped his creative journey. I’m still thinking about him taking shots of hot sauce, touching raw meat, and somehow not puking on camera. He’s a total badass. Don’t miss his next show at The Chameleon on December 19th. Tickets dropping soon. Tune in to the episode and meet your new favorite comedic genius.

The Beth Episode

🎙️ New Episode! I had the best time talking with Beth — cattle rancher, food farmer, and co-founder of LINC Foods. Beth is funny, down-to-earth, and passionate about building a stronger local food system. We talked about ranching, sustainability, and what it really takes to raise good beef. It was such a fun and inspiring conversation — you’re going to love this one. 👉 Listen now! Check out Lazy R Ranch to learn more or order beef straight from Beth’s ranch: [www.lazyrbeef.com [http://www.lazyrbeef.com]] And if you want to experience ranch life yourself, follow Roots of Resilience Cow Girl Camp — happening this summer! Edited by Estimate