One Hour To Doors

Prepare to be swept away by the vinyl revival as we sit down with Terry Currier, the maestro behind Music Millennium Record Store and the co-founder of National Record Store Day. Terry's tale is one for the books, spanning a remarkable 52 years of twists, turns, and tunes. This episode is a treasure trove of stories that will have you reminiscing about the crackle of a needle on vinyl and the unmistakable scent of a new album sleeve.From the pangs of Napster's upheaval to the backstage whispers of music festivals, Terry unravels the fabric of an industry that's as vibrant as the records it presses. We weave through Terry's earliest encounters with music retail, his fervent support for independent stores amid digital disruption, and the moments that sculpted his career into the legacy it is today. You'll be privy to the infamous Garth Brooks CD controversy that sparked a media frenzy and hear personal anecdotes that showcase the power of live music, like Chris Isaac's extraordinary fan engagement.As we reflect on the shifts and shimmies of the music world, you’ll discover the ingenious ways Music Millennium danced through the pandemic, and why vinyl remains the soul of soundwaves. The episode crescendos into a conversation filled with gratitude, illustrating the timeless power of music to unite and inspire. Tune in for an episode that pulls back the curtain on the music industry's evolution and celebrates the tunes that continue to unite generations.Music MilleniumOregon Music Hall of FameFollow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

This conversation with DJ Indica Jones buzzes with stories about passion, dedication, and a rhythmic journey from Phoenix heat to the cool vibes of the Nectar Lounge in Fremont. We spun through Indica's origin story, touching on the influence of his contemporary DJ Z-Trip and the unwavering support from his wife who believed in his dream to the tune of a new set of turntables. Indica's tale isn't just about beats; it's about the beats of the heart, the connections made, and the community of musical aficionados inspired by his 3,000 performance-strong career.Change is the only constant in the world of music and DJ Indica Jones knows it better than most. Indica dissects the evolution of DJing from the tactile thrill of spinning vinyl to the digital wizardry of today's music scene. Sharing his love for the hunt of rare cassettes and the first pressings of classic albums, Indica's words became a vinyl groove of memories highlighting the blend of nostalgia and innovation that keeps his sets pulsing with life. This episode wasn't just an exploration of musical trends; it was an ode to the collectors, the crate diggers, and the auditory archaeologists keeping the soul of music alive.We wrapped things up with the sweet, swirling debate of the ages: Which ice cream flavor reigns supreme? Indica and Jon scooped up the topic with gusto, laughing over the merits of mint chocolate chip versus peppermint—and his peculiar preference for eating cones from the bottom up. It was a playful finale to an episode rich with the spirit of live performances and the power of music to move and unite us. So grab your favorite cone, press play, and join us for a journey that promises as much variety and delight as the ice cream aisle itself.Indica's Links:DJ Indica JonesDJ Z-TripDJ WickedNectar LoungeJazz BonesFollow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Embark on a revealing exploration with industry finance expert Susan Den, unravelling the intricate dance of finance, HR, and strategy in the nonprofit realm. Susan's prestigious transition from the thrill of amusement parks to the nuanced world of arts and music organizations has endowed her with a keen perspective on using accounting as a vibrant storytelling medium. Our conversation dives into how this narrative power shapes the future, positioning finance and HR not just as support functions but as pivotal architects in the edifice of organizational strategy.The journey continues with a heartfelt look at Treehouse's transformative work with foster youth and how their financial strategies have masterfully balanced expansion with innovation. We also navigate the post-pandemic fundraising landscape, now a terrain of shifting donor preferences and engagement tactics. This new world challenges us to redefine community support, highlighting the crucial role of intimate, donor-centered events in sustaining nonprofit vitality.Concluding our session, we traverse the realms of transparency, trust, and mentorship, pillars of a robust financial framework. The exchange of financial insights across all organizational levels emerges as a catalyst for empowered decision-making and problem-solving. Through anecdotes from the festival industry's unpredictability, we underscore the trust and quick-thinking demanded in high-stakes environments, and celebrate mentorship's lasting legacy in sculpting finance professionals ready to tackle the sector's complexities. Join us for this thought-provoking voyage that not only demystifies the fiscal narrative but also celebrates the human connections that underpin the very essence of nonprofit success.https://www.treehouseforkids.org/Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

