The People We Meet with Ty Bruner

It’s October 1962. A Soviet submarine is baking beneath the Caribbean, cut off from the world while American ships above drop depth charges—not to destroy it, but to force it to the surface. Problem is… nobody on board knows that. Inside, the air is thick, the temperature is climbing, and the men are running out of time—and patience. Two officers are convinced the war has already started. And they’re ready to fire a nuclear torpedo. One man isn’t. His name was Vasily Arkhipov. And this is the story of the moment when one man’s refusal to panic may have kept the world from nuclear annihilation. 

When Scott Rasmussen — a husband, father of eight and former U.S. diplomat — is struck in a Paris park, a single shocking moment becomes the first page of a much larger story. That slap sparks a curiosity that sends him from the tightly controlled streets of Asmara to the anxious borders of Poland and into the volatile neighborhoods of Jerusalem, asking a simple question: how do we learn to see each other as human? Through vivid scenes of forced national service in Eritrea, the living memory of war in Poland, and fragile peacebuilding work in Israel and Palestine, Scott shares the small, stubborn practices that actually connect people: conversations, shared projects, and the messy work of cooperation.  Back in the U.S., he turns that hard-earned perspective inward, tracing how contempt and division creep into families and communities and how pluralism — respect, relationship, cooperation — can be a practical antidote. This episode invites listeners to sit down, listen, and rethink what it takes to rebuild trust in a polarized world.

In this episode, host Ty Bruner sits down with Maeve Griffith — U.S. Air Force veteran and retired fire captain — to talk about a life lived on the edge of discipline, danger, and identity. From a turbulent childhood to flying in bombers and battling structure fires, Maeve built a career defined by courage — while quietly carrying a truth she wasn’t ready to face. This conversation traces her journey of coming out in uniform, the weight of secrecy, and the hard-won support that followed. It’s a story about risk, identity, and what happens when one person finally stops hiding — and gives others permission to do the same.

When a tiny blip on a podcast map points the host back to Hong Kong, a memory of a legend comes rushing in. In this episode, Ty Bruner traces Bruce Lee’s journey from a restless childhood in Hong Kong to philosophy classes in Seattle, and eventually to the film sets that turned him into a global icon. We move from backyard nunchuck rituals and the electric shock of a Long Beach demonstration to the painful compromises of Hollywood and the explosive triumph of Hong Kong cinema. Along the way we discover the thinker behind the fists — a man who refused to be boxed in and challenged the world to be water. Warm, personal, and reflective, this episode becomes something more than a biography. It’s a bridge between eras and cultures — and a reminder that sometimes the people who feel they belong nowhere are the ones who end up connecting everywhere.

At 5 a.m., with a rope and a handful of buoys marking a makeshift lane at Benny's Inn, Emma Schanz began a quest that would carry her from a tiny Washington town to the U.S. National Team and UCLA’s record books. This episode follows her raw, relentless grind — the doubles, the tire flips, the sacrifices, and the pinch‑me moments training alongside her childhood heroes. But it’s more than medals: it’s about identity, resilience, and learning to show up for yourself. Listen as Emma talks about the cost of chasing a dream, the lessons that shaped her life after swimming, and why perseverance can outmatch privilege. A compact, inspiring story about small‑town grit and the big choices that define us.

Ty Bruner invites listeners on a nostalgic, unvarnished journey through Generation X — from sunlit Saturday mornings on big wheels and mixtapes that shaped young hearts, sunrises at sea, cinematic lessons in grit, and the dizzying shift from rotary phones to smartphones. With a storyteller’s eye, he threads humor, loss, and hard-earned wisdom into a narrative about loneliness turned connection, cinematic heroes that taught resilience, and the quiet stewardship Gen X now holds between older and younger worlds. This episode is a personal, reflective ride: intimate scenes, sharp images, and a steadying call to remember the bigger picture while showing up for the people and planet that matter.

On this fascinating episode, former A-10 pilot Dale Storer pulls listeners into a razor-sharp narrative that moves from Air Force bases and childhood memories to the thunder of Desert Storm. A routine mission turns into chaos—an unseen impact, a low-altitude ejection, and an immediate, brutal descent into captivity—each moment told with the quiet clarity of a man who lived it. Ty Bruner’s interview unfolds like a tight film scene: the heat of Saudi Arabia, the scramble to targets, the clatter of interrogations, and the small, human details that anchor the story—a shared date, a whispered name, a reporter in a neighboring cell. Tension builds and loosens, and the episode balances action with reflection. Short, vivid, and deeply humane, this episode is about survival and resilience. It’s a front-row seat to courage under fire, the complicated aftermath of war, and the slow, hopeful road back home.

