The ESP: Student Caught Stories

This episode is in collaboration with WWU students: Ava Simcoe, Alex Schramm, Frank Stephenson and Carter NelsonFrom Bozeman, Montana West Persons shares his journey from a college dropout to the proud owner of Madrona Wear, a repair and consignment shop here in Bellingham, Washington. Growing up in Montana and moving to Bellingham for university, West noticed a major gap in the outdoor industry. Bellingham had tons of people excited to be outside and participate in activities like skiing, hiking and camping but no access to secondhand gear. The idea came to him working at an outdoor store here where he noticed the store was taking a loss and throwing away faulty, but fixable high-quality gear. Madrona was born from West's passion for giving quality gear a new life at a price that makes people want to get outside.Learn more at eicstoryprojects.organd from madronawear.com

This episode is in collaboration with WWU students: Joris Everts, Ella Perry, and Adam KendrickCommon Threads Farm is a non-profit in Whatcom County that connects kids to healthy food. Through multiple programs, they educate local kids on gardening and cooking skills while also providing free, healthy meals for kids experiencing food insecurity. Common Threads Farm primarily addresses the sustainability goals of Zero Hunger and Quality Education. Common Threads Farm believes that food education is critical to building a healthier and happier future for kids. They have seen first hand how economic hardship and limited access to fresh food can affect kids' education and well-being. By teaching practical skills and knowledge around food, Common Threads Farm creates a direct and lasting positive impact on the kids involved.

This episode is in collaboration with WWU students: Kai Drotz, Jaden Walter, Brody Robinson, and Leyton IreyFor our SEIC Story Project, our team partnered with the Bellingham Food Co-op to learn more about how sustainability can be woven into a community-centered business model. Through our site visit and interview with Melissa, the Sustainability Director at the Co-op, we were able to explore how the organization  approaches environmental responsibility, affordability, community involvement, and sustainable food systems in the Bellingham community.

This episode is in collaboration with WWU students: Genna Tobin, Emma Cline, Alex Hines, and Sky McCaslandSustainable Connections, a nonprofit that has been active in the Bellingham area for nearly a quarter of a century and strives to do exactly what their name suggests; connect the community through sustainability. The nonprofit as a whole touches on nearly every aspect of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, but our team chose to focus on two of their specific programs, Think Local First and Towards Zero Waste. Their Think Local First addresses the Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG, working to encourage the community to fund the local economy and produce sustainable job opportunities within Bellingham. Our team sat down with Molly Bressers, the program manager of Think Local First to discuss her experiences and how she works within Sustainable Connections to promote local Bellingham businesses. 

This episode is in collaboration with WWU students: Kosta Biros, Tyler Johnson, Jarad Barth, and Melissa RamirezThe Bellingham Makerspace is a place that offers materials and machines for creating, designing and building almost anything you can imagine. We discovered this business while researching non-profit organizations within Bellingham who focus on some of the sustainability goals. We then set up an interview with Jason, the Founder of the Makerspace and took a tour of the shop.The first thing you notice when stepping into the makerspace is the small store with little trinkets and other items, all created and donated from people in the shop. This instantly showcases the abilities of those who come to the Makerspace to connect and learn, as well as shows all the opportunities for creative freedom offered at the Bellingham Makerspace.

This episode is in collaboration with WWU students: Berkley Mcclellan-Tedrow, Cody Smith, Emily Swan, and Grace BarrettIn the heart of downtown Bellingham is a little community bike shop, the Bike Hub serves as a space for people to get their bikes tuned up and working whether they need to replace broken parts, want to fix it themselves, or have the Bike hub fix it for them. Initially started in 1997 as the pedal project by Kyle Morris to take old bikes and turn them into single speed bikes and share them with the community. Turned into Kyle creating the Community Bike hub in 2002 based on other community bike shops at the time.

This episode is in collaboration with WWU students: Alyssa Fabie, Daniela Hernandez and Ixchel KissmanMore than a temporary stop, at the heart of Bellingham, Lydia Place creates hope and belonging for many families in our community. On what seemed like a gloomy day, we experienced the warmth and joy that Lydia Place brings to the families who walk through its doors. Lydia Place was founded in 1989 by a group of women leaders, now referred to as the“founding mothers.” After witnessing women and children experiencing homelessness and the trauma tied to it, they recognized a need within the community and decided to act.Learn more at eicstoryprojects.orgAnd visit Lydia Place at lydiaplace.org

This episode is made in collaboration with WWU students Mitchell Wrest, Lucas Hakamada and Gabe Laigo. In this episode of The Rising Tide Collective, Mitchell, Lucas, and Gabe sit down with Alli from Blue Skies for Children, a nonprofit organization based in Bellingham, Washington.We explore how Alli got involved with the organization, the evolution of Blue Skies over the years, and the meaningful impact they’ve had on children and families in the local community. Alli also shares insights into her personal role and the work being done to create brighter, more equitable futures for youth in need.

