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On this episode of Joe Oltmann Untamed, Joe kicks off with a cold open that'll shake you to your core: Newsmax calls for arresting Barack Obama as evidence mounts that he and his crew engineered Russia Gate to tear America apart, while Tulsi Gabbard exposes how Biden and Kamala were never truly in charge the real power brokers pulled the strings. The Commies are now gunning for Tulsi with bogus whistleblower smears after her Fulton County work, but she's fighting back with a damning letter debunking their lies. We dive into Dominion Voting Machines' fraud nightmare, from Michigan Sheriff Dar Leaf's letter to Jim Jordan on rigged elections to Rasmussen's fresh callout on interconnected Dominion scandals foreign access, straw buyers, and the whole rotten system.Energy expert and U.S. Navy veteran Mike Ariza joins to sound the alarm on America's crumbling energy independence, breaking down Valero's accelerated Benicia refinery shutdown amid California's sky-high gas prices ($4.25/gallon and climbing) and regulatory hell that's driving refineries out. With hands-on experience from Chevron, Valero, and Flying J, Mike ties this to the AI race against China, how our shrinking domestic capacity risks blackouts, military vulnerabilities, and losing the tech edge as data centers demand massive power. From nuclear restarts to policy overhauls, he lays out urgent fixes to fuel AI dominance without foreign dependence.We chart A Path Forward no more silence, no more retreat. We confront the indoctrination machine head-on: schools nationwide, from North Central High in Indianapolis (where only ~46% of students read at grade level and ~24% are proficient in math) to Jefferson County, Colorado, are turning classrooms into anti-ICE propaganda zones, teaching kids to dox federal agents and demonize law enforcement, all on taxpayer dollars. Parents are furious one dad in Washington State exploded after his son was dragged to an anti-ICE protest without consent while Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts declares at a press conference that arrests are coming and the system is cracking. This is the fork in the road: expose, confront, and demand accountability, including arrests for the worst offenders or let radicals keep turning our kids and communities into battlegrounds. The path forward is clear fight now, or lose everything.
It's Thursday, February 5th, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Sam Brownback: “Dictators fear religious freedom more than nuclear weapons” The International Religious Freedom Summit held its six annual meeting this week in Washington, D.C. Organizers reported nearly 80% of people around the world live in countries with high levels of restrictions on religion. The meeting identified China, Iran, Russia, Nigeria, and India as some of the worst countries for religious freedom. Sam Brownback, co-chair of the summit, said, “Ours is truly a global movement feared by dictators around the world because we represent the heart of freedom. They actually fear religious freedom more than they do aircraft carriers or even nuclear weapons.” In John 8:31-32, Jesus said, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” Finnish authorities continue to harass Christian Parliamentarian Attacks on religious freedom are rising in Europe as well. A prominent example is Finnish Parliamentarian Päivi Räsänen. She has faced trial three times for sharing her Christian beliefs online. Her case is now before Finland's top court. Räsänen testified before the U.S. House Judiciary Committee yesterday in a hearing on Europe's threat to American speech. Concerning her case, she has warned, “If I would lose, it would mean … starting a time of persecution of Christians in Finland and also in Europe.” Listen to her comments at the hearing. RÄSÄNEN: “I have been supported by my faith and thousands of expressions of support I have received from around the world, including many from the U.S. Congress. “I remain hopeful. I trust that freedom of expression can still be upheld. It is too important to lose.” Will Europe ban social media for minors? European countries are considering measures to ban social media use for minors. France's National Assembly passed a bill last week that prohibits children under 15 from using social media. The bill heads to the French Senate. President Emmanuel Macron supports the measure. Similarly, Spain and Greece recently announced plans to ban social media use by teenagers there. This comes after Australia became the first country in the world to enforce such a ban last December. Trump signed $1.2 trillion funding bill In the United States, President Donald Trump signed a $1.2 trillion funding bill on Tuesday. This ends the partial government shutdown that began on Saturday. The bill did not including long-term funding for the Department of Homeland Security which includes U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Democrats are demanding changes to the agency before approving more funding. 700 of 3,000 ICE officers leave Minnesota Speaking of ICE, White House Border Czar Tom Homan announced a drawdown of immigration enforcement officers in Minnesota yesterday. About 700 of the roughly 3,000 officers in the state are leaving. Homan's goal is a complete drawdown which depends on cooperation from local officials. He said, “We currently have an unprecedented number of counties communicating with us now and allowing ICE to take custody of illegal aliens before they hit the streets.” Washington Hospital ends transgender mutilations The News Tribune reports a hospital in Washington State is ending its mutilating transgender surgeries. MultiCare Mary Bridge Children's Hospital in Tacoma cited loss of funding under the Trump administration for the closure. President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order in January 2025, protecting children from chemical and surgical mutilation. Last year, over 20 hospitals began rolling back such practices. Walmart first retailer to reach $1 trillion market capitalization Walmart became the first retailer to reach a market capitalization of one trillion dollars on Tuesday. The list of trillion dollar companies has been dominated by tech companies. Not surprisingly, Walmart's record valuation is accompanied by recent growth in its online business and investment in Artificial Intelligence technology. 1,161st anniversary of Anskar, missionary to Denmark and Sweden And finally, this week is the anniversary of the death of Anskar, the first missionary to Denmark and Sweden. The traditional date of his death is February 3, A.D. 865. Anskar was known as the “Apostle to the North” for his work of evangelism in Scandinavia. Historian A.D. Jorgensen wrote of the missionary, “He possessed a rare eloquence both in preaching and in common talk, so that he left on all men an extraordinary impression: the mighty and haughty were frightened by his tone of authority, the poor and humble looked to him as to a father, whilst his equals loved him as a brother. …. What he carried out in the thirty-three years of his bishopric was of imperishable importance.” In Romans 1:16, the Apostle Paul wrote, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, February 5th, in the year of our Lord 2026. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.
The Steve Gruber Show | Open Borders, Open Fraud, Open Failure --- 00:00 - Hour 1 Monologue 18:55 – Ed Brady, President and CEO of the Home Builders Institute (HBI). Brady discusses President Trump's efforts to make housing affordability part of the American Dream again. He also highlights the major opportunities available in the skilled trades and why trade careers will always be in high demand. 27:50 – Peter Gillooly, CEO of The Wellness Company. Gillooly discusses National Cancer Prevention Awareness Month and why more emphasis should be placed on prevention, research, and affordable treatment options. He also explains promising early research, Big Pharma's role in treatment costs, and The Wellness Company's new product, SHIELD. Visit twc.health/GRUBER and use promo code GRUBER to save 10%. 37:56 - Hour 2 Monologue 46:43 – Grover Norquist, President of Americans for Tax Reform. Norquist breaks down new data showing Americans increasingly moving to low-tax states. He explains what this migration reveals about economic policy and government spending. 56:39 – Daniel Garza, President of The LIBRE Initiative and former Washington State councilman. Garza explains why Hispanic voters are continuing to shift away from Democrats ahead of 2026. He discusses key issues driving the change, including border security, inflation, and public safety — as well as what Republicans are getting right and wrong. 1:05:27 – Ambassador Carla Sands, Chair of Foreign Policy at the America First Policy Institute and former U.S. Ambassador to Denmark. Sands discusses affordability concerns tied to Europe, NATO, and the cost to U.S. taxpayers. She also examines China's ongoing economic warfare against the United States. 1:15:!5 - Hour 2 Monologue 1:24:00 – Ron Rademacher, travel writer, author, speaker, storyteller, and record-holder for getting lost on Michigan's back roads. Rademacher shares stories and destinations from around Michigan. He highlights unique places worth exploring across the state. 1:33:58 – Lt. Col. (Ret.) Pete Shinn, Associate Director of EpsteinJustice.com. Shinn reacts to the release of more than three million pages of Epstein-related files and criticism over what he calls a “whitewash.” He discusses accountability and unanswered questions surrounding the case. 1:42:46 – Ivey Gruber, President of the Michigan Talk Network. Gruber discusses how Americans are shifting away from junk food and how food companies are responding by lowering prices. The conversation highlights a broader cultural move toward healthier living. --- Visit Steve's website: https://stevegruber.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stevegrubershow Truth: https://truthsocial.com/@stevegrubershow Gettr: https://gettr.com/user/stevegruber Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevegrubershow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevegrubershow/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Stevegrubershow Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/TheSteveGruberShow
In this episode of Talking Real Money, Don and Tom dig into the Washington State pension system's heavy exposure to private equity, sparked by Jason Zweig's Wall Street Journal reporting and a Seattle Times investigation. They explain why high fees, opaque valuations, and lack of liquidity make private equity especially dangerous for public retirement funds—and why Washington leads the nation in risk. The conversation expands to compare pension strategies across states, question governance and oversight, and warn retirees about the real-world consequences of excessive risk. Later, the hosts respond to a listener trapped in a high-fee, actively managed portfolio and variable annuity, illustrating how costs and complexity quietly erode wealth. The show wraps with practical retirement guidance inspired by Warren Buffett—simplify and protect—plus a discussion of converting mutual funds to ETFs for greater efficiency. 0:04 Show open, call-in invitation, and setup on private equity 0:32 Jason Zweig's WSJ reporting on private equity fees and markups 1:25 Washington State pension's heavy private equity exposure 3:23 Valuation and liquidity problems in private equity 4:35 Breakdown of WA pension assets (private equity + real estate) 5:18 Risks of market downturns and illiquidity 6:25 Who's overseeing the pension fund and their qualifications 7:06 Concerns for Washington retirees and contributors 8:28 Board “experts” and potential conflicts of interest 9:55 Difficulty exiting private equity investments 11:06 Questioning reported 12.3% returns vs public markets 11:59 Call for political accountability and reform 12:50 Comparison to states using mostly public index funds 13:35 Why private equity suffers most in downturns 14:22 Comparison of pension private equity exposure by state 15:58 Rebalancing and “emperor's clothes” concern 17:07 Caller Luke reacts to pension risks 18:11 Promotion of RetireMeet and retirement education 19:22 Warren Buffett's retirement advice: simplify and protect 20:28 Risk reduction and advisor role in retirement 21:26 Fiduciary standards and conflicts of interest 22:55 Emphasis on simple, protective portfolios 23:07 Caller Jane asks about high advisory fees 24:40 Discussion of “active management” risks 26:12 Review of proposed funds and red flags 29:57 Analysis of high-fee, high-turnover portfolio 30:57 Concentration and volatility concerns 32:16 Variable annuity warning signs 33:37 Commission conflicts and surrender charges 33:57 Recommendation to change advisors 34:56 Recap of excessive fees and risks 36:33 Importance of honest warnings vs future losses 37:48 Question on converting Vanguard mutual funds to ETFs 38:52 Advantages of ETFs: cost, tax efficiency, liquidity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bret Weinstein speaks with independent journalist Brandi Kruse about Antifa, gun culture, gun rights in Washington State, socialism, and why Bret still refers to himself as a liberal in 2026.Find Brandi Kruse on X at https://x.com/BrandiKruse and her show, UnDivided at https://www.undividedpod.com.*****Sponsors:Timeline: Accelerate the clearing of damaged mitochondria to improve strength and endurance: Go to http://www.timeline.com/darkhorse and use code darkhorse for 10% off your order.Helix: Excellent, sleep-enhancing, American-made mattresses. Act fast, go to http://www.HelixSleep.com/DarkHorse for 20% off sitewide.Branch Basics: Excellent, effective, simple, truly non-toxic cleaning supplies. Get 15% off with code DarkHorse at https://branchbasics.com.*****Join DarkHorse on Locals! Get access to our Discord server, exclusive live streams, live chats for all streams, and early access to many podcasts: https://darkhorse.locals.comCheck out the DHP store! Epic tabby, digital book burning, saddle up the dire wolves, and more: https://www.darkhorsestore.orgTheme Music: Thank you to Martin Molin of Wintergatan for providing us the rights to use their excellent music.*****Mentioned on this Episode:Roundtable on Antifa at the WhiteHouse https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cf6Em35gguU Andy Ngo on DarkHorse https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aC4u1zo6OpQ Andy Ngo on X https://x.com/MrAndyNgo NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012 https://www.congress.gov/112/plaws/publ81/PLAW-112publ81.pdf Moms for Liberty https://judiciary.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-house-judiciary-republicans-doj-labeled-dozens-of-parents-as-terroristThe Turtle Island Liberation Front https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/four-defendants-arrested-alleged-anti-capitalist-and-anti-government-plot-bomb-us-companiesTrump sending in Homan to Minneapolis https://www.politico.com/news/2026/01/26/trump-border-czar-minneapolis-00746125Maj Toure on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MajToure Wa. 3D Printed Guns: HB2320 https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary/?billnumber=2320&year=2025&initiative=False#documentSectionWa.3D Printed Guns: HB2321 https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2025-26/Pdf/Bills/House%20Bills/2321.pdf?q=20260201075249Brandi Kruse interviews Socialist state lawmaker https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=894SIV7Dh5cSupport the show
