Heavy Lifts Podcast

This week, Nat and Makayla sit down with Daren Patera, tenant, friend, and one of the most genuinely positive people in the building! Daren is the co-founder (with business partner Brian) of Rapid Print Solutions, a Salem-based printer supply and service company that they've operated since 2003. But that's only half the story: Daren and Brian also launched Oregon Farm Fresh Snacks!They talk about growing up in South Salem, bouncing through three high schools, playing golf instead of football (despite being the biggest high school football player in the state of Oregon), getting an MBA and law degree at Willamette University, and how a chance meeting in a crowded auditorium turned into a two-decade business partnership.Plus: surviving the franchise world, navigating the Amazon algorithm, what it's like to pivot from ink cartridges to snack mixes, and how Daren manages to walk through the halls smiling after everything life has thrown at him.Rapid Print Solutions ▸ @rapid_refill on Instagram▸ https://www.rpsoregon.com Oregon Farm Fresh Snacks▸ www.farmfreshsnacks.com Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.com

Another week, another Heavy Lift!In this episode, Nat sits down with Sean Keen, Principal Broker at the Reger Group.Sean shares his history in law enforcement, what brought him to work in real estate, and what the market has looked like over the last couple of decades.Check out Sean and co. online!▸ https://www.facebook.com/RegerHomesWV ▸ https://www.instagram.com/regerhomesllcwv ▸ https://theregergroupnetwork.com/ Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.com#SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #RealEstateBroker #RegerGroupNetwork #HeavyLiftsPodcast

Welcome to the Heavy Lifts Podcast! In this episode, Nat sits down with Louis Ruiz, owner of Capitol City Barbers, for a unique interview: filmed while he's cutting Nat's hair!Louis shares his entrepreneurial journey from working 9-to-5 jobs (forklifts, car sales, Verizon) to taking the leap and opening his own barbershop with business partner Joe. Discover how they transformed a vacant suite into a thriving 5-chair barbershop in just 8 months, the importance of creating the right culture, and why Louis values flexibility and independence above all else.Whether you're thinking about starting your own business or just love a good small business success story, this episode is packed with real talk and entrepreneurial wisdom.📍 Capitol City Barbers - Book online or walk-ins welcome!https://capitolcitybarbers.org▸ @capitalcitybarberss on InstagramConnect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.com#SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BarbershopLife #CapitolCityBarbers #HeavyLiftsPodcast #StartupStory

We're back, Heavy Lifters! In the next phase, we're focusing on highlighting the incredible small businesses within the 45th Parallel Building. First up, Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes.Michelle shares her remarkable transformation from a functioning addict working as a project manager in Afghanistan to becoming one of Salem's most beloved bakery owners.After entering treatment at Hazelden Betty Ford in 2014 and investing $52,000 in her recovery, Michelle took cake decorating classes at Joanne's as a low-stress activity. What started as a $9.20/hour job at Fred Meyer evolved into an award-winning business after she won prestigious Statesman Journal awards and appeared on the front page of USA Today.Michelle discusses her infectious energy (inherited from her mom), her military upbringing in Germany, and her partnership with husband Justin Timberlake (yes, that's his real name). She reveals how she pivoted during COVID by creating drive-through bake sales that generated $10,000 in three hours, allowing her to move to a prime storefront location.This episode highlights Michelle's commitment to community, employing refugees through Salem for Refugees, adults with disabilities through MV Advancements, and students from Salem-Keizer School District. With Chef Emma and her dedicated team, Michelle has built a business focused on quality, integrity, and customer happiness.Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.comMichelle Ashley Custom Cakes▸ https://michelleashley.com/▸ michelleashleycustomcakes on Instagram#HeavyLiftsPodcast #SmallBusinessOwner #MichelleAshleyCustomCakes #SalemOregon #PodcastEpisode #CommunityOverCompetition

