Bend Don't Break

In this episode host Aaron Switzer sits down with Beau Eastes, Marketing Director at Old Mill District and Hayden Homes Amphitheater. Beau shares his journey from journalism in Kansas, Oregon, and Utah to marketing leadership in Central Oregon. He reflects on his years at The Bulletin, his transition into marketing, and how his background as a reporter continues to shape the way he connects with the community.The conversation explores the evolution of the Old Mill District, the growth of Hayden Homes Amphitheater, and the vision behind its next chapter. Beau discusses local business partnerships, new development plans, the amphitheater’s expanding concert season, and the importance of creating places that serve both residents and visitors in Central Oregon.Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode host Aaron Switzer sits down with Dr Travis Allen, Executive Director of the Central Oregon Symphony Association. A Bend native, cellist, educator, and arts leader, Dr Allen shares his journey from studying cello performance and musicology to returning home to build a career in Central Oregon’s classical music community. He discusses his work as a performer, teacher at Central Oregon Community College, and his leadership role guiding the symphony after years of involvement in local music education and performance.The conversation explores the role of a community orchestra, the challenges and opportunities of growing a classical music audience in Bend, and the importance of accessibility in the arts. Dr Allen highlights outreach efforts like Music in Public Places, youth engagement programs, and the symphony’s pay what you can model, all of which aim to make classical music more inclusive and relevant to Central Oregon’s evolving community.Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend into Balance, Adriana Marino sits down with Dr. Sonja Halsey, a naturopathic physician, performance coach, and founder of Empower Her Health & Performance, to explore the powerful connection between hormones and athletic performance. Dr. Halsey shares how her work with young female athletes—from USA Hockey to international training camps—is helping shift the conversation around women’s health in sport, bringing long-overdue attention to menstrual cycles, recovery, nutrition, and performance.Together, they dive into the science behind hormone cycles, why female athletes need different training and fueling strategies, and how understanding the body can unlock both better performance and deeper self-confidence. From body image and teen athletics to stress, recovery, and resilience, this conversation highlights a growing movement to normalize and empower women’s health in athletics here in Central Oregon and beyond.Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Oregon State Representative Emerson Levy, an attorney, educator, and public servant representing House District 53. Emerson shares how her work is grounded in community input—from tackling lithium battery fires at local landfills to navigating complex legislation around liability, transportation funding, and environmental safety. She offers a candid look at how ideas become laws, and the role collaboration plays in moving policy forward.Together, Aaron and Emerson explore the realities behind Oregon’s budget challenges, the failed gas tax vote, and the growing urgency around education reform in a tech-heavy world. Emerson also reflects on bipartisan problem-solving, the personal toll of public service, and her vision for stronger, more accountable governance. It’s a thoughtful conversation about leadership, transparency, and what it means to show up for community in a moment of change.Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Keith Witcosky, City Manager of Redmond, to talk about what it really means to guide a fast growing Central Oregon city through change. From overseeing a 150 million dollar budget and a regional airport to navigating water constraints, housing pressure, and cultural shifts, Keith offers a grounded look at how Redmond has evolved and where it is headed.Aaron and Keith discuss Redmond’s rapid population growth, the economic impact of the airport, long term water planning in the high desert, and the importance of trust between city staff and elected leaders. It is a thoughtful conversation about growth without losing identity and the steady work of keeping a community resilient. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Meagan Iverson, Executive Director of the Sunriver Music Festival, to talk about music as a vehicle for community, connection, and care in Central Oregon. Meagan shares her path from growing up in Southern Oregon to leading one of the region’s most enduring cultural institutions, and how her background as a musician and arts administrator shapes her approach to leadership and collaboration.Meagan and Aaron explore the festival’s year‑round impact, from nurturing young musicians through scholarships, to bringing mindful music moments into local schools, to celebrating American composers during the festival’s 49th season. It’s a thoughtful conversation about why the arts matter, how community organizations thrive through cooperation, and what it means to create shared experiences in Central Oregon. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with David Bermudez, executive director and founder of Bend Science Station, to talk about curiosity, critical thinking, and what it really means to learn science. David shares his journey from teaching at Sunriver Prep to launching a nonprofit that has spent more than two decades expanding access to hands‑on STEM education for students across Central Oregon.David and Aaron explore how Bend Science Station grew from a borrowed lab space into a Net Zero facility on the OSU‑Cascades campus, serving more than 5,000 students and 200 educators each year. The conversation dives into why science education often falls short in elementary schools, how experiential learning builds lifelong skills, and why being “wrong” is one of the most important parts of the scientific process. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion about education, democracy, and helping kids (and adults) learn how to question, test, and think critically. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Jason Stein, Executive Director of Opera Bend, to talk about building and sustaining an opera company in Central Oregon. Jason shares his journey from studying acting in New York City and performing on major stages to putting down roots in Bend and helping fill the void left when Obsidian Opera closed. Along the way, he reflects on what drew him to opera, how his voice shaped his career, and why Bend became home.Jason and Aaron explore the role of opera in a growing community, the balance between local talent and visiting performers, and Opera Bend’s mission to make opera welcoming and accessible. They discuss the “Fear No Opera” philosophy, the realities of producing large-scale performances, and what audiences can expect from upcoming productions—including Die Fledermaus, performed in English with supertitles. It’s a thoughtful conversation about art, risk, legacy, and why live performance still matters in Central Oregon. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Clayton Franke, reporter for the Lay It Out Foundation and The Source, to talk about local journalism, community accountability, and what it means to report from the inside of a rapidly changing city. Clayton shares his path from growing up in Missoula to studying journalism at the University of Oregon, then building his reporting experience at small newspapers across Oregon and Washington before landing in Bend.Clayton and Aaron explore the realities of reporting on local government, housing, transportation, and urban planning in Central Oregon. They discuss the responsibility that comes with telling people’s stories, the challenges facing modern journalism, and why local reporting still matters deeply to the health of a community. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Casey Andrews, Executive Director of Central Oregon Trail Alliance, to talk about stewardship, public lands, and the people who make Central Oregon’s trail system possible. Casey shares her path from working in national parks and forests across the country to leading one of the region’s most impactful outdoor nonprofits.Casey and Aaron explore the realities of trail maintenance in a high use and fragile environment, the growing role of nonprofit partners as federal staffing declines, and why Central Oregon’s volunteer culture is so unique. The conversation highlights how trails are more than recreation infrastructure. They are economic drivers, community connectors, and shared responsibilities that require long term care and collaboration. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Selin Sevinç, Managing Director of Programming and Artistic Vision at Bend Film Festival, to explore her journey from Istanbul to Bend and her lifelong devotion to storytelling. Selin shares how she moved through the film world as a critic, screenwriter, and festival juror before finding her home in Central Oregon’s creative community. She reflects on screening nearly a thousand films a year, what makes independent cinema so vital, and why Bend Film remains rooted in collaboration and artistic curiosity.Together, Aaron and Selin dive into the challenges of running a modern film festival, the new shared‑leadership model shaping Bend Film’s future, and the importance of Basecamp—an immersive retreat where filmmakers refine pitches, build community, and fuel their craft. Selin also opens up about her own creative work, including a new short film she plans to direct in Portland, and how she balances parenting, leadership, and the unpredictable rhythm of creative life. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this special preview on the Bend Don’t Break feed, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Adriana Mariño to introduce Bend Into Balance, a new podcast exploring fitness, wellness, and the stories that shape a healthier Bend. In this short conversation, Aaron and Adriana talk about why this new space matters, what listeners can expect, and how Bend’s wellness community continues to evolve.Tune in for a first look at the intentions behind Bend Into Balance — and meet the voice who will guide the conversations ahead. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Casey Munck, Regional Director of NAMI Central Oregon, to explore the evolving landscape of mental health support in our region. Casey shares her journey from a fast‑paced tech career to deeply meaningful grassroots work, guided by lived experience, community connection, and a passion for reducing stigma.Aaron and Casey discuss the realities of mental health crises, the role of NAMI’s volunteer‑driven programs, and the growing network of support across Deschutes, Jefferson, and Crook counties. They talk about caregiver stress, early intervention, youth programs, and what it means to show up for someone when things feel overwhelming. Casey also reflects on her own path through crisis, recovery, and finding purpose in helping others navigate similar moments.Tune in for a grounded, compassionate conversation about resilience, community care, and the power of telling our stories so no one has to face mental illness alone. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode, we meet Crux Fermentation Project's head brewer, Ryan Atagi. While Japanese lagers (or rice lagers) are gaining steam, Atagi's Japanese heritage brings something extra to Crux's Bochi Bochi lager and an array of other beers including a new dark Japanese lager he created in conjunction with OSU called OSSU. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Holly McCown Harris, Health Services Director for Deschutes County, to explore the realities of providing public and behavioral health care in a rapidly growing region. Holly shares her journey from juvenile probation work in rural Texas to leading one of Central Oregon’s most essential health departments, and how crisis response, public health, and behavioral health intersect in ways the public often doesn’t see.Together, they talk through the challenges of Medicaid uncertainty, the misconceptions around civil commitment, and the deep impact the housing crisis has on behavioral health. Holly offers a grounded look at what the county can do—and what it simply doesn’t have the authority or resources to solve alone.They also lean into the hopeful side: long‑awaited residential treatment beds coming online, Central Oregon’s first child psychiatric facility, and how collaboration across agencies still sets this region apart. A thoughtful, candid conversation about resilience, policy, and what it takes to care for an entire community. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Peter Madsen, an investigative and features reporter supported by the Lay It Out Foundation. Peter shares his journey from writing for Vice and Thrasher in New York City to becoming one of Central Oregon’s most prolific storytellers.The conversation dives into Peter’s passion for long-form journalism, the challenges of investigative reporting in a small community, and why he believes local news is essential for a healthy democracy. From his early days as a bike messenger in Manhattan to his current work uncovering stories that matter in Bend, Peter reflects on ambition, integrity, and the evolving role of media in our lives. Tune in for a candid discussion about local storytelling. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Melissa Steele, Deputy Fire Marshal for Wildfire Preparedness at Bend Fire and Rescue. Melissa brings more than two decades of experience in firefighting and prevention, including years with Cal Fire during the devastating Paradise fire, to her new role in Central Oregon.Melissa shares her journey from the front lines of catastrophic wildfires to leading efforts that help homeowners reduce risk and protect their communities. The conversation explores the realities of urban wildfire, the importance of defensible space and home hardening, and why proactive planning matters more than ever. Melissa also offers practical tips for residents and insight into how Bend is preparing for the future. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion about resilience, responsibility, and what it takes to keep our neighborhoods safe. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Kat Mastrangelo, Executive Director of Volunteers in Medicine, a free clinic serving uninsured adults across Central Oregon. Kat shares her journey from a career in health policy and hospital administration to leading an organization that provides critical care for those who fall through the cracks of the healthcare system.Together, they explore the challenges of rising insurance costs, the impact of expiring subsidies, and the growing need for accessible medical services in our community. Kat also highlights the power of volunteerism, the unique role of charitable pharmacies, and how her team is preparing for a surge in demand. Tune in for an insightful conversation about healthcare equity, community resilience, and the importance of local solutions. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Dr. Greg Pereira, the seventh president of Central Oregon Community College. Greg shares his remarkable journey from growing up in Clackamas to leading one of Oregon’s most respected colleges. His career path spans work in homeless shelters, nonprofit leadership, and higher education administration, giving him a unique perspective on the power of education to transform lives.The conversation explores Greg’s vision for COCC as a first-choice college, the challenges and opportunities in post-pandemic higher education, and the importance of accessibility and affordability for today’s students. Greg also reflects on meeting hundreds of faculty and staff to understand the heart of the institution and outlines goals for sustainability and innovation. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about leadership, community, and the future of education in Central Oregon. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Todd Dunkelberg, Director of the Deschutes Public Library and unexpected TikTok sensation. Todd shares his journey from graduating in library science at the University of Texas to leading one of Oregon’s most dynamic library systems. He reflects on the evolution of libraries from traditional book lending to makerspaces, 3D printing, and digital literacy and how these changes are shaping community life in Central Oregon.The conversation explores the ambitious new library projects, the role of meeting spaces in fostering connection, and why libraries remain vital in a digital age. Todd also gives a behind-the-scenes look at the viral video that made him a social media star. Tune in for an engaging discussion about innovation, accessibility, and the future of public libraries. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Michael Gesme, conductor of the Central Oregon Symphony and longtime professor at COCC, as he prepares to retire after 30 years of shaping the region’s classical music scene. Michael reflects on his journey from the Midwest to Bend, the evolution of local performance spaces, and the community partnerships that have sustained everything from chamber music to full symphonic productions.Together, they explore the therapeutic power of music, the challenges of arts funding, and the renewed momentum behind a Central Oregon Performing Arts Center. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about legacy, leadership, and the enduring joy of making music in—and for—your community. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer reconnects with Katy Brooks, now serving as Bend’s Economic Development Officer, to talk about her shift from Chamber CEO to city strategist. Katy shares her vision for supporting small businesses, improving infrastructure, and making Bend more welcoming to new and growing industries. They explore urban renewal plans, housing challenges, and how Katy’s role connects departments to drive long-term economic vitality. Tune in for a thoughtful look at civic leadership and Bend’s evolving future. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron sits down with Cyrus Mooney, Business Development Manager for the City of Bend, whose path from student affairs to civic leadership reflects a deep commitment to service and connection. With roots in Sherwood and a decade in Corvallis, Cyrus brings a rare blend of empathy, adaptability, and strategic insight to Bend’s evolving economic landscape.They talk about what it means to lead from the middle—liaising between city departments, business associations, and everyday residents—and how Cyrus balances policy work with human relationships. From his early days managing 70 student employees at OSU to his current role shaping Bend’s economic development strategy, Cyrus shares how he stays grounded in purpose while navigating the complexity of civic life. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

This week on Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Lace Thornberg, Communications Director at Central Oregon LandWatch. Lace shares how her journey through conservation organizations across the West eventually led her to Bend, where she now channels her passion for land use, public lands, and ensuring equitable access to nature. Their conversation explores the importance of protecting Central Oregon’s landscapes in the face of rapid growth, the role of public engagement in shaping land use decisions, and the challenges of balancing development with ecological resilience.Lace also highlights Central Oregon LandWatch’s Livable Future Forum—a dynamic lecture and community conversation series designed to spark dialogue around what it takes to create a just, sustainable, and ecologically vibrant future. Upcoming forums will feature voices like National Park Service Director Chuck Sams, author Michelle Nijhuis, and National Geographic Explorer Kiliii Yüyan. Learn more and purchase tickets here: 👉 centraloregonlandwatch.org/livable-future-forum Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Bend City Councilman Steve Platt, whose journey from fighter pilot to physics teacher to public servant reveals a deep commitment to community, resilience, and thoughtful leadership.Steve shares how his global military career and experience commanding squadrons shaped his approach to civic engagement and policy-making. Now serving on the Bend City Council, he discusses his passion for affordable housing, sustainable transportation, and environmental stewardship—issues he sees as interconnected in building a thriving future for Central Oregon. As a physics instructor at Summit High School, Steve also reflects on the importance of education and the evolving science curriculum aimed at empowering the next generation.Listeners will gain insight into the challenges of local governance, the weight of public responsibility, and the power of listening—whether to constituents, students, or fellow council members. It’s a conversation that blends data-driven decision-making with heartfelt dedication to Bend’s people and places. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with journalist and author Lily Raff McCaulou. Lily’s writing has appeared in publications such as The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Guardian, Rolling Stone, and The Bulletin, and she is the author of Call of the Mild: Learning to Hunt My Own Dinner, named one of the best books of 2012 by The San Francisco Chronicle.Aaron and Lily explore her winding path into journalism, what ultimately brought her to Bend, and the surprising journey that led her to write a book about learning to hunt. Lily also shares her perspective on teaching the next generation of reporters as an instructor at Central Oregon Community College and advisor for The Broadside, the college’s student newspaper. Along the way, listeners get a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of modern journalism, the intersection of personal growth and professional storytelling, and the importance of fostering curiosity in both students and readers. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Brian K. August shares his journey to becoming the new Executive Director of the Tower Theatre Foundation. With more than twenty years of leadership experience across nonprofits, private enterprise, and global initiatives, Brian brings a thoughtful approach to strategic growth, operational excellence, and community impact. His work with CauseMic and the Oregon Humane Society reflects a deep commitment to service and a talent for guiding organizations through meaningful transformation. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

We’re joined by Scott Larson, the new President and CEO of Visit Central Oregon, to talk about the future of tourism and community in our region. With more than a decade of experience promoting mountain towns and rural destinations across the West, Scott brings a passion for using tourism as a force for economic growth and connection. He shares his journey from childhood vacations in Sunriver and skiing Mt. Bachelor to leading visitor associations across the country—and now, returning to Bend to help shape Central Oregon’s next chapter. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron sits down with Gabe Charalambides, founder of Odyssey—one of the first legal psilocybin retreat centers in the U.S. Gabe shares his unconventional journey from aerospace engineer to psychedelic wellness pioneer, driven by a long-standing passion for meditation, Buddhist philosophy, and mental health.The two dive into the growing legalization of psilocybin, the science-backed benefits, and what guests can expect from an Odyssey retreat experience. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Maija Kellner-Rode, a queer artist, dancer, and mentor who has made it her mission to foster healing and connection through creativity. Maija shares her journey from launching her nationally distributed art brand, Maija Rebecca Hand Drawn, to mentoring youth across Oregon through expressive arts. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Katie Chipko, Executive Director of NatureConnect Central Oregon. ‹Left Center RightResize CancelCrop250 x 159✖i› SW Since joining the organization in 2012, Katie has been a champion for outdoor access, working to build partnerships and create inclusive nature-based programs for youth and families. She and Aaron discuss the vital role nature plays in childhood development, the expansion of NatureConnect’s community collaborations—like those with Vámonos Outside—and the exciting recent acquisition of Skyliners Lodge, a historic outdoor retreat cherished by generations of Central Oregonians. Tune in to hear how Katie is helping shape the future of outdoor education in the region. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

This week on Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Deena Kamm—longtime performer, vocal coach, and creative force behind Voiceless: A Musical. Deena shares her journey from the high-pressure entertainment industry in Los Angeles to building a voice-centered life and business in Bend, Oregon. They talk about the power of voice—how using it not only builds confidence but literally releases dopamine when you sing. From launching Sing Bend and the Public (ROCK) Choir to coaching executives through her company Voice Up, Deena’s mission is clear: help people find and free their voices. She also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her latest project, Voiceless, a musical she wrote, scored, and now stars in, inspired by the stories of those who’ve lost their voice in one way or another. Whether you're a shower singer, public speaker, or just curious about how voice impacts our well-being, this episode is a powerful reminder that if you can talk, you can—and should—sing. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode, we’re joined by Brian Rankin, the City of Bend’s Senior Strategist and one of the key minds shaping how our city grows. From expanding the urban growth boundary to navigating the complexities of housing, transportation, and infrastructure, Brian’s work is all about guiding Bend’s long-term future with intention and care.Host Aaron Switzer sits down with Brian to talk about his journey to Central Oregon, his early days in a band, and what it really takes to plan for a city on the rise. The two also discuss Brian’s past work in the City of Sisters and how those lessons translate to Bend today.This episode is a great listen for anyone curious about how local government works—and why it’s more important than ever to get involved in shaping your community. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Sherman “Sherm” Bloomer, Chancellor and Dean of Oregon State University–Cascades. With a background in geology and decades of experience in higher education leadership, Sherm shares his journey from faculty roles at Boston University and Duke to his long tenure at OSU, where he served as Dean of the College of Science and later led the university’s budget and resource planning office.Aaron and Sherm discuss the evolving landscape of education in Central Oregon, including the growth of OSU-Cascades and what the future holds for students, the local community, and the region at large. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode, Aaron chats with Joshua Savage—traveler, writer, educator, and scavenger hunt mastermind. Originally from the South, Josh shares the story of how his family sold everything to explore the world, eventually falling in love with Bend and making it their home.The conversation touches on his passion for travel, his love for the Pacific Northwest, and how his experiences have shaped his work as a teacher and writer. Josh talks about his latest book, Secret Bend, as well as his ongoing project The Ultimate Scavenger, which turns cities—especially Bend—into immersive, playful adventures.From the classroom to the trail and the printed page, Josh brings curiosity and creativity to everything he does. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Amber Thacher, Interim Executive Director of City Club of Central Oregon. Amber shares her inspiring journey from Boston to Bend—reflecting on her time as Senior Director of Executive Education at Harvard Kennedy School of Government, where she developed programs on economic development, policy implementation, crisis leadership, and behavioral science. Amber also discusses her earlier career in international education, her passion for creating meaningful learning opportunities, and the importance of community-building in Central Oregon. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the power of education, civic engagement, and Amber’s vision for City Club’s role in shaping a stronger, more connected community. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Johannah Johnson-Weinberg, founder of CAMP (Companion Animal Medical Project), to discuss the vital intersection of animal welfare and housing insecurity in Central Oregon. Johannah shares how her early work at a local humane society and a low-cost spay/neuter clinic opened her eyes to the deep bonds between people and their pets—especially for those facing homelessness. Drawing on years of experience in both the animal and human services sectors, she created CAMP to ensure that pet owners experiencing housing instability don’t have to choose between shelter and the companionship of their animals.Johannah and Aaron talk about how CAMP has evolved in response to the real-time needs of the community, the organization’s upstream approach to preventing pet-owner separation, and recent changes to homeless camps in Bend that have increased the urgency for support services. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

On this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron sits down with Dr. Sarah Hellmann, a board-certified OB-GYN at St. Charles Health System and co-host of the podcast Wine with Your Gyn. From her journey from social work to women’s health, to creating a podcast that blends humor and honesty around often-taboo topics, Dr. Hellmann shares her passion for building community through accessible, evidence-based care. Tune in as they discuss the importance of women’s health, breaking down barriers, and empowering women to take charge of their well-being. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode, Aaron sits down with Sharon Smith, a passionate nonprofit leader who brings decades of experience in community programming and the arts to her current role as Executive Director of the High Desert Food & Farm Alliance (HDFFA). After relocating from Long Island to Bend in 2019, Sharon quickly immersed herself in the local nonprofit scene—most notably at the Tower Theatre Foundation—before joining HDFFA in 2023.Together, Aaron and Sharon dig into the realities of food insecurity in Central Oregon and explore the many ways HDFFA is working to ensure access to fresh, healthy produce for all. From connecting residents with local farmers to running nutrition incentive programs and education initiatives, Sharon shares how HDFFA is building a more equitable and resilient food system.They also discuss the potential impacts of looming federal budget cuts on these crucial programs—and how community support and advocacy are more important than ever.🌱 Tune in to learn how local food, strong partnerships, and a little creativity are feeding both bellies and hope across the region. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