This episode is made in collaboration with WWU student Izzy Knutson.Meet Melissa Gómez, founder of Hustle Team Nation, a powerhouse brokerage firm empowering life insurance agents to reach their full potential. As a proud Mexican woman and changemaker, Melissa is redefining what leadership looks like in the insurance industry. Through virtual workshops, mentorship, and training tools, she’s building a community of agents who hustle with heart. 

This episode is in collaboration with WWU student Mel Ramirez.Have you ever discovered a passion and thought "hey, I could make a business out of this!". Quynh D. Nguyen, the founder of Pink and Posey, had a similar thought and has continued her passion for paper flowers to this day.

This episode is in collaboration with WWU student Shannon Register.I recently had the privilege of interviewing renowned photographer and educator Henry Tieu as part of my field research for Western Washington University’s Entrepreneurship & Innovation program. We explored his journey from creative to entrepreneur, and the ways he’s built a business rooted in authenticity, connection, and sustainable passion. Our conversation covered everything from career pivots and personal mindset to client trust, energy management, and defining success on your own terms. As an aspiring photographer myself, this was deeply affirming and motivating. Thank you, Henry, for your honesty, insight, and encouragement!

This episode is in collaboration with WWU student Storm Hedman.In this episode of Salish Sea Stories, we sit down with Seattle-based videographer Gio Jennings of Middle Fork Films to explore his journey turning a passion for filmmaking into a thriving freelance business. Gio shares insights on the creative process, building community connections, and navigating the challenges of independent video production in the Pacific Northwest. Tune in to hear how he blends storytelling and entrepreneurship to bring local stories to life.

This episode is in collaboration with WWU student Mirella Morfin.In this podcast, we’re speaking with Lili, one of the co-founders of L&L Bakery, which she started with her mom. We’ll be diving into their story—how the bakery began, the challenges they’ve faced, and what it’s like running a family-owned business today. 

This episode is in collaboration with WWU student Kurtis Johnston.On this episode of The ESP we sit down with the founder of B'ham Hop, Bailey McCully, to discover the inner workings of a Bellingham based swing dancing organization. Learn more about her journey as she uses dance to bring people together to spark joy through movement and community.

This episode is in collaboration with WWU student McKenzie McLeodFairhaven Runners and Walkers is more than just a specialty store in Bellingham, Washington - it's a cornerstone of the community. Known for their high-quality products and exceptional customer service, they've also played a key role in fostering connection through local events and outreach. Join me as I sit down with the store's newest owners to hear their stories and discover how they're continuing this meaningful legacy

This episode is in collaboration with WWU student Mackenzie Owens.In this podcast we’ll be sitting down with artist Suzanne Lundberg, creator of the sustainable clothing business, The Goat’s Coat. You’ll hear the adventures and ventures that got her to where she is today, and how it brought the art of sustainable clothing.

This episode is in collaboration with WWU students: Jane Burleigh, Emily Ann Dombek and Piper Isolde Kassouni.Nestled in a quiet corner of Whatcom County, Growing Veterans is a nonprofit farm that serves as a healing space, classroom, and community hub. Founded in 2012 by Marine Corps veteran Christopher Brown and former mental health counselor Christina Wolf, the venture helps veterans reconnect with civilian life through farming. Their mission is built on a simple but powerful belief: connection is healing, press play to check out their story.

This episode is in collaboration with WWU students: Blake Mortens, Storm Hedmon, and Matthew CromwellWelcome back to the ESP podcast from Western Washington University! In this episode, we chat with Susan Hutton, Executive Director of the Whatcom Million Trees Project, learning about her journey and the organization's mission to plant or protect a million trees in Whatcom County and connect people over it. We explore the realities of running a project focused on taking action and making a tangible difference in the community, offering insights on getting involved and making a difference. Subscribe to the ESP to be inspired to discover your gifts and live a way of life you love.

This episode is in collaboration with WWU students Colby Love, Charlie Dietiker, Austin Ellison  and Brooke Organ This podcast interview with Coast to Coast Sustainable's features an inspiring conversation with co-founders Stephanie Manning and Stephanie Torres as they share the story behind their environmentally conscious venture. From their pandemic-era beginnings to their ongoing mission to reduce waste and promote sustainable living, this episode highlights their passion, purpose, and plans for the future. 

This episode is in collaboration with WWU student Ella Perry.In this episode of the ESP Podcast, host Ella Perry sits down with Morgan Curry from Skagit Gleaners to discuss their vital work in reducing food waste and addressing hunger in local communities. From gleaning fresh produce to redistributing food to those in need, Skagit Gleaners is leading the charge for sustainability and community impact. Tune in to hear how Morgan and her team are making a difference, and learn how we can all play a role in creating a more sustainable future.