Makayla Larson is the event director for the 45th Parallel Building’s event space and, alongside Nat Borchers, manages the creation of Cellar 54.In this episode of Heavy Lifts (part 2!), Nat and Makayla talk about events in The Space, and through the real story behind Cellar 54: how a lower-level space inside The Forge became one of downtown Salem’s most distinctive event venues. From problem-solving on the fly during events to designing a space that actually serves vendors, artists, and the community, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it takes to create something meaningful, not just functional. This episode is about vision, creativity, and building places that people actually want to gather in.This is Heavy Lifts: the real stories behind the people who keep building anyway.🎧 Subscribe for weekly episodes!Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.com@thespace45th on Instagram@cellar_54 on Instagram#SalemOregon #CommunityBuilders #HeavyLiftsPodcast #Cellar54Salem #TheSpace45th #EvenSpaces

Makayla Larson is the event director behind the 45th Parallel Building’s event space, managing the creation of Cellar 54, and her story is deeper than most people realize.In this episode, Makayla shares how her family’s home burned down when she was a kid, how constant change shaped her, and why she’s always chased momentum instead of comfort. She talks about building community through experiences, the early grind of work and parenthood, and the life-altering injury that led to CRPS, plus what it takes to keep moving forward when pain becomes permanent.This is Heavy Lifts: the real stories behind the people who keep building anyway.🎧 Subscribe for weekly episodes!Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.com@thespace45th on Instagram@cellar_54 on Instagram#SalemOregon #CommunityBuilders #HeavyLiftsPodcast #Cellar54Salem #TheSpace45th #EvenSpaces

What does leadership look like when it’s built from lived experience?In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers sits down with Virginia Stapleton, Salem native, former City Councilor, and candidate for Oregon State Senate District 11, for a deeply personal conversation about education, trauma, public service, and the long work of building systems that actually work for people.Virginia shares her story growing up in a large family rooted in service, navigating poverty, dropping out of high school, surviving trauma, and eventually finding her way back to education through her GED and college. That journey didn’t just shape her; it reshaped her perspective on success, advocacy, and leadership.The conversation moves from Virginia’s early life to her work on the Salem City Council, her role in launching Salem Bike Vision, and why she believes local politics is where real change happens. She also reflects on polarization, power, and what it takes to lead without losing your humanity.This episode is about more than politics.It’s about resilience, accountability, and choosing to stay in the work, even when it’s heavy.🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify📅 New episodes every Friday at 9AMConnect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.com#SalemOregon #CommunityBuilders #HeavyLiftsPodcast #OregonPolitics #StateLeadership #VirginiaStapleton

Leadership isn’t always loud. Most of the time, it’s quiet, consistent, and heavy.In this episode of the Heavy Lifts Podcast, Tiffany Bulgin (Isaac's Room and Ikebox) shares what leadership really looks like behind the scenes,when decisions are hard, expectations are high, and recognition isn’t guaranteed.This conversation explores responsibility, trust, and the pressure that comes with being the person others rely on. Tiffany reflects on showing up even when it’s uncomfortable, learning through experience, and why leadership is less about authority and more about accountability.If you’ve ever carried responsibility without a title, navigated expectations from every direction, or wondered if the work you’re doing actually matters, this episode is for you.🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Spotify📅 New episodes every Friday at 9AMConnect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.comTiffany Bulgin▸ https://www.isaacsroom.org/ || https://www.facebook.com/isaacsroom ▸ https://www.ikebox.com/ || https://www.instagram.com/ikeboxsalem/ ▸ https://www.isaacsdowntown.com/ || https://www.instagram.com/isaacsdowntown #HeavyLiftsPodcast #IsaacsRoom #Ikebox #Leadership #SalemBusiness #LifeAfterLoss

In Part 2 of our deep-dive conversation, MLS Cup champion, Dr. Robbie Russell, opens up about the real work behind reinvention.From the pressures of playing abroad as an international to joining Real Salt Lake at a pivotal moment to stepping into the biggest PK of his life, Robbie walks us through the defining experiences that shaped his story, including the legendary 2009 MLS Cup-winning penalty. (This will be a fun section for both soccer and Russell/Borchers fans alike)But this episode goes far beyond soccer.Robbie reveals the emotional and psychological toll of transitioning out of professional sports, the decision to retire on his terms, and the grueling journey to becoming an Emergency Medicine physician. He breaks down medical culture, burnout, mental health, and why so many in the profession struggle silently.This is a powerful story about identity, purpose, adversity, and the heavy lifts we don’t see.New episodes every Friday at 9:00am on YouTube & Spotify.Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.com