From the rail yards of Spokane to the cold English countryside, this episode follows Charles "Chuck" Gumm Jr., a Rogers High kid turned P-51 pilot, whose ordinary upbringing met an extraordinary moment in midair. Against the roar of engines and the pressure of war, one failing Merlin engine forced a decision that would ripple across an ocean. This episode shares a moment in history that never made the books, but it made a difference.

Host Ty Bruner sits down with immigration attorney Sam Smith to cut through the noise — history, policy and rhetoric collide as they reveal the human stories hidden behind headline numbers. From DACA recipients trapped in a “golden cage,” to asylum seekers facing impossible legal hurdles, this episode walks listeners through the real process, the cruel bottlenecks, and the decisions that tear families apart. Sam translates law into living people: unlawful presence bars, visa backlogs, and third-country removals become stakes in a high-tension narrative about who we are as a nation. You’ll hear the voices of those who must choose between safety and separation, and the chilling reality of detention and displacement. Sharp, urgent, and hopeful, this episode doesn’t just explain what’s broken — it asks what we can do next. Tune in for a clear-eyed, human-first look at immigration that asks you to rethink fear, policy, and the future we want to build.

This episode of The People We Meet takes a calm, story-driven walk through America’s past — from Ellis Island and the words etched at the base of the Statue of Liberty to the people who arrived carrying hope, fear, and very little else. Along the way, we revisit moments many of us half-remember from school — the Irish, Chinese, Italians, Jews, Mexicans, Japanese Americans — not as villains or footnotes, but as neighbors who helped build the country we live in now. Told with humor, empathy, and a firefighter’s eye for proportion, this is a reflection on who we’ve been, how we’ve grown, and why understanding our history matters when things get loud and complicated again. It’s not a lecture. It’s not a rant. It’s a reminder that America’s story has always been bigger — and better — than its fears.

Settle into the warm hum of the No Lie Brewhouse in Spokane as host Ty Bruner and owner John Bryant trace a line from Dust Bowl survival to a thriving riverfront brewery. Through vivid family stories—grandparents who wrote to Eleanor Roosevelt, mornings with a chainsaw, and Grange Hall gatherings—this episode unfolds how grit and old‑school generosity shaped a man and his mission. We follow John’s bootstrapped climb through the brewing world, the nights he couldn’t sleep over unpaid bills, and the moments he chose community over profit. Along the way you’ll meet the characters, stakes, and small rituals that turned a pub into a purpose-driven hub—where every pint carries a piece of legacy. By the end, you’ll understand why No Lie is more than beer: it’s a promise to a city, a family, and the idea that generosity and uncompromising standards can change a place. Tune in for a candid, heartfelt story about leadership, sacrifice, and the taste of home.

When Ty Bruner sits down with Ehea Schuerch, a corrections officer by day and elite tactical athlete by night, a story of grit, faith, and hard-won grace unfolds. From a childhood in Spokane shaped by creativity and scarcity to the brutal discipline of the Tactical Games and a decade inside the jail, E. reveals how training became a lifeline — pushing her body, sharpening her mind, and teaching her what really matters. Along the way she confronts the cost of ambition, the power of community, and the quiet reclaiming of faith after pain. Candid, fierce, and surprisingly tender, E.’s journey is about more than medals: it’s about resilience, belonging, and the risky work of choosing to be seen.

When Ty Brunner notices the same familiar figure in the gym before dawn, curiosity turns into conversation. Meet Rob Hoff — a former military kid, a Comcast sales manager, and a gym regular whose day begins long before sunrise. Through anecdotes about his fighter-pilot father, a life shaped by routine, and the wake-up call of a diabetes diagnosis, Rob reveals how small, stubborn habits became the backbone of a life well-lived. This episode traces Rob’s path from Yokosuka to Spokane, from late-blooming athlete to the man who won’t skip a morning. It’s a story of resilience: learning to manage health with grit and consistency, reflecting on leadership learned at the kitchen table and the base, and the friendships and rituals that anchor him. Along the way Ty and Rob trade hard-earned lessons about willpower, legacy, and the quiet power of showing up. Listen as two ordinary men unpack the extraordinary: how an early alarm, a rowing machine, and honest self-reflection can reshape a day — and maybe a life. By episode’s end you’ll hear not just advice, but a lived example of how discipline, humility, and kindness create the people we meet.

