Snohomish Storytellers

Just like Snohomish spring weather, podcast plans don’t always go exactly as expected… and this month’s episode is the perfect example. While we originally had another guest lined up, we’re excited to bring you a delightful surprise instead — Trent DeVerter, owner of Red Trux and the very person who helps make this podcast happen behind the scenes.In this episode, Trent steps out from the producer’s chair and into the guest spotlight to share his journey from corporate America to small business ownership — with a meaningful detour through volunteer leadership and graduate studies in communication. If we had to describe Trent in one word, it would be advantageous — someone who sees opportunity, builds connections, and shows up in big ways for his community.You’ll also notice a surprise swap-out at the host mic… an up-and-coming podcaster in the making? We’ll let you be the judge. This episode may be arriving one week later than planned, but we promise — it was worth the wait. We hope you enjoy this unexpected and inspiring conversation. 

 Some people volunteer, some people serve, and then there are people like Terry Lippincott— a retired middle school teacher turned civic force of nature. Terry is one of Snohomish’s newest City Council members and a longtime champion of community life, having served 12 years on the Planning Commission. She’s also the president of Friends of the Library, a member of the Lions Club, the Carnegie Foundation, the Giving Circle of Women Taking Over the World—and that’s just what we managed to write down.But titles only tell part of the story. Terry is a community connector, someone who understands the power of relationships and uses her social capital to bring the right people into the right rooms at the right time. In our conversation, she shares what she’s learned about volunteer stewardship, leadership, and how strong communities are built—not by a single hero, but by people who know how to invite others in.If you’ve ever wondered how things actually get done in Snohomish, or what it takes to sustain volunteer-driven organizations, this episode is a masterclass.Basically… if something meaningful is happening in Snohomish, Terry probably had a hand in it. 

 In this episode, we sit down with Melody Clemans, one of the founding members of the Snohomish Carnegie Foundation and a steadfast steward of one of our town’s most beloved landmarks. Melody’s story is one of quiet determination and deep love—proof that some things are worth fighting for, even when the timeline stretches longer than anyone expects.After more than 20 years of dedication, Melody saw her vision realized as the Carnegie building once again became the heart of Snohomish—a place where core memories are made, the community gathers to celebrate, and legacy continues to live on.This conversation reminds us why the work we do matters—not just for ourselves, but for generations yet to come. Our actions, care, and persistence ripple outward in ways we may never fully see, shaping lives and stories far beyond our own. 

In this special FAQ episode of Snohomish Storytellers, we’re answering your most common questions about HDSA and downtown Snohomish. From events and advocacy to preservation, partnerships, and placemaking, we’re pulling back the curtain on how downtown works, why it matters, and how this community comes together to keep it thriving. Whether you’re a business owner, resident, volunteer, or just a curious Snohomie, this episode is your guide to the heart of downtown.

This month on Snohomish Storytellers, we sit down with Snohomish Mayor-Elect Aaron Hoffman for an open and candid conversation. As with any passionate community, opinions about leadership vary, many are excited, others are cautious, and at HDSA, our mission remains the same: to support connection and work collaboratively with our city leadership, whoever is in office.In this episode, we ask Aaron questions about his decision to run, his campaign, and the plan for his first 100 days in office. We cover everything from infrastructure to events, while returning again and again to the heart of the matter: people. The people who live, work, and play in Snohomish and who care deeply about its future.Snohomish thrives in the vibrant purple space between perspectives, and this conversation aims to bring clarity, curiosity, and connection to the forefront. Join us as we explore what comes next for our city, together.

Candy? Cars? Community? The Snohomish Storytellers chat with Snohomish Police Chief Nathan Alanis to uncover how Snohomish police mix safety with sparkle. From trick-or-treating chaos to the glittering lighted car parade, we dive into the ways law enforcement shows up for the community—not just in emergencies, but for fun too. Tune in for stories, laughs, and a peek behind the badge!

The Snohomish Storytellers welcome Fire Chief Don Waller and Fire Marshal DJ Hill from Fire District 4. Together, they unpack how the district operates, their unique roles, and why fire prevention is especially critical in a historic downtown. From Knox boxes to the delicate balance between fire safety and economic vitality, this episode highlights first responders as true community partners. You’ll also hear stories—some exciting, some shocking—that illustrate just how quickly entire blocks, not just individual buildings, can be at risk when fire strikes.