In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Nat Borchers sits down with his former teammate and close friend Robbie Russell, a man whose story spans continents, conflict zones, and championship locker rooms.Born in Ghana. Raised across Africa, the U.S., and Sri Lanka during civil unrest. A global childhood shaped his identity long before he ever touched a professional soccer pitch.Robbie opens up about: ▸ Fleeing political coups▸ Growing up between cultures▸ Being the “new kid” in every country▸ How the immigrant mindset shaped his pro career▸ The pressure of being a foreign player▸ How he integrated international teammates▸ Why the RSL move “felt like destiny.”Next week in Part 2: MLS Cup 2009, the PK heard around the league, retirement, burnout, and becoming Dr. Robbie Russell.New episodes every Friday at 9:00am on YouTube & Spotify.Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.com

On this week’s Heavy Lifts Podcast, Nat Borchers sits down with former NFL fullback turned financial educator, author, and founder of Money Vehicle Academy.From NFL locker rooms to classrooms across the country, Jed breaks down why financial literacy isn’t just “good advice”… it’s a skill set every person needs to build a future. He opens up about life after sports, the identity crisis most athletes face, and how discipline, mentorship, and risk translate into real-world opportunity.You’ll hear: ▸ Why Jed created Money Vehicle Academy▸ How to “tackle” financial decisions like a professional athlete▸ Budgeting vs. cashflow▸ The difference between potential and identity▸ Why community-rooted values create more resilient citiesWhether you’re a builder, investor, teacher, athlete, or someone trying to take control of your life, this episode offers a roadmap to thinking bigger.New episodes every Friday at 9:00am on YouTube & Spotify.Pardon us for a technical issue with Nat's camera, so the latter half of the episode will just be Jed sharing his experience.Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.comJedidiah: @FullbackofFinance, @FullbackFinance, @JedidiahCollins#HeavyLiftsPodcast #JedCollins #LifeAfterSports #FinancialLiteracy

What actually helps someone get off the street?In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat sits down with Melissa Ludington, a former heroin addict who spent six hard years unhoused across California and Oregon and is now the Volunteer Coordinator at Union Gospel Mission in Salem.Melissa walks us through her story:▸ Growing up in Bend after a tragic car accident left her mom disabled▸ Being overmedicated as a teen, then sliding into street drugs, alcohol, and heroin▸ Losing her daughter, her apartment, and everything she owned in 15 minutes▸ Hitchhiking, nearly being trafficked, SWAT at her door (twice), and Grand Theft Auto▸ How a pair of socks, a hot meal, and someone remembering her name began to change her lifeTogether, Nat and Melissa dig into the messy realities of homelessness, addiction, and mental illness.If you’ve ever driven past a camp, seen someone flying a sign, or wondered what actually works… this conversation will challenge your assumptions and deepen your empathy.Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.com#HeavyLiftsPodcast #SalemOregon #Homelessness #AddictionRecovery #OregonStories

Former Oregon Ducks QB and NFL vet Joey Harrington joins Nat Borchers to talk about life after the spotlight—what it takes to keep perspective, why Portland still feels like home, and how the Harrington Family Foundation is investing in the next generation of local leaders.What you’ll hear:The real day-to-day of pro sports (and why perspective matters)Growing up in Portland and watching the city changeCompassion vs. “clean it up”—a nuanced take on downtown post-COVIDThe Community Quarterback Scholarship: 5× $25k awards for Oregon studentsWhy you don’t need a big title to make a big impact🎧 Watch on YouTube & listen on Spotify.

In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers and AJ Nash sit down with Tom Hoffert, long-time Salem leader and CEO of the Salem Chamber of Commerce, to talk about what’s shaping the city’s future.From championing small businesses to building community through collaboration, Tom shares insights on leadership, connection, and what it really takes to move a city forward.This episode is a mix of real talk, hope, and hometown pride — proof that big things are happening right here in Salem.What you’ll hear:▸ Why collaboration is Salem’s biggest strength▸ The role of the Chamber in connecting business and community▸ How Salem’s downtown energy is shifting▸ Why leadership means showing up and listening▸ What’s next for growth and revitalization🎧 Full episode streaming now on YouTube & Spotify.Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.com#HeavyLiftsPodcast #BuildWhereYouLive #SalemOregon #CommunityBuilders #Leadership #SalemChamber

