PODCAST · society
LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY
by With Magsy
Margaret Croom is ‘Magsy’, a local of Whidbey Island, Washington. Whether you’re a local, a would-be islander, or just someone who loves a good story, ”Local Whidbey” is your weekly dose of community, inspiration, and a reminder that the best places aren’t just found on maps—they’re found in people.
Episodes
-
THE GROWING CULINARY REPUTATION OF COUPEVILLE
There are towns you visit because of the scenery, towns you visit because of their history—and increasingly, there are towns you visit because you know you’re going to eat really well when you get there. Coupeville might just be becoming all three. Over the last several years, something…
more -
CREATIVE ECONOMY BUILDERS: THE FUTURE OF GREENBANK FARM & THE COUPEVILLE WHARF
When most of us hear the word port, we probably picture boats, docks and shipping. But on Whidbey Island, the Port of Coupeville is something much more interesting. It is responsible for two of the island’s most recognizable public assets: the historic Coupeville Wharf and Greenbank Farm. One…
more -
WHEN FREE MUSIC FUELS A LOCAL ECONOMY
This episode of Creative Economy Builders is a little different. I’m reaching back into Season 2 of Local Whidbey to revisit a conversation that, looking at it now, was really a Creative Economy Builders story all along. Every Labor Day weekend, downtown Oak Harbor transforms. Streets fill with...
-
Creative Economy Builders: Why World Class Actors Are Choosing Whidbey
When we talk about Whidbey’s creative economy, we often talk about the people who live here and build something. But there’s another piece of a creative economy that may be just as important: Can you create something compelling enough that talented people choose to come here—and then choose to…
more -
CREATIVE ECONOMY BUILDERS: SHAPING OAK HARBOR'S CREATIVE FUTURE
When people hear the words arts commission, they may picture a committee that chooses murals, reviews public art, or helps organize cultural events. But an arts commission can do something much bigger. It can help shape how a city sees itself. It can influence what our public spaces look like,...
-
FINDING HOPE: A NEW LIFE ON WHIDBEY
Today's guest is Catherine Markel, who moved to Oak Harbor with her husband in late 2024. They didn't know anyone here, and they weren't moving because of the military. They simply found Whidbey, fell in love with it, and decided to make a very different kind of life. Catherine came from a career...
-
MELODY TODD COMES HOME WITH FRESH EYES
Today's story is a reinvention story, but with little different perspective on Oak Harbor a lot of us do not have. Sometimes reinvention means leaving. Sometimes it means starting over. And sometimes, after years away, it means coming home. My guest grew up right here in Oak Harbor. After high...
-
THE NEXT WALLA WALLA? MAKE IT CASCADIA TEA ON WHIDBEY ISLAND
What if the next great agricultural story in Washington isn’t wine, apples or berries—but tea? That may sound improbable. Washington has never exactly been known as tea country. But on Whidbey Island, a group of farmers, entrepreneurs and culinary professionals are betting that the Pacific...
-
THE CAREER SHE DIDN'T PLAN, THE LIFE SHE BUILT
'Barbara Fuller on Starting Over and Finding a New Purpose' Today's guest has reinvented herself more than once. Barbara Fuller began her career as a police officer in San Mateo, California. After being injured on the job, she was forced into an early retirement and had to figure out what came...
-
HE BOUGHT A FOREST THEN REINVENTED IT
Welcome back to Local Whidbey Podcast. I'm Magsy, and this week I'm bringing you a conversation from Season One that I decided deserved a second look through the lens of my Reinventions series. When I originally interviewed Scott Price, I thought of him simply as an interesting islander—the…
more -
BUILDING RUBY: A COUPLES NEXT CHAPTER
Another great local story in my REINVENTION SERIES. For many people, retirement or a career change marks the beginning of something different. But today's guests didn't wait for one chapter to end before beginning the next. Martha Valle has spent her career creating memorable experiences as a...
-
JEN SCHMITZ GIVES COUPEVILLE A PLACE TO BE YOURSELF
My guest today is someone who perfectly embodies the idea of having the courage to create something new in her life. By day, Jen Schmitz serves Island County as the Natural Resources Manager, helping protect the land and waters that make Whidbey such a remarkable place to live. It's thoughtful,...
-
FINDING CONFIDENCE IN A NEW CHAPTER ON WHIDBEY ISLAND
Welcome to Local Whidbey Podcast. I'm Magsy, and this is another episode in our Reinventions series, where we explore the people who have found new purpose by embracing change. Sometimes reinvention isn't about starting over. It's about taking everything you've learned in one chapter of your life...
