Casual Disasters

Where do I even begin...Roast House Crew is my favorite. If my job allowed it, I’d be there every day, sipping coffee, breathing in the roaster, and taking tours with Teddy. But for real, Aaron, Allison, and Evan have carried on the legacy of a legend, Deb.We were all first introduced at Radio Bar. Aaron and Evan gave me my first shot of Malört, and honestly, it was terrible, but it led to something better. We started talking, and somehow that conversation turned into a deep dive on Deb, the force behind Roast House and First Ave Coffee, and one of the most impactful people to learn about and talk about.What stuck with me most, and what still comes up in my life daily since recording this episode, is the values and mission behind Roast House. That was the thread that connected all of us in that moment, and it’s the thing I carry forward. To live like Deb. To never waver on those values.Give it a listen, and go check Roast House out, and make sure to get a tour from Teddy!

What do you even say when an episode is this full of brilliance?This week on Casual Disasters, we are joined by the incredible women behind Creative Mornings in Spokane, Darya and Rosie, and this conversation is something special.We talk about the magic of Creative Mornings, a monthly meetup that brings artists together, highlights local creatives, and builds real connection in our community. But that is just the beginning.Rosie shares about her work as an artist and art teacher, while Darya dives into her role supporting Spokane’s growing creative districts.These two are powerhouses, thoughtful, creative, and deeply committed to making Spokane a more vibrant and connected place. And honestly, this episode only scratches the surface of everything they do.Give it a listen and get inspired!Thanks again to our amazing editor - Estimate!

You might know Mandy as the 2018 National Teacher of the Year — the educator who made headlines for bringing 45 letters from her immigrant and refugee students to President Trump at the White House. There was controversy around that moment, including claims she didn’t shake his hand, but her focus was always on amplifying her students’ voices and standing in her truth. (Ps she did shake his hand)Mandy and I originally met while training for the Washington Education Association, and both becoming culturally responsive classroom management trainers. Since then, she’s continued to be a light in spaces where so much is often hidden.In this episode we talk about:- Education, belonging, and relationships- Toxic positivity vs. genuine joy- Why some people resist hearing about real happiness- Leaving a good relationship- Falling in love-Coming out-And what it means to live honestly, even when it’s uncomfortableIt was an amazing, honest, vulnerable conversation and I’m so grateful for the time with Mandy.Go give it a listen.

Riley Connors is a writer, comedian, filmmaker, and late night talk show host. This human does is truly a multifaceted artist.My first introduction to Riley was seeing the “hi” promo videos for his new late night show Connorsversations, and I was instantly intrigued. When he found my podcast and reached out to be on Casual Disasters, I was hyped. Our very first meet up became our interview, and it was hilarious from the start. Fast friendship energy.We talked about everything so buckle up. Hold on,. Don't get lost. We had both submitted films to the Spokane Comedy Film Festival, but Riley actually won it a few years back. It was awesome hearing about his experience and how that win shaped his creative journey.I’m still thinking about him taking shots of hot sauce, touching raw meat, and somehow not puking on camera. He’s a total badass.Don’t miss his next show at The Chameleon on December 19th. Tickets dropping soon.Tune in to the episode and meet your new favorite comedic genius.

🎙️ New Episode!I had the best time talking with Beth — cattle rancher, food farmer, and co-founder of LINC Foods.Beth is funny, down-to-earth, and passionate about building a stronger local food system. We talked about ranching, sustainability, and what it really takes to raise good beef.It was such a fun and inspiring conversation — you’re going to love this one.👉 Listen now! Check out Lazy R Ranch to learn more or order beef straight from Beth’s ranch: [www.lazyrbeef.com] And if you want to experience ranch life yourself, follow Roots of Resilience Cow Girl Camp — happening this summer! Edited by Estimate

New Episode Drop!On the eve of Religious Traumedy, I’m dropping a brand new episode of Casual Disasters featuring Adam — the creative mind and director behind the show!This episode was co-hosted by Wilma, and we had such a blast connecting over our shared love of comedy and unpacking the ways religion shapes our creative journeys.Religious Traumedy hits The Chameleon tomorrow night — and it’s officially sold out 🙌 but keep your eyes peeled for future shows!Adam has been a huge influence on my love for the Spokane comedy scene, and honestly, one of the big reasons I started performing — through the “For You” shows that Wilma hosts at The Blue Door Theater.Produced by Estimate