In this special episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers and AJ Nash open up about one of their biggest projects yet, and why they’re no longer buying the JCPenney building in downtown Salem.This conversation is about transparency, lessons learned, and staying true to the mission: reimagining Salem’s spaces together.Nat and AJ share what went into the decision, what they discovered about the project along the way, and what comes next for Back Line Real Estate and the future of downtown development.Even when plans change, the vision stays the same — building spaces that connect people, create opportunity, and move Salem forward.What you’ll hear: ▸ Nat and AJ's hot yoga experience▸ Nat's background (for those who haven't seen his Wiki page)▸ Why the JC Penney deal didn’t move forward▸ What’s next for Back Line Real Estate▸ Why belief in Salem remains stronger than ever🎧 Full episode streaming now on YouTube & Spotify#HeavyLiftsPodcast #BuildWhereYouLive #SalemOregon #CommunityBuilders #RealEstateDevelopment #BackLineRealEstate

In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers and AJ Nash sit down with Derek Gilbert, financial advisor, volunteer, and longtime Salem community advocate.As the owner of Anthem Wealth Strategies, Derek shares how his work goes far beyond numbers — it’s about helping people and small businesses find clarity, confidence, and purpose in what they’re building. From mentoring others to leading downtown community events, Derek opens up about the lessons learned through setbacks, resilience, and saying yes to showing up for Salem.What you’ll hear in this episode:▸ How Derek turned adversity into purpose and growth▸ Lessons from nearly 20 years of service as a firefighter and community volunteer▸ The importance of helping families and small businesses protect what matters most▸ Why getting involved — even in small ways — makes the biggest difference🎧 New Heavy Lifts episodes drop every Friday at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify.🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who take risks.Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.comDerek: ⁨@derek.gilbert.7 ,@anthem.wealth.dg on Instagram#HeavyLiftsPodcast #communitybuilders #salemoregon #urbanrevival

In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers and AJ Nash sit down with Jacob Espinoza, entrepreneur, community advocate, and the creator of What’s Happening Salem, a platform giving people a voice in how the city grows and connects.Jacob talks about taking risks, building community through open dialogue, and why keeping the comments open — the good and the bad — matters. From the challenges of representing a whole city to the importance of listening first, this conversation dives into what it really means to create connection in public spaces.What you’ll hear in this episode: ▸ The story behind What’s Happening Salem▸ Why transparency and feedback are key to community growth▸ How to balance criticism, creativity, and collaboration▸ The role of risk-taking in building trust▸ Lessons in leadership, patience, and purpose🎧 New Heavy Lifts episodes drop every Friday at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify.🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.comJacob: ⁨@WhatsHappeningSalem⁩ on Instagram#HeavyLiftsPodcast #communitybuilders #salemoregon #urbanrevival

This week’s Heavy Lifts was more than a conversation; it was a promise of an experience. Nat & AJ promised to join Lorissa Addabbo on the mat to see firsthand what makes Common People Yoga such a special space for connection, movement, and community.🎧 Catch the full episode now: link in bio.🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #SalemOregon #BuildWhereYouLive #CommunityBuilders #WellnessJourney

Sometimes all people need is a space to just be. 🧘‍♀️ This week on Heavy Lifts, Lorissa Addabbo opens up about building community through movement and how yoga, wellness, and simple connection can remind us that we all belong.🎧 Episode streaming now on YouTube & Spotify: link in bio!🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #CommunityBuilders #BuildWhereYouLive #WellnessCommunity #UrbanRevival

In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers and AJ Nash sit down with Lorissa Addabbo, the owner of Common People Yoga and the soon-to-open Hot Loft, spaces built around mindful movement, connection, and community. Lorissa shares her story of moving from a career in healthcare to building wellness spaces that bring people together. From the grind of small business ownership to the joy of seeing strangers connect, she opens up about what it means to create spaces that help people show up, let go, and just be human.This episode dives deep into building community through wellness, collaboration, and relentless perseverance, even when no one’s watching.What you’ll hear in this episode:▸ Lorissa’s journey from healthcare to wellness entrepreneurship▸ The heart behind Common People Yoga and The Hot Loft▸ Why human connection is the real measure of success▸ Lessons in perseverance, creativity, and collaboration▸ How community and wellness fuel one another🎧 New Heavy Lifts episodes drop every Friday at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify.🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.comLorissa: @commonpeopleyoga, @thehotloft on Instagram#heavyliftspodcast #communitybuilders #salemoregon #wellnesscommunity