This week we sit down with Amy Maxwell, the trailblazing force behind Ticket Tomato, for an in-depth conversation that's as ripe and juicy as the company's namesake. Amy's personal crusade for a better way of event ticketing has reshaped the landscape for festival-goers and event organizers alike, bringing affordable and accessible ticketing solutions to the forefront. Throughout our talk, she shares the triumphs and trials of her transition from event coordination to leading a mini revolution in the ticketing world, offering a glimpse into the creative synergy between her work with musicians and programmers that fuels her vision.This episode isn't just about buying and selling tickets—it's a narrative on the transformative power of technology in event management and the human connections that keep it grounded. Amy takes us back to the days of pioneering palm pilots for ticket scanning, reflecting on the deep trust between her and festival founders that laid the groundwork for success. We pull back the curtain on the intricate dance of tackling ticket fraud and cyber threats, where Amy's expertise shines in devising strategic defenses and maintaining the crucial element of live customer service amidst an automated industry. For anyone who's ever tapped their foot to a festival beat or scanned a QR code, this conversation is a testament to the innovative spirit that keeps the music playing.As we wrap up, the spotlight shines on the unsung heroes of the ticketing saga—collaboration and education. Amy champions the cause of small event organizers, illuminating how Ticket Tomato empowers them to master promotion and ticket management, no matter the size of their stage. Peering into the crystal ball of industry trends, she advocates for transparent pricing and the paramount importance of customer satisfaction. So tune in as Amy's stories of resilience and her dedication to crafting temporary communities will inspire you long after the final encore.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Imagine leaving the predictable comforts of a dental office for the dizzying heights of high-rigging in the entertainment industry. That's the story of Renee Munholand, whose remarkable career leap has seen her ensure the safety and success of everything from colossal concerts to Super Bowl extravaganzas. In our conversation, Renee peels back the curtain to reveal the resilience and passion required to soar in this high-stakes profession. She recounts the personal growth and life lessons learned on the job, providing an inspiring look at what it takes to leave a grounded job for one that literally hangs in the balance.Renee doesn't hold back on the realities of work-life equilibrium and the unique pressures of tour life, offering insights into how a positive mindset can transform a grueling schedule into a rewarding adventure. She walks us through the evolving landscape of rigging, where certification and safety dance hand-in-hand with the irreplaceable wisdom gained from hands-on experience. Renee's stories serve as a masterclass in navigating the rigging world  where precision and neutrality are everything.To round it all off, our audience gets a taste of how, sometimes, it's the small things—like mentoring the next generation of riggers or choosing between chocolate and caramel—that truly sweeten life's journey. Join us for this episode and strap in for a behind-the-scenes tour that ascends to new heights, offering heart-racing anecdotes and valuable lessons from one of the industry's most adept high-fliers.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

From her pirouettes in New York to steering Seattle's most vibrant festivals and innovative events, Jane Zalutsky's journey is nothing short of a masterclass in fearlessness in the arts and entertainment space. This episode is a treasure trove of backstories, pioneering spirit, and the everlasting imprint of arts on community fabric.With leadership as our compass, we navigated the twists and turns of event management, the development of organizational culture, and discussing how cultivating a fearless approach can pave the way to success. We peel back the layers of narrative, revealing the early imprint on Jane of family and mentors that led to the apex of innovative event creation in the Pacific Northwest including the genesis of Teatro Zinzanni. We ponder over the seesaw of managing eclectic and seasonal extravaganzas, the art of balancing teamwork with assertiveness, and how encountering imposter syndrome is less about overcoming and more about embracing our shared vulnerabilities.As the curtains draw to a close on this behind-the-scenes tour, we celebrate the influential ripples that Jane's work has cast across the landscape, illustrating how the embrace of diversity and culture enriches us all. Jane and Jon laugh over the unexpected turns that event planning can take and concluded with a toast to the quirky, nostalgic personal tastes that hallmark life's adventures, with a nod to the polarizing nature of licorice ice cream. Join us as we reminisce, reflect, and revel in the quirky chapters of collective history while revealing timeless insights and advice for generations to come.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

