In this episode, Aaron sits down with Lisa Birk, the newly appointed Deputy Superintendent of Bend-La Pine Schools. Lisa shares insights into her career trajectory, highlighting her extensive experience and dedication to education within the district. They delve into the critical role education plays in the community and discuss the implications of the recent levy […]
Podcasts
LISTEN: Ryan Houston, Executive Director of the Oregon Natural Desert Association ๐ง
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Ryan Houston, the executive director of the Oregon Natural Desert Association (ONDA), as he chats with Aaron about his extensive history in Central Oregon’s conservation efforts and his work in the nonprofit sector. In this episode, Ryan shares his journey of protecting natural spaces, highlights ONDA’s recent successes […]
Grand Craft Bend: Bevel Beer’s Nate & Val Doss
Grand Craft Bend podcast talks to Bevel Craft Brewing‘s co-owners Nate and Valerie Doss as we discuss Bevel’s 5th anniversary party this weekend, their segue from professional disc golfers to pro brewers, and something called a “tropical cold IPA” debuting at the Bend Bands & Brewers Bash on June 28. LISTEN NOW: Source Weekly – Bend, […]
LISTEN: Jo Franco, Owner of Americana Food Truck ๐ง
In this episode, Source Weekly publisher Aaron Switzer sits down with Joe Franco, owner of The Americana food truck and recent recipient of the Best Food Cart of the Year award. They discuss Joe’s journey with The Americana, from its humble beginnings to becoming a beloved local favorite. The conversation delves into the challenges and […]
LISTEN: Judy Stiegler, Former State Representative; Instructor at OSU-Cascades and COCC ๐ง
In this week’s episode of โBend Donโt Break,โ we sit down with Judy Stiegler, former Oregon House Representative for District 54 and current political science instructor at OSU – Cascades. Judy shares her extensive experience in Bendโs political landscape, having been actively involved for over 42 years. Join us as we explore Judy’s unique perspective […]
LISTEN: Derek Berry, President and CEO of the Central Oregon Sportsplex Alliance ๐ง
In this episode, Source Weekly publisher Aaron Switzer sits down with Derek Berry, President and CEO of the Central Oregon Sportsplex Alliance. They discuss Derek’s ambitious plans for the Central Oregon Sportsplex, a proposed multi-sport facility set to transform the region’s sports and recreation landscape. The conversation delves into the project’s potential impact on local […]
LISTEN: Nate Wyeth, VP Marketing & Communications Visit Bend ๐ง
In this episode Source Weekly publisher Aaron Switzer spends time with Nate Wyeth, VP of Marketing & Communications at Visit Bend. They talk about Nate’s long tenure with the organization and how it has evolved over the years. In the lively conversation the pair also talk about destination management, sustainability, AI, golden retrievers and wanderlust! […]
LISTEN: Laura Handy, Executive Director Heart of Oregon Corps ๐ง
In this Bend Don’t Break episode, Source Weekly publisher Aaron Switzer converses with the Executive Director of the Heart of Oregon Corps, Laura Handy. Laura has served Heart of Oregon Corps for 16 years, led the organization for over 10 years, and has extensive experience networking in the community and building solid partnerships with local […]
LISTEN: Grand Craft Bend: Owner Andy Rhine & Brewmaster Ryan Schmiege, Cascade Lakes Brewing ๐ง