This week on Heavy Lifts, Lorissa Addabbo, founder of Common People Yoga and The Hot Loft, shares how she turned her love for wellness and connection into real spaces that bring people together. @commonpeopleyoga, @thehotloft🎧 Full episode drops tomorrow at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify.🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #BuildWhereYouLive #CommunityBuilders #WellnessJourney #SalemOregon

There's no wrong way to create art at @creativiteespace!🎧 Watch Episode 12 now on YouTube + Spotify!🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #DowntownSalem #CommunityBuilders #CreativiteeSpace

Roanna Gingrich, the creative force behind @rofedesigns and @creativiteespace, discusses her hopes for downtown Salem.🎧 Watch Episode 12 now on YouTube + Spotify!🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #DowntownSalem #CommunityBuilders #CreativiteeSpace

This week on Heavy Lifts Podcast, hosts Nat Borchers sit down with Roanna Gingrich, owner of CreativiTEE + rofe designs, and a visionary in design and development who’s shaping the way Salem grows. From rethinking how our city’s spaces serve people to navigating the risks and rewards of building something new, Roanna brings practical wisdom and creative energy to the conversation.In this episode, you’ll learn:▸ Why design is about more than aesthetics—it’s about community impact▸ The unique challenges (and opportunities) of building in Salem, Oregon▸ How risk-taking leads to projects that define a city’s future▸ What it means to blend vision with practicality in real estate development🎧 New episodes drop every Friday at 9:00am on YouTube + Spotify.🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.Connect with us!Nat: @natborchers on Instagram▸ @backlinerealestate on Instagram▸ www.backlinerealestate.comRoanna: @rofedesigns for Facebook and Instagram,▸ @creativiteespace for Instagram#heavyliftspodcast #salemoregon #realestatedevelopment #smallbusiness

This week, we’re talking design, risk, and community with Roanna Gingrich, the creative force behind @rofedesigns and @creativiteespace.🎧 Watch Episode 12 tomorrow on YouTube + Spotify at 9am!🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #DowntownSalem #CommunityBuilders #CreativiteeSpace

Behind every strong community are mentors who show the way.Last week on Heavy Lifts, Dr. Wayde Elliott joined Nat & AJ to discuss the role of mentorship in building leaders, shaping opportunities, and keeping Salem’s future moving forward.🎧 Watch or listen now: link in bio.🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #MentorshipMatters #BuildWhereYouLive #CommunityBuilders

🚨 New episode out now! 🚨What makes a vision work? The right people in the right places.This week on Heavy Lifts, Dr. Wayde Elliott delves into why leadership means not just hiring talent, but also empowering people to succeed in roles that align with their strengths.🎧 Full episode streaming now on YouTube & Spotify: link in bio!🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #Leadership #BuildWhereYouLive #CommunityBuilders

In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers and AJ Nash sit down with Dr. Wayde Elliot, a dentist, leader, and community advocate working at the intersection of healthcare, growth, and vision for Salem’s future.Dr. Elliot shares his story, the values that drive his work, and the opportunities he sees for Salem to embrace change with intention. From building stronger communities to taking smart risks, this conversation explores what it means to lead with purpose in both medicine and civic life.What you’ll hear in this episode:▸ Dr. Elliot’s journey from medicine into community leadership▸ Why risk and opportunity are inseparable in building a future▸ The importance of people-centered growth in Salem▸ Lessons on vision, resilience, and commitment🎧 New Heavy Lifts episodes drop every Friday at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify.🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #BuildWhereYouLive #CommunityBuilders #SalemOregon #urbanrevival

On this week’s Heavy Lifts, Dr. Wayde Elliot talks with Nat & AJ about why that unique mix makes Salem such a powerful place to take risks, build community, and create opportunities that matter.🎧 Full episode drops tomorrow at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify. (link in bio!)🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #SalemOregon #BuildWhereYouLive #UrbanRevival