This week we visit with the illustrious John McEuen, whose fingers have danced across banjo strings to the rhythm of a music revolution. Reflecting on his journey, John transports us from his first brush with Hank Williams' "Jambalaya" to the halls of fame with the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Our hearts beat to the strumming of nostalgia as we explore the band's early days, their rise through the ranks of bluegrass, folk and country, and the magical intersection of music and childhood memories.A sprinkle of Disney dust transforms our conversation, taking us from the acoustic corners of Orange County to the poignant notes played at the funeral of Mickey Mouse's voice actor, Wayne Allwine. Music's role in the tapestry of our lives is revealed in heartfelt stories, the hustle of a musician's path, and the whimsical moments that connect us to the greater narrative of Americana. Through John's multifaceted career, we uncover his habit of wearing many hats, from road managing to promoting music festivals like the Deadwood Jam.Put on your headphones and settle in for a discussion that harmonizes the echo of a life in music with sage advice for those just beginning their journey. John and Jon share a laugh over the quirks of the industry, shared passions, and the simple joy of a well-tied knot trick. Join us for an episode that's not just an interview but a concert, filled with the melodies of life, laughter, and the unexpected chords that make every tune worth listening to.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Join us for a fireworks extravaganza of conversation with Rick Olsen, owner of Pyro and Fire FX in Gig Harbor, Washington. Discover his transformative journey from firefighter to pyrotechnician, as Rick recounts the heights he's scaled, both literal—in the form of the towering King Dome—and metaphorical, in the impacts his work has had on audiences across the globe. From sporting events to the unforgettable Times Square New Year's Eve ball drop, Rick shares the sheer joy and technical mastery behind each dazzling display. Venture into the meticulous trade of professional pyrotechnics where regulations, licenses, and written testing are just the beginning. Rick lays bare the complexities of this explosive industry, contrasting the rigorous standards of Washington State with the varying requirements of other states. As the conversation sparks with anecdotes from theatrical productions to the daredevilry of Robbie Knievel, we also delve into the tech horizon—where drones are the newest players in the sky's ballet. Rick's narrative is a testament to the perennial need for expertise and the gravitas of maintaining and advancing professionalism in this booming field.Lastly, under the shimmer of 'jellyfish' and chrysanthemum fireworks, we address the burning issue of safety in public events, emphasizing the indispensable role of fire department training. The haunting memory of the Rhode Island concert tragedy serves as a stern reminder of what's at stake. We examine the benefits of Rick's ground-breaking training programs for local fire officials.  As the episode wraps, Rick reflects on the sheer scale of the Times Square ball drop and the dedicated professionals who orchestrate such breathtaking moments. Today's conversation is guaranteed to light up the skies and warm the heart with every sparkling burst.Pyro and Fire FXFollow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Ever found yourself in a room with someone whose very presence changes the air, sparking a light bulb moment that shifts your career trajectory? That's the magic Mardig Sheridan brought to Jon's world, and in our latest episode, we navigate his winding path from small strategic envisioning workshops to the boardrooms of tech giants. Mardig, with his treasure trove of strategy consulting expertise, unravels the intricacies of guiding companies through the thorny thicket of change and innovation.Strap in for a ride from strumming guitar strings to crafting ad campaigns as Mardig recounts his transformation from rising star rock musician to advertising maven and strategic savant. The journey reveals the birth of a strategic visioning methodology that reshapes how decisions are made within an organization, proving that the most profound solutions often lie within. There's something to learn about the courage to question the status quo, the boldness to challenge, and the discovery that every industry, including the competitive world of venture capital, is ripe for innovation.As we round out this melody of strategy and storytelling, we reflect on the rhythm of commitment in achieving personal and professional peaks. The real life example of Truepanion's trailblazing strategy in pet insurance, alongside Maveron's distinct venture capital approach, provide a backdrop to a broader contemplation on positioning oneself in the marketplace in ever changing times. So, prepare for a symphonic blend of laughter, strategic revelations, and the occasional nod to the nostalgia of a beloved Fender guitar.As discussed in this episode here is a link to The Bard's Moses Lake Recordings.This episode was recorded at the Totem Star studios at King Street Station in Seattle. Totem Star provides access to a diverse community of young recording artists learning music and life skills through mentorship and meaningful relationshipsFollow Totem StarWebsite: www.totemstar.orgInstagram: www.instagram.com/totemstarFacebook: www.facebook.com/totemstarFollow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