Reminder: Join us TONIGHT at 6pm CT for Happy Hour with Hightower!The US military has long been an easy mark – for our own avaricious corporate contractors, that is.During the Civil War, for example, J.P. Morgan sold rifles to the Union army that cost him only $3.50 each, but he charged the military $22 each. Worse, his rifles were defective, blowing off the thumbs of soldiers who fired them. Still, a Congressional committee ruled that Morgan had a “legal” contract and had to be paid in full.Which brings us to the screwball contracts the Pentagon routinely signs these days with multibillion-dollar corporate con artists hawking weaponry. These gougers, though, have streamlined their taxpayer thievery by automatically inserting a corporate gotcha in nearly every Pentagon contract. It makes it illegal for the military to repair the weapons and systems they have bought!A drone won't fly? An AI system goes haywire? Anti-aircraft rockets fail? DON'T touch the systems! No — you must call a corporate-approved tech repair person, or take the malfunctioning gizmo to the manufacturer.Yes, this is insane, unworkable, immoral… and the very definition of “snafu.” But corporate profiteers have made it the law. At last, though, soldiers, battleground commanders and common-sense members of both parties are rebelling, supporting Sen. Elizabeth Warren's “Warrior Right to Repair Act.” Pathetically, Congress and avaricious contractor lobbyists recently defeated this bill, wailing contractor property rights is more important than authorizing soldiers to make lifesaving repairs in the field.The fight goes on, though, and you can help. Two lawmakers who engineered this travesty are Mike Rogers of Alabama and Adam Smith of Washington State, both of whom take hundreds of thousands of dollars from the war profiteers. To fight their insanity, go to pirg.org/repair.Jim Hightower's Lowdown is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit jimhightower.substack.com/subscribe
Before the world wakes, the frozen forest comes alive. This unique 30-minute listening experience invites you into the pristine winter dawn of Washington State's Sinlahekin Valley, where winter birds greet the morning with bold, communal song that cuts through the cold and offers deep reassurance.Unlike traditional guided meditations, this is pure, unfiltered nature—no narration, no instructions, just you and the authentic sounds of winter's dawn chorus. Perfect for when you need grounding, presence, or a reminder that you're never truly alone.What You'll Experience30 minutes of authentic winter birdsong recorded in real-time in Washington's frozen evergreen forestPure nature soundscape with no AI enhancements, additions, or artificial sounds—this is a real place, real presenceUnguided listening meditation that allows you to settle at your own pace without instructions to followDawn chorus of winter birds whose clear, insistent calls offer comfort after the long stillness of nightFlexibility to listen for as long or short as works for you—use the full 30 minutes or take snippets throughout your dayAbout the Recording LocationThis soundscape was captured by acoustic ecologist Nick McMahan in the Sinlahekin Valley of Washington State, on the traditional lands of Indigenous peoples now known as the Colville Confederated Tribes. Located deep in the isolated wilderness on the northeast edge of the Cascade Mountain Range, this frozen evergreen valley transforms during winter's dawn as the forest awakens with enthusiastic birdsong. The loud, joyful calls feel especially reassuring after long, chilly nights in this remote valley, where winter's silence gives way to nature's morning symphony.The photos you see throughout this meditation are also from Nick McMahan.Sign up for my newsletter at http://eepurl.com/jjPrV2 to receive free mini meditations and soundscapes each week, along with creative musings and more.In 2026, Our Mindful Nature will release seasonal series rather than weekly episodes, allowing for richer, more in-depth explorations of meditation and mental health topics. Learn more or contact me at https://www.merylarnett.com/. Thank you to Nick McMahan for today's nature field recordings; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at:https://www.nickcmcmahan.com/https://www.instagram.com/itsbriannanielsenThis podcast explores meditation, mental health and the power of connection, offering guidance for caregivers, healers, and therapists facing compassion fatigue, burnout, and other mental health struggles through self-care, self-compassion, and resilience. With a focus on anxiety, depression, and overwhelm, each episode provides tools like meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, and grounding to cultivate clarity and reduce stress. Listeners can also experience nature-inspired guided meditations, designed to bring peace and balance in times of distress.
In Washington State, 42% of Black households have zero net worth. It's a statistic echoed in Black communities across the nation--including here in Cleveland. The legacy of historical policies like segregation and redlining has impacted both homeownership and opportunities to build generational wealth today. Now, skyrocketing rents and a shrinking housing supply have put homeownership out of reach for many. But what if it doesn't have to be this way?rnrnEmerging in 2021, the Black Home Initiative is a new regional effort based in the Seattle-Tacoma region that seeks to target the racial inequities at the core of the housing ecosystem. The initiative is powered by the Civic Commons through a large network of 122 public, private, philanthropic, and nonprofit institutional partners. Together, they focus on growing the pool of homes for purchase; supporting Black households who want to buy a home and obtain a mortgage; and improving collaboration to create a more efficient and effective ecosystem for Black homeownership.rnrnHow can we work together to grow wealth and build vibrant communities through homeownership? Join us at the City Club as Alesha Washington from The Seattle Foundation leads a conversation with Michael Brown from the Civic Commons on what we can learn from the Black Home Initiative.
John Walters sits with Ricky Ciccone, Iowa State's new General Manager for football. He comes with Jimmy Rogers from Washington State. We talk about the challenges of building a roster in a short period of time with 60 newcomers. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
College football doesn't really end anymore.The clock hits :00. The trophy gets handed out. And almost immediately, the sport gets loud again. Portal moves, litigation, coaching changes, CFP debates and more. Oh, and by the way, we've also got a Super Bowl coming up with Seattle vs. New England. (Hello Elite 11 finalists Sam Darnold and Drake Maye)With everything seemingly happening all at once in football, there's a race to be first instead of thoughtful.It's the same in the content world. Instant reaction shows. Social posts fired off before the dust settles. Takes delivered as fast as possible.That's not how we do it at Y-Option.Y-Option: College Football with Yogi Roth is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.After the Hoosiers hoisted their hardware, we took a pause. And today, we took a detailed look back at the season that was in 2025.Today's episode of Y-Option, fueled by our founding sponsor 76® — keeping you on the GO GO GO so you never miss a beat, is with Jim Thornby. For nearly two hours, we just talked. No timer. No rush. Multiple cups of coffee. Dozens of teams. Real perspective.One hundred and five minutes later, the result was less of a “podcast” and more of a conversation. And as we talked, one thing became clear:* The biggest change in college football isn't happening at the top. It's happening in the middle.The 12-team Playoff didn't just give more teams access, it changed the psychology of the sport. Suddenly, programs sitting fourth, fifth or sixth in their conference are making million-dollar decisions with almost no margin for error.Quarterbacks cost more. Mistakes cost more. One Saturday can swing an entire donor base's belief.We talk about why that reality is both exciting and dangerous and why the sport still hasn't figured out how to handle what comes after the final whistle.We went league by league—not to rank them, but to understand them.The Big Ten's rise isn't accidental, it's legit and not going anywhere but up. The SEC isn't broken, but it's no longer bulletproof. The ACC looked chaotic… until Miami made a run that forced everyone to re-think the narrative. And the Big 12? Still searching for the moment that changes how the country sees it.Context matters. And it's usually the first thing lost online.We also spent time on the Pac-12, a place that impacted both of us deeply, as it steps into a new reality.Looking back was a reminder that Oregon State and Washington State found ways to survive, even when the odds were stacked against them. And now, under the leadership of Commissioner Teresa Gould, they're building something with substance: proven head coaches, programs with real momentum, and a league that still has a path to the CFP.That's why we made this episode. To celebrate the game and coach the viewer.We know it's “too long” according to the experts and the algorithms. But Y-Option wasn't created to win an algorithm. It was built to serve the thoughtful college football fan, coach, and player.So before we sprint forward into the Super Bowl, Signing Day, and Spring Ball, let's take one last look back at where we've been as a sport.As always, thank you for being here. This doesn't happen without your support.Much love, and stay steady,YogiY-Option: College Football with Yogi Roth is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.y-option.com/subscribe
Learn about the latest in local public affairs in about the time it takes for a coffee break! Brian Callanan of Seattle Channel and David Kroman of the Seattle Times discuss how Washington State leadership is preparing for a possible immigration crackdown in the Evergreen State, the challenges of connecting with immigrant communities for local governments, a multitude of new department head choices for Mayor Katie Wilson, a new approach to sex trafficking, and a surge in downtown Seattle visitors. If you listen to this podcast, please support it on Patreon!
Aaron breaks down the whirlwind of White House moves on Minnesota's immigration enforcement flashpoint, including President Trump's dispatch of Tom Homan, communications with Governor Tim Walz and Mayor Jacob Frey, and the sudden withdrawal of Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino and agents. Is this strategic pressure yielding results or an unexpected retreat? Also covered: an exposed Signal chat network coordinating anti-ICE actions (now under FBI scrutiny), Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's inflammatory rhetoric, Canada's abrupt pivot away from deeper China ties after tariff threats, UK pushes for widespread live facial recognition, NATO's nod to U.S. indispensability, a jihadist stabbing in Washington State, and a retired Green Beret's chilling comparison of Minneapolis unrest to low-level insurgency tactics. The AM Update, Aaron McIntire, immigration enforcement, Minnesota protests, Tom Homan, Tim Walz, Ilhan Omar, Border Patrol, ICE agents, Signal chat investigation, Kash Patel, Canada China trade, Mark Carney, tariffs, facial recognition UK, NATO Greenland, jihad stabbing Washington, insurgency Minneapolis, Trump administration, deportation operations
Portland passes an urban camping ban with arrests but zero convictions. Shocked? You shouldn't be. Let's break down this masterclass in government theater: 21 people arrested, but thanks to public defender shortages, no-show defendants, and prosecutors who dismiss charges faster than you can say "progressive policies," not a single person has faced consequences. Meanwhile, Washington State is sprinting in the opposite direction—legislators are about to make sweeps virtually impossible statewide, creating such strict shelter requirements that no city will ever meet them. The Supreme Court says sweeping camps isn't cruel and unusual punishment, but Seattle and Olympia apparently know better. So what happens when one state pretends to enforce laws while the other rolls out the welcome mat? Homeless folks aren't stupid—they'll go where the benefits flow and the sweeps don't. Is this compassion or just enabling chaos on taxpayer dime? Are we watching Portland's failed experiment become Washington's official policy? Drop your thoughts below, hit subscribe, and let's call out this insanity together.
Today we welcome Christina Wolfe from IslandWood school on beautiful Bainbridge Island. Christina is passionate about building and sustaining community. At IslandWood, she is known for her joyful and energetic instructional style with her students. Working with local and regional stakeholders and community partners, she leads with caring candor in all creative pursuits. According to her co-workers and friends, she has "big Leslie Knope energy." As our Senior Naturalist, she strives to facilitate experiences that drive connection between people and place and make natural history accessible, lively and intriguing to all who wish to study it. As a civic ecologist, she is a student and participant in conservation work, community science projects, and stewardship events. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Zoology and has spent over twenty years as an outdoor educator and teaching naturalist in the eastern hardwood forests of New York, the piedmont in South Carolina, coastal Georgia, the saltmarsh and barrier islands in Florida and of course, our mossy temperate rainforest here Washington State. Christina currently serves as a curator for the Bainbridge Island Biodiversity Project on INaturalist, a wetland monitor for WA Dept. of Fish in Wildlife in amphibian egg mass monitoring, a lead facilitator in FrogWatch USA since 2004, and a Conservation Steward & Wildlife Consultant for the Bainbridge Island Land Trust since 2006. She holds certifications as a Master Birder (Seattle Audubon) since 2011, certified Beach Naturalist (WSU) since 2014, Certified Interpretative Guide with the National Association of Interpretation since 2015, and Washington State Master Naturalist (WSU, 2024). Thank you for your support! The B.I.Stander Podcast is a listener supported podcast so please consider subscribing. BE A FRIEND OF PODCASTVILLE AND TELL A FRIEND Thank you to our very supportive sponsors! Blue Canary Auto Locations in Bainbridge Island & Bremerton Sound Reprographics Locations in Bainbridge Island & Poulsbo Tideland Magazine Pick up a copy on the Ferry Sheldon Orthodontics Free Consultation KitsapSmokestack.org Be your own aligrithom, find what to do in your neighborhood Miguelitos Best Mexican food on the island! 2 great locations on Beautiful Bainbridge Island Editing by: Cherie Newman Magpie Audio Productions Fly on the Wall performed by LeRoy Bell
I will be speaking to Terry Weaver, filmmaker and the Executive Producer of The Beast of Trinity Texas. Terry told me he did not believe in Bigfoot before the film. While making the film he interviewed eyewitnesses who had seen the creature. It was during those interviews Terry said "These people are not lying, they saw something." The Beast of Trinity Texas – As a small town in East Texas unravels, murders point to evidence of a mythical beast. A war veteran turned sheriff and his team must navigate a web of deception spun by money, power, and greed in hopes of saving the people of Trinity. It is available now on Prime. I will also be speaking to Nadelle, who had an encounter in Washington State. She was staying at an Air B&B when a large create hit the side of the home waking her up. She said I just got a quick glance at it but it moved so quickly. Nadelle describes this low growl that shook her.