Wow — this one was a dream come true. I finally got to sit down with Paul Dillon, our Spokane City Council Member for District 2. I’ve wanted to interview him for a long time, and it honestly felt surreal to finally make it happen.We talked about policies happening right now, how past decisions still shape Spokane today, and Paul even answered some of your listener questions and shared a few of his favorite movies.It’s so inspiring to see someone work this hard for our community and keep showing up with heart. Episode’s out now — go give it a listen wherever you get your podcasts!#CasualDisastersPodcast #Spokane #PaulDillon #SpokaneCityCouncil #LocalVoices

Part 2 with the incredible Mariah McKay is here! 🎙️ She’s a powerhouse in Spokane, helping lead the way at Haystack Heights, the city’s first cohousing development. In this episode, we talk about what it means to choose community first—supporting each other’s families, cooking and growing food together, and sustaining a model of living that’s rooted in connection. 🌱🏘️Mariah is about to welcome a baby (!!) but still brought her brilliance and heart to this conversation. 💛I couldn’t think of a better way to launch Season 3 of Casual Disasters. More amazing guests are coming soon 👀 but for now, enjoy this one.Big love to my new producer, Estimate—he edits the show and made our theme song! 🎶 Go give him a follow 👉 @Est0_94. Also—merch is coming!! Stickers + t-shirts are on the way. Every guest who’s ever been on the pod will get a free shirt 🎁, and you’ll be able to snag yours soon too. Stay tuned!

Join us as we sit down with Clarissa, Annica, and Michael to talk about the magic of improv and why the Blue Door Theatre is such a vital part of the Spokane community! This fully volunteer-run theater has been inspiring creativity, connection, and laughter for years—but it needs our support to keep going!From their incredible improv shows to the many classes they offer for all skill levels, Blue Door is more than just a stage—it's a space for growth, expression, and community. Tune in to hear how you can get involved, donate, and help keep this amazing local gem thriving!🎧 Listen now and be part of the movement! #SupportLocalTheatre #ImprovMatters #CasualDisastersPodcast

Podcast Episode: Mutual Fan-Girling with Jared 🎤🌈In this episode, I sit down with Jared, the producer of Openly Mic and Q Lounge—an incredible space for queer comedy. Jared has been fan-girling over my podcast, while I’ve been fan-girling over his comedy for years! We finally got the chance to connect and talk about the complexities of being a comedian, finding the best places to perform, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces in comedy.Don’t miss Jared performing at Space Queers on Feb 27th at 8 PM! Get ready for an episode full of laughs, insights, and a whole lot of mutual admiration. 🎭✨#QueerComedy #OpenlyMic #QLounge #SpaceQueers #ComedyCommunity

In this episode of Casual Disasters, I’m joined by the roller skaters of Spokane—Darrien, Darrion, and Troy—who have all played a big role in inspiring my own skating journey. We dive into the culture of roller skating, from the music that sets the perfect vibe to the unique styles and traditions that shape skating communities across the U.S. and beyond.We also highlight the incredible contributions of each guest:Darrien (aka Rosethrow) is a powerhouse in Spokane’s creative scene, from his hip-hop group to filmmaking, DJing, working with Terrain, and organizing community events.Darrion is passionate about skating and helping others get started, offering skating lessons and sharing his knowledge to grow the local scene.Troy brings his deep influence in both DJing and skating, curating the perfect sounds to keep the energy high on the rink and beyond.Whether you're a seasoned skater or just curious about the scene, this episode is a deep dive into the rhythm, movement, and passion behind the wheels. Tune in!

In this episode, we sit down with the multi-talented Josiah—comedian, comedy organizer, graphic artist, gaming aficionado, and the mastermind behind the Spokane Comedy Film Festival, happening February 21–22 at the Garland Theater (submissions close January 31st!).We dive deep into the world of independent comedy, embracing weirdness to find your unique audience, and the importance of amplifying women’s voices in comedy. Josiah also shares his take on confronting bigoted and shock-value humor in the comedy scene. We round it out with a philosophical discussion, a few laughs over the upcoming release of the Nintendo Switch 2, and plenty of delightful detours into random topics.Special guest Wilma joins the fun, bringing her signature wit to the table. Both comedians have exciting events coming up—catch them at: 🎤 "For You," a PowerPoint comedy event on January 22 at The Grain Shed Taproom downtown. 🎤 Lilac City Live, featuring Wilma, this Thursday at the Downtown Library.This episode is packed with laughs, insights, and a few surprises along the way—don’t miss it!

When do you get to officially identify as an artist?Endless amazingness with this human. Shantell has done so much for the Spokane community through, arts, advocacy, kindness, and working with college students and developing equity programming. On this episode we talked about being nerds, art, somatic healing work, organizing, coming back to your mission, play as an adult and so much more. I can't believe it took me 20 years to meet Shantell but it is perfect timing and I am so grateful I did. Follow this badass activist, artist, writer and all her amazing work and her latest art "blk box gallery' on insta.

