That Upper Left Life

In this raw and redemptive episode, Randy Budano from That Upper Left Life, Deena Budano of Dream Big with Deena Budano, and Caleb Altmeyer from Helping Captives sit down for a powerful conversation about transformation, purpose, and restoring hope.Caleb opens up about his deeply personal journey—from attending a private Christian school to dropping out of high school and falling into the grip of addiction. But his story didn't end there. Through God's grace, Caleb experienced a radical transformation that led him to a life of service and healing.Now, as the founder of Helping Captives, Caleb is devoted to supporting women impacted by sexual exploitation, offering them a pathway to restoration and renewed dignity. One of the most moving parts of our conversation is the story of how Helping Captives recently purchased the former DeJa Vu strip club—once a symbol of exploitation—and is transforming it into an intake and healing center dedicated to helping women begin their journey of recovery.This episode is a testament to how lives, spaces, and stories can be redeemed. It's a conversation filled with hope, healing, and the power of saying “yes” to a higher purpose.To find out more about Helping Captives and to connect with Caleb. https://helpingcaptives.org/ on facebook and instagram @ helping captivesHomeHelping Captives: Combating sex trafficking & empowering survivors

In this heartfelt episode, I am joined by Jennifer Smid, owner of The Curated Cottage, along with Deena Budano of Dream Big with Deena Budano, for a beautiful and honest conversation about faith, entrepreneurship, motherhood, and purpose.Jennifer shares how she launched The Curated Cottage in less than 15 days, growing it into a warm and lovely boutique that now features 25 amazing curators. She opens up about the challenges of being a single mom, the deep impact of her relationship with her own mother, and the unwavering role her faith in God and Jesus has played in every step of her journey.With heartfelt humility, Jennifer explains that The Curated Cottage isn't just her store—it's God's store, and she's simply the one blessed to run it. Now, after about a year and a half of ownership, she reflects on the joy, growth, and daily challenges that come with stewarding something so meaningful. This episode is a reminder that when faith meets action, incredible things can happen. If you've ever needed encouragement to trust the process and follow God's plan, this one's for you. The Curated Cottage is located at 915 E Hawthorne Rd Suite B, Spokane, WA 99218 You can find and follow the Curated Cottage on Facebook and Instagram @thecuratedcottageco and Website is Home |TheCuratedCottageCothecuratedcottageco.square.site

In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary lifestyle of my friend Chris and his family as they embrace life on the road, calling an RV their home. Hear firsthand accounts of their adventures across breathtaking landscapes, the unexpected joys and hurdles of constant travel, and the unique perspective they've gained from a life less ordinary. From forging deeper family bonds to navigating the challenges of living nomadically, their story is one of resilience, freedom, and discovery. Join us as we explore what it truly means to chase the horizon—and redefine the meaning of home.

Today, we're bringing Knife Club to a close with our grand finale! Join us as we journey back to the roots of why we fell in love with knife making—unveiling the passion, stories, and valuable lessons that shaped our craft. If you're ready to 'forge' your own path, we've got you covered with tips on getting started in knife making and recommendations for essential tools. This is one episode you don't want to miss!

Welcome to 2025! I decided to take a couple of months off to recharge for the new year! Today we talk about the craft of making knives. I am joined with Cory Olsen and Christian Payne and talk about our experiences of creating knives.

In this inspiring episode of That Upper Left Life and Dream Big with Deena Budano, Deena and I sit down with Aimee Livingston from the Liberty Lake Athletic Club's Performance Lab to explore the transformative power of fitness. Aimee shares her personal journey, revealing how fitness has profoundly impacted her life—not just physically but mentally and emotionally as well. With a passion for helping others, Aimee discusses her mission to guide people toward gaining strength, improving their abilities, and building confidence in their bodies. Through her work at the Performance Lab, Aimee helps clients of all ages and fitness levels achieve their goals, whether it's recovering from an injury, training for a competition, or simply feeling good in their own skin. This episode is packed with practical advice, inspiring stories, and heartfelt encouragement to prioritize your health and believe in your body's capabilities. If you're ready to embrace fitness as a lifestyle and feel empowered, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Tune in and let's dream big together! email: llwperformancelab@gmail.com Website: libertylakeathleticclub.com/performance-lab --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

