In this episode of Spokast!, we dive into Sarah’s journey from student activism at Whitworth University to her powerful work with Planned Parenthood and Pro-Choice Washington—and now, to running for office in the city she’s called home for nearly a decade.
Sarah talks about what it means to build authentic relationships in politics, why she’s centering her campaign on Accountability, Belonging, and Community, and how Spokane can lead with compassion on issues like housing, public transit, and immigrant justice.
As a young, queer woman of color running in a district that includes Northeast and East Central Spokane, Sarah is challenging the status quo and showing what inclusive leadership can look like. She brings lived experience, organizing power, and a vision for Spokane that reflects the city’s future—not its past.
To learn more about Sarah and her campaign, visit www.sarahforspokane.com
In this episode of In The Den, we sit down with the team at Vexing Media — a full-service creative studio based in the heart of Spokane. Known for their work on projects like TEDxSpokane, NASA livestreams, and public health campaigns, Vexing is a powerhouse of video, web, and design, with deep roots in community-centered storytelling.
We talk about how they’ve grown from a small web shop to a go-to creative partner for nonprofits, small businesses, and local government. The crew shares their entrepreneurial journey, how they tackle “vexing” client challenges, and why working with SIMBA helped deepen their connection to Spokane’s business community.
🎧 Tune in to hear how Vexing Media is shaping Spokane’s creative economy — and how they’re using media to make a real impact.
🔗 Learn more at vexingmedia.com
🔗 Become a SIMBA member at spokaneindependent.org
LIL ROSE is back on Spokast! In this episode, we catch up on everything she’s been up to since her last appearance & dive into her show: LIL ROSE & Friends, happening Friday, October 3rd at Red Room Lounge. It’s a stacked lineup of 12 artists, surprise guests, and nonstop vibes all night long.
Doors open at 8 PM | 21+ | Tickets $10 ($8 w/ artist promo code)
🎟️ Get yours at lilroseandfriendsspokane.eventbrite.com
Dr. Melissa Mace is the owner and clinician at Discovery Counseling Group, and the first-ever Executive Director of the Spokane NAACP.
We dive into her powerful journey through social work and therapy, her deep personal ties to Spokane, and how her life experiences now shape the way she leads and uplifts the community. Dr. Mace is already making a major impact in Spokane, and this conversation highlights why.
As Executive Director of the Spokane NAACP, Dr. Mace is leading with intention—centering youth engagement, restorative justice, and stronger collaboration across community organizations. Under her leadership, the chapter is expanding its reach through programming, partnerships, and advocacy work that reflects Spokane’s evolving needs. Her approach to leadership is grounded in transparency, accessibility, and a deep belief in collective progress.
We also talk about how you can get involved—starting with the Freedom Fund Gala, happening Friday, November 15th. This is the NAACP Spokane’s biggest annual fundraiser and a celebration of the progress being made across the city. Tickets are on sale now at a discounted rate, but prices increase October 1st, so don’t wait.
Buy tickets before prices go up on October 1st: naacpspokane.com/freedom-fund-gala-2025
Learn more about Discovery Counseling Group: discovery-counseling.org
On this episode of Spokast, I’m sitting down with two West Coast MCs—Cordell Drake and Tko Toowavy—to talk all about their new single, “WestCoast Antidote.”
This episode is short and focused. No deep backstory. No filler. Just two artists locked in and ready to talk about the sound, the vision, and the vibe behind a track that’s already heating up.
Stream “WestCoast Antidote” now:
prodsynesthete (prod-synes-theet) — a multi-instrumentalist, producer, and powerful voice in Spokane’s creative community.
In this episode, we dive into his evolution from early live instrument performances to mastering digital production during the pandemic. We talk about how his mother’s influence as a professional vocalist sparked his love for music, and how his experiences with online harassment and trauma led him to reclaim his identity through the mask.
We unpack the vision behind Distorted Dystopia—a massive 3-volume project five years in the making. These tracks blend genre, emotion, and perspective in a way that demands attention.
We also talk about his new ANTI-PREDATOR merch line, which will donate a portion of proceeds to a Spokane-based organization supporting survivors of sexual assault and domestic abuse. This isn’t about aesthetics—it’s about protest, protection, and building safer communities through art and action.
Catch prodsynesthete’s first solo headlining show this Saturday at The Big Dipper. This one is for Spokane.