The Snohomish Storytellers are back for Season 4—and now… with VIDEO! 🎥 Yep, you can watch us in action or keep enjoying us the traditional way in your earbuds. To kick things off, we welcome Washington State Senator John Lovick to the studio. Senator Lovick shares stories from his time as a State Trooper right here in Snohomish County, how those experiences shaped his path to representing the 44th Legislative District, and why local partnerships matter. We also talk about how HDSA works with government at all levels to keep our historic downtown thriving—and how YOU play a vital role in advocacy that brings real support to our community. Whether you’re listening, watching, or both—thanks for joining us on this next chapter of Snohomish Storytellers!

Mac is back! Fan favorite Mac Bates returns to help us close out Season 3 and share his newly published book, First Street Stories. First joining us in January 2023 as our first guest of the new year during Season 1, Mac now returns as the final guest of Season 3. In this episode, he brings more charming tales of growing up in downtown Snohomish in the 1950s and ’60s—this time enriched with historic stories of the town’s earlier days, drawn from his collaboration with local historian Taylor Russell. ⁠ You can find First Street Stories on Amazon—or just track Mac down around town and grab a copy from the man himself.

What is a Main Street, really? And why does it matter?In this powerful episode of Snohomish Storytellers, we’re joined by Lydia Felty of Washington State Main Street and Norma Ramirez de Miess, a National Main Street consultant (yes, that’s a real and incredible job!), to explore the story behind the Main Street movement.We unpack what it means for Snohomish to be a designated Main Street community, how this national network is preserving the soul of small-town America, and why this work is about more than charming storefronts — it’s about identity, place, and people.Celebrate Main Street Week with us and hear how communities across the country are protecting history, fostering connection, and shaping the future — one Main Street at a time.

In this special episode, Maygen and guest host Ken Coman help tell a tale straight from the heart of Snohomish: The First Street Story. Joining them are Nova Heaton, Public Works Director, and Heather Thomas-Murphy, City Administrator. From what lies beneath the sidewalks to the dreams taking shape above, discover where First Street has been, where it’s headed, and how you, the community, are the main character of its next chapter. This is more than a road — it’s a story we all share.For more information on the First Street Master Plan, visit: https://www.snohomishwa.gov/858/First-Street-Master-Plan

The Snohomish Storytellers welcome back their first repeat guest, Mayor Linda Redmon. After 2 years, Linda shares with us what she has learned, what she is most proud of, and what keeps her motivated to continue serving the city that she loves so much. Take a listen and learn about what’s happening in the city and where Linda sees our future, together.This episode is supported by the Historic Downtown Snohomish Association's car donation program. Learn how you can donate your unused vehicle to downtown preservation! Visit https://www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org/donate-to-hdsa

With Women's History Month as the perfect backdrop, this month on Snohomish Storytellers, our Executive Director, Maygen Hetherington, takes a turn on the "other couch." Maygen shares what HDSA’s Main Street Accreditation means for our downtown businesses, insights on the First Street Master Plan, and how HDSA helps keep downtown Snohomish a positive asset for our entire city.This episode is supported by the Historic Downtown Snohomish Association's car donation program. Learn how you can donate your unused vehicle to downtown preservation! Visit https://www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org/donate-to-hdsa

Kickoff Time with Anthony Sardon: The Future of Soccer in Snohomish & Beyond! The Snohomish Storytellers sit down with Anthony Sardon, Coaching Director of Snohomish United Soccer Club, for a deep dive into the beautiful game—right here in our backyard and beyond! ⚽️ Get the inside scoop on the inaugural season of Snohomish United USL 2, set to electrify the pitch this spring, plus an exclusive look at the FIFA World Cups coming to our region in 2025 and 2026. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just catching soccer fever, this is the moment to be part of the action in the PNW soccer scene—and we’re here for it! Game on! 🎙️🔥 Learn more about the Sohomish United here: https://www.snohomishunited.org/webinar-registrationThank you to our sponsor, Centennial Family Dentistry, the dental home of Snohomish! Discover more about Dr. Rutherford and their expansive services at https://www.cfdentistrysnohomish.com/