From Hawaii to Spokane: Finding Peace, Community, and Hope with Tammy Arquero. Tammy Arquero, reflects on her 32-year career with the state of Hawaii and how her retirement led her to explore sound money for peace of mind. After moving to Spokane, Washington, Tammy found the Dream Big with Deena Budano podcast, which connected her to a supportive community. Tammy now aims to inspire younger generations with hope and vision for a secure future. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Deena and I talk about our newly formed LLC and DBA Brushes Up with the Budano's. We talk about how we got here and what the future brings. budanoartdesignco@outlook.com FB - @BrushesUpwiththeBudanos IG - @BrushesUpwiththeBudanos --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Deena and I talk about Bigfoot Records and the murals I've created inside and out. We talk about how it came to be, my concept of the project and future projects with Bigfoot, Mike and Lucas. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Deena and I talk with Letty Villanueva owner of Nueva Nails and Mitch Davis owner of Midnight Waffles. We talk about their struggles, their successes, their passion for self-expression and place in this world. Midnight Waffles: midnightwaffles.com IG @midnightwafflescreative Letty Villanueva - Nueva Nails: nueva-nails.square.site IG @letiticia_villanueva West Central Wubs https://youtu.be/8MIIRvry-II?si=CdzIa_RSx9xM79Pr --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

I revisit Bigfoot Records in the Garland District, talking with Father and son owners, Mike and Lucas, to see how things progressed in a year. Bigfoot Records 905 W Garland Ave Spokane, WA 99205 IG - @bigfootrecordsspokane FB - @bigfootrecords bigfootrecordsspokane.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Join Deena and I for a delightful conversation with Susan Nielsen, owner of the company and daughter of company Founder Gabe. Gabe is the founder and company "personality." Discover the rich history and delicious offerings of this second-generation family business, renowned for Gabe's Original Dressing & Marinade and Mama's Mediterranean Spices. Learn about the origins, evolution, and versatility of their signature products, and get inspired by ideas for using these spices in various recipes. We also highlight local retail locations where you can find Gabe's Gourmet Foods products, including Egger's Better Meats South Hill location, My Fresh Basket, Wanderlust Delicato, Simply Northwest, Elz Tastes & Teas, Spice & Vine Mercantile, and The Culinary Stone in Coeur d'Alene. Plus, hear about their efforts to expand retail partnerships and the availability of products through their online store and the future of cooking demonstrations and cooking classes. Tune in and savor the magic of Gabe's Gourmet Spices that have 55 years of love in every bite. Find Gabe's Gourmet Foods Spices on: Instagram and Facebook @gabesgourmetfoods To purchase Gabe's gourmet foods all local retailers: Egger's Better Meats South Hill location, My Fresh Basket, Wanderlust Delicato, Simply Northwest, Elz Tastes & Teas, Spice & Vine Mercantile, and The Culinary Stone (Coeur d'Alene). Gabe's Gourmet Foods Spices are also available at 23 retail locations nationwide and online at www.gabesgourmetfoods.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Today we talk about Lilac City Comicon 2024. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Sheila Fritts and Deena Budano host a captivating podcast titled “Remembering Expo 74.” In this podcast, they interview individuals who attended the Expo '74 in Spokane. Through firsthand accounts, they explore various aspects of the fair, including music, downtown development, environmental themes, and the fair's impact on shaping the city. You can find the podcast on platforms like Apple and Spotify. Kudos to Fritts and Budano for their commendable efforts in keeping Expo '74 memories alive. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