Grab your tickets, stream the music, and learn more at linktr.ee/prodsynesthete
BLXCKPUNKS—the explosive genre-defying duo made up of IAMTOPP and Jang The Goon.Together, they’re using music, community, and lived experience to spark movement and meaning. In this episode, we dive into how this collaboration came to life after both artists built powerful solo careers—and how that fusion inspired their 2025 sound.We unpack the vision behind their latest 2-pack ROCK & WAR, featuring the singles “Rock Right Now” and “War Outside,” which dropped September 4th. These songs bring raw emotion, big energy, and anthemic purpose—and you’ll want them on repeat immediately.We also talk about what’s next: Blood, Sweat, and Mosh Pits, the final backyard rager going down Saturday, September 13th. This show is shaping up to be their biggest ever—and tickets are the most affordable they’ve been in years, because this one’s all about community.Grab your tickets + stream the music at blxckpunks.com
In this episode of In The Den with SIMBA – we sit down with Carey Donaldson, the founder of NewBeginnings Spokane — the only student loan advocacy company in the nation. Carey shares how her path from aspiring educator to entrepreneur led her to create a business that helps people take control of their money and rewrite their financial futures.We talk about how New Beginning Spokane simplifies student loans, builds personalized repayment strategies, advocates for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and pushes for stronger financial education in schools. Carey also shares her entrepreneurial story, how SIMBA supported her journey, and the importance of staying rooted in your mission.🎧 Tune in to hear how Carey is helping others find clarity and confidence when it comes to their finances — and why Spokane is the perfect place to spark a new beginning.🔗 Learn more at nmbspo.com🔗 Become a SIMBA member at spokaneindependent.org
On this episode of Spokast!, I sit down with Yel Menró—an emerging hip-hop and R&B artist bringing confidence, storytelling, and self-discovery to the forefront of her upcoming EP, Ladies Night.Yel shares her journey from growing up in the Tri-Cities to finding her voice through music. We talk about her early influences—including her father’s musical background—how basketball shaped her work ethic, and how her time in LA sharpened her creative focus. Now back in the Northwest, she’s entering a powerful new chapter.We dive into the vision behind Ladies Night—an EP that captures the energy, freedom, and emotion of a night out. From bold openers to smooth late-night vibes, the project reflects the full spectrum of what it means to show up for yourself and your friends.Ladies Night drops tomorrow, Tuesday, September 9th.Links: • Pre-Save Ladies Night: https://too.fm/3qdj6zr • Ladies Night After Dark Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ladies-night-after-dark-tickets-1653170741189?aff=oddtdtcreator • All of Yel’s Links: https://linktr.ee/YelMenro?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaeowuW55rbeBdTXOByyN5rP1BgJlNsQ4BgGdAiXY5l0nzuTzWCToWP9Cgbjhg_aem_2WtW1zK7MdkIgcsYtbR3Lg
What is up, Lilac City? On this episode of Spokast!, Spokane-based comedian Adam Swensen joins me to talk about his upcoming comedy variety show, Religious Traumedy—a hilarious, heartfelt deep dive into the weird, wild world of growing up Christian and figuring out who you are after leaving the church behind.
Adam shares his journey from Bible college to the comedy stage, how Spokane’s queer comedy scene gave him space to find his voice, and what inspired him to turn years of religious baggage into something funny, vulnerable, and totally relatable.
We also read a few questionable Norm Macdonald-style jokes together—because of course we did.
Religious Traumedy is happening August 15th at The Chameleon, and the lineup is stacked. You’ll see stand-up sets from Kaley Alness and Wyatt Colombo, drag performances by Perri Twinkle and Polly Amethyst, and a special performance by Camrynne Sullivan. Of course, the night will be hosted by Adam Swenson himself—plus a few surprise guests you won’t want to miss.
🎟️ Tickets are just $20 | 21+ only | Grab yours now: https://tickets.venuepilot.com/e/religious-traumedy-2025-08-15-the-chameleon-spokane-72ff71
In this episode of In the Den — the collaboration podcast between SIMBA and Spokast — hosts Robin Haynes & Brennon Poynor sit down with Josh Thomas, founder and creative director of Lejit Creative, a full-service branding agency based in Spokane.
What started as a middle school moniker has grown into a studio that helps businesses across tech, entertainment, and sports build brands that resonate. With a background in design, illustration, and storytelling, Josh brings a thoughtful and purpose-driven approach to every project he takes on.
He shares his journey from designing for fun to leading creative campaigns, what makes a brand identity truly “Lejit,” and how being part of the SIMBA community has helped him grow both professionally and personally.
If you care about creativity, clarity, and building something with meaning — this one’s for you.