In this powerful and heartbreaking episode of Chicks on the Right, we sit down with Jamie Williams, a Washington State foster mom and former labor & delivery nurse, who is sounding the alarm on a child welfare system in crisis.Jamie shares firsthand accounts from inside Washington's foster care system, exposing how the “Keeping Families Together Act” has made it nearly impossible to remove children from dangerous homes—even when drugs, neglect, and extreme risk are present. Since the law's passage, child fatalities and near-fatalities have surged, while state officials deflect, downplay, and silence concerned foster parents. This is a must-watch conversation for anyone who cares about children, parental rights, foster care reform, and government accountability.Subscribe and stay tuned for new episodes every weekday!Follow us here for more daily clips, updates, and commentary:YoutubeFacebookInstagramTikTokXLocalsMore InfoWebsite
This week… The Seahawks are in a good spot - one win away from the Super Bowl. Washington State’s Legislature could require cursive lessons in schools and allow alcohol in large movie theaters. And we’re not done debating the name of our region’s big airport. They have a suggestion, but you may not like it. On the show we’re kind of having a public media party. We’ve got a KUOW panel here today with Producer Andy Hurst and Editor Phyllis Fletcher. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
WA income tax proposal includes ‘jock tax’ on visiting athletes. Fans heading to the Seahawks and Kraken games on Sunday are urged to use public transportation to avoid traffic. // LongForm: GUEST: Pierce County Sheriff Keith Swank sounds off Washington State's attempts to get rid of elected sheriffs. // Quick Hit: The FCC says late-night and daytime talk shows have to provide equal time for political candidates.
An Air Force captain, George Burk, boards a plane bound for a base in Washington State. It's a Monday morning like any other. Or at least, it should be. A structural failure will lead to a horror scenario in the sky. As the windows are blown out, this aluminium tube will hurtle towards the earth at over 250 miles an hour. By the time George and his colleagues have gathered their senses, it will already be too late… A Noiser podcast production. Hosted by John Hopkins. Written by Joe Viner | Produced by Ed Baranski | Assistant Producer: Luke Lonergan | Exec produced by Joel Duddell | Sound supervisor: Tom Pink | Sound design by Matt Peaty | Assembly edit by Rob Plummer | Compositions by Oliver Baines, Dorry Macaulay, Tom Pink | Mix & mastering: Ralph Tittley. For ad-free listening, bonus material and early access to new episodes, join Noiser+. Click the subscription banner at the top of the feed to get started. Or go to noiser.com/subscriptions If you have an amazing survival story of your own that you'd like to put forward for the show, let us know. Drop us an email at support@noiser.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Trump took the stage at Davos to tout his record after one year and also chided the Europeans. Washington State public schools are attempting to address the drop off in enrollment. // LongForm: GUEST: Senator Patty Murray looks to be getting in the way of yet another U.S. Attorney. This time, it’s Neil Floyd. // Quick Hit: New Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger is no moderate.
What lives beneath the surface of your winter mind? In this gentle guided meditation, host and meditation teacher Meryl Arnett invites you into the quiet wisdom of winter's stillness. Inspired by the children's book "Over and Under the Snow," this practice explores what rests beneath the metaphorical snow of our busy lives - the feelings, needs, and truths that are warming, waiting to be revealed in their own time.Perfect for anyone seeking deeper self-awareness during winter months or when something feels "fine" but you sense there's more underneath.About the soundscape you hear throughout the episode: The winter sounds in this meditation were recorded by acoustic ecologist Nick McMahan in the Sinlahekin Valley of Washington State, on the lands of Indigenous peoples known today as the Colville Confederated Tribes. Deep in winter, this remote valley feels more wild and isolated than any other time of year. The soundscape captures the stunning quiet beauty of steep snow-covered slopes, small frozen ponds, and the sense of exaggeration each environmental sound holds during winter's cold, dark days.The photos you see throughout this meditation are also from Nick McMahan.Sign up for my newsletter at http://eepurl.com/jjPrV2 to receive free mini meditations and soundscapes each week, along with creative musings and more.In 2026, Our Mindful Nature will release seasonal series rather than weekly episodes, allowing for richer, more in-depth explorations of meditation and mental health topics. Learn more or contact me at https://www.merylarnett.com/. Thank you to Nick McMahan for today's nature field recordings; and thank you to Brianna Nielsen for production and editing support. Find them at:https://www.nickcmcmahan.com/https://www.instagram.com/itsbriannanielsenThis podcast explores meditation, mental health and the power of connection, offering guidance for caregivers, healers, and therapists facing compassion fatigue, burnout, and other mental health struggles through self-care, self-compassion, and resilience. With a focus on anxiety, depression, and overwhelm, each episode provides tools like meditation, mindfulness, breathwork, and grounding to cultivate clarity and reduce stress. Listeners can also experience nature-inspired guided meditations, designed to bring peace and balance in times of distress.
You'll have to pay a pretty penny to get into the Seahawks game on Sunday. Don Lemon and other leftist radicals stormed into a Church in St. Paul, Minnesota and disrupted the service in order to protest ICE. // Jason almost died and went to the emergency room for the first time on Sunday. // The Washington State legislature is once again trying to lower the legal BAC.
Washington State: Mysteries, Disappearances, and LegendsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/missing-persons-mysteries--5624803/support.
In Ted Bundy for the Defense: Part One, we examine the earliest confirmed crimes of Ted Bundy and the investigation that led to his first conviction.This episode follows Bundy's documented attacks beginning in 1974, starting with the brutal assault of Karen Sparks and the murder of University of Washington student Lynda Ann Healy. As young women continue to disappear across Washington State, investigators begin to notice a disturbing pattern—college-aged victims with similar physical characteristics, abducted under similar circumstances.We track Bundy's movements from Washington to Utah and Colorado, including the Lake Sammamish abductions that introduced the “Ted” suspect and his relocation to Utah as law enforcement closed in. The episode details the disappearances and murders of Nancy Wilcox, Melissa Anne Smith, Laura Aime, and others, highlighting how Bundy's crimes escalated while investigators struggled to connect cases across state lines.Part One also explores Bundy's personal life and psychology—his unstable academic career, rejection from elite law schools, political ambitions, and turbulent romantic relationships—and how these failures fueled a growing sense of entitlement and resentment.The episode concludes with the attempted kidnapping of Carol DaRonch, her survival and identification of Bundy, his arrest in Utah, and his 1976 conviction for aggravated kidnapping—marking the first time Ted Bundy was held criminally accountable.Sources: The Bundy Murders: A Comprehensive History, Kevin M. Sullivan, McFarland and Company, 2020 (Second Edition).Murderland: Crime and Bloodlust in the Time of Serial Killers, Caroline Fraser, Penguin Press, 2025. The Devil's Defender, John Henry Browne, Chicago Review Press, 2016.A Light in the Dark: Surviving More than Ted Bundy, Kathy Kleiner Rubin and Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi, Chicago Review Press, 2024. https://www.aetv.com/articles/most-bizarre-moments-ted-bundy-murder-trialshttps://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/why-narcissistic-killers-like-ted-bundy-choose-to-represent-themselves-in-court/ar-AA1RPSDrhttps://youtu.be/KcBBevSoOmQ?si=jU9iGq1m0dfwP-2chttps://www.crimeandinvestigation.co.uk/articles/killer-who-defended-himself-unique-and-very-public-trial-ted-bundyhttps://johndrogerslaw.com/ted-bundys-criminal-trials-a-detailed-examination/https://www.nytimes.com/1978/12/10/archives/allamerican-boy-on-trial-ted-bundy.htmlhttps://www.crimelibrary.org/criminal_mind/psychology/defending_oneself/7.htmlhttps://www.esquire.com/entertainment/a27375563/ted-bundy-trial-lawyer-true-story/Sponsors: Completing the Puzzle: Go to CompletingthePuzzle.com and use code OUAC for $10 off your first puzzle subscription box or gift card.Weight Loss by Hers: Visit ForHers.com/ONCE to get a personalized, affordable plan to reach your goals. Talkiatry: Head to talkiatry.com/once and complete the short assessment to get matched with an in-network psychiatrist in minutes.Links: Beyond the Crime Convention - beyondcrimeconvention.com. April 11th & 12th, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Use discount code BEYOND-OUAC. CrimeCon 2026 - crimecon.com/CC26 - May 29th - 31st, Las Vegas. Use our discount code ONCE. About This Series:Ted Bundy for the Defense examines Ted Bundy's criminal cases through the lens of his courtroom behavior and his insistence on controlling his own fate. This series separates myth from fact, focusing on documented evidence, trial records, and survivor testimony.Coming Next:In Part Two, investigators uncover crucial forensic evidence linking Bundy to additional murders, while Bundy grows increasingly confident in his ability to outsmart the justice system—setting the stage for his most reckless decision yet.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
A new law in Washington gives people the “Right to Repair” cellphones, computers, and appliances. Manufacturers must provide repair shops with the parts, tools, and instructions to fix digital electronics. One of the goals of the law is to prevent waste. To learn more, we spoke with Adrian Tan, who's policy and market development manager with King County’s Recycling and Environmental Services. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The village of Kwigillingok, Alaska is at a crossroads after flooding, fueled by a serious Bearing Sea storm, washed away 50 houses, killing three residents. The storm is one of the increasingly frequent and increasingly severe storms to pummel the area. Combined with thawing permafrost and rising sea levels, village leaders are pushing to move — a plan that state and Native regional corporation officials reject. Recent flooding in Washington State also has tribal officials assessing their options. There too, major flooding — what used to be a once-in-a-lifetime event — threatens residents' lives and property and the natural viability of the rivers than once sustained life for local tribes. We'll get updates about the effects of increasing floods and the difficult choices tribal officials face. GUESTS Daniel Paul (Yup'ik), tribal president for the Village of Kipnuk Gavin Phillip (Yup'ik), tribal administrator for the Village of Kwigillingok Darrel John (Yup'ik), community school advocate Joseph Pavel (Skokomish), director of natural resources for the Skokomish Indian Tribe Guillaume Mauger, Washington state climatologist and research scientist at the University of Washington Climate Impacts Group Break 1 Music: Uangilaa (song) Susan Aglukark (artist) The Crossing (album) Break 2 Music: Elle Danse [Boogat Remix] (song) Mimi O'Bonsawin (artist)
In this episode of the Great Trials Podcast, host Steve Lowry and Yvonne Godfrey welcome guest Eric Fong to discuss a significant case involving Jessica Hilton versus the Washington Department of Corrections and Child Protective Services. CASE SUMMARY: **TRIGGER WARNING** The case in focus deals with severe instances of sexual abuse, specifically involving Jessica Hilton and multiple failures of state agencies to protect her and her siblings. ERIC FONG BIO: Eric has obtained the two largest general damages jury verdicts for one person in Washington state history; $91,000,000 for a premise liability matter that resulted in a TBI and $42,000,000 for the governmental neglect of a child that resulted in abuse and PTSD. Eric began his career as a public defender, dedicating 11 years advocating for those in need — work he remains most proud of to this day. With nearly three decades of trial experience, Eric has tried over 100 cases to verdict and has received state and national trial lawyer of the year awards. In addition to his legal practice, Eric loves teaching and has been an instructor of the Gerry Spence Method for over 20 years. Eric loves working with his wife on their cut flower farm, hiking and fishing. (READ MORE) CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: FONG LAW LISTEN TO PREVIOUS EPISODES & MEET THE TEAM: Great Trials Podcast Show Sponsors: Legal Technology Services Harris Lowry Manton LLP - hlmlawfirm.com Production Team: Dee Daniels Media Podcast Production Free Resources: Stages Of A Jury Trial - Part 1 Stages Of A Jury Trial - Part 2
