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First Things First

by First Things First Alaska Foundation

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First Things First by The First Things First Alaska Foundation (FTFAF) is broadcast monthly on KINY on Saturday at 9 a.m. and on KJNO on Sunday at 9 a.m. Each episode explores the balance Alaskans face: protecting our state's rugged beauty and vast wilderness while advocating for sustainable economic growth through responsible natural resource management.With thousands of jobs lost in the past decades due to restrictive regulations, First Things First raises vital questions about the future of Alaska’s economy. Can we preserve our cherished landscapes, waterways, and wildlife while fostering prosperity for generations to come?Join FTFAF as we explore essential areas for Southeast Alaska’s growth—highlighting education, advocacy, and smart development.

From the show's RSS feed, refreshed Oct 30, 2026. Source feed.

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Episodes

  1. Powering Juneau's Future: Hydropower, Growth, and the Second Crossing

    In this episode of First Things First, AEL&P President and CEO Alec Mesdag joins the conversation to discuss Juneau's unique hydroelectric system, the history and safety of the Salmon Creek Dam, and how energy infrastructure factors into the community's future growth. The discussion explores the...

  2. Mining Month Spotlight: Inside Kensington Mine & the Future of Alaska Mining

    This episode of the First Things First podcast takes listeners inside the world of modern mining with leaders from Coeur Mining’s Kensington Mine near Juneau. Guests discuss the decades-long process of exploration and mine development, the advanced technology used in underground mining today, and...

  3. The Future of Alaska Seafood: Fisheries, Kelp Farming & Mariculture Growth

    On this episode of the First Things First podcast, guests from McKinley Research Group, Southeast Conference, and the Alaska mariculture industry discuss the economic importance and future of Southeast Alaska’s seafood economy. The conversation explores the history and challenges facing…

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  4. Second Crossing, First Priority: Planning Juneau’s Future

    In this episode of the First Things First podcast, host Dano sits down with board director Mac Miners and executive director Don Habiger to discuss the long-debated second crossing for Juneau. The conversation explores why the project matters for economic growth, traffic relief, housing...

  5. Cascade Point: Connecting Southeast Alaska in 2026

    The first First Things First episode of 2026 kicks off with a deep dive into the Cascade Point Ferry Terminal and why it’s poised to be a game-changer for Southeast Alaska transportation. Host Dano is joined by First Things First Executive Director Don Habiger, former Juneau Chamber president…

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  6. Juneau Affordability” & the MIZ Wi-Fi RFP Controversy

    First Things First launches Season 2 with a deep dive into Juneau affordability and a high-stakes city procurement: the Maritime Industrial Zone (MIZ) public Wi-Fi project. Guests Chris Rushman and Mark Luchini (Snow Cloud Services) detail why they protested the winning bid—citing unanswered RFP...

  7. Ballot Measures & Juneau Affordability (Vote by Oct 7)

    First Things First executive director Don Habeger, board member Denny DeWitt, and longtime resident Tom Williams to unpack CBJ’s three ballot measures through the lens of affordability. They back Prop 1 (cap the operating mill rate at 9; voter-approved bond debt still allowed) and Prop 2 (extend...

  8. Suicide Basin: ‘Success’ vs. Safety” — Residents, Data & the Long-Term Fix

    Host Dano sits down with Don Habeger (Exec Dir, First Things First), Frank Bergstrom (President, FTF), and Meadow Lane residents Cindy & Mike Dow to unpack this year’s Suicide Basin jökulhlaup: what they lived, what the data shows, why HESCO barriers aren’t enough, and the community push for a...

  9. Is Juneau Still Livable? The Real Cost of Calling It Home

    In this episode of First Things First, we discuss the increasingly urgent question: Is Juneau affordable anymore? With rising property taxes, a limited housing supply, and ballooning city spending, the conversation dives deep into the real pressures facing families, young professionals, and...

  10. Sweet Success and the Tourist Tide: Balancing Juneau’s Growth

    In this episode of First Things First, host Dano is joined by Don Habiger, Scott Bergman (owner of the Alaskan Fudge Company), and Ben Brown (President of the Juneau Chamber of Commerce) for a deep dive into the evolving impact of tourism in Juneau. From its early roots to modern-day regulation,...

  11. What is going on with Juneau's economy - How can it be approved?

    Don Habager, Dave Hanna, Angela Rodell dive into the hot button topic of Juneau economy. Talking everything from essential services, core services, to state funding, possible initiatives can help the city.

  12. Unlocking Eaglecrest: The Future of Summer Tourism in Juneau

    The First Things First crew dives deep into how Juneau can transform Eaglecrest from a winter-only asset into a year-round economic driver. With insights on the stalled gondola project, underused summer tourism potential, and alternative governance models, the discussion highlights what it will...

  13. Auk Landing Unveiled: Shaping Juneau's Waterfront Future

    Join hosts Dano and Executive Director of First Things First Foundation, Don Habinger. First Things First is a podcast series brought to you by the First Things First Alaska Foundation. Each episode explores crucial discussions on economic development, tourism, and natural resource management in...

About this show

First Things First by The First Things First Alaska Foundation (FTFAF) is broadcast monthly on KINY on Saturday at 9 a.m. and on KJNO on Sunday at 9 a.m. Each episode explores the balance Alaskans face: protecting our state's rugged beauty and vast wilderness while advocating for sustainable economic growth through responsible natural resource management.With thousands of jobs lost in the past decades due to restrictive regulations, First Things First raises vital questions about the future of Alaska’s economy. Can we preserve our cherished landscapes, waterways, and wildlife while fostering prosperity for generations to come?Join FTFAF as we explore essential areas for Southeast Alaska’s growth—highlighting education, advocacy, and smart development.

Hosted by

First Things First Alaska Foundation

Produced by First Things First Foundation

Frequently asked questions

How many episodes does First Things First have?

First Things First has 13 episodes on PodParley. The most recent episode was published on June 6, 2026.

What is First Things First about?

First Things First by The First Things First Alaska Foundation (FTFAF) is broadcast monthly on KINY on Saturday at 9 a.m. and on KJNO on Sunday at 9 a.m. Each episode explores the balance Alaskans face: protecting our state's rugged beauty and vast wilderness while advocating for sustainable...

How often does First Things First release new episodes?

First Things First publishes monthly, based on its 13 episodes since July 2025.

Who hosts First Things First?

First Things First is created and hosted by First Things First Alaska Foundation.
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