This week we meet a young artist at the beginning of his career. When Seattle's own Kiddus Fecto traded his basketball aspirations for the pulsing heart of music, a star was born in the lush soundscapes of the Pacific Northwest. This episode sings a tale of transformation, as Kiddus shares his melodious journey from the echo of church choirs to his first steps onto festival stages. We unravel the fabric of his musical background, underscoring the lucky strike of having found access to an array of production tools and the critical and sometimes unexpected role arts play in shaping our lives. The symphony of creativity doesn't end there. We dissect the essence of Kiddus's standout tracks, where Spanish melodies meet the haunting echoes of choirs and operatic vocals, creating a genre-defying auditory experience. As Kiddus opens up about the alchemy of collaboration, we reflect on the surprising growth and skills unearthed when musicians collaborate. It's evident that music is more than a solo act; it's an ensemble of shared expertise and the unexpected joys of artistic interplay.Our finale crescendos with Kiddus's dreams of global connections and the bittersweet nostalgia of a world less digital, less immediate. Venturing through the trials of live performances to the ebb and flow of musical trends, we celebrate the inspirations fueling the creative forge and the invaluable support of mentorship from communities like Totem Star. And for a dash of humor, Kiddus's audacious off-the-cuff claim as the "baddest Rockstar living" is the cherry on top of our sonic sundae, reminding us that confidence can be as catchy as a chart-topping hook.Check out Kiddus Fecto on SoundCloud.Jon's favorite tracks mentioned in this episode:Nonexistent1/2 Man 1/2 AmazingMarried To The GameThis episode was recorded at the Totem Star studios at King Street Station in Seattle. Totem Star provides access to a diverse community of young recording artists learning music and life skills through mentorship and meaningful relationshipsFollow Totem StarWebsite: www.totemstar.org Instagram: www.instagram.com/totemstarFacebook: www.facebook.com/totemstarFollow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

One Hour To Doors host Jon Stone reviews the inaugural season of this podcast. From fostering understanding of human gatherings and the event industry's role in ensuring safety, to sharing his recent experiments with field recording that transformed into this podcast during a global hiatus, it's been an incredible ride. We have been truly humbled by the time and wisdom shared by our cherished guests and you, our loyal listeners, who've contributed to making our discussions engaging and insightful.As we celebrate the successes from our first season, it's important to acknowledge the dedicated team of volunteers that made it all possible. Their tireless efforts and the memorable moments we've created together form the backbone of our success. Reflecting on lessons we've learned – particularly the significance of transparency in our work – sets the stage for more riveting content in the pipeline. The horizon of the next season looks exciting, with topics like sponsorship, marketing, and production trades in the queue. We invite you to be a part of this ongoing dialogue and share your thoughts for future episodes on our social media. Together, let's gear up for the next leg of the journey in season two.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Our guest, Beth Knox, renowned PNW event producer and President and CEO of the Seattle Sports Commission, unveils her fascinating story of venturing into the world of event production, embracing her fears, and discovering her own voice through mentorship and leadership roles. She gives us an inside look at her career trajectory that was profoundly shaped during her time at SeaFair and One Reel in the 1990's. This episode is not just a journey through her exhausting yet rewarding career, but a deep dive into the transformative power of a dynamic team and the significance of powerful female role models in her life.Fast forward to Beth's life now, where she exemplifies the role of a successful CEO, reflecting on the invaluable lessons from her upbringing on a Michigan farm. What does it mean to be a leader? How does one find balance in the whirlwind of responsibilities? Beth gets candid about the loneliness that often accompanies leadership. She shares her struggles with self-care and the way she finds restoration in quiet moments and meaningful connections with her peers. Her journey is an eye-opener to the importance and complexity of mentorship in a leader's life.In the face of adversity, Beth reveals how failure and traumatic moments serve as catalysts for growth. She discusses the evolving landscape of live events and the challenges these changes bring. As we reflect on the pandemic's impact, we also see the silver linings - the opportunities for event producers to reestablish relationships and craft their narratives. Walk along with us on this enlightening journey with Beth Knox.