Angela Fletcher's life unfolds like a weathered map of danger, risk and resilience. From a turbulent childhood and the crushing spiral of addiction, to high-powered corporate success and the dizzying burnout that followed, Angela’s story is an unflinching look at what it takes to walk away and start again. In this episode, she traces the moment-by-moment choices that led her from streets and hotels to backpacks and homesteads—ultimately finding purpose in the healing dirt of her gardens. Listen as Angela describes near-ruin and redemption: the overdose that became a turning point, a groundbreaking role in a marketing company that fed both pride and emptiness, and a bold decision to sell everything and live with less. Through vivid details—dumpsters and clicker data, mountain trails and hummingbirds—her narrative reveals how survival, curiosity and quiet spiritual awakenings can replant a life. By episode’s end, you’ll feel the pull of her gardens: small ecosystems that teach patience, nourishment, and how to build a life worth living without the weight of “stuff.”

Born into the FLDS and married as teenagers, Ange and Cade’s story reads like a slow-burning escape: ritualized control, a prophet’s death, and a community split that left them adrift. When rebellion and heartbreak push them apart, two restless youths choose very different paths—one into the unbridled thrill of apostasy, the other into a furious search for meaning. Together they unlearn a lifetime of rules, rebuild their lives, and begin to parent and love on their own terms. This episode traces the ache and the light: the trauma of coercion, the tenderness of small mercies, and the fierce work of healing. It’s an intimate, hopeful portrait of two people who refused to let a closed world define their future—and who now tell their story to help others find the courage to leave.

Ty Bruner invites you back for season two with a personal, surprising story — from backyard tape-recorded childhood adventures to the awkward, humbling lessons of hosting real conversations. He discovers that the ordinary moments and offhand remarks often reveal the most honest, human truths. This episode is an experiment in leaning in: asking one more question, listening past the noise, and chasing common ground in a world built for outrage. Expect candid reflection, small revelations, and a reminder that connection takes curiosity and courage. Join Ty as he reclaims the simple joy of sitting with someone and hearing what comes out — messy, sincere, and unexpectedly connective. Lean in with him and see what you might find.

In this special episode of The People We Meet, host Ty Bruner interviews his long-time friend Tony Sequina, embarking on a journey through the decades of their shared experiences. An unexpected deep conversation with his daughter sets the stage for this heartfelt narrative, as Ty reflects on how simple format changes can unveil new insights. With his new equipment ready, Ty is determined to uncover untold stories from Tony's life, forged during their years together in the fire department. As they delve into Tony's life journey, from his roots in Montana to his steadfast career in the Spokane Fire Department, poignant stories of challenges faced as a "brown kid in a predominantly white environment" emerge. Tony's tale of falling into firefighting, overcoming difficult beginnings, and nurturing a lifelong friendship with Ty offers listeners a compelling narrative filled with humor, grit, and heartfelt moments. This episode, encapsulating the essence of friendship and growth, invites you into an enlightening conversation forged by years of camaraderie, resilience, and overcoming adversity. Cheers to a story of friendship that transcends life’s fires and triumphs over its trials.

Join Ty Bruner in an inspiring conversation with Ricky "The Pitbull" Welliver, a boxing legend known for his dedication to the sport and his community. Born into a lineage of fighters, Ricky shares his journey from the gritty neighborhoods of Spokane to becoming a revered mentor in the boxing world. Throughout the episode, Ricky recounts the pivotal moments that shaped his passion for boxing, embracing the challenges and triumphs along the way. Discover how his local gym has become a sanctuary for those seeking strength, resilience, and a fresh start, transcending the boundaries of socioeconomic status. Immerse yourself in the world of boxing as Ricky reveals the profound impact that the sport has had on countless individuals – from nurturing young talents to guiding those battling personal demons. With a deep sense of community, honesty, and heartfelt dedication, Ricky Welliver has turned his love for the sport into a transformative journey for all who step into his gym. This was a great episode and I appreciate Rick for his time and honesty.  If you would like more information, please contact me at: [email protected] or visit: thepeoplewemeetpodcast.com    