When she was 14, Krystal Evans survived a lethal house fire. Years later, to come to terms with what she'd experienced, she turned it into a stand-up show. The women in Krystal's family have always been funny, she says; her mother was no exception. But as well as being hilarious she also struggled with mental illness, and life in Krystal's childhood was chaotic. With very little money, the family would move from place to place, Krystal would miss months of school and often be left to take care of her younger sister alone. When Krystal was 14, chaos turned to tragedy when a fire engulfed their mobile home in Washington State. Not everyone survived. Krystal buried the experience and tried to move on with her life, but years later, while working as a comedian, she decided to confront her memories of the fire – by turning them into a hit stand-up show: The Hottest Girl at Burn Camp.Presenter: Jo Fidgen Producers: Caroline Ferguson and Zoe GelberLives Less Ordinary is a podcast from the BBC World Service that brings you the most incredible true stories from around the world. Each episode a guest shares their most dramatic, moving, personal story. Listen for unbelievable twists, mysteries uncovered, and inspiring journeys - spanning the entire human experience. Step into someone else's life and expect the unexpected. Got a story to tell? Send an email to liveslessordinary@bbc.co.uk or message us via WhatsApp: 0044 330 678 2784 You can read our privacy notice here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/5YD3hBqmw26B8WMHt6GkQxG/lives-less-ordinary-privacy-notice
Are we causing our own busy-season chaos? Blake and David break down a simple scheduling system that spreads tax work, trains clients, and slashes extensions. They debate Congress's barcode bill vs. e-filing, unpack a poll showing GOP support for a millionaire's tax, and ask what AI really changes when managers still have to review the bots. Plus: IRS CI's latest wins, whistleblower e-filing, and a Britney tax fight.SponsorsDigits - http://accountingpodcast.promo/digitsOnPay - http://accountingpodcast.promo/onpayTaxBandits - http://accountingpodcast.promo/taxbanditsUNC - http://accountingpodcast.promo/uncChapters(01:11) - AI and Survey Creation (02:30) - Google's Personal Intelligence (05:11) - IRS Defunding and Workforce Reduction (06:51) - CPA Trendlines Busy Season Barometer (11:12) - Barcode Efficiency Act (15:24) - IRS Criminal Investigations (17:24) - Payroll Headaches and OnPay (18:56) - SBA and IRS Employee Fraud (21:41) - IRS Whistleblower Office (23:08) - Britney Spears vs. IRS (24:04) - Washington State Millionaires Tax (27:01) - Busy Season Is Self-Inflicted (30:44) - Livestream and CPE Credits (31:24) - UNC Kenan-Flagler MAC Program (32:38) - A New Year's Eve Pink Eye Adventure (33:20) - AI Prescriptions in Utah (35:03) - Trust in Accountants at Historic Lows (39:13) - Listener Mail: Advisory Services and Online Degrees (45:30) - The CPA Exam: Challenges and Changes (01:03:17) - Closing Remarks and Earmark App Growth Show NotesAre Washingtonians Finally Ready for a State Income Tax? https://www.dhmresearch.com/are-washingtonians-finally-ready-for-a-state-income-tax/ Guess Who Supports a Millionaires Tax in Washington State? Republicans, Poll Finds https://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2026/01/14/guess-who-supports-a-millionaires-tax-in-washington-state-republicans-poll-finds/176337/ Barometer: Firms Brace for a Tough Tax Season https://cpatrendlines.com/2025/10/01/barometer-firms-brace-for-a-tough-tax-season/ IRS Advisory Council blasts defunding of agency https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/irs-advisory-council-blasts-defunding-of-agency IRS Advisory Council report defends workers, criticizes budget and staff cuts https://www.thetaxadviser.com/news/2026/jan/irs-advisory-council-report-defends-workers-criticizes-budget-and-staff-cuts/ Internal Revenue Service Advisory Council PUBLIC REPORT January 2026 https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5316.pdf Lengthy grudge motivated Brown mass shooting, MIT professor killing: Sources https://abcnews.go.com/US/lengthy-grudge-motivated-brown-mass-shooting-mit-professor/story?id=128961044 A Reddit post helped find MIT and Brown shooting suspect. Here's what we know https://www.npr.org/2025/12/19/nx-s1-5649528/brown-mit-shooter-what-we-know Former SBA and IRS Employee Charged with Using Government Positions to Steal Millions from COVID Relief Programshttps://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga/pr/former-sba-and-irs-employee-charged-using-government-positions-steal-millions-covid Hampton woman accused of using federal jobs to steal pandemic relief funds https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/hampton-woman-accused-using-federal-jobs-steal-pandemic-relief-funds House advances bill to speed tax return processing via barcodes https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/house-advances-bill-to-speed-tax-return-processing-via-barcodes BARCODE Efficiency Act Brings Overdue Modernization to the IRS https://atr.org/barcode-efficiency-act-brings-overdue-modernization-to-the-irs/ Utah and Doctronic Announce Groundbreaking Partnership for AI Prescription Medication Renewalshttps://commerce.utah.gov/2026/01/06/news-release-utah-and-doctronic-announce-groundbreaking-partnership-for-ai-prescription-medication-renewals/ Utah allows nation's first AI drug prescriptionshttps://www.axios.com/local/salt-lake-city/2026/01/07/utah-ai-drug-prescriptions-doctronic Nurses Continue to Lead in Honesty and Ethics Ratings https://news.gallup.com/poll/700736/nurses-continue-lead-honesty-ethics-ratings.aspx Americans' Ratings of U.S. Professions Stay Historically Low https://news.gallup.com/poll/655106/americans-ratings-professions-stay-historically-low.aspx Britney Spears disputes $600K tax claimhttps://www.accountingtoday.com/news/britney-spears-disputes-600k-tax-claim Britney Spears Fighting With IRS Over $600,000https://www.tmz.com/2025/12/19/britney-spears-fighting-with-irs-taxes/ Right Now, Managing AI Agents is About as Much Work as Managing Humans. Just Different Work.https://www.saastr.com/right-now-managing-ai-agents-is-about-as-much-work-as-managing-humans/ The 'Godfather of SaaS' says he replaced most of his s...
-If you weren't able to shut down your Windows 11 device recently, Microsoft has rolled out an emergency fix addressing a couple of critical bugs that popped up with its latest January 2026 Windows security update. -Washington state residents may soon be forced to produce IDs before getting onto websites with pornographic content. -Six years after the announcement of plans to build Atari Hotels in eight cities across the US, including Las Vegas, only one now seems to be moving forward, in Phoenix, Arizona. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On this, our 309th Evolutionary Lens livestream, we discuss science and scientism, experts and expertise. Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson objects to the reduction in the Childhood Vaccine Schedule, and promises to bring “science” back to the state. In fact, the new recommendations are putting the U.S. more in line with what European countries recommend, and are quite conservative. Also, while Ferguson was the WA Attorney General, he imposed and enforced Covid vaccine mandates; many people lost their jobs and their livelihoods. Also in Washington: Brandi Kruse outs Democratic majority leader Jamie Pedersen as being unclear about the nature of male and female (or unwilling to say what he knows). On Broadway, Dylan Mulvaney, a male, will be playing Anne Boleyn, one of the most famous and influential women in history. Finally: words in honor and memory of Scott Adams.*****Our sponsors:SaunaSpace: deep radiant heat from red and infrared incandescence—detox and decrease pain, reverse screen fatigue and improve your mood. Sauna.Space/DarkHorse for 10% off sitewide. Masa Chips: Delicious chips made with corn, salt, and beef tallow—nothing else—in loads of great flavors. Go to masachips.com/DarkHorse, use code DarkHorse, for 25% off.Xlear: Xylitol nasal spray that acts as prophylaxis against respiratory illnesses by reducing the stickiness of bacteria and viruses. Find Xlear online, or at your local pharmacy, grocery store, or natural products store.*****Join us on Locals! Get access to our Discord server, exclusive live streams, live chats for all streams, and early access to many podcasts: https://darkhorse.locals.com/Heather's newsletter, Natural Selections (subscribe to get free weekly essays in your inbox): https://naturalselections.substack.comOur book, A Hunter-Gatherer's Guide to the 21st Century, is available everywhere books are sold, including from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3AGANGg (commission earned)Check out our store! Epic tabby, digital book burning, saddle up the dire wolves, and more: https://darkhorsestore.org*****Mentioned in this episode:Governor Ferguson: https://x.com/govbobferguson/status/2011482561206231340 HHS Immunization Assessment: https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/assessment-of-the-us-childhood-and-adolescent-immunization-schedule-compared-to-other-countries.pdf New vaccine guideline summary: https://www.hhs.gov/childhood-immunization-schedule/index.html Hanson v Ferguson: https://www.silentmajorityfoundation.org/medicalfreedom Kruse takes on Pedersen: https://x.com/BrandiKruse/status/2010068851858518456 Mulvaney to play Anne Boleyn: https://www.iheartradiobroadway.com/content/2026-01-16-six-welcomes-new-queens-on-february-16/ Scott Adams: https://x.com/dawnsmission/status/2011123367794118822Support the show
HEY! We encourage you to listen to this show as part of the "Happy Hour with John Gaskins" daily podcast, which you can find at SiouxFallsLive.com, and most podcast platforms like the one you find here! So, if you enjoy the topics Matt & John cover, you'll get those topics, plus relevant local guests, every Monday through Thursday on Happy Hour... so we highly recommend you check that out!We are living in a college sports Bizarro World. Indiana is the No. 1 football team in America, while Nebraska sports the No. 8 men's basketball team. Let that sink in. In a "Nobody's Listening Anyway" episode that included plenty of the usual Jackrabbits, Coyotes, FCS, transfer port and Summit League basketball banter, Sioux Falls Live sports editor Matt Zimmer and the Happy Hour host took some time to digest this "what planet are we on" concept — Hoosiers football and Huskers basketball on heaters. Zim explains why he is enjoying Curt Cignetti and Indiana's rise, and not just because it is a once-in-a-lifetime rags-to-riches football story. Plus, Zim is engages the host — not just a Husker football zealot but a long-suffering "Nebrasketball" nut — about the excitement of Fred Hoiberg's squad potentially taking Big Red basketball to where it has never been. Other topics covered: * Why not nearly as many USD fans will become nearly as engaged in Hawkeye football with L.J. Phillips playing in Iowa as SDSU fans who hopped on the train with Mark Gronowski * Griffin Wilde getting a much more experienced and famous offensive coordinator at Northwestern — former Oregon, 49ers, and Eagles head coach Chip Kelly — than his former SDSU OC Zach Lujan * Former SDSU and Washington State offensive coordinator Danny Freund landing not with former SDSU head coach Jimmy Rogers at Iowa State, but back at North Dakota, where he was the OC before coming to Brookings in 2024 and Pullman in '25 * The monster basketball showdowns SDSU's men and women have with North Dakota State this week * Why O'Gorman boys basketball coach Derek Robey — who announced Friday that after 40 seasons and six state titles that this season will be his last — is "one of the most underrated coaches in South Dakota history," not just for high school hoops, but all sports at all levels.
Eric Frandsen and Jason Walker examine the stats that suggest that Utah State can be a streaky team. Some big games on the Mountain West basketball schedule.How future Pac-12 basketball teams are looking so far (notably Gonzaga, Washington State, Oregon State and Texas State).High School basketball schedule.NFL Playoff schedule - with games broadcast on 106.9 The FAN.