This week on Heavy Lifts, Matt Holstege talks about taking risks, building for the long game, and why perseverance is the key to shaping Salem’s future.🎧 Full episode out now!🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #BuildWhereYouLive

In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers and AJ Nash sit down with Matt Holstege, a Salem builder and entrepreneur who isn’t afraid to tackle the heavy lifts of development.Matt opens up about his journey into construction and real estate, what it takes to stick with difficult projects, and why he believes in shaping Salem’s future through long-term commitment. From lessons in perseverance to the realities of building in a changing city, this episode delivers an honest look at what it means to embrace risk, think big, and keep moving forward.What you’ll hear in this episode:- Matt’s path into building and development- Why taking on tough projects matters for the community- Lessons in patience, persistence, and resilience- The realities of Salem’s growth and opportunity- How to balance vision with risk in real estate🎧 New Heavy Lifts episodes drop every Friday at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify.🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #BuildWhereYouLive #DowntownSalem #CommunityBuilders #urbanrevival

This week on Heavy Lifts, Ricardo Antúnez shares his journey from Honduras to Salem, the risks he’s taken as a restaurateur, and why creating space around the table can transform a cityPlus, Xicha Brewing Fest is this Saturday! 🎧 Full episode out now!🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.

In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers and AJ Nash sit down with Ricardo Antúnez, chef, entrepreneur, and the heart behind some of Salem’s most loved dining experiences.Ricardo shares his journey from growing up in Honduras to building a culinary career and community presence in Salem. He opens up about the risks, the hustle, and the deep pride he carries for creating spaces where food brings people together. From kitchens to community impact, this conversation is filled with lessons on resilience, creativity, and what it truly means to build where you live.What you’ll hear in this episode:- Ricardo’s journey from Honduras to Salem- The risks and rewards of running restaurants and food ventures- How food creates space for community and connection- The realities of entrepreneurship in Salem- Why passion and perseverance fuel long-term success🎧 New Heavy Lifts episodes drop every Friday at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify.🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.

In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers and special guest co-host, Brittany Randall, sit down with Chris Blackburn, a longtime developer, entrepreneur, and community builder in Salem with a track record of tackling tough projects and seeing them through.Chris shares the story of his path into real estate and development, why he believes in tackling projects others might pass on, and how perseverance (plus a little risk) can reshape a city. From the ups and downs of building downtown to his philosophy on community investment, Chris offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to transform empty spaces into thriving places.Whether you’re curious about real estate, love seeing Salem grow, or want to hear from someone who’s been in the trenches of building community, this episode brings insights, laughs, and inspiration.What you’ll hear in this episode:- Chris’s journey into development and entrepreneurship- The risks and rewards of tackling challenging projects- Lessons learned from years of building in Salem- Why community investment matters as much as financial returns- Stories behind some of Salem’s most impactful spaces🎧 New Heavy Lifts episodes drop every Friday at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify.🏗️ Heavy Lifts: For those who see opportunity and embrace the risk to build it.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #BuildWhereYouLive #DowntownSalem #CommunityBuilders #urbanrevival

In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers and AJ Nash sit down with Jesse Peone, President of the Salem Business Journal, to talk about the power of storytelling, business leadership, and building momentum in Salem.From juggling community roles to balancing family life, Jesse shares how local journalism can spotlight the people and ideas moving Salem forward. He opens up about the challenges of running a business publication in a rapidly changing media landscape and why celebrating local successes is crucial for a thriving city.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, civic leader, or just someone who loves seeing their city grow, this episode is packed with perspective, humor, and practical wisdom.What you’ll hear in this episode:- Jesse’s path to leading the Salem Business Journal- How media can shape the identity of a city- The balancing act between family, business, and community- Lessons in leadership from the world of local journalism- Why positive storytelling matters for Salem’s future🎧 New Heavy Lifts episodes drop every Friday at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify.📍 Heavy Lifts is for people who see what could be and are willing to make it real.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #BuildWhereYouLive #DowntownSalem