On this episode of Bend Don’t Break, we’re joined by Redmond Mayor, Ed Fitch, longtime Redmond resident and dedicated public servant. After growing up just outside of Chicago as the ninth of eleven children, he earned both a Bachelor's and Master’s degree in history from Marquette University, followed by a law degree from Willamette Law School in 1978. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

This week on Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Crista Munro, Executive Director of SFF Presents, to talk about the rich history and evolving mission of the Sisters Folk Festival. More than just a weekend event, SFF Presents now offers year-round programming designed to bring art, music, and creativity to the Central Oregon community. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

On this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Gwenn Wysling, Executive Director of Bethlehem Inn. Since 2010, Gwenn has been at the helm of the Central Oregon-based shelter, leading its mission to provide emergency housing and support services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. With a background in hospitality and a 20-year career in human resources, Gwenn brings a unique perspective to the nonprofit world. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, we sit down with Kisky Holwerda, the driving force behind Bend, Oregon’s Ponderosa Players. A passionate theater director and educator, Kisky shares how this innovative troupe is fostering creativity, building community, and bringing bold, original performances to life. From the joys of working with young actors to the challenges of independent theater, this conversation dives deep into the power of storytelling and the resilience it takes to keep the arts thriving. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

We sit down with Trever Hawman, owner/brewer of Bridge 99 Brewery in northeast Bend's "Brewers District" to discuss Bridge 99 Taproom's recent 10-year anniversary and how the taplist has evolved over the past decade including how and why nearly every beer is now gluten free. (But you can't taste the difference!) And why there's a non-alcoholic beer and an honest to goodness classic root beer made from scratch. We finish chatting about Shorty, Bridge 99's vintage Chevy snub nose tap truck that will be in operation at Bend Brews & Beyond over Memorial Day weekend. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Gregory Deffenbaugh, the new News Director at KTVZ-TV, to discuss his journey through the evolving world of news. From his early days in the newsroom to leading award-winning teams across multiple markets, Gregory shares insights into the changing landscape of journalism and how KTVZ’s rebrand reflects the reality that news is no longer just on TV—it’s everywhere. They also explore KTVZ’s rich history, its role as Central Oregon’s news leader for nearly 50 years, and what the future holds for the station. Tune in for a fascinating conversation about the past, present, and future of local news in an era of rapid transformation. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Marney Smith, General Manager at Hayden Homes Amphitheater, to explore her remarkable journey in the live entertainment industry. Marney shares how she navigated her career path to eventually manage one of the most iconic outdoor venues in the Pacific Northwest. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with longtime arts advocate Cate O’Hagan to discuss the impact of public art in Central Oregon. Cate shares insights from her decades-long career in the cultural sector, from her work with the Portland Art Museum and Oregon Symphony to her leadership at Arts Central and beyond. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with Peter Hoover, Executive Director of Sisters Habitat for Humanity. Peter shares his journey from a career in financial services and city management to leading a nonprofit dedicated to creating affordable housing in Sisters, Oregon. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

n this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer sits down with award-winning author and poet Ellen Waterston, the 2024 Oregon Poet Laureate. With four poetry collections and four literary nonfiction titles to her name—including her most recent release, We Could Die Doing This (2024)—Waterston is a force in the literary world. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, host Aaron Switzer chats with Melissa Burr, Founding Winemaker of Stoller Family Estate, about her fascinating journey from studying naturopathic medicine to becoming a trailblazer in the Oregon wine industry. An Oregon native, Melissa discovered her passion for winemaking while pursuing her Bachelor of Science degree at Portland State University. She further honed her craft through studies at Oregon State University and hands-on experience at local wineries, ultimately setting her sights on a career that would transform the region’s wine scene. Send us Fan MailSupport the show