https://slasrpodcast.com/ SLASRPodcast@gmail.com Welcome to episode 219 of the sounds like a search and rescue podcast - our first episode of 2026. This week - Meghan and Paul from the Alzheimer's Association join us to highlight their kick off event for the 2026 48 Peaks Hike to Fight Alzheimers event. The kick off event is on February 7th at Spyglass Brewing in Nashua where Ty Gagne will share a live reading from the Lions of Winter and speak about how his fathers dementia diagnosis impacted his writing and family. Plus, we are kicking off the new year with hiking reminders on safety, volunteering and spring and summer events. We will have updates on local NH outdoor related news, and some national news including a hiker killed by a mountain lion, black bear living in a crawl space in California and the homeowner is not able to remove it, Nick breaks down how the Adirondack and the Olympic range in Washington State used to be connected, plus recent hikes on Jefferson/Adams, Liberty/Flume, Moosilauke, Willey Tom, Field and Avalon and sledding down the cog. All this plus recent search and rescue news. About This Weeks Guests 48 Peaks website Ty Gagne Event at Spyglass Brewing on Feb 7th (Scroll down for info and to register - free event) 48 Peaks Alzheimers Instagram Topics Welcome Paul and Meghan from the 48 Peaks Alzheimer's Association Beginning of the year reminders NH is the healthiest state LED Lights are too damn bright Proposal to ban Chinese Drones Conway Scenic Railroad Drunk hiking Olympic Snowboarder dies in an avalanche Mountain Lions and Black Bears Adirondack are really ancient mountains Slow Sleds Music Minute - Meatloaf Mountain Wanderer Beer Release party Recent Hikes Mike - Jefferson/Adams Traverse, Sledding down the Cog Railway Recent Hikes Nick - Mount Agassiz, Liberty/Flume, Moosilauke, Willey, Tom, Field, Avalon Welcome Meghan and Paul from the Alzhemier's Association - 48 Peaks kick off with Ty Gagne Recent SAR News Show Notes Apple Podcast link for 5 star reviews SLASR Merchandise SLASR LinkTree SLASR's BUYMEACOFFEE Hike safe Card Reminder Order Hike Safe Card Mount Washington Road Race Lottery is opening up on Feb 10th Wilderness First Aid Classes - SOLO Trail Adoption AMC Trail Adopter Application Program Guidelines Trail Maintenance trips and groups to get involved NH ranked the healthiest state in the nation. Raise your hand if LED headlights are blinding you. Will drone ban impact SAR? But wait… The government pivots A really satisfying video of the Conway Scenic Railroad plowing tracks The Cog does the same Drunk hiker could be billed Olympic snowboarder dies is avalanche Hiker killed by Mtn. Lion on New Years day in California Mountain lion in New York Another sighting in October Wolf in New York as well recent news California homeowner terrorized by squatting bear Stiga Racer Mountain Wanderer Feathered Friend Release Party Two Massachusetts Men Rescued from Mount Lafayette - 12/12/25 Two Hikers Rescued on Mount Monadnock in Jaffrey - 12/19/25 Injured Hiker on Black Mountain - 1/2/26 Injured Hiker Rescued on North Pack Monadnock - 1/4/26 Sponsors, Friends and Partners Wild Raven Endurance Coaching burgeonoutdoor.com 48 Peaks - Alzheimer's Association Mount Washington Higher Summits Forecast Hiking Buddies Vaucluse - Sweat less. Explore more. – Vaucluse Gear Fieldstone Kombucha CS Instant Coffee The Mountain Wanderer
Austin King and Tuck Clarry discuss the news of Braden Huff's injury and 4-8 week timetable to return. The Bulldogs easily beat Washington State. What can we glean from this result for how they will weather Huff's absence for the foreseeable future? Also, just how bad is Washington State?
New Iowa State Defensive Coordinator Jesse Bobbit visits with John Walters. Bobbit comes with Head Coach Jimmy Rogers from Washington State.
You're listening to American Ground Radio with Louis R. Avallone and Stephen Parr. This is the full show for January 15, 2025. 0:30 We kick off today's show with Democrat lawmakers, in multiple states, who are openly pushing bills to block, undermine, and hobble federal ICE agents—despite clear constitutional authority under the Supremacy Clause. This isn’t about legal ambiguity; it’s about defying laws they don’t like and protecting a political agenda. We're laying it out bluntly: these state efforts will fail in court, waste millions in taxpayer dollars, and further embolden lawlessness. Weakening ICE doesn’t help vulnerable communities—it hurts them the most by driving up crime, suppressing wages, and draining resources from American citizens. This is a line in the sand moment. You’re either for the rule of law and law enforcement, or you’re for chaos and ideological nullification of the Constitution. There is no middle ground. 9:30 Plus, we cover the Top 3 Things you Need to Know. President Trump unveiled a new healthcare plan. Vice President JD Vance cast the deciding vote blocking a rebuke of President Trump's Venezuela policies. Another oil tanker leaving Venezuela has been seized by the United States. 12:30 Get Performlyte from Victory Nutrition International for 20% off. Go to vni.life/agr and use the promo code AGR20. 13:00 We don’t hold back as we react to what’s going on in Minnesota — and it’s not just a “local issue,” it’s a crisis of law and order. Democrat politicians in the state are openly encouraging people to defy lawful orders from law enforcement and interfere with ICE operations, even as violent clashes escalate. In Minneapolis, federal immigration enforcement has drawn massive protests after the fatal shooting of a woman during an ICE operation and a separate incident where a Venezuelan man and others assaulted an ICE agent with a shovel and broomstick, forcing the agent to fire in self-defense. When local leaders stoke resistance to federal law enforcement, what do you think is going to happen? This isn’t peaceful protest — it’s chaos, violence against officers, and the kind of breakdown in public safety that puts everyone at risk. 16:00 We got a question in for our American Mamas — Teri Netterville and Kimberly Burleson. Are we seeing more celebrities and public figures openly embrace conservative values? The Mamas weigh in, reacting to some surprising “red-pill” moments—from Nicki Minaj speaking out about faith and global issues, to longtime quiet conservatives like Patricia Heaton finally opening up about what it was like to be a political “unicorn” in Hollywood. The conversation hits on why more famous voices are stepping out now: social media, the collapse of trust in legacy media, and people realizing they don’t have to think the way the culture tells them to. From Michael Rapaport’s political flip to growing shifts in the Black community, the Mamas argue this isn’t about following a trend—it’s about people thinking for themselves, finding community, and giving others the confidence to say, “I’m not alone, and I don’t have to stay quiet anymore.” If you'd like to ask our American Mamas a question, go to our website, AmericanGroundRadio.com/mamas and click on the Ask the Mamas button. 23:00 With more than 500 million firearms now in civilian hands, America is still governed by consent—not force. The Second Amendment isn’t just about personal protection; it’s about sovereignty, self-defense, and making tyranny too costly to even attempt. Compare that to places like Britain New York, and California where strict gun control hasn’t produced safety—it’s produced more crime, more surveillance, and more government overreach, while criminals stay armed and law-abiding citizens get disarmed. The bottom line? When power shifts away from citizens, it doesn’t disappear—it lands in the hands of criminals or the state. Those 500 million firearms are a reminder that America still remembers who she is: a free, self-governing people. 25:30 We Dig Deep into a disturbing pattern of government fraud—this time in Washington State. After the daycare fraud scandal in Minnesota, reporters started digging and found dozens of so-called “home-based childcare centers” receiving tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars every month… despite the fact that no daycare was actually operating there. No kids. No business. Just checks rolling in. And when journalists did what journalists are supposed to do—knocked on doors, verified addresses, and reported the findings—the state’s response wasn’t outrage over fraud. It was outrage at the reporters. Instead of addressing where the money went, Washington officials scolded the press for exposing it, proving just how comfortable some politicians have become with unaccountable government and a compliant media. This isn’t just about daycare fraud—it’s about why a free press exists in the first place, and what happens when those in power would rather silence scrutiny than answer hard questions. 32:00 Get Prodovite Plus from Victory Nutrition International for 20% off. Go to vni.life/agr and use the promo code AGR20. 32:30 We talk about a major moment on the world stage as Donald Trump meets with Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate María Corina Machado. This wasn’t just a photo op—it was a declaration of what America is supposed to stand for. After decades of socialist destruction and authoritarian rule in Venezuela, a pro-freedom leader who was hunted, persecuted, and forced into exile is now sitting down with a U.S. president to talk about her country’s future. 35:30 We take a look at just how unhinged the far-left media has become—and then point out the moment they accidentally tell the truth. Using The American Prospect as the example, we run through some of their over-the-top headlines comparing Donald Trump to genocidal dictators and accusing him of “ethnic cleansing.” Pure Trump Derangement Syndrome on full display. But here’s the twist: buried in all that hysteria, even this far-left outlet is forced to admit something they swore could never be true—Trump’s tariffs are actually working. They acknowledge the trade deficit is down, inflation hasn’t spiked, real wages are up, and foreign exporters are eating much of the cost. After years of screaming that tariffs would wreck the economy, the facts are winning. When even a publication that despises Trump has to concede his policies delivered results, that’s not just ironic—it’s a bright spot and a quiet admission that Trump may have been right all along. 39:30 We dive into the messy headlines and the real-world diplomacy behind them. While there’s been chatter—especially online—about divides and even anti-Semitism swirling through certain corners of the right (with bots amplifying the noise), the facts tell a very different story. According to the New York Times, Israel and the U.S. remain closely aligned. 41:30 And we finish off today's show with a teacher couple who will make you say, "Whoa!" Follow us: americangroundradio.com Facebook: facebook.com / AmericanGroundRadio Instagram: instagram.com/americangroundradioSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Milk production is up 4.5% — but somehow, milk is clearing. Something doesn't add up. In this episode of The Milk Check, the team uncovers the shifts reshaping dairy economics in 2026. Ted Jacoby III leads a classic market roundtable with the Jacoby team to unpack what they're seeing as dairy transitions out of the holiday demand season and into early-year reality. Despite 4.5% year-over-year milk production growth, milk is clearing in many regions. Cheese and butter markets are under pressure, but inventories aren't yet burdensome. Protein markets remain tight. And nonfat dry milk is showing surprising strength. So what's going on? In this episode, we cover: Why added processing capacity may be masking where supply is really long How cheese and butter are absorbing milk that would normally back up at the farm Why protein demand is tightening skim solids and whey markets Whether nonfat's recent rally is real or a phantom And which dairy market narratives the team thinks are wrong right now If you're trying to make sense of conflicting signals across milk, fat, protein and powder, this episode delivers the context behind the numbers. Listen now to The Milk Check episode 90: The Market is Lying to Us. Got questions? We'd love to hear them. Submit below, and we might answer it on the show. Ask The Milk Check Ted Jacoby III: [00:00:00] Am I just being a conspiracy theorist? Diego Carvallo: I would probably bet a little bit on that conspiracy theory. It could be. It could be possible, Ted. Who knows. Ted Jacoby III: Welcome to the Milk Check from TC Jacob and Company, your complete guide to dairy markets, from the milking parlor to the supermarket shelf. I’m Ted Jacoby. Let’s dive in. We’re on the new side of the New Year. It is January 12th. we’re gonna have a classic market discussion today. Things have started to settle down from the holidays and I thought it would be a great idea just to share with everybody what we’re seeing in the markets as we’re transitioning from the high-demand season into the low-demand season. We have our usual suspects today. We have my brother Gus who manages our fluid group. We’ve got Josh White, head of our dairy ingredients group. We have Joe Maixner, head of all of our butter sales. Mike Brown, our Vice President of Market Intelligence, and myself. So, we’ll start with milk, Gus. What’s it look like right now? Gus Jacoby: It certainly isn’t tight, but it isn’t really long either. I think the November milk production was up [00:01:00] 4.5% and that typically would be fairly significant in areas where there isn’t a lot of additional processing capacity. One would think it would be very, very long with that kind of growth, but we’re not seeing that. Areas like the upper Midwest, Mideast, those areas are not as long as we thought they would be. I don’t want to act as if it’s tight. That’s not the case. Through the holidays, there was still plenty of milk that was around. But I think here as we climbed out of the New Year holiday and into mid-January, things have gotten fairly what we would say in balance. And that’s a little bit alarming considering that type of milk production growth. Ted Jacoby III: Why do you think that is? Is it just all the new capacity from all the new plants that have been built, or what else is going on? Gus Jacoby: Well, certainly in that western, upper Midwest and Southwest region, upstate New York as well, there’s been a lot of processing capacity that’s been added. So, those areas have been able to soak up that extra milk. I think milks travling a bit but I also think folks have found a little bit more efficient avenues to place the milk after dealing with some length over the past year [00:02:00] or so. But there’s a little bit of a question mark I have in the back of my mind as to how efficient we’ve been able to do so. Typically, when we have this kind of large growth, anything north of 4% is large, and large enough to be concerned about. But nonetheless, the processing capacity is significant. We don’t wanna discount that. But one can certainly wonder why in areas like the Mideast, where you haven’t really added a lot of production capacity here recently, why we aren’t seeing a bit more milk floating around. Ted Jacoby III: You think it’s just domino effect type things? Where, as milk is tighter in New York, so none of that milk is going into the southeast or into Appalachia, therefore it’s gotta be pulled from the Mideast? Gus Jacoby: Ted, that might be a part of it. I think domino effect is certainly going on here. There’s some areas of the country that don’t have enough milk because of that additional capacity we discussed. But having said all that, I think there’s some question marks out there right now as to why it isn’t a bit longer in certain parts of the country. Ted Jacoby III: What about some, I’ll call it non-traditional demand growth, and what I mean by that is things [00:03:00] like ESL or some of the protein drinks? It looks like there have been new brands showing up on the supermarket shelf lately. Gus Jacoby: If you’re alluding to areas like UF milk or high-protein fluid products there is certainly a lot of demand in that Class I, Class II segment of our industry. Add in the fact that you have a lot of demand for fortification solids for cheese plants, skim can seem a little bit tight right now, and there’s some logic behind that, but I don’t think there’s enough ultra filtration capacity right now to satisfy demand. So, if milk is going in that direction, there isn’t enough UF units out there, I think, to fill that void. And I wouldn’t say that’s the reason why we’re tightening up milk supplies by no means. In some parts of the world, yes, that might be the case, but that’s pretty small in the grand scheme of things. Ted Jacoby III: On the fluid side, is skim solids slash dairy protein tighter than the butterfat side? Gus Jacoby: Absolutely it is. Yes. I don’t think there’s any question about that. You’ve got two things driving [00:04:00] that. Too much butterfat requires cheese plants to gather more fortification solids, and the demand for protein right now is through the roof. You’re gonna have it hit from both sides and they’re hitting pretty strong. Ted Jacoby III: Could that extra skim solid slash dairy protein demand be what’s tightening up the milk market? Are we seeing it, for example, in lower cream multiples? Gus Jacoby: There still is plenty of cream around, to answer that question directly. I just don’t think there’s enough UF processing capacity at this moment in time to say that it’s tightening milk by any means. Ted Jacoby III: Could it be cheese plants taking the milk directly off the farm but spinning off a lot more cream? Gus Jacoby: I would say some of that is gonna go on. Yeah. ’cause there’s not enough fortification solids to be had, or at least not at the price the cheese plants are gonna be happy with. Cheese plants, even though they might prefer UF at times, they’ll take different types of skim solids and that certainly will tighten up that skim side of the market. That, combined with the fact that the protein sector is short, certainly you’re gonna have that element in our [00:05:00] market right now. I just think there’s enough milk out there, Ted, and not enough protein, isolation capacity of any sort to be the main reason as to why you’re not as long on milk as you think you should be. Ted Jacoby III: You know, I’ve had a theory going for a little while that all this extra capacity we’ve added, a lot of it is cheese capacity, and I feel like this time around, we’ve just transferred where we’re feeling the length. We’re not necessarily feeling the length in milk like we usually do. Instead, there’s enough processing capacity to get all that milk and to make cheese out of it. And therefore, we’re seeing the length in cheese, and we’re seeing the length in butter. And that’s why those two markets have been under so much pressure lately, whereas the milk market seems to be in balance. We’ve just moved down the supply chain a little bit where the length is manifesting. Does that make sense? Gus Jacoby: A little bit? Yeah. Mike Brown: It Does Make sense. Where you have new plants, they wanna be full. They’re cheese plants. They’re gonna try to fill those plants with milk to the extent they can market product, which is becoming a [00:06:00] concern as we see the CME cheese price continuing to drop. We’re also reaching a point when fat is very high, you can’t afford to fortify cheese vats because your skim solids price is high relative to fat. Right now everything’s kind of low, but powder relative to cheese, is as high as it’s been in quite a while. If you have revenue from waste stream, fortifying with nonfat or skim solids makes a whole lot of sense. But if you’re paying that full price for the casein portion of that skim, it gets closer again now too. It’s a little different situation than it’s been in a while. I don’t think Gus could be any more right about the need for more ultra filtered capacity. I’m just curious where it’s gonna show. Because the demand certainly seems to be there. Ted Jacoby III: If there’s one place where I think maybe we’re underestimating demand, it’s in that ESL protein space. And I agree with Gus, there’s probably not enough capacity to really manifest all of that resting demand or untapped demand, but I bet we’re maximizing that supply chain everywhere we can, especially given what we’re seeing in the whey protein [00:07:00] market right now. And it doesn’t show up in the data really clearly. You’re up four and a half percent in milk. Some of that is, we’re still measuring against weakness and we’re measuring against the bird flu outbreak that was happening a year ago. I just think there’s also some demand there possibly in that space that isn’t really showing up in the data in a way that makes it clear to everybody we’ve got some good demand in a couple of places. Having said that, I also think we’ve got more than enough cheese right now. We’ve got more than enough butter right now. But in both cases, and I’m gonna throw this at Joe I don’t think the inventories, at least what’s showing up in the cold storage data is telling us the inventories are burdensome yet. And that might just be when we are in the calendar, but it could just be we’re finding new places for demand. Joe, what are your thoughts? Joe Maixner: Yeah, inventories are definitely not burdensome right now. We’re coming off of pretty good draw down over the holiday season. Obviously, we’re really early into the inventory build period. But demand overall, coming back from [00:08:00] the holidays here, has been pretty strong out of the gate for the New Year. Everybody’s coming back to the office. They’re seeing these very depressed prices. And there’s been a lot of interest in both spot volume, building up some inventory on some spot buys, as well as some additional contract volume for the remainder of the year. So, going back to your comment on inventories, the one thing we always have to keep in mind with looking at cold storage is that number is all types of butter sitting in warehouse inventories. When it comes to pricing, the only thing that matters is 80% CME eligible bulk. We still have a fair amount of salted bulk, especially the older production, in people’s hands, and that has been showing up in the marketplace. A lot of that’s because there was not a lot of micro fixing for the holiday season. Cream was plentiful. People were making plenty of product outta fresh cream as opposed to reformulating that older butter into the retail pack. I think that there’s not a lot of fresh production being made right now [00:09:00] in the salted variety. We could see a nice little price pop here in the coming months once that older product becomes ineligible on the CME. Ted Jacoby III: It’ll be interesting to watch. It’s funny, I think there’s some interesting similarities, not with the old crop, new crop issue, but just some similarities on the cheese side. There’s an old saying about an anticipatory bull market where people start driving up the price ’cause they’re afraid of not having product tomorrow. This just feels like an anticipatory bear market where the inventory levels in cheese aren’t saying that we’ve got a massive amount of length and oversupply of cheese. But you can’t help but wonder if the reason the price is so low is because there is no one out there, both because they’re looking at their forecasted demand for their product and they’re looking at the forecasted milk supply, there’s just no one out there who has any worry about being able to get the cheese they need tomorrow. And so there’s no reason for them to go out there and buy the cheese today and tie up their capital when they’re pretty confident they’re gonna be able to get it tomorrow, maybe even at a lower price. And I get the feeling that there’s some similarities [00:10:00] in the butter market, too. But let’s switch over to the powder side. We’ve been talking about the strength in the protein market for a while, but lately we’ve been seeing some strength in the nonfat market. Diego, is that real strength is that long-term strength? Have we found a bottom in nonfat, what’s going on there? Diego Carvallo: Ted, it’s a very, very interesting question. It’s something everybody’s discussing and commenting about, right? The nonfat market feels like it’s way tighter, the spot market, than what most people were expecting. Right. And the funny thing is everybody has a different theory on what could be happening. We’re not sure what’s gonna happen in the coming months, but there’s definitely a few theories on why this market could be tight and why we’re seeing this kind of short covering rally that we saw in the past two weeks. There’s theories about more UF capacity in areas like the Midwest, which is creating a premium for that product in that region. There’s also theories of some plants in California [00:11:00] mainly being down during the months of November and October, which could have also created a shortage of product that needed to be delivered. Some point also to Mexico or the domestic market stepping in when prices reach the $1.10 or $1.15s and buying decent volumes. But the fact of the matter is, market is a little bit tighter, way tighter than what most anticipated at this period. At the same time, most people are expecting because of ample availability of milk in regions like California, that the market is gonna have to start building inventories because we are, I don’t know, 15 cents or 20 cents higher per pound than Europe. So we’re definitely not gonna be able to export a lot of product to Asia, to the Middle East, or to even Latin America at these prices. So, yeah, the market is tight, but the medium-term outlook is still that we’re gonna [00:12:00] see plenty of pressure. Ted Jacoby III: Any difference in price right now between skim milk powder and nonfat dry milk? Diego Carvallo: That differential between the two has shrank has been smaller because if you talk to most plants in California, everybody’s running nonfat at full capacity. Their plants are almost all of them at full capacity and nobody’s making skim this time of the year. It’s a throughput matter. They try to make as much nonfat as possible when they have plenty of milk. Ted Jacoby III: Interesting. You’d think if prices were going up in the U.S. but not going up in Europe, it would widen, but it’s actually shrinking. That’s wild. Diego Carvallo: Exactly. Yep. And with the U.S. making a lot of nonfat, all of that is gonna go into NDPSR, there should be pressure. At the same time, this week we have the ONIL tender, which most of the market is expecting a result and following it closely because if Europe doesn’t sell that tender, they’re gonna have more product and more pressure on their product. Ted Jacoby III: Makes sense. [00:13:00] Well, Europe’s had some surplus milk as well. Is it possible this market in the U.S. is popping because some of the European traders want it to pop so they can make sure that they clear the excess European product? Or am I just being a conspiracy theorist? Diego Carvallo: I would probably bet a little bit on that conspiracy theory. It could be. It could be possible, Ted. Who knows. Ted Jacoby III: Got it. All right. Sounds good. Josh, what’s going on in the whey market? We just keep talking about tight. Has anything changed? Josh White: No. It remains pretty tight. I think the whey protein demand seems strong. I will say coming into the year I’ve seen more product trade on the spot market, which is interesting. But the tale or the storyline is that that spot trade is still met with good demand and those prices are all still higher than the first quarter negotiated prices to many of the large users, meaning that there’s still good demand at these high prices, and the consumer hasn’t even seen these high prices yet. So it seems like it’s the same in Europe. First quarter is pretty much locked. Second quarter maybe there’s more vulnerability, but at the moment, I think that the [00:14:00] majority of the market would bet that we remain firm through the second quarter maybe even see some higher prices. I think what’s interesting if you look at the market is on the sweet whey powder side, you’ll have Europeans even comment that the whey market is a little bit firm, but they’re quite a bit lower than our price right now. And if you look at the forward futures prices, we have a classic short market. It’s inverted. It’s significantly inverted. And it’ll be curious to see if we really have that much additional sweet whey powder to either move the prices lower or we get enough demand pushback and reformulation to result in some extra product being available. But at the moment, across most of the whey complex it’s fairly firm, which I think tells the story. I mean, we went through the northern hemisphere’s lower milk production months, albeit we’re reporting really high year-over-year numbers, as you commented, compared to bird flu of a year ago in the West. People have had every incentive to place milk in any utilization other than butter and powder over the last few [00:15:00] months, and the market seems to be doing that. In addition to all of the other little comments, it feels like consumers knew that and really ran their supply chains pretty thin. And coming out of the holiday period, there is some short covering happening. Whether that’s just a derivative, speculative position short covering, physical short covering, it’s happening. In addition to that, when we look at the U.S., you can’t paint with a broad brush. The west seems to be running a lot of powder. The Midwest is not. And so that’s created a little bit of a tight situation here. So when you add the demand in Mexico for nonfat you add Midwestern pipeline filling, it’s enough that our spot market is carrying a really big premium to the rest of the world. We’ll see if that can continue as our daily milk production increases seasonally, both here and in Europe. I think that as that continues, as milk goes up, does that directly translate to butter and powder production going up? I would argue at least on some of these products, we know that the [00:16:00] WPI dryers are full. We know the WPC 80 dryers are full. I suspect that the MPC dryers are full and all of the fluid products going into those Class II products are probably full. So we’ll see if the market can handle the seasonal ramp up in production or not. And arguably, I think that’s what most of us are expecting. We’re expecting that we’ve still got plenty of milk. Then that’s gonna have some price pressure. But I also would comment that if we look back over the past few months, demand has been quite good. Global demand has been quite good. The question is, will it continue to be quite good or did we do a lot of buying in the late third quarter and early fourth quarter to refill the global pipeline? Things like Chinese New Year buying things like Ramadan buying and others, and are we gonna be met with an air pocket in demand as we start this year? Don’t know yet. The protein demand isn’t just in dry proteins or in UF for fortified milk. Mike Brown: It’s in yogurts. It’s in cottage cheese. At the same time, ice cream’s lackluster, sour cream is no better. And so that demand for [00:17:00] protein goes beyond just ingredients. On the whey side, boy, we’re gonna have to see a real shift in whey protein prices, wouldn’t we, Josh? We all know those dynamics can shift, but we’re a long ways from that. Other thing in California has got so much milk, they’re running everything full. If you look at anyone you talked the point made earlier, they can’t make SMP right now.They can’t, they are that full to the tilt. In fact, some of them are putting in production control programs again because they’ve got so much milk. Will milk move around, particularly if you can’t find a home for cheese no matter what the price is? Ted Jacoby III: The fact that California’s already running full and it’s the middle of January, which means we probably have at least a month and a half until they hit the peak of their flush. Mike Brown: Absolutely. Ted Jacoby III: That’s a Little bit concerning to me. Mike Brown: Yep. It, it should be to everyone and their spot prices show it. Cream’s been bad, and even the Midwest Class III spots are weak, but part of that’s because the cheese market’s weak. And that lag in Class III, which isn’t picked up in that weekly CME price until next month at the earliest. There’s signs that we’re seeing some shifts in the three four spread. We keep this up, [00:18:00] Ted, it’s gonna go away. Yeah. That may change where milk ends up. Ted Jacoby III: Yep. Diego Carvallo: I have a quick question, Ted. Where do you expect this extra milk in California to end up, because it seems it’s very early. I’m already hearing a lot of milk dumping in California. It seems like we’re at capacity in California. What’s the natural spill over for that milk? Ted Jacoby III: I’ve got two thoughts, but I wanna ask Gus a question first. Gus, if there’s one place where there might be extra UF capacity, would it be in California? Gus Jacoby: Perhaps, but probably not. Relative to demand. It’s limited pretty much all over the country. Ted Jacoby III: Okay. So what I’m gonna answer, in Diego’s question, first and foremost, we’ve lost a lot of milk in the Northwest. Yes. So I wouldn’t be surprised if it heads north on Interstate 10 and ends up in one of those plants in the state of Washington. That would be my first guess. My second guess would be the reason that I asked that question of Gus is they keep the butterfat in California and make butter out of it. Then they ship the UF milk to a cheese plant in the [00:19:00] southwest to extend the cheese yields there. If I were to guess it would happen in one of those two ways. Mike Brown: Diego, what you’re describing is exactly why they’ve put some production quotas back in California because they know it’s gonna get worse. And it makes perfect sense . To me, it’s gonna end up wherever the landed price is the best. On fat capacity, if California has the room to process fat, it’s gonna be in their best interest to process it. ’cause the people that buy surplus fat, outta California, that’s some of the lowest multiples in the country. Even when markets are tight. They’re not gonna wanna send that fat to Utah, Nebraska, or Washington State, or anywhere else if they can process it locally and store it. ’cause it’ll be just moving less water, it’s gonna be mm-hmm. To their benefit. And to Joe’s point. Butter markets are reasonably sound. I mean, they’re lower, but it doesn’t sound like we’re over big supply yet. But one thing we haven’t talked about much is that I think a lot of this price is gonna depend on if we keep exports strong. And that’s one of the big questions we all have. Are they gonna stay? I mean, certainly I think, Joe, listening to you talk, that’s helped a lot in [00:20:00] butter because we’re moving more than 82 overseas and we’re making more of it. On the cheese side. I’m hearing from some of the big cheddar guys that they’re still exporting cheese and relieved to do that. Prices are of course lower, but to me that’s really key. Particularly for products that aren’t as storable as powder. What are those trade markets gonna be? That may impact, where milk goes. Because even if cheese is a buck 30, if you sell it for 30 under, ’cause you have an oversupply, you’ve lost money. So that’s not something you’re gonna wanna do. Ted Jacoby III: All right. Well if I were to summarize really quickly what we’re seeing out there, I would say on the milk side, milk is clearing, which feels a little bit surprising given that we’re up 4.5%, but it’s probably due to all the extra capacity we have out there. However, on the butterfat side cream is long. Butter is long. And while we may get a new crop, old crop pop, the length probably will never fully go away. It just may be how the butterfat’s being processed and maybe we’ll have a temporary tightness in salted 80%. On the cheese side, we’re making a lot of cheese and we’re building inventories. [00:21:00] Mozzarella is feeling longer than cheddar because you can’t store mozzarella, whereas you can park cheddar in a warehouse if you want to, and that’s probably exactly what’s going on in the beginning of this year. Yes, we’ve got some exports but exports are not greater than they were at this time last year, though they may be at comparable levels, at least right now. But there seems to be a concern that that’s not sustainable like it was last year. On the nonfat side, that’s where we have some surprising tightness and we’re watching that market and we are watching it closely because there seems to be conflicting supply and demand indicators regarding where that tightness is coming from. And so our real big question is how sustainable this current tightness is. And on the whey market, whey market is strong. It’s been strong, it continues to be strong, and we haven’t really seen anything yet to change that narrative. And that in general probably sums up our dairy markets. I’m gonna ask everybody one lightning round question. What is one widely repeated dairy market narrative that you [00:22:00] think is wrong right now? Mike, I’m gonna start with you. Mike Brown: I think if there’s anything that is wrong or uncertain is how quick the response is gonna be to really, really low prices on milk supply. I still think we’re gonna take a while to back down and the folks that have really invested in and figured out the beef market are gonna be strong, but people that haven’t done that are gonna really get pummeled. So I think that’s it. How quick will we respond to the lower milk prices? How quick will market respond? It could be quicker than we think. Ted Jacoby III: You think it’ll be quicker. Mike Brown: I think it could be quicker. And I’m a good economist. I’m not gonna say it will, I’m gonna say it could, but yes, I think it could be a little quicker. Particularly with beef, with cull prices so high, there’s incentive to liquidate herds if you don’t wanna milk cows anymore right now. I’m not talking the 10,000 cow herds. I’m talking the smaller Midwest herds. Ted Jacoby III: You got it. Gus, what about you, one widely repeated dairy market narrative that you think is wrong? Gus Jacoby: I always have contrary perspectives on things. I don’t know what to tell you except, back to what I said originally. [00:23:00] Milk is just simply even with high growth production numbers, it’s not as long as some people might think in areas of the country where we haven’t added too much pricing capacity. All right. Sounds good. Diego, how about you? Diego Carvallo: I would say a lot of people are expecting farmers to be losing money at this level, and I think that’s wrong. Ted Jacoby III: They’re still making money. Diego Carvallo: Or maybe breaking even. Ted Jacoby III: All right. I like that one. Joe, how about you? Joe Maixner: I’m gonna buck Diego’s thoughts. I’m gonna go off a nonfat trend. I think that the nonfat market’s gonna continue to trend higher this year as opposed to fall back off. Ted Jacoby III: That’s a good one. That’s a good one. I will struggle with that one, but more power to you. Josh, how about you? Josh White: “This time’s different.” I don’t think this time’s any different than the prior times. I think it’s all perspective. Prices are gonna do what prices do to demand eventually. I realize that we have nuance to our markets, particularly with whey proteins, GLP-1 inspired demand, things like that. But I don’t know that I’m a subscriber to “this time’s different.” Ted Jacoby III: All right. Well, I’ll go ahead and venture mine out there, and I’m gonna have fun with it because I’m gonna [00:24:00] take the exact opposite side of the aisle from Mike and Gus, and I’m gonna say, I actually think this particular drop in prices is gonna last longer than the traditional six months. Usually you see it takes about six months for a market to bottom out and some of dairy farmer habits to change and see the market going back up. But I’m actually on the side of Diego. I think dairy farmers at this price are even still making money because they’re getting so much money from breeding to beef and in some cases from selling their manure. And as a result, their balance sheets will remain healthy. And they’re not gonna be under pressure to exit and sell their cows. I also believe that high beef prices have the inverse effect of what you would expect. And they don’t mean people will sell more cows. It actually means they’ll sell less because dairy farming’s a way of life. And so they’re gonna sell fewer cows to stay cash flow positive rather than more. And so I actually think that this one’s gonna take a lot longer than six months to adjust, but I think what’s really healthy is the fact that we have a diversity of opinions here, which means nobody really knows what’s gonna happen next. Alright guys, I thought [00:25:00] this was a great discussion. And, as it always is in the dairy industry, may we live in interesting times and this one’s not gonna be any different, is it? So thanks everybody for listening in. Great discussion today. Guys, thanks for joining us. Mike Brown: Thank you. Josh White: Thank you guys.
In Episode 291, we take a deep dive into the corruption surrounding the Washington State tax system. It's unbelievable that hard-working Americans have allowed themselves to be taxed at a 40–50% rate without even fully realizing it, as we get nickeled and dimed around every corner. It's time to stand up, push back, do our part, and most importantly find a collective way to say fuck you to our politicians. Please enjoy Episode 291 of the Endless Endeavor Podcast. Connect with Greg: Instagram: @granderson33 Email: gregandersonpodcast@gmail.com Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/Granderson33 Podcast Apparel: www.theelectricnorth.com Episode Resources: Moya Brand https://www.moyabrand.com Coupon ENDLESS 20% off Vortex Optics ENDLESS20 for 20% off all Vortex Products https://www.eurooptic.com/ If you enjoy the show, make sure to give the Endless Endeavor Podcast a rating via your favorite audio platform OR on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCieFsr26t9cyPDKMbLQJzXw/featured!
Thank you for tuning in to Episode 312 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included: Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming Knitting in Passing From the Armchair KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Sheri's Christmas Socks Yarn: Gusto Wool Echos in Colorway 1515 (blue to purple gradient in 2-50g skeins) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Gus the Dino Pattern: Gus the Dino by KP Crochet Patterns. $8.50 US Pattern on Etsy (on sale right now) Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Misty Green & Parfait Chunky in White Hook: J (6.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page I got 35 mm eyes from Amazon Very Hungry Caterpillar Socks Yarn: Teal Torch Knits Splendid Sock (100% SW Merino) in the Emerald Colorway, Murky Depths Deep Sock in the Age of Aquarium Colorway & Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Vanilla Bean colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) and US 2 Ravelry Project Page The first sock is a colorwork leg sock with things the Very Hungry Caterpillar I measured from another socks- 12 rounds per inch. Goal is a 5 inch leg (after cuff), so ~60 rounds Cast on 56 sts with US 1.5 for cuff. After cuff, knit a few rounds before doing 4 sets of increases (4 increases each time) to get to 72 sts. Then changed to US 2 needles and tested for stretchiness after first block of colorwork. Using that I plotted out the colorwork for one sock based on Pacific Knit Co's Garden Doodle set. The second sock is has 12 round stripes of the 2 green colorways with a red toe to look like the caterpillar. Miles Penguin Pattern: Penguin by Lion Brand Yarn- free crochet pattern on the Lion Brand website Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted minis in Black, Clarity, White and Orange colorways Hook: C (2.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page For this one I used two black circles bordered by white so I could skip the safety eyes (Miles is under 2 years old). Dirty Crayon Box Socks Yarn: Fiber Stash Strong Toes Sock (80% SW Merino/ 20% Nylon) in the Dirty Crayon Box Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page I started these socks in October 2024 and finished on January 5, 2026 On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Woolens & Nosh 2025 Advent Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh, 75/25 Superwash Wool/Nylon 2025 Advent Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Kirby Wirby 2025 Advent Socks Yarn: Kirby Wirby 75/25 Superwash Merino/Nylon in the 2025 Advent Christmas Toys from the 80s 24 Stripe Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Yarn theme: Christmas Toys from the 80s Traveler Sweater Pattern: The Traveler by Andrea Mowry ($9 pattern available on Ravelry & the designer's website) Yarn: Hazel Knits Small Batch Sport (90/10 SW/Nylon) in a sage green Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: finished the first sleeve and I'm at the cuff of the the second. Pucker Brush Farm BFL Sweater Spin Fiber: 16 oz of multi colored BFL roving from Pucker Brush Farm (purchased at Rhinebeck 2025), 4 oz Merino in a mustard color Ravelry Project Page I am planning to knit a Traveler sweater inspired by Emily Curtis' handmade version- click here for her Ravelry Project Page. I was thrilled to see a recent post on Emily's Instagram that she made a YouTube video about this spin/knit. I found 4oz of Ironwood Hill Farm Roving- Finnsheep combed top that I purchased in April 2021. Unfortunately I can't find more of this on Cece's Wool site or Ironwood's etsy shop, but I think it will give me the idea for a tan/brown color plied with the colorful yarn, so I spun enough to make a sample yarn to swatch with. Brainstorming Crochet Ski Helmet Balaclava available on Etsy for $7.36 Knitting in Passing Millie finished the hat she was knitting for her dad with yarn from Plied Yarn Co. Aila loved her goose purse! Her reaction was priceless Eme loved their Very Hungry Caterpillar socks My dad bought me a set of 2 organizers for socks. Each holds 30 pair. Great for my handknits. They sit on the shelf in our closet and are a gray cotton/linen that matches our hampers! Here's an Amazon Affiliate Link in case you're interested in checking them out. From the Armchair The Correspondent by Virginia Evans. Amazon Affiliate Link. Tilt by Emma Pattee. Amazon Affiliate Link. Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases. KAL News Pigskin Party '25 Event Dates: KAL Dates- Thursday September 4, 2025- Monday February 9, 2026 Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Official Rules Registration Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions- ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Updates In This Episode Official Sponsor for Quarter 3 (December)- Suburban Stitcher Mini Maker's Merry Month See details in this Ravelry Thread. Winner announced Official Sponsor for Quarter 4 (January)- Yarnaceous Fibers. Check out this Ravelry Thread for 4th & Goal with Yarnaceous Fibers Challenge Details December Participation Winners Announced Wild Card WIP Bonus- check out this Ravelry thread for details Commentator Update Happy new year pigskin partiers! The January huddle is abuzz with conversation. Several players have posted a list of everything that they made in 2025. We have some really prolific players in the group! The best thing about the conversation is that no one is competitive about it. Just lots of celebrations! I find it kind of inspiring to see what others have accomplished. For example, hikesandbikes finished 54 knitted knockers! What a great cause! It inspires me to try knitting some this year. Come on over and join the chat if you want to get inspired too! A few players have decided that they want to make sweaters in 2026. If you want to join in the fun, hop on over to a new Sweater MAL thread: https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4390076/1-25 Another interesting topic of conversation in the January huddle stemmed from the unfortunate injury of one of our players. Sadly, she sprained her wrist. The group came through with lots of ideas for what to do when you can't knit and crochet, including needle felting, doing puzzles, watercolors, playing with art supplies, journaling and as MrsQuilt put it, "whining, reading, and actually paying attention to what is on the TV" I am wishing you all health, happiness, and strong crafting mojo in the new year! Mary Events Farm Fiber Days at Russell's Garden Center- January 18th & March 8th in Wayland, MA Sunkissed Fiber Festival: January 24-25, 2026- just outside Tampa, FL New England Farm & Fiber Festival- Sunday February 8 from 10a-4p in Boston, MA Fiber Witch Festival- April 24-26th in Salem, MA Contest, News & Notes Check out my Vlogmas videos if you haven't already- click here for the full playlist. Thanks to Nellsknitting for starting a thread in the Ravelry Group about a Sweater KAL 2026. (Danielle in MA)- great chatter about WIPs, planning etc. Want to cast on and need some encouragement? check it out. Life in Focus In this episode I reviewed my 2025 word of the year and 25 in 25 list. My Word of the Year for 2025: Welcome 25 in 2025 Donate Blood at least 4 times (January, March, May, Sept) Go shopping for plants with Dan 4 times in the year (my Christmas gift from him) Buy new ski boots Go camping (scheduled for June) Kayak 2-5 times (Saco- 2 days) Do at least 5 walks with others (Megg 3/30) bike riding with Dan twice in March. Walked with Megg (April), hike Mount Monument (Dan, Megg, Tom, Aila), Laura in 2 National Parks in Washington State Take 2-5 yoga classes (outside of the house)--- option- https://balancestudiocohasset.com/book-a-class/ Do at least 30 lessons in Mondly (had 25 done in 2024)- does not include daily lessons Spend a day at Raffa Life- September 21 with Laura and Megg Record 2-5 things I'm grateful for each day before bed (more days than not counts)- fallen off. Read all of Simple Abundance (ideally daily or close to)(10) Read at least 60 books- all books count (even poetry etc) Get at least 2 massages at Oasis (1 in April, 1 in June, 1 in September) See 2-5 movies in the theater (Paddington in Peru, The Long Walk, Blue Moon, Wicked for Good) Knit 2-5 garments for me (Aurealis - WIPs-Monsoonee Sweaters, granny stripe tank, Bayside tank) Granny tank, Bayside Shirt Finish and enjoy my Christmas Granny Square Blanket Crochet at least 5 toys (1: hedgehog 2& 3: Love Bugs, 4 pop-tart, 5 butterfly- another butterfly WIP, and TRex) Use my spinning wheel at least once a month (Jan, Feb & March, April, July, August, September, Oct, Nov (forgot May & June) Have a crafty day with Emelie Knit a slouchy hat for myself Try out 3 new to me podcasts (Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend, White Lotus official podcast, severance official podcast, Cramped) Watch White Christmas with Jenny & Kara (bringing the tradition back) Buy a firebox and put important papers inside (working with Dan on list of things to put in it) https://www.thenokbox.com (Debbie, deafelis recommended) Create a list of things to pack in case of an evacuation https://www.thenokbox.com/ -deafelis- Debbie told me about it Purge at least 20 items of clothing/accessories/shoes On a Happy Note Dad's knee replacement was a big success! I stayed with him from December 5-21. Dad and I had a lovely visit from our friend Merry who came with an unexpected gift- a bracelet with beads made from my mom's funeral flowers in red (ruby slipper), yellow (yellow brick road) and white for home. Dan and I had a lovely double date night at the Irish pub with friends. I was able to see my 7 year old niece Hattie as Gretl in Sound of Music (twice!!!) Making Aunt Milly's cookies with Riley and Millie (and having a sleepover with them). Christmas Eve & Christmas Day were both lovely. Definitely different without my Mom and grandmother there but it was still a joy to be together. Our friend Gail joined us as she usually does and brought all sorts of fun games for us to play. The Sunday after Christmas, I was able to spend all afternoon with my grandmother, some of that alone. My friend Megg came over because she wanted to visit and say goodbye. We had dinner together after. My friend Laura came in for NYE. Small get together with friends at my Dad's turned into a real party, though most didn't stay until midnight. Megg wanted it to be a sparkly kind of night so Laura and I got outfits for the three of us at the consignment shop on the way over! Very silly fun. My cousin Mike and his husband Kyle came up from Florida. My grandmother's services were beautiful with contributions from lots of family members. While it was more stressful than mom's, and it was the worst form of deja vu having the same schedule for that exact same Thur/Fri two years in a row- my grandmother would be happy with how it all turned out. Skiing on Saturday after the funeral. 7 of us, impromptu trip, icy conditions but we still had a blast. Quote of the Week "Amidst the normal hard stuff is the abnormal hard stuff. You may be doing great, but no one great always had it great. At the end of each day, as you prepare for the next, I hope you take an inventory of your life, your thoughts and where you're headed. The wind can take you some cool places, but so can your paddle." ― Richie Norton ------ Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.
We all hear a lot about the need to significantly scale up our forest adaptation and resilience work—that is, thinning, replanting, prescribed burning and other tasks that are essential in preparing for and recovering from wildfire.But what's often lost in this conversation is *who* is doing this work, and the future of that—at times, fraught—workforce in the face of increasing ecosystem needs in the West. It's one thing to say we need to get something done, but another thing entirely to know where that work is coming from, and the conditions those workers are facing. How can we ensure these folks are supported and being treated equitably in often unsafe, fast-paced and high-exposure jobs?In the Pacific Northwest, a not-insignificant portion of forestry sector workers are Latino, many on H2B visas, which are temporary, non-agricultural working visas. Today's guest Emily Jane (E.J) Davis—along with co-authors Carl Wilmse, Manuel Machado and Gianna Alessi—aimed to learn more about these workers in a paper published in 2023 called Multiple Stories, Multiple Marginalities: The Labor Intensive Forest and Fire Stewardship Workforce in Oregon. What they found is that this type of employment leaves workers vulnerable to exploitative labor practices and working conditions, a lack of training and resources that result in critical leadership and safety gaps on site, and a lack of power or ability to organize or unionize to improve conditions. Recent ramping up of immigration enforcement is also having an impact on this workforce, as evidenced by the DHS raid on a fire in Washington State this summer. Rigoberto Hernandez Hernandez, one of the two firefighters who were detained, was released four weeks later. The other—José Bertín Cruz-Estrada, who'd worked in fire since 2019 but was undocumented—was deported to Mexico after two months of detainment. Both worked on Oregon-based contract fire crews. In this episode, EJ—who is an associate professor at Oregon State University and the fire program director for the OSU extension—and I dive more deeply into some of the key takeaways of her research, some of the practical applications of that research through her extension position, and what the future of this research looks like. We discussed labor issues more broadly in the forestry and fire workforces, and how these challenges are often amplified considerably for marginalized communities in these positions, and particularly for the Latino workforce. E.J.'s biggest takeaway? If we truly hope to increase forest treatments and recovery work to the scale needed to make a meaningful difference, we need to not only acknowledge the challenges of the folks who are actually doing that work, but do everything we can to address those challenges and develop a more sustainable forest sector workforce for the work that awaits us.
Send us a textIn this powerful conversation, Joey Pinz sits down with cybersecurity leader and former Naval cryptologic specialist Wilfredo “Will” Santiago to explore the hidden world of modern cyber defense. From growing up in Washington State obsessed with Pokémon cards to serving in Naval intelligence and supporting special operations teams, Will shares how his early experiences, curiosity, and service shaped a career protecting organizations from today's most advanced digital threats.Will breaks down how signals intelligence, network analysis, and cryptology evolved into cybersecurity as we know it—and why the field feels like a high-stakes video game where the challenges never stop. He also dives into how AI is transforming both defense and cybercrime, why quantum compute will accelerate everything, and how MSPs can choose partners they can truly trust.Finally, Joey and Will explore the mindset required to thrive in high-pressure environments: routine, focus, and the ability to act even when you don't feel like it. This episode is packed with insight, humanity, and real-world wisdom.⭐ Top 3 Highlights•
In this episode we are going to talk about the 95% tax Washington State rolled out on nicotine products. The tax includes products like nicotine pouches, cigars, vapes and chewing tobacco but not cigarettes. Which is weird.Because not all nicotine containing products are created equal. Not to mention that out of all the nicotine products available on the market cigarettes might be the most unhealthy and most addicting. Maybe…I don't know that for sure. But what I do know is that cigarettes are a chemical shit storm made with bad intentions.So why do they get a pass when it comes to this outrageous tax hike?My Website: The Unplugged HumanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/unpluggedhuman.life/Watch this episode on YoutubeGet a copy of The Unplugged JournalPodcast gear, Quotes from Mother, Pine pollen and tallow - Online StoreSignup for newsletter: Send email to: ayahumero@deeperyougo.com with subject line "I Want In"90-day Challenge: message me at ayahumero@deeperyougo.com with subject line "90-day"Field Guide 9 (a group I conduct ceremonies for) - WebsiteBook: The Self-Sabotage Guide: 9 Behaviors Preventing You from Becoming Stronger, Faster, And Sexier
This podcast episode provides a comprehensive overview of current weather conditions and natural events affecting various regions of the United States. The salient point of discussion centers on the notable warmth in the western states juxtaposed with a winter storm impacting the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes. Additionally, the episode addresses ongoing freezing spray hazards in the Bering Sea and the current status of wildfire incidents, which remain low but are nearing containment in Kentucky, Texas, and Missouri. Other significant updates include new flood maps released by FEMA for Pima County, Arizona, and winter weather advisories for Northern Michigan. We conclude with a reminder to monitor local forecasts for any evolving weather situations and to prioritize safety during adverse conditions.Takeaways:* The National Weather Service has reported significantly above normal warmth across the western United States.* In Alaska, freezing spray hazards are currently affecting portions of the Bering Sea, posing risks to mariners.* A prolonged Santa Ana event is anticipated in Southern California, with strong gusts and dry conditions.* Residents of Pima County, Arizona, are encouraged to review newly released flood maps from FEMA.* Winter weather advisories have been issued in Michigan, warning of slippery roads and reduced visibility due to blowing snow.* Flood watches are in effect for parts of Washington State, where minor flooding is a concern due to recent rains.Sources[NWS Anchorage Marine | https://marine.weather.gov/showsigwx.php?product1=Heavy+Freezing+Spray+Warning&warnzone=PKZ414][FEMA | https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20260112/fema-updates-flood-maps-pima-county][NWS Los Angeles | https://www.weather.gov/lox/][NWS San Diego FWF | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=SGX&product=FWF&site=sgx][NWS Bay Area AFD | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=mtr&product=AFD&site=mtr][NIFC | https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn][NWS — Winter Weather Advisory text | https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=usa&wwa=winter+weather+advisory][NWS Grand Forks/Duluth — WWA/HWO | https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=fgf&wwa=all][NIFC | https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn][NWS Seattle — Flood Watch | https://www.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=sew&wwa=all][NWS Seattle AFD | https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?issuedby=SEW&product=AFD&site=sew] This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe
While street protests and violence dominate headlines, an even bigger story is being buried.
Guest host Connie Willis and Chehalis reservation residents Jonathan and Sara Brown play mysterious audio captured deep in the woods of Washington State. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Canzano talks in an exclusive interview with Washington State President Betsy Cantwell. They spoke about Pac-12 media rights, the rebuild of the conference, and much more. Subscribe to this podcast. Read JohnCanzano.com.
Congresswoman Emily Randall says we should ignore Somali daycare fraud so we can focus on white men. Washington State’s former auditor says the claims of DCYF child care fraud is worth looking into. Washington State troopers are urging drivers to be safer on the roads after a slew of crashes into patrol cars. GUEST: Chris Sullivan on new tolling coming on Monday. // Guest: Todd Myers with the Washington Policy Center exposes a major scandal in Washington’s climate policy. // The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals quietly delivered a big win for gun rights.
Democrats in Washington State are openly trying to steal more congressional seats. President Trump is predicting that the GOP will buck historical trends and win this year’s midterms. Guest: Yakima County Commissioner Amanda McKinney is running for Washington’s fourth congressional district. // Big Local: The cascades could see 2-4 feet of new snow. Businesses in Eastern Washington are preparing for the end of penny production. // You Pick the Topic: RFK Jr. and HHS are bringing a much-needed shakeup to nutrition guidelines.