In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers and AJ Nash sit down with Cecilia Ritter, owner of Wild Pear, longtime downtown Salem business leader, and community builder with a gift for mixing warmth, grit, and vision.Cecilia shares her journey of running a beloved local restaurant, the challenges of navigating downtown Salem’s ups and downs, and the joy of seeing community come alive around food and shared spaces. From the behind-the-scenes of entrepreneurship to the philosophy of giving back where you live, this episode dives into the real story of building a business and a community at the same time.We talk about what it means to stick it out downtown, why hospitality is more than just food on a plate, and how Salem’s small businesses can shape the future of the city.What you’ll hear in this episode:- Cecilia’s journey building Wild Pear and growing roots in Salem- The realities (and rewards) of running a business downtown- Why community building starts with generosity and hospitality- The role of small businesses in Salem’s revitalization- Lessons from decades of entrepreneurship and leadership🎧 New episodes drop every Friday at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify.📍 Heavy Lifts is for people who see what could be and are willing to make it real.

In this episode of Heavy Lifts, Nat Borchers and AJ Nash sit down with Britany Randall, creative entrepreneur, event planner, and one of the driving forces behind some of Salem’s most vibrant gatherings.From her early career in design to running large-scale events, Britany shares how she blends creativity, logistics, and community spirit to make big ideas come to life. She talks about the lessons learned in taking risks, the value of saying yes before you feel ready, and why Salem is brimming with untapped potential for events and experiences that bring people together.We dive into the behind-the-scenes of planning unforgettable events, the power of collaboration, and how Britany balances bold vision with practical execution. Whether you’re a creative, a business owner, or someone who just loves seeing their community come alive, this conversation is full of insights and inspiration.What you’ll hear in this episode:Britany’s journey from creative design to event productionHow to turn ambitious ideas into real, successful experiencesThe role of collaboration in making Salem’s downtown thriveWhy “just start” might be the best advice you’ll ever takeHow local events can shape the identity of a city🎧 New episodes of Heavy Lifts drop every Friday at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify.📍 Heavy Lifts is for people who see what could be and are willing to make it real.

From childhood rocket launches to championing major revitalization projects, TJ Sullivan has always aimed high for Salem. In this episode, hosts Nat Borchers and AJ Nash talk with TJ about what it really means to build where you live , and why local vision is the key to lasting change.What you’ll hear in this episode:• How TJ’s roots in Salem shaped his career in development and public service• Why local investment beats flashy outside projects every time• Stories from his time on Salem City Council: the wins, the fights, and the lessons• The case for cleaning, lighting, and activating downtown to change perceptions• How community members can get involved right now to make Salem magical again🎧 New episodes drop every Friday at 9 AM on YouTube & Spotify.📍 Heavy Lifts is for people who see what could be and are willing to make it real.#HeavyLiftsPodcast #BuildWhereYouLive #DowntownSalem #CommunityBuilders #urbanrevival

In this episode of Heavy Lifts Podcast, hosts Nat Borchers and AJ Nash sit down with Patrick Carney and Kelly McDonald, two investors who never planned to buy a mall, yet found themselves at the helm of Salem Center Mall, including the former Nordstrom building.From unexpected real estate deals and pandemic fallout, to creative redevelopment ideas and downtown revitalization, this conversation explores the messy, risky, and inspiring side of investing in a city’s future.They talk about how the deal came together “by accident,” what it means to be value buyers, and how they navigated massive uncertainty during COVID-19, all while staying committed to helping rebuild the heart of Salem.In this episode:• How a failed contract led to a major opportunity• What “value buying” really means in real estate• How the pandemic reshaped their plans• Behind-the-scenes of transforming Salem Center• Trust, partnerships, and local impactHeavy Lifts is for those who see what could be, and are willing to risk it all to make it real.

Charles Weathers isn’t just investing in real estate—he’s investing in the heart of Salem.In this episode, we talk with Charles about how local knowledge, bold decisions, and a deep connection to community have shaped his approach to revitalizing Downtown Salem.From food pods and escape rooms to historic restorations and housing projects, Charles shares the risks he’s taken, the lessons he’s learned, and the future he envisions for the city he calls home.Whether you're passionate about urban development, curious about real estate, or simply love a good story about taking risks for something bigger than yourself—this conversation is for you.

Salem investors/entrepreneurs Nat Borchers and AJ Nash talk about their biggest investments, that may change Salem OR forever.