Faith, Felonies & Local Politics: John Padula on Recovery, Community, and Running for Kootenai County Commissioner

In this episode of the North Idaho Experience, hosts Seth and Eric sit down with John Padula — a fourth-generation North Idaho native, pastor, former drug addict, ex-convict, and candidate running for Kootenai County Commissioner Seat 1. John shares his raw, inspiring story of transformation: from 17 years of addiction and six years in state prison, to becoming a pastor, housing over 800 people in recovery, and now stepping up to serve his community in local government.John discusses the most pressing issues facing Kootenai County, including the proposed Hayden police department, responsible growth and water aquifer concerns, out-of-state recreation pressures at Hauser Lake, the fentanyl crisis and its devastating impact on recovery programs, fiscal responsibility in county budgeting, law enforcement funding and deputy retention, judicial accountability through citizen court watch programs, and his vision for common-sense conservative governance rooted in servant leadership — not career politics.Whether you care about public safety, local politics, addiction recovery, or the future of North Idaho, this is a must-watch conversation before the May 19th primary election. John even encourages voters to also look at his opponent, Julie Hensley, and vote for whoever best matches their values.🎙️ Watch the full episode on the North Idaho Experience YouTube channel or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms.📌 Election Date: May 19th | Kootenai County Commissioner Seat 1🌐 John's Website: padulaforcommissioner.com | Facebook: Padula for CommissionerThis podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as political endorsement. North Idaho Experience does not endorse, support, or advocate for any political candidates or campaigns.🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:Contact us at [email protected]: 208-618-4421Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northidahoexperience/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northidahoexperienceYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHz9XczupyJ93VRtqfQEW-gFor the most up-to-date real estate listings check out our North Idaho Experience mobile app - click above to start searching today!https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-idaho-experience/id6755906887Grab our Relocation Guide: https://sholink.to/RelocationYour Ultimate Selling Game Plan guide: https://sholink.to/Sellerguide💼 Interested in sponsoring a future episode or collaborating with us?Email us at [email protected] 🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:Contact us at [email protected]: 208-618-4421Sponsored by:North Idaho Arms, LLC4013 West Riverbend Avenue, Post Falls, Idaho 83854(208) [email protected]://northidahoarms.com/Finding Freedom Idaho INCEqual housing opportunity======