In this podcast episode I am joined with Deena Budano of “Dream Big with Deena Budano” as we engage in a phenomenal conversation with Monica Simeon, co-owner of Sister Sky.  Monica candidly shares the hurdles and victories of being a Brown, Woman-owned business and unveils the evolution of Sister Sky over its 25-year .  Join us for a captivating discussion on entrepreneurship, cultural heritage, and the power of mentorship in realizing dreams. You can find SisterSky at SisterSky.com or on their social media platforms, @1SisterSky on Facebook and @sistersky_ on IG.   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Today is a different kind of podcast.  It's not about the PNW.  It's about a handful of friends that had a good time making music.  Welcome three of the four members, including myself, of Mounting Mother Magnet.  We talk about where we've been and what we are up to.  Here's Part 1. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Welcome to the latest episode! Today That Upper Left Life and Dream Big with Deena Budano have a delightful conversation with Khuyen Shirath, the owner of Kiss My Lash and Self Care Spa and Lounge. In this episode, Khuyen, Deena Budano and I really get into the powerful themes of survival and dreaming big. Khuyen shares her incredible journey from overcoming language barriers as a Vietnamese immigrant in Spokane, Washington, to transitioning from corporate life to successful entrepreneurship. Tune in as we explore resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. To connect with Khuyen you can find her on Instagram @Khuyennie @kissmylash and @selfcare_spaandlounge. or check out her link https://msha.ke/selfcare_spaandlounge To connect with me find me @thatupperleftlife or at my podcast on Spotify at That Upper Left Life. To connect with Denna Budano find her at her podcast on Spotify at Dream Big with Deena Budano. Also, the event space Khuyen and I talk about @thepergola.509venue https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=30650687@selfcare_spaandlounge • Milkshake Website Builder --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Today I have a conversation with Nicholas DeCaro, chef, restauranteur, entrepreneur and artist. We talk the talk in this one. Chef Sin gives us his origin story, motivation and inspiration as well as preparing us for world domination. Follow The Island Style Food and BBQ family build community through the universal language of food on Facebook Island Style Food & BBQ and Instagram @island_style_food Please subscribe to this channel on wherever you listen to podcasts and interact with us on Facebook That Upper Left Life and Instagram @thatupperleftlife --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Leavenworth, Washington. Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, this charming Bavarian-inspired haven wholeheartedly embraces the enchantment of winter. Have you been to Leavenworth? What activities have you done there? We touch on some of the activities that we have done and also what we will do this weekend. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Today we discuss the pros and cons of owning a health tracker. If you haven't already, please subscribe to the podcast. If you can, please help support this podcast via monthly donation. Interact with us through our FB and IG pages. We'd love to hear from you! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Here's your chance to tell the world about the Best of the Inland Northwest. The Inlander is devoted to celebrating local excellence, so VOTE LOCAL. And don't forget to share the ballot with friends — and add your comments about your favorites as you go! Balloting ends Feb. 21 at midnight; Winners will be announced in the March 28 issue.   VOTE AND WIN! If you answer at least 20 questions, you'll be entered to win a deluxe prize package from Visit Spokane!  Balloting rules and prize package details at inlander.com/bestofinfo --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Welcome to 2024! Today I talk with, my buddy, Sean Borst, Senior Executive Chef for Lumin Field. We talk about his beginnings, his duties and, of course, food. If you haven't already, please subscribe to the podcast. If you can, please help support this podcast via monthly donation. Interact with us through our FB and IG pages. We'd love to hear from you! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Today we talk about the Top 5 Episodes of the Year, how we see it and how you all see it. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Today I talk with my Co-Host, Angelo, about a heart attack he recently experienced. We discuss his prevention efforts and how everything went down. As part of an wanting each and everyone of you who listens to this podcast to be healthy and safe, please try and be preventative about your health. Please get your check ups regularly and take your health seriously. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Rebroadcast 1/16/2023 Ladies and Gentlemen, in this episode the battle continues, the "Battle of the Winter Blues".  Is it fact or Fiction?  What is it?  What are the things that can combat it?  Find out and see if you are in need of ideas to help you through this time of the year. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Today we talk with Mike and Lucas at Bigfoot Records in the Garland District. They have only been open for several months, but they are already starting to gain some steam. We talk about how they got started and we share our music memories. Music junkies can step back in time at Bigfoot Records. https://bigfootrecordsspokane.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Today we do a quick check in with Angelo and his retirement adventures from there, we talk about our top five horror movies and horror characters because it is the season. Before you roast me in the comments, I said Johnny Dep was on Friday the 13th, I meant to say Nightmare on Elm Street. Follow us let us know what your favorite horror movies and characters are on that Upper Left Life Facebook and IG @thatupperleftlife --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Rebroadcast 5/9/22 "That Upper Left Life" and "Dream Big With Deena Budano" talk about Our anniversary, the Outdoorsy app, and Van-Trek.com.  Two different Podcasts, Three days, and 2 companies.   ⁠Trusted RV rental marketplace | Outdoorsy⁠ ⁠Vantrek (van-trek.com)⁠ ⁠Birdie's Pie Shop | Absurdly Delicious Pie (birdiespies.com)⁠ ⁠Visit Us (bocopop.com)⁠ ⁠Home (whitehousegrill.com)⁠ ⁠Facilities • Spokane County, WA • CivicEngage --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Rebroadcast 10/24/2022 Where to begin?  Today we talk about activities we do here in the Pac Northwest during the fall and how we feel about this time of year.  We also talk about darker things that go on at this time of year...the conspiracy of pumpkin spice and the terms for this time of year...fall or autumn.  Do you feel the same way or do you think that it's a normal thing? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