Storytelling is the most powerful communications tool in history and is universal to the human experience. Here in our little corner of the universe, Snohomish, we have a strong sense of community and heritage founded in the whispers of yesterday's stories and the narrative of what is being written today. Snohomish Storytellers captures this through organic conversation between Snohomies - former, present, and future! Discover what ties us all together in a community that has a deep sense of identity as we learn from each other's shared, human experiences. Presented by the HDSA

This month, the Snohomish Storytellers welcome the HDSA Programs and Communications Manager, Denya Ardis. Denya shares her story about how she discovered Snohomish and ultimately, found her way to the HDSA team. There is a lot to learn, not only about Denya, but also the work we do within our organization and how we serve those who live, work, and play in the historic downtown district!Thank you to our sponsor, Centennial Family Dentistry, the dental home of Snohomish! Discover more about Dr. Rutherford and their expansive services at https://www.cfdentistrysnohomish.com/

The Snohomish Storytellers are happy to share the brightest light in Snohomish, Courtney Evans of Board and Brush. Full of life and light, Courtney will make you excited to be in downtown and inspire you to discover all the FUN to be had here. Courtney is a problem solver and finds the hidden gems throughout downtown Snohomish and throughout her life. We hope you find yourselves as inspired as we were after listening to Courtney's story! Be sure to listen (and then look) for one little easter egg we mention during the interview - can you find it in downtown Snohomish?This episode is supported by the Historic Downtown Snohomish Association's car donation program. Learn how you can donate your unused vehicle to downtown preservation! Visit https://www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org/donate-to-hdsa

Our guest for the Snohomish Storytellers this month is Tim Cross, Public Works Operations Manager for the City of Snohomish. You may not know it but some of your most cherished memories downtown might have been thanks to the work of his department. Learn more about Tim, the world of public works, and how partnerships like these are vital in all things Main Street. This episode is supported by the Historic Downtown Snohomish Association's car donation program. Learn how you can donate your unused vehicle to downtown preservation! Visit https://www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org/donate-to-hdsa

In this episode of the Snohomish Storytellers podcast, we sit down with retail sales consultant Rachel Morgan, who shares her expert insights on creating authentic sales experiences. Rachel dives into how retailers can foster meaningful connections with customers and drive sales without the "salesy" approach. Tune in to learn how genuine engagement can lead to lasting success in retail and how lasting success equates to healthy downtowns.This episode is supported by the Historic Downtown Snohomish Association's car donation program. Learn how you can donate your unused vehicle to downtown preservation! Visit https://www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org/donate-to-hdsa

The Snohomish Storytellers are pleased to introduce our closest power partner, Nancy Keith, executive director of the Snohomish Chamber of Commerce. Nancy's love of Snohomish, community spirit, and downright cheery and fun energy has led to incredible growth within the chamber membership. Listen to her story about how she approaches the development of the organization, her investment into future entrepreneurs, and the invisible work that you may not realize is going on behind the scenes. You can learn more about the Snohomish Chamber, their meetings, upcoming events and more on their website. Thank you to our sponsor, Centennial Family Dentistry, the dental home of Snohomish! Discover more about Dr. Rutherford and their expansive services at https://www.cfdentistrysnohomish.com/

The Snohomish Storytellers are thrilled to return for Volume 3, a brand new season of this podcast! Thank you to those who have been with us since the beginning and welcome to all who have joined along the way. This episode invites you to take a seat at the table, bringing together 2 very important topics: food and mental wellness. Our guest, Meron Bible, shares his passion for nourishing both the body and the mind through food and how his small empire of love, food and joy, The Ghetto Food Network,  has grown from a humble bowl of ramen. Seeing a need for conversations and services, especially within the food industry, Meron is bringing a Mental Wellness Summit to Snohomish on September 21, 2024 at the Snohomish Carnegie. We invite you to listen along and join us for this exciting pilot event.  If you're not hungry now, you will be by the end of this episode. Bon appetit!Thank you to our sponsor, Centennial Family Dentistry, the dental home of Snohomish! Discover more about Dr. Rutherford and their expansive services at https://www.cfdentistrysnohomish.com/

The Snohomish Storytellers invite you to celebrate Kla Ha Ya Days with an interview of their President Top Frog, Bill Webster. In this final chapter of volume 2, Bill shares not only his journey to Snohomish and ALL THE THINGS he is involved with here but also finding kindness, healing, and the power of giving back. So much of his story is attributed to the love he discovered with his wife, Erin. It's a love story to rival the princess and the frog and you will find so many delights. Enjoy!