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Get ready for fun as we take you on a remarkable journey with George Sharp, a pioneering figure in the PNW festivals and events industry. From his beginnings as a gorilla balloon-gram performer, to becoming the first mascot of the National Lentil Festival, and on to become a leader in rural economic development through special events, George's story is as intriguing as it is inspiring. His passion for promoting tourism and commerce is a highlight of our conversation, and his account of working with Washington State Tourism and the State Department of Commerce is something you can't afford to miss.Discover what motivates George. His mission of transforming lives through community events will inspire you. This episode takes an in-depth look at how he used the "We Love Rainier" campaign to breathe new life into the Rainier community, and his honest discussion on the challenges and triumphs in managing community events in Thurston County, including battling the impact of COVID-19 on event attendance, is a testament to his dedication and resilience.This isn't just a conversation about events; it's a masterclass in leadership, community engagement, and economic development. Drawing from his experiences managing multitudes of events and other businesses, George underscores the importance of strong leadership. He also offers invaluable advice to event planners and shares his personal formula for the success for communities and organizations. Don't miss out on this insightful, entertaining, and heartwarming episode.Extra: Just days before the release of this podcast, a local paper published an article on George revealing important contextual information that George chose to not discuss at the time we were recoding this podcast episode. Please read.https://www.chronline.com/stories/longtime-thurston-county-tourism-promoter-george-sharp-keeps-working-through-kidney-failure,330030George Sharp photo credit Shanna Paxton Photography.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Ever wondered how a small community event can transform into a buzzing festival with 34,000 annual visitors? Well, your curiosity ends here. Join us as we journey into the heart of Washington's festival culture with Peggy Doering, the Executive Director of Spokane Valley's renowned Valley Fest. Her insights into the evolution of this fascinating event from its humble inception at a county park to the citywide phenomenon it is today, encapsulate the growth of Spokane Valley both in terms of its population and the dynamism of its diverse community.Moving on from the growth of Valley Fest, we dive into the world of event coordination, exploring the trials and triumphs that come with it. We focus on the tireless work of volunteers, often the unsung heroes behind the seamless execution of such large scale events. We also share a deeply inspiring personal journey of the chairman of Valley Fest who, starting with no experience in event planning, was recently nominated for induction into the Washington Festival and Event Association Hall of Fame. Alongside, we acknowledge the role of community festivals and how they can evolve learning from larger events, underscoring the contributions of the Washington Festival Event Association.Rounding off our discussion, we talk about Valley Fest's transition into a freestanding non-profit, emphasizing the importance of embracing change and innovation in the realm of event planning. Striking the delicate balance between securing funds, managing population growth, and keeping the community engaged is a challenge we dissect in this part of our conversation. The story of Valley Fest, its unique charm, and its impact on the Spokane Valley community unfolds through our engaging chat with Peggy. So tune in to unravel the magic that makes Valley Fest a special gem in the festival circuit.