-
REINVENTING HOW A COMMUNITY FEEDS ITSELF
During the early days of the pandemic, people were literally driving to farms and knocking on doors, hoping to buy eggs, vegetables, or meat. The usual ways of getting local food had broken down almost overnight. That's when today's guest and a community of farmers got together and said "There is…
more -
The Sea That Built Whidbey: Stories from Our Maritime Past
Welcome back to the Local Whidbey Podcast and another episode in our special Saltwater Lives series, where we're exploring the people, history, industries, and traditions that make life on Whidbey Island inseparable from the sea. Before there were highways connecting towns, the water was our...
-
WHIDBEY SEAFOOD: From Sea to Table with Andrew Hosmer
There's a particular rhythm to life on Whidbey that you can't find anywhere else—a tide-driven cadence that shapes everything from when we wake to what ends up on our plates. In the "Saltwater Lives" series, we're diving into the stories of those whose lives move with the water, whose hands bear...
-
DR. FLORIAN GRANER & THE STORIES HIDDEN UNDERWATER
Some people look at the ocean and see a frontier; others see a home. For Dr. Florian Graner, the waters around Whidbey Island are both a laboratory and a canvas. He is a scientist, a conservationist, and an award-winning filmmaker who has taken the hidden world beneath the waves and brought it to...
-
THE ISLAND AS REFUGE: T KIRA MADDEN AND THE STORY OF WHIDBEY
Why would someone come to Whidbey Island to disappear? Novelist T Kira Māhealani Madden talks about refuge, memory, and the island at the center of her new novel 'Whidbey'. Today on Local Whidbey Podcast, I’m joined by T Kira Māhealani Madden, an award-winning writer whose highly anticipated new...
-
WHERE STORIES GATHER: MEG OLSON and the SOUL OF COUPEVILLE
Meg Olson is one of those people who make a town feel like home. If you’ve ever walked into Kingfisher Bookstore and felt immediately welcomed, challenged, entertained, or gently told what you should be reading—there’s a good chance you’ve met Meg Olson. Meg is the owner of Kingfisher Bookstore…
more -
WHAT THE BEES KNOW: MEAD, MEANING, and MAKING a LIFE ON WHIDBEY ISLAND
If you’ve ever thought mead was just a medieval novelty — or something overly sweet — today’s conversation might completely change your mind. On Whidbey Island, there’s a meadery that’s quietly redefining what mead can be by blending honey, botanicals, fermentation science, and a deep respect for...
-
THE FARM-HER OF FOGGY HILL FARM
Today on the Local Whidbey Podcast we are honored to have Alanah Lawrason, known in these parts as the “Farm-Her” of Foggy Hill Farm. Nestled on Whidbey Island, Foggy Hill is a two-acre vegetable and cut-flower farm that’s as much about growing community as it is about growing food. Alanah has…
more -
THE STORY BEHIND THE VOICE: FROM TECH to COMMUNITY BUILDER
Today on Local Whidbey, we’re turning the microphone around — and in the best possible way. I’ve invited someone I admire, Tiffany Scribner, Program Manager for Leadership Whidbey, to step in as our guest host. If you know Tiffany, you know she has a gift for guiding conversations, drawing out...
-
CHOOSING TO STAY: STEWARDSHIP, YOUTH and THE FUTURE OF WHIDBEY ISLAND
There’s something I love about talking with people who’ve chosen Whidbey Island — people who didn’t just land here by accident but saw something in this place worth rooting into. My guest today, Hannah Andersen, is one of those people. She’s the Outreach and Education Coordinator for the Whidbey...
-
HOME COOKIN' CHEF STYLE: A CONVERSATION WITH TOMMY GRELLA
Today on Local Whidbey with Magsy, we’re turning up the heat — literally — with one of the most entertaining chefs to ever land in the Pacific Northwest kitchen scene. You might remember him from The Next Food Network Star back in the day, but these days you’ll find him cooking up something even...
-
The Powerhouse Behind the Whidbey Island Language, Art, and STEM Center
ENJOY THE LAST HOLIDAY RE-LISTEN! By the way ... listen to the end to learn how to teach for WILASC. Hai Anh Vue is looking for professional who love arts, languages and STEM. Today’s guest is about to blow your mind, expand your horizons, and quite possibly make you wish you’d paid more…
more -
Capturing The Soul of Whidbey Island with Dennis Browne
ENJOY THIS WEEKS HOLIDAY RE-LISTEN You know how some people just have that magic touch? Like, they can capture a moment so perfectly that you swear you can hear the music, smell the salty sea air, and feel the collective joy of a crowd in a single photograph? Well, that’s Dennis Browne for you....