The Snohomish Storytellers hear the sweet story of Top It Frozen Yogurt Shoppe from owner, Ken Coman. This man emanates goodness and we have designated him the official "Mr. Rogers" of Snohomish - a good neighbor to everyone. From his reason for operating a small business to his homemade toppings, wholesome treats abound. You will just feel good after listening. You will also probably want froyo...enjoy!

The Snohomish Storytellers bring you into the immersive world of BLOS, Business Ladies of Society, with Jessica Chavez. Jessica shares the story of how she found her calling for pouring into other women beyond their businesses. BLOS has grown exponentially and the women therein have found not only growth and development opportunities but also lasting friendships and support that go way beyond networking.

The Snohomish Storytellers sit down with the delightful person that is Doug Greenup, owner and manager of the Historic Marks Building. Doug shares how he simply wandered into the Marks Building 25 years ago and asked, "Hey, can I buy your building?" This has ironically turned into a theme with his tenants and ultimately led to the rediscovery of his love for this historic building. Learn how asking a simple question can be a powerful invitation for development, opportunity, and growth of more than just a single business, but an entire district. Historic Preservation is a key element to the stewardship of a district like downtown Snohomish and property owners play a vital role. Doug's mindset towards the care and intentional leasing of his space is exemplary - learn why in this episode. And, the next time you are downtown, take a glance at the Marks Building at 1024 1st Street. There is much to discover there. Enjoy!

Oh Snohomies, have we got a treat in store for you with this episode. Up and coming country music artist, Antwane Tyler, shares his story with us from the foundation of his love for music to the evolution of his creative style. Antwane guides us through his journey that is rooted in his family and upbringing, honoring his roots, and a theme we often talk about here, aligning our pursuits with our passions and who we know ourselves to be. It is our longest episode to date but filled with so many incredible little gems, you won't want to skip a beat. Be sure to check out Antwane's music anywhere that you enjoy listening. His new single, "Homesick" was released on March 8th. More information can be found on his social media platforms @antwanetyler (tiktok, Instagram, Facebook).

What the youth of Snohomish want you to know! Listen to these impressive young community members share their experiences, how they are involved in the high school and beyond, and the path they are forging for future youth in our district.

The Snohomish Storytellers welcome Laura Knudson, new President of the Snohomish Historical Society. Having grown up in Snohomish, Laura describes discovering the importance of preserving and sharing the history of Snohomish through her journey back home and the purchase of her own historic house in the downtown district. Her new energy and ideas for the Historical Society are inspiring and will be opening new doors for everyone to experience the history of Snohomish in new, exciting ways! Check out everything she is working on at their website: https://snohomishhistoricalsociety.org/

The Snohomish Storytellers escort you down Memory Lane as they revisit so many things that happened in 2023. From our first podcast guest of the season to the holiday happenings of Winterfest, take a look back at all the wonderful work that was done this year. It is a community based, feel good chapter that recognizes the contributions of so many incredible community members. Hope you enjoy this episode and we wish you a very happy holiday season! See you in 2024!

The Snohomish Storytellers are excited to introduce you to Lorry Green, also known as "Helen". Lorry is the owner of Elle Marie hair studios and everywhere she goes, she brings the fun and collaborative energy with her. It is appropriate that her last name also represents good energy, being grounded, and growth as all of these qualities are encompassed not only in who she is, but also in her business model. Lorry also shares the incredible story behind the Roper Romp, where nearly 500 Helens came knocking on the doors of First Street businesses in downtown Snohomish. No idea what we're talking about...? Tune in to find out!

The Snohomish Storytellers take you inside the Oxford Saloon with owner Craig Swanson and long time manager, Rebecca Caden. Hear the spooky tales of the haunted history of this iconic building that has operated as a saloon for most of it's life. Craig also shares his story of stewardship, the legacy of historic preservation as a business owner, and what he loves so much about running such a special business here in Snohomish. Be sure to listen for extra spooky sounds and maybe even voices of spirits who were also guests on the podcast, invited or not ;)

The Snohomish Storytellers explore the very deep concept of equity and inclusion with Snohomish School District's Director, Wil Johnson. Wil shares his experience working with children in special education and how that led to his role where he makes space for EVERY child to thrive. Wil also invites us into the importance of mindset, perspective, and how significant something as simple as a cup of water can be.