On this episode we talk about the possibilities of bigfoot. We didn't really get into a super deep dive into it. With Angelo's recent trip from Washington to California and back, we talk about the plausibility of these cryptids being real. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Rebroadcast 12/20/20 My guest today is Aaron Clary.  We talk about hiking...it's something we do here in the PNW.  What is it? Where do you go? What do you need to do to get started? What does it do for you?  We'll answer these and more. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Today we talk about the importance of somehow getting your stories recorded not just for yourself but for your family. Your life story or your mom or dad's is something you don't want to lose. How did you and your wife meet? How did your family get to America or Washington? These are some of the questions we talked about. What other questions would you ask? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

This is a conversation about what we know of Sam Baird who was the guide and owner of Slammin' Salmon Guide Service. The day of recording this podcast, our group was supposed to go Salmon fishing with Sam. Sadly, we didn't. Rest in peace Sam, you will be missed. I didn't mention in the podcast, but there is a gofundme to to support his family with their unexpected expnses. Here is the link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/legacy-fund-for-the-antipro?member=28172047&utm_campaign=p_cp%20share-sheet&utm_content=undefined&utm_location=undefined&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer&utm_term=undefined&fbclid=IwAR27KPY4WTUlU14xIXVPohD2wP3VgdDsV_jdNWvrO2AxdDI1IY1XD3TbfnE #anitpro #mrsantipro @slamminsalmonguideservice --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Today we have a conversation about our generation, Gen X. Gen X (1965-1980). Answering Machines, Pagers, Pay Phones, and MTV. If you all have anything we missed, please put it in the comments. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Today we talk about what we do on the 4th of July here in Spokane. If you are listening on Spotify, please scroll down and answer the poll. Is the U.S. Government a Corporation? The Corporate Origins of Modern Constitutionalism | American Political Science Review | Cambridge Core I'd like to give my support to Chrysalis Gallery. They are located on 911 S Monroe St. here in Spokane. Co-Owners Denny Carman and Dallas Jade Graves. support local artists and have a heart for them as well. Visit them and see who's on the walls. Support local artists and buy some art for your walls. Find them here: https://theartchrysalis.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Rebroadcast S3E13 Today the boys and I talk ideas for the summer here in our corner of the Pac Northwest.  I hope you listen and try out some of our suggestions.  Go to That Upper Left Life Facebook or Instagram pages and let us know what you like to do here in Spokane during the summer.  Follow and Rate us on the podcast platform you use. (2) That Upper Left Life | FacebookRandy Budano (@thatupperleftlife) • Instagram photos and videos I'd like to give my support to Chrysalis Gallery. They are located on 911 S Monroe St. here in Spokane. Co-Owners Denny Carman and Dallas Jade Graves. support local artists and have a heart for them as well. Visit them and see who's on the walls. Support local artists and buy some art for your walls. Find them here: --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