In this captivating episode of "The People We Meet," host Ty Bruner introduces us to Gleason Garske, a remarkable 10-year-old bowling prodigy with an extraordinary story to tell. As the first episode of "The Voices of the Kids" series, this narrative delves into the life of Gleason, a fourth-grader with a zest for life, who effortlessly balances school, sports, and personal projects. Join Ty and Gleason as they explore the young bowler's journey that began at a tender age, nurtured by family and surrounded by mentors. Gleason shares his experiences, from practicing with his great-grandmother to winning national tournaments and racking up scholarships in his Smart Account. His passion for bowling led him to start a foundation, EKB, that gives kids their first bowling equipment, aiming to inspire and uplift other young bowlers facing similar challenges. This episode is not just about strikes and spare balls; it’s about the spirit of giving back, overcoming challenges like ADD, and Gleason's dreams of integrating sports with community service. Dive into this heartfelt conversation to discover why Gleason truly embodies the spirit of a modern champion, on and off the lane. Check out Gleason's foundation: Every Kid Bowls (EKB) on Facebook. Contact me at: [email protected]

In this captivating episode of "The People We Meet," host Ty Bruner sits down with Dr. Jake Deakins, a physician who dared to step away from corporate medicine to pursue a more patient-focused approach. From the EMT trenches to establishing a thriving wellness clinic, Dr. Deakins shares his journey through the complex landscape of healthcare, highlighting the transformative power of patient empowerment. Join us as we delve into the systemic challenges of modern healthcare, exploring the pivotal moments in U.S. history that shifted control from patients to corporate entities. Dr. Deakins sheds light on the broken system he encountered and his bold steps to reclaim his practice by focusing on metabolic and hormonal health, lifestyle medicine, and reversing chronic illnesses. Through personal anecdotes and insights, this episode uncovers the profound impact of putting patients back in control of their healthcare decisions. Discover how Dr. Deakins and his team are leading a quiet revolution in healthcare, fostering innovation and hope in a field that desperately needs change. In a world overwhelmed by bureaucracy and inefficiencies, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on what healthcare can and should be. Understanding is half the battle toward effecting change, so if you care about your healthcare and want to know how in the hell we got to the mess we're in.... this episode is for you.

Join host Ty Bruner as he sits down with Eddie Williams, a professional bowler from Spokane, Washington. In this episode of "The People We Meet," Eddie shares his fascinating journey from a young boy in Brooklyn to becoming a bowling pro in Southern California. Discover how his family's love for the sport shaped his passion and led to a lifetime dedicated to mastering the lanes. Witness the highs and lows Eddie faced on his path to success, including making bold career moves, embracing the challenges of professional bowling, and navigating through personal trials that tested his resilience. Through candid storytelling, Eddie reveals how he managed to balance his love for the game with the demands of life, business, and family. This episode offers an intimate look into the life of a man who turned his passion into a profession while keeping his integrity and joy intact. On a personal note, I've bowled my whole life, but I had no real idea about what it took to hit the professional level and make a living at it.  I appreciate Eddie's candor and personability.  This was a fun episode, and I hope you enjoy it.

In this episode of "The People We Meet," host Ty Bruner sits down with TJ Gaia, a man whose life story unfolds like a tapestry woven with threads of resilience, courage, and introspection. Born in Las Vegas and transplanted to the quieter town of Moscow, Idaho, TJ shares his early life struggles, the absence of a father, and a mother's tireless efforts to keep their lives stitched together. TJ takes us deep into his experiences as he navigates the tumultuous seas of war, describing the haunting echoes of his first deployment to Iraq. The narrative of survival, marked by the tragic loss of brothers-in-arms and the weight of command responsibility, paints a vivid picture of the soldier's dual battle—against external enemies and internal demons. Yet, amid the horrors of combat, TJ's journey is also one of hope and redemption. The episode unfolds his transformative relationship with faith, which began to take shape after meeting a pastor whose words resonated with the trauma-hardened soldier. This spiritual awakening becomes a balm for his invisible wounds, guiding him towards healing and peace. "The People We Meet" offers more than just a tale of one man's struggle; it is an invitation to witness the power of faith and community in overcoming life's most daunting challenges. Join us for an episode that challenges perceptions, stirs the heart, and shines a light on the path from trauma to triumph.   Learn more at www.thepeoplewemeetpodcast.com

Welcome to 'The People We Meet,' where host Ty Bruner dives into extraordinary stories of resilience and courage. In this episode, Ty sits down with his friend and colleague, Chris Muñoz, in Medical Lake, Washington, to explore the profound impact of working in the fire service and the implications of PTSD. Join the conversation as Chris shares his personal journey from growing up in Western Washington, pursuing a career in the fire service, and navigating the mental challenges that come with it. With raw honesty, Chris reveals his struggles with PTSD, the pivotal moments that shifted his perspective, and how sharing his story is not only a path to healing but also a beacon of hope for others in similar circumstances. As the dialogue unfolds, listeners will gain insight into the profound bond shared among those in the fire service and the powerful ways storytelling can create a sense of community and understanding. Discover Chris's transformative journey as he channels his experiences into coaching and mentoring, helping to shape a new generation while healing from his own scars. Learn more about The People We Meet Podcast and Ty Bruner at www.thepeoplewemeetpodcast.com