The Snohomish Storytellers celebrate their one year anniversary with the launch of Volume 2! Our very first guest of this new season is someone who has made incredible contributions throughout Snohomish County, Wendy Poischbeg. Wendy is the VP of Economic Development for the Economic Alliance of Snohomish County. Starting off in the city of Everett arts department, Wendy has served as a marketing and communications manager for the city of Snohomish where she brought innovative programs and business development strategies that we are still benefiting from today. Centering the growth mindset and a willingness to do and learn, she brings an energy to this episode that will enlighten and inspire you. Enjoy the first episode of Volume 2 and let us know what you think by sharing a comment! We would love to hear from you.

The Snohomish Storytellers wrap up our very first season in our final chapter with Brandy Hekker, Senior Loan Advisor, NMLS 258583, at Capstone Home Loans at 1116 1st Street in downtown Snohomish. Brandy and the Storytellers explore the importance and accessibility of community engagement and how powerful creating spaces for others can be. We also learn more about Brandy's own new podcast, Soul Filler Diaries, where she explores the pathways we all take during our journey in this life and how we imprint on one another along the way. Trent, our podcast producer, literally had to cut us off at the end of this podcast because we could not stop talking with Brandy. We hope you find this final episode of Volume I as meaningful and immersive as we did. We'll see you in August for Volume II!

The Snohomish Storytellers interview Snohomish power couple, Greg and Alicia Erickson. Sharing their love of community and equal passion for making Snohomish the best it can be, Greg and Alicia are behind more projects in the downtown area than you may realize. From serving at the food bank to bringing high fashion to life, Greg and Alicia quietly serve Snohomish in ways that offer a big and lasting impact. What struck us most about this lovely couple was their intentions. Never do they invest with the hope of return, but blessings abundantly flow back to them through alignment with like minded community members who all want the same thing, a thriving and fruitful community. Thank you, Greg and Alicia, for all you contribute to our town!

The Snohomish Storytellers chat with a true Snohomish Gem, Sarah Dylan Jensen! Sarah is the manager of the Snohomish Farmers' Market, the Lake Stevens Farmers' Market, and the Stanwood Farmers' Market. She shares with us how she got into "Farmers' Marketing" through a suggestion by a local city employee and has found her calling. She is now expanding her success into a full on business model as The Market Maven where she even has her very own podcast (check it out here: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YX84R3I3teK0jdPgnL6f4?si=000d96e269f74cbe) As always, we talk about how important community integration is! Enjoy this episode and then hop on over to The Market Maven and continue the listening journey. By the way, Farmers Market Season begins next month (May 2023)! Thursdays from 3pm-7pm in downtown Snohomish

FORE! The Snohomish Storytellers chat with Snohomish Golf Course manager, Ben Richards. Ben shares the history of golf in Snohomish and how the game is perfect for "Snohomies". Learn a bit about the game in general and all the offerings at SGC to acquaint yourself with the game or continue to master your skills. This episode is full of fun, laughter, and a good amount of humility on the part of Maygen and Sheila. Ben's grace proves, no matter your relationship with the game, there is something for you at SGC!

Sheila hosts her very first solo interview with a very special guest, Mayor Linda Redmon. Linda shares her story of organic "snowballing" into office, her vision, what she loves about being the Mayor of Snohomish, and what she hopes to accomplish during her first term. We learn a lot about how local government works, ways to make your voice heard, what civic service really means, and how a city like Snohomish is managed. "If you're not aware of it, we're doing a good job" - listen to find out what that means ;-)

The Snohomish Storytellers are thrilled to welcome their first "guest from the audience", Malcolm Bates. Mac was introduced to the podcast by his wife and reached out to us to share his stories directly - we love it! A retired Snohomish School district teacher, former city councilman, mountaineer, author, and current Carnegie Foundation member, Mac shares his first hand experience of growing up in Snohomish in the 50's and 60's. Hear stories about downtown Snohomish through the eyes of an inner child; 50 cent matinees, setting pins at bowling alleys, hiking up to midtown, and why you could find everything you needed on First Street. Mac will draw you in with his fond remembrance and eloquent story telling. 