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Did you know Wintergrass, a music festival committed to fostering young talent and offering unforgettable experiences, has an intriguing history and uniquely vibrant culture? Dive into this discussion with Wendy Tyner, the former director of Philanthropy and Publicity at Wintergrass and current Treasurer of the International Bluegrass Music Association Foundation, as she passionately shares with us the compelling aspects of this festival. From vibrant jamming sessions to a defining sense of community, Wendy helps us understand why Wintergrass has become a beacon of unity through music and the rare PNW festival that perpetually attracts bluegrass and Americana luminaries such as Jerry Douglas, Tim O'Brien, Billy Strings, Molly Tuttle and more.Find out how the festival’s relocation from Tacoma to Bellevue has helped to reshape its new home city's arts and culture identity. Learn how Wintergrass remained financially solid in the wake of a global pandemic, and dive into the different revenue streams that keep the festival thriving, from ticket sales to sponsorships, and explore the significant role of charitable giving in these challenging times. Plus, get a sneak peek into the planning of a new music camp for children and why educational opportunities in music are so vital. Tune in as we celebrate the uplifting power of arts, the joy of music, and the unity it cultivates, particularly in times of adversity.Wintergrass takes place annually at the Hyatt Regency in Bellevue, WA.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

When the world fell quiet during the pandemic, Annie DiMartino, Deputy Director of Performing Arts Center Eastside, found a way to bring back the music. With a background in the nonprofit sector and a passion for performing arts, Annie conceptualized and created the Arts Without Barriers program to offer a lifeline to out-of-work musicians and bring vibrancy back to her community responsibly after over a year of lockdown. Discover how she and her team turned public spaces into the stages for musicians to showcase their talent and restore simple humanity amid challenging times.Launching Arts Without Barriers was no easy task. Against the backdrop of the pandemic, in just five weeks of intense planning Annie and her team breathed life back into public spaces, initially intended for a 90-day run. Hear the heartwarming story of how local musicians intersected with people in common areas, leading to an extension of the program across the calendar and multiple years.In the latter part of our conversation, we delve into the evolving social trends in the event industry. We discuss the surge in no-shows and digital burnout due to the pandemic and how it has impacted event attendance. Despite these challenges and more, Annie's Arts Without Barriers program has successfully broken down access, transportation, and childcare barriers to live performance. Arts Without Barriers has been made possible in part through visionary support of 4 Culture, OneRedmond, and Redmond Town Center.The brilliant graphic designer behind the award winning AWB visual assets is Claire Zoghb.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Country Dave Harmonson is woven into the fabric of the Pacific Northwest music scene. A true guitar man, for six decades now Dave has made his living with six strings, a microphone, and a passion for storytelling. He is rooted in traditional country music and clearly draws on inspiration from blues, folk, jazz and pop. Within the industry Dave is universally respected as a first-call musician readily adaptable to any need or situation.From his humble beginnings as a child singing in church in the Texas panhandle, to his formative years at Tacoma's legendary Court C Coffeehouse learning from players like Dudley Hill and Mark O'Connor, to his years on the road across the nation, Country Dave's musical odyssey is as eclectic as it is entertaining. This isn't just a nostalgic detour down memory lane; it's a celebration of the journey that shapes us as artists and the influences that leave an indelible mark.Dave sheds light on the delicate balance of being an artist and an entertainer. He emphasizes the adaptability required to cater to diverse audiences - from coffee houses to festivals, and even shares a few hilarious anecdotes that we all can appreciate.  But amidst the humor he also addresses the elephant in the room - the struggles and challenges faced by musicians. This episode is loaded with industry wisdom for newbies and veterans alike.The songs in this episode are Country Dave originals recorded live October 10th 2023 at a gig in Bellevue Washington. Dave is accompanied by his sons Jesse Harmonson on drums and Aaron Harmonson on upright bass. The first track is titled Hole In My Heart. The second song is titled Dance Away The Blues.  Both songs are from Dave’s forthcoming album. Check his Facebook page for updates on the album’s status.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

This episode is Part 2 of 2 of Jon sitting down with his present day mentor, sounding board and dear friend Toni Aspin. These sessions were recorded at Toni’s office in historic and arts-centric Port Townsend, WA.Toni's career story to date is as remarkable as it is eclectic. She has been the executive director at Centrum Arts in Port Townsend, the managing director at Richard Hugo House Literary Arts Center, and the CFO at the Seattle Symphony Orchestra. She was a founding director at not one but two commercial banks in Washington State, and our paths crossed when she was brought in as the executive director at One Reel during a time of unprecedented transformation within the organization.Toni recently earned a PhD in transformative studies. She is a CPA. She has earned an MBA from the University of Washington, and graduated with honors from the Pacific Coast Banking School. Presently she teaches at the University of Washington - Tacoma, and has a consulting practice providing guidance to enterprise leaders with an emphasis on start-up planning, strategic growth advancement, organizational capacity building, governance counsel and executive coaching.This episode covers a lot of ground. Themes include how boards can both help and hinder leadership, mindfulness in the workplace, financial storytelling, the difficulty of achieving change, and so much more.  