-
WALKING ON WHIDBEY WITH PNWBIRDIE
This week is the third week of 're-listens' or maybe a new 'listen' for you as we are in the Holiday season. This week I'm bringing back Todd Hipsher or known on social media as @PNWBirdie. He walks somewhere on Whidbey Island everyday and takes amazing photographs. They are mesmerizing. He has...
-
The Power of Collaboration and Connection Defines Adrienne Hawkins Success
This week is the second week of 're-listens' or maybe a new 'listen' for you as we start the Holiday season. This week I'm bringing back Adrienne Hawkins of Zen Esthetics in Oak Harbor. Adrienne loves living on Whidbey Island, after being transferred here with her hubs military career. I was...
-
Jonathan and Mike, Whidbey Islands Whiskey Crafters
This week is the first week of 're-listens' or maybe a new 'listen' for you as we start the Holiday season. This week I'm bringing back Jonathan and Mike of Whidbey Distillery. They were so fun and were my first guests. On today's episode of Local Whidbey Podcast, we're heading straight into the...
-
From Food Network to Bayview Corner: Joan Samson & Ed Hodson of Japonica
On this episode of Local Whidbey with Magsy, we’re taking a delicious little detour… straight from the Food Network to Bayview Corner. If you’ve been anywhere near Langley lately, you’ve probably heard whispers — or full-volume raves — about Japonica, the new Japanese comfort-food spot created by...
-
The Welcomer: Rose Woods and the Spirit of the Whidbey Institute
On the southern end of Whidbey Island, tucked inside 106 acres of moss-lined trails and cathedral-quiet forest, sits a place that’s been quietly shaping hearts and ideas for fifty years. It’s called The Whidbey Institute, and it’s where leaders, artists, scientists, and seekers gather to ask the...
-
Small Homes, Big Community: Architect Ross Chapin on Designing for Connection
When we think of neighborhoods, most of us picture long rows of houses, driveways, and maybe a park down the street. But what if there was a better way to live — one that put connection, belonging, and beauty at the heart of community design. Today’s guest has dedicated his life to re-imagining…
more -
Writing Policy to Poetry: Janice Cummings O’Mahony on Turning Clarity into Craft
Hello Listener, You know those writers whose words literally shape how we live—public notices, policy briefs, the fine print that keeps a community running? For years, Janice Cummings O’Mahony was one of them. She wrote for government agencies and civic projects where every word had to be…
more -
Aviator Robert DeLaurentis is Reimagining Flight on Whidbey Island
Today’s guest has truly taken life to new heights—literally. Robert DeLaurentis is not only the owner of DeLaurentis International Airport in Oak Harbor, but he’s also a record-setting aviator, accomplished author, and philanthropist. He was the first solo pilot to fly a small, single-engine…
more -
Not Just for the Stage: Why Jana Szabo Believes Everyone Should Sing
Hello Listeners—today’s guest is basically the Beyoncé of breath support. We’re talking about someone who’s turned the mysterious, often intimidating world of voice training into an open door for, well... all of us. Shower singers, Broadway hopefuls, reluctant public speakers—Jana Szabo has…
more -
Reimagining Real Estate: Alissa & Neal Collins on Building Regenerative Communities
Today’s guests, Alissa and Neal Collins, are not making real estate transactional—but transformational. What if the way we buy, sell, and steward land was less about square footage and more about soil health, community connection, spirit, and story? As co-founders of Latitude Regenerative Real...
-
Keeping History Afloat: Mark Saia on the Schooner Suva
Today on Local Whidbey with Magsy, we’re climbing aboard one of Coupeville’s most beloved maritime treasures — the Schooner Suva. My guest is Mark Saia, who not only has helped keep Suva’s sails billowing but also keeps her stories alive for the community. Suva herself is a piece of living…
more -
From Pasture to Plate: The Artisan World of Glendale Shepherd
Hello listener! So, here’s the scene: You’re on Whidbey Island, and have decided to stop at a few of the Island Grown Cooperative Farm and Food trail locations. Driving just north of Clinton, hang a left on Cultus Bay Road to go to Glendale Shepherd, a beautiful property in the woods, above the...
-
Building a Creative District: Lisa Bernhardt on Art, Advocacy, and Coupeville
Today on Local Whidbey, we’re welcoming someone who has been quietly (and not-so-quietly) transforming Coupeville into a cultural cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest—Lisa Bernhardt, the Executive Director of the Pacific Northwest Art School and administrator of the Coupeville Creative District....