We talk about Lilac City Comicon and Metaline Falls Bigfoot Festival. Have you ever been to a comicon? Have you ever been to a festival that celebrated bigfoot? Well, we'll figure out what the heck is going on about these two events. Please take some time to complete the poll below. I'd like to give my support to Chrysalis Gallery. They are located on 911 S Monroe St. here in Spokane. Co-Owners Denny Carman and Dallas Jade Graves. support local artists and have a heart for them as well. Visit them and see who's on the walls. Support local artists and buy some art for your walls. Find them here: https://theartchrysalis.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Today we have a sit down with Rachel Borja. We pick her brain on why she decided to go to college here in Spokane from Saipan. We talk about what her recollection of her first impressions of Spokane. And we talk about how she feels now leaving Spokane after 5 years. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

My very good friend and fishing buddy, Angelo Santos, just dropped off paperwork to retire from Big Brown! We had a conversation a month or so ago about what will now be a new section of his life. If you have retirement advice, please comment on @that upper left life on FB and IG. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

Do you have that person or people in your life that have affected the direction of who you are or where you are today? The boys and I talk about who these people are. Take a listen and ask yourself who is that person in your life...am I that person in someone else's life? --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

If you didn't know, the Garland Theater is on the verge of closing its doors. Be part of the community that saves the Garland Theater. If you have time please participate in our poll found below or go to That Upper Left Life on FB and Insta and let us know if you have or haven't seen a movie at the Garland. #savethegarland www.savethegarland.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

In this episode, we explore my childhood snacks. Ryan and Aaron are going to do a taste test...Fear Factor... --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/randy-budano1/support

What's the difference between discipline and motivation? We try and figure that out in this episode. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/randy-budano1/support

Have you ever wanted to try out a different restaurant than the usual? Restaurant Week can help you with that. Sponsored by the Spokane Inlander, about 100 restaurants are participating in this event. February 23 - March 4. The range of set prices are $25, $35, and $45. Here is a link for more information Inlander Restaurant Week | February 23 - March 4, 2023 --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/randy-budano1/support

Deena and I discuss how er celebrate Valentine's Day. We also give you some helpful tips. And we talk garbage about Valentine's Day...Just Kidding. Let us know how you celebrate February 14th. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/randy-budano1/support

Today I have a conversation with Jason Sneep about his home project, a tiny home! We talk about what it was and how it is coming along. Have you thought about downsizing to a tiny home? Take a listen and find out more. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/randy-budano1/support

Ladies and Gentlemen, in this episode the battle continues, the "Battle of the Winter Blues".  Is it fact or Fiction?  What is it?  What are the things that can combat it?  Find out and see if you are in need of ideas to help you through this time of the year. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/randy-budano1/support

Happy New Year! Today my special guest, my wife, Deena Budano, and I talk about goals and themes for the new year. Leave a comment on That Upper Left Life Facebook Page or Instagram and let us know what your goals are this year. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/randy-budano1/support

It was an awesome year!  We had a blast spending time with you all.  Today we do somewhat of a recap and also talk about the conversations we are thinking about next year.  Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/randy-budano1/support

The boys and I roundtable what our most memorable Christmas and Christmas gifts are.  What are yours?  Let us know in the Instagram and Facebook. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/randy-budano1/support

What do you and your family do for Christmas? When do you start decorating? How do you celebrate? The boys and I answer these questions and more. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/randy-budano1/support