Join Ty as he dives into a captivating conversation with his charismatic friend, Daddy D, in this riveting episode of 'The People We Meet.' D's extraordinary journey, which spans adventures in 87 countries, tales from Desert Storm as a U.S. Marine, and the battles he's faced both abroad and at home. From a rebellious high schooler to the battlefield, to prison, and finally to answer the humanitarian call, D's story is a testament to resilience and redemption. Discover the heart of a traveler who has lived the highs and hit rock bottom. D's journey is one of justice and compassion, filled with rich experiences and profound insights. This episode promises a compelling narrative that will leave you questioning boundaries and embracing the spirit of adventure. Learn more about the People We Meet Podcast and Ty Bruner at www.thepeoplewemeetpodcast.com

Join Ty Bruner as he delves into the compelling life of Elfreida Bruce, a now 95-year-old woman who grew up in Freiburg, Germany, during World War II under the shadow of the Third Reich. As an impressionable 10-year-old, Elfriede looked upon Hitler as a savior and hero while her parents remained adamantly opposed to his quest for global conquest.  As a former member of the Hitler Youth, Elfreida's story offers a unique window into the tumultuous era, shaped by war, ideological indoctrination, and a family in conflict. In this episode, Elfreida shares her childhood experiences, revealing a personal journey of belief, a community caught in the crossfire, and the tension between loyalty and doubt. With family resistance to the regime and personal encounters that raise questions about identity and morality, her narrative illustrates the complexities of growing up in a time of conflict and propaganda. As Elfreida reflects on the past, listeners are invited to ponder the lifelong struggle of coming to terms with history and the impact of wartime memories on personal beliefs. This poignant episode explores the interplay of memory, identity, and the enduring desire for a world where kindness prevails over division. Listen in for a conversation that challenges perceptions, unearths uncomfortable truths, and leaves you with profound questions about the echoes of history in today's world. Learn more about The People We Meet Podcast and Ty Bruner at www.thepeoplewemeetpodcast.com

In this episode of 'The People We Meet,' host Ty Bruner sits down with Sam Smith, an accomplished immigration attorney from Spokane, Washington, to uncover the human stories behind the immigration headlines. Born into a family of attorneys, Smith's journey is interwoven with personal convictions and experiences shaped by his unique upbringing. Together, they delve into complex topics surrounding immigration in the U.S., demystifying the nuances of terminology like 'undocumented' versus 'illegal' and the multifaceted realities of life as an immigrant. Smith shares heartfelt anecdotes from his time on the front lines of immigration law, highlighting both the systemic challenges and moments of personal triumph that have marked his career. From his firsthand experiences at the southern border to establishing the Manzanita House in Spokane, Smith's narrative sheds light on the socio-political contexts and humanitarian efforts within the immigration sector. Listeners are invited to reflect on America's immigration system, exploring the role of policy, legal frameworks, and personal responsibility in shaping a nation of diverse identities. Join us for a candid conversation aimed at fostering deeper understanding and empathy in today's often polarized discourse on immigration.

"Sky Soldiers" is the nickname for the 173rd Airborne Brigade.  Mike Jones served in 1st Battalion, 50th Infantry (Mechanized) attached to the 173rd during Operation Cochise Green in May of 1968.  He was wounded on 25 May, 1968 near Trung Hoi, Vietnam.  I got a chance to chat with Mike and he shared his story.  

Bill Burke served three tours during the Vietnam conflict.  Two in the Special Forces and one as a helicopter Medevac pilot.  I met Bill in Costco and he shared his story with me.  His wife even joined us for awhile to share her experience as the wife of a career warrior.  We chatted about his experience and about his generation, my generation, and those in between.  

What does Home Depot have to do with starting a podcast? More than you’d think. In this debut episode, host Ty Bruner shares the unexpected moment that pushed him to launch this show—a podcast dedicated to telling real, unfiltered stories from everyday people. 📌 #RealStories 📌 #StorytellingPodcast 📌 #TrueStories 📌 #LifeStories 📌 #PersonalGrowth 📌 #LifeLessons 📌 #AuthenticStories 📌 #OrdinaryPeople 📌 #UnfilteredConversations 📌 #HumanExperience 📌 #PeopleMatter 📌 #EverydayHeroes 📌 #InspiringStories 📌 #DeepConversations