-
From the World to Whidbey Island: Guitarist & Poet Andre Feriante
Hello folks! Today’s episode is not your average stroll down a Whidbey Island beach with a latte and a Labrador. We are going to go global. Flamenco global. Italy-meets-Island-meets-a-guitar-that-might-just-seduce-you kind of global. Today’s audacious Islander is a world-renowned virtuoso. Our...
-
From Tunes to Tuna, the Musician Behind the Oak Harbor Music Festival
Hello, hello, my fabulous Whidbey adventurers. Today, buckle up, because I’ve got an absolute force of nature on the mic. I’m talking about Larry Mason—a man who, frankly, makes the rest of us look like we’re standing still. Larry is the man who makes sure the music behind the Oak Harbor Music...
-
Composing Community: Tekla Cunningham and the Music That Moves Whidbey
Today, we are diving into a world of music, movement, and... gut strings. Yep, you heard that right. I am beyond excited to introduce you to someone who quite literally makes classical music sing with soul and spark: the incredible Tekla Cunningham. Tekla is the founder and artistic director of…
more -
FLORAL ALCHEMY: HOW LEXI OCHOA TURNS NATURE INTO ART
Hey listener! Today I'm talking to Lexi Ochoa, the founder and floral genius behind Forage—a custom floral design company based in Oak Harbor. Now, let’s be clear: Forage is not your run-of-the-mill flower shop with sad balloons and generic roses wrapped in cellophane. Oh no. Lexi is out here...
-
Exploring the Heart of Sustainable Agriculture on the Island
In this episode, Judy Feldman shares her inspiring journey from Texas to Whidbey Island, driven by a passion for nature and sustainable agriculture. Join Magsy as she explores the captivating world of the Organic Farm School, a vibrant hub dedicated to nurturing the next generation of farmers.…
more -
Sustainable Style: Marisa Sedillo is having A Vintage Affair
I am diving headfirst into a world of vintage glamour, timeless treasures, and, let’s be honest, the thrill of finding that perfect one-of-a-kind piece … be it clothing or home décor … that makes you feel like you just won the shopping lottery. Join me as Marisa Sedillo shares her love for…
more -
Fueling the Very Soul of Coupeville, Beaver Tales Coffee
If you love coffee, community, and creative magic, do I have an episode for you! Today, we’re talking about Beaver Tales Coffee—aka the beating heart of caffeine and connection on the Coupeville Wharf. And at the helm of this cozy, soul-warming operation? None other than Michelle Calvin and Tony...
-
The Farm with Heart: Marie Fiore on Bees, Goats, and Community on Whidbey Island
Hello, my fellow Whidbey wanderers, nature lovers, and people who probably have at least one friend who owns a goat. Welcome back to Local Whidbey with Magsy, where we shine a light on the brilliant, bold, and occasionally bee-covered folks making magic on this island. And today, are you in for a...
-
The Love of Each Other, The Love of Art and The Love of Community: Inside Museo
Hello listeners! Welcome back to Local Whidbey, your weekly dose of small-town magic, creative brilliance, and all the reasons Whidbey Island is the ultimate place to live, love, and soak up inspiration. I’m Magsy and today, we’re diving into the artful heart of Langley, Washington to visit with...
-
Creating a Bridge of Empowerment, Culture, and Community for Micro Entrepreneurs
Hello, Whidbey friends, and welcome back to Local Whidbey with Magsy! You know, there’s nothing I love more than discovering the heart, soul, and spice of Whidbey Island—and today, we’re diving into all three. If you’re ready for a conversation filled with inspiration, culture, and a little dash…
more -
Building Brilliance: Hai Anh Vue and the Future of Learning on Whidbey Island
Today’s guest is about to blow your mind, expand your horizons, and quite possibly make you wish you’d paid more attention in science class. We are talking to the brilliant Hai Anh Vue, the powerhouse behind the Whidbey Island Language, Art, and STEM Center—or, as the cool kids say, WILASC. Now…
more
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Margaret Croom is ‘Magsy’, a local of Whidbey Island, Washington. Whether you’re a local, a would-be islander, or just someone who loves a good story, ”Local Whidbey” is your weekly dose of community, inspiration, and a reminder that the best places aren’t just found on maps—they’re found in people.
HOSTED BY
With Magsy
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY have?
LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY currently has 61 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY about?
Margaret Croom is ‘Magsy’, a local of Whidbey Island, Washington. Whether you’re a local, a would-be islander, or just someone who loves a good story, ”Local Whidbey” is your weekly dose of community, inspiration, and a reminder that the best places aren’t just found on maps—they’re found in people.
How often does LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY release new episodes?
LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY has 61 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY?
You can listen to LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY?
LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY is created and hosted by With Magsy.
URL copied to clipboard!