Be afraid of the man who practices a joke more than 1000 times…. from NYC to Spokane Ibrahim is bringing his dry wit and making the scene more interesting. I’ve been lucky to see his journey of open mic to hosting, to being booked, over the past 2 years. On this episode we talk about how poetry led him to comedy, the grind and practice of crafting jokes, writing, Batman, dyslexia, psychology, and swim instructing. Go follow and check out his comedy journey.

We have sound! Thanks to Estimate I learned how to turn up the sound in garage band. That's why it is helpful to have a producer in the studio. Matt, or Estimate, is not only savvy with making things sound good but he makes a damn good drink. We first met at, Radio Bar, my favorite local bar in Spokane. Soon after becoming his number 1 customer - I ran into Estimate in the music scene in Spokane and got to see him preform. I was enthralled with his rapping and producing ability and had to have him on the podcast. His talent for making rap, and smooth beats, are like no one else in Spokane. This episode we talked about his influences for being a producer and rapper, how he stays focused in his home town, what it is like being from here, music being healing, bartending and the world of bartending, and the music scene of Spokane. Thanks to, Estimate, for also giving me the “Casual Disasters” theme song.We prefunked this episode by getting our artists pics for Terrain! Both Matt and I will be featured for the big event. Go see him perform, Thursday October 3rd at 7pm, for Terrains preview night.

Mariah McKay - Season 2 guest opener for "Casual Disasters".I even have a theme song and logo for this season! Upping my podcast game. Thanks to Estimate for the theme song and Garrett Doll for the logo.But back to the guest - there are endless cheers I could give to Mariah. She has been huge for the Spokane Community. As "multipotenialites" we unite over our masking, ADHD/VAST (Variable, Attention, Stimulus, Trait) being from this area, and bonding over our passion for Spokane. This interview dives into alternative learning, being an exceptional learner sent to an alternative school, local politics, the beginning of TERRAIN and the art scene, implementing co-housing, Spokane Independent Metro Business Alliance (SIMBA), and the many hats she wears for this community. Give it a listen and follow the amazing things she does for this place. This is part 1 of many episodes.

Off the track of Bloomsday to record this episode. My bestie joins me on casual disasters to discuss our 23+years of friendship, neurodivergence (ADHD, OCD, Anxiety), dating late in adulthood, the culture of Spokane, the helping profession, and our journey through recovering from codependency.

Episode 8 Anthony joins Wilma and I to discuss the art of comedy, racism in America, trauma, and of course Donald Trumps new shoes. Anthony is growing the comedy scene in Spokane and healing our community through his work for the Spokane Resource Center. An amazing convo!

Ben Tobin, “Capturing Spokane”, photographer joins me on episode 7. He has spent the last 7 years doing street photography and immersed himself in the streets of downtown. We talk about the unhoused community of Spokane, working with Range News, “the unfinished love stories”, humanity, his work as a professional photographer, drinking culture and being sober, and the 1000+ miles he’s walked in our city. Check out his photography on insta under Ben Tobin or Capturing Spokane.

Reese joins me on episode 6 to discuss education, his work around equity and inclusion, and we dive into the use of language. Originally from Philadelphia, Reese, is learning the complexities of living in the PNW. He has made the move to Pullman and is deep in his work to make our Vet School at WSU more inclusive.

This episode we talk about religion, human sexuality, being therapists, healing and the process of writing a novel. Jacqui's journey through leaving religion and finding herself is beautiful!. Enjoy!

Spokane - Listen to this episode. First time having a live performance in the library studio for Casual Disasters. Matt is a talented musician, lyricist, and kills it at karaoke. Listen to his journey in the local music scene, working with big bands/musicians, and being born and raised here. We get deep about hope and hopelessness.

This week one of my favorite local barbershop owners is on the show. We talked about ADHD, religion, accountability for our impact on others, trauma, beauty standards within the hair industry, Glen Dow closing it's doors, and so much more. Tune in to hear more.

This week I interviewed the Chicago native BIG ED, or Mr. Spokane, about what keeps him in Spokane and what it is like being a black man in this community. He has a unique perspective working in safety for schools, the reserves for the police department, and a TikTok celeb.

Episode 1 - one of my closest friends joins me on casual disasters to discuss comedy, transitioning to Wilma and taking hormones, family, policing/politics, George Floyd, Minnesota nice, and Quartz under Spokane. Lots of laughter in learning the podcast platform with my friend.

This is the first episode introducing casual disasters and my influence for starting a podcast about this random corner of the world.