A strong thread of the teachings of sociologist Jack Mezirow and his concept of transformative learning ties the conversation together and presents rich food for thought for everyone in any industry.Toni's thinking and insights have the potential to trigger transformational changes in your thinking, in your career, and your life. Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Jon sits down with his present day mentor, sounding board and dear friend Toni Aspin.Toni's career story to date is as remarkable as it is eclectic. She has been the executive director at Centrum Arts in Port Townsend, the managing director at Richard Hugo House Literary Arts Center, and the CFO at the Seattle Symphony Orchestra. She was a founding director at not one but two commercial banks in Washington State, and our paths crossed when she was brought in as the executive director at One Reel during a time of unprecedented transformation within the organization.Toni recently earned a PhD in transformative studies. She is a CPA. She has earned an MBA from the University of Washington, and graduated with honors from the Pacific Coast Banking School. Presently she teaches at the University of Washington - Tacoma, and has a consulting practice providing guidance to enterprise leaders with an emphasis on start-up planning, strategic growth advancement, organizational capacity building, governance counsel and executive coaching. This episode covers a lot of ground. Themes include leadership and mentorship, self-awareness, and the paths we follow through our life and career. Through it all runs a strong contextual thread of finance and non-profit governance, as well as Toni and Jon's shared belief in the Servant Leadership philosophy of Robert Greenleaf.Toni's thinking and insights have the potential to trigger transformational changes in your thinking, in your career, and your life. This episode is part one of two.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Frank Sebastian is president of Emergency Management Group - Washington, a non-profit organization providing services to the festivals and events industry. EMG is comprised largely of current and former FEMA and first responder agencies, bringing a wealth of experience and insights to events large and small. All of its officers and members are non-paid volunteers.EMG has provided services to events such as SeaFair, Special Olympics USA Games, and the Seattle Seahawks Championship Parade in 2014. In this episode we discuss some of EMP's recent event work, and we dive into the politics of interagency coordination. Frank also shares his thoughts on career paths in the emergency management field as well as some invaluable tips on behavioral health for professional responders.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Checking in with the Executive Director of Spokane Hoopfest, Riley Stockton. Spokane Hoopfest is the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the world, held in Spokane, Washington annually in June. We caught up with Riley at the fabulous Historic Davenport Hotel.Riley has a unique perspective on his event, having played in the tournament since he was a child. We talk about the genesis of the event, its impact on the greater Spokane community, and his reflections after nearly two years in the captains chair. Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

Today we are catching up with Jon's old friend and former Bumbershoot colleague, Chris Weber. Chris is one of the most esteemed festivals arts programmers in the PNW and he has been performing his multidisciplinary arts magic for communities large and small for over two decades. Today we will talk  about his background and inevitably we will reminisce about some of his greatest arts hits.Chris was a founding member of Rock Lottery, and he brought fantastic large scale spectacle and innovative arts programs to the Bumbershoot festival including Circus Una Motorcycle Thrill Show,  Vegan Black Metal Chef, Cyclecide and more. We also talk about some of his contemporary projects and recent inspirations such as the Redmond Derby Days Drone Show and the Timber! Music Festival.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice

This week we speak with Robin Kelley, recorded live at the Issaquah salmon hatchery. Robin retired this year after 22 years as Executive Director of the Issaquah Salmon Days festival. Issaquah Salmon Days is among the longest running and most beloved arts festivals in Washington State. Robin reflects on her time with the festival and what it takes to achieve extraordinary community buy-in for an event.Follow OHTD on Facebook!Follow OHTD on IG!Jon Stone's consulting practice