🔗 Learn more at: https://www.lejitcreative.com/
What is up, Lilac City? On this episode of Spokast!, I sit down with Iyzlow Matisse—one half of Spokane’s own Change & Matisse—to talk about his brand new solo single, Humble Pie.
What was supposed to be a short convo turned into a full-on deep dive into Mike’s journey through music, the Motown and soul influences from his childhood, and how Humble Pie evolved from a verse written in 2018 into the track it is today.
We also threw in a blind pie taste test—because why not? Huge shout-out to CallyAnn Crothers of Crothers Critters for that farm-fresh pie that blew us away. And of course, major love to my wife, Abbey, for her legendary homemade holiday apple pie.
This episode is all about growth, staying true to your craft, and not rushing the process.
🎧 Listen to Humble Pie
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/6UF3uon9IMXn4joRR1iKE7?si=bf2e9843b2d94ad4
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/humble-pie-single/1826167368
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCDhFeO2uVk
Tidal: https://tidal.com/browse/track/447556718?u
Learn more about Crothers Critters at https://www.facebook.com/crotherscritters/
At just 21 years old, Lucas Desgrosellier, better known as Ghoulz, has built a business and brand with global reach — powered by a loyal fanbase, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of what makes content connect.
In the first episode of Launchpad Innovators Podcast, host Bill Kalivas sits down with Ghoulz and Julie Delaney, his Chief Operating Officer, to explore the journey behind the viral videos, the business mindset that came next, and the values that keep their team grounded.
From Fortnite fashion shows to building a company with purpose, this episode dives into what it really takes to turn a passion into something sustainable — and how staying focused on your community can lead to unexpected success.
Follow Ghoulz:
🌐 Website: ghoulz.com
📸 Instagram: instagram.com/ghoulz
🐦 Twitter: twitter.com/GhoulzOfficial
💬 Discord: discord.gg/ghoulz
🎮 Twitch: twitch.tv/ghoulz_official
In this special Spokast episode, we take the heat to a whole new level — meatball style. Joe from Joe’s House sits down for a spicy taste test featuring sauces from the Hot Ones lineup (courtesy of Stella Artois), and things get fiery fast.
Between bites, we talk about the five-year journey of running one of Spokane’s most beloved local spots, what inspired Joe to bring these infamous sauces to his menu, and how he really feels about ghost peppers.
Spoiler: what started as a relaxed chat turned into a full-on sweat session.
Come for the meatballs. Stay for the meltdown.
Disclaimer: This episode is an independent production and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Hot Ones, First We Feast, or Complex Networks.
00:00 Intro
00:37 The Balls on Fire Challenge Concept
02:07 Discussing the Hot Sauces and Meatballs
03:37 Impact of Construction on Joe's House
04:54 First Hot Sauce Tasting – Señor Lechuga – 1,200 Scoville Heat Units (SHU)
06:47 The Origin of Joe's House
08:47 Second Hot Sauce Tasting – Savir Foods: Elotes Loco Fire – 26,500 SHU
11:09 Running and Marathons
12:56 Third Hot Sauce Tasting – Hot Ones: Los Calientes Verde – 36,000 SHU
15:02 Reflecting on Opening Joe's House
15:50 Authenticity and Community Connection
16:55 Fourth Hot Sauce Tasting – Piko Peppers – Volkano – 76,000 SHU
19:00 Philadelphia Eagles and Personal Insights
20:59 Family-Friendly Atmosphere at Joe's House
21:55 Fifth Hot Sauce Tasting – Hot Ones: The Last Dab Xperience – 2,693,000 SHU
25:42 Final Thoughts
30:14 Charity Challenge
In this mini-episode, I sit down with Jáiz Boyd of Birds In The Coast to talk about Patio Theory — a summer event series that’s all about good music, good people, and bringing West Coast backyard vibes to the heart of Spokane. We dive into the origin of the event, the vision behind it, and how it’s creating space for community, collaboration, and culture to thrive in the Lilac City.Whether you’re into G-Funk, 90s hip hop, or just want to be part of something authentic and local, Patio Theory is a vibe you don’t want to miss. Catch the next one this Saturday at The Chameleon. Doors at 7PM. 21+. $10/$12 cover.🎟️ Tickets: handstamp.com/patio-theory📼 Music Intro/Outro: Top Notch (Psycho) by Nate Synonymous & Jordan Taylor
On this episode of If Not Now, When?, WE sit down with Blue Stiley—motivational speaker, mentor, and host of the Navigating No podcast—for a powerful conversation about rejection, resilience, and what it really means to lead with vulnerability.