Episode 6.2 features just the reading of "The Night Before Christmas" to play on demand for a special Christmas treat. Read by Santa himself in the cozy attic of Uppercase Books, what a fun way to share a new holiday tradition together this year. Happy Holidays from the Snohomish Storytellers! We hope you are sharing your own special stories with loved ones this season.

The Snohomish Storytellers invite you to relish in the joy of the season with Santa Claus himself. Santa shares his favorite Snohomish memories and even reads "The Night Before Christmas" to a group of kiddos who found out that Santa was at Uppercase books for the podcast recording! Enjoy this family centered episode full of whimsy and fun. Episode 6.2 features just the reading of "The Night Before Christmas" to play on demand for a special Christmas treat. Read by Santa himself, what a fun way to share a new holiday tradition together this year. Happy Holidays from the Snohomish Storytellers! We hope you are sharing your own special stories with loved ones this season.

The Snohomish Storytellers welcome a most "radishing" guest, Elizabeth Durand, executive director of the Snohomish Community Food Bank. "Lettuce" tell you a little bit about this amazing woman! Elizabeth shares how her background prepared her for her role at the food bank and the power of community. She has so "mushroom" in her heart for Snohomish and shares just how much collaboration goes into supporting the work at the food bank. Understanding who uses their services and how we as a community can come alongside the work they do. We are also "berry" excited to reveal the results of the Zombie Walk in pounds of food donated and the amount of money raised for the food bank. Elizabeth shares so much great information with us, she has stolen a "pizza" our hearts. Bonus content: find out how to support the food bank and other local charities this holiday season in downtown Snohomish! All this and "s'more" in today's podcast.

The Snohomish Storytellers welcome their first dude to the podcast, Farmer Nate Krause of Swans Trail Farms. Nate explains the evolution of the family farm from a dairy operation to one of the most popular pumpkin destinations in the PNW. Born into a family of innovative teachers, Nate is the second generation operator of Swans Trail and has collaborated with Snohomish County to bring the newest technology into the agriculture industry. He also works with his team to bring new events and fun features to the farm every year, drawing in more and more people to feel a sense of connectivity to our local farms and food sources. Education is the platform of this fantastic business model that is a fun, fall destination but also provides opportunities to grow and connect throughout the year. Stay tuned for part 2! Yes, this is a 2 part podcast, where the storytellers explore food further with the co-chairs of the Snohomish Zombie Walk, Kortney Henry and Trent DeVerter. What do food and Zombies have in common? Kortney and Trent work hard every year to bring this fun event to downtown Snohomish supporting the Snohomish Community Foodbank. Learn how rewarding it is to become "Undead to end hunger" and how you can get involved in making sure no one in the community goes hungry this season. 

The Snohomish Storytellers invite you to take a walk with Taylor Russell, local historian and the founder of "Snohomish Walks". You may have seen her at the farmers market, on Instagram (@snohomishwalks) or even spotted her beautiful historic homes coloring books in local shops. Taylor shares her love of history, art, and some incredible stories about Snohomish along with the importance of historical preservation and how YOU are a part of it! Plus some juicy teasers for more Snohomish stories to be found on her Patreon. Find out more about Taylor and her projects on her website: Snohomishwalks.com

The Snohomish Storytellers are pleased to introduce you to their very first guests, the Lamb & Company twins, Lyndsay Lamb and Leslie Davis. Known for their national TV show, "Unsellable Houses", Lyndsay and Leslie tell the tale of their journey in real estate and the innovative idea that is the premise for their HGTV show. With the attention and growth they have experienced, these sisters always come back to their roots and their beloved community of Snohomish. 

"Welcome to our podcast!" (spoken in true sorority sister voices). The beginning of Snohomish Storytellers! Your narrators, Sheila DeVerter and Maygen Hetherington, tell you all about the inspiration for this new podcast, how they came to Snohomish, and what to expect from the podcast as the story continues. Listen for some of your favorite Snohomish spots and find out what Sheila and Maygen love most about Snohomish.