From his early years training in martial arts to building a successful fitness business in Seattle, publishing his first book The Sum of 4, and now speaking on stages across the country, Blue has spent his life leaning into challenge and turning setbacks into growth. In this episode, we talk about the “no’s” that shaped him, the mentors that changed his life, and the moment he decided to stop waiting for permission and start showing up fully.
If you’ve ever struggled with failure, questioned your next step, or wondered what your “If Not Now, When?” moment might look like, this one’s for you.
In this episode of In the Den — the collaboration podcast between SIMBA and Spokast — host Brennon Poynor sits down with David and Helmer, the duo behind Mountain Top Mentality.
What began as a travel-focused Instagram account during a cross-country adventure has since grown into a mission-driven lifestyle brand rooted in storytelling, community, and impact. From custom apparel to national park–themed candles, David and Helmer have built a business that reflects their values and gives back to the places that inspire them.
They share how their journey led them from Rhode Island to Spokane, what it means to run a small business with purpose, and how the support of the SIMBA community helped shape their path forward.
Check out Mountain Top Mentality: www.mountaintopmentality.com
Become a SIMBA Member: www.spokaneindependent.org/membership
In this very first episode of In the Den — a podcast collaboration between SIMBA and Spokast! — host Brennon sits down with Robin and Alexis of SIMBA to talk about the heart behind the show.
They dive into what SIMBA stands for (literally and in spirit), how it supports small businesses and entrepreneurs across Spokane and Eastern Washington, and why launching this podcast was the next natural step in lifting up the voices that make our local economy thrive.
If you’ve ever wondered what SIMBA is all about — or what it means to be part of a growing business community — this is where the journey begins.
Learn more about SIMBA:
🌐 Website: spokaneindependent.org
📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/spokaneindependent
📘 Facebook: www.facebook.com/spokaneindependent
📧 Join SIMBA: www.spokaneindependent.org/membership
Learn more about Spokast:
🌐 Website: spokast.com
📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/spokast.podcasts
Find Logan Daniels MacDonald at logandanielmcdonald.com
Episode Chapters
00:00 Intro to The Den Podcast
01:37 Meet the Hosts: Brennan, Robin, and Alexis
02:39 Robin's Role and Expertise at SIMBA
04:30 Alexis' Role and Expertise at SIMBA
06:03 Empowering Small Businesses: Success Stories
09:19 The Origin and Mission of SIMA
12:34 Supporting Local Economies and Advocacy
24:00 Unique Challenges and Support for Immigrant-Owned Businesses
30:16 Creating a Judgment-Free Safe Space
31:02 Additional Services Offered by SIMBA
33:24 SIMBA’s Outreach and Educational Programs
36:02 Live Local: Supporting Local Businesses
41:16 Launching the SIMA Podcast
50:52 Membership Tiers and Benefits
54:04 Where to find SIMBA
If Not Now, When? is back — and we’re kicking off this new chapter with a conversation that helped shape the show from the beginning.
In this relaunch episode, Brennon sits down with longtime friend and creative collaborator Josh Hissong — co-founder of HDG Architecture and one of the driving forces behind Spokane’s design-forward momentum. Together, they reflect on what’s changed over the past six months, where the podcast is headed, and how If Not Now, When? is shifting focus toward the people building Spokane’s future from the ground up.
This isn’t just a catch-up — it’s a reintroduction. We dive into Josh’s journey as an entrepreneur, his “If Not Now, When?” moment, and what it means to take a leap on something you believe in. If you’re passionate about community, creativity, and betting on yourself — this one’s for you.
New episodes drop monthly on the If Not Now, When? and Spokast feeds.
On this episode of If Not Now, When?, we sit down with Emilie Cameron, President & CEO of the Downtown Spokane Partnership, to talk about the future of Spokane’s urban core. Emilie brings years of experience in city-building and revitalization—from Sacramento to Spokane—and shares her perspective on how we can create a more vibrant, welcoming, and walkable downtown.
We discuss the importance of local businesses, housing access, civic engagement, and what it really takes to build a thriving downtown community. Emilie also gives us a look ahead at the upcoming State of Downtown & Awards event, happening Friday, May 30, 2025, at the Spokane Convention Center, featuring keynote speaker Peter Kageyama, author of For the Love of Cities.
If you care about the future of downtown Spokane—or just love hearing how leaders are working to build stronger communities—this one’s for you. Learn more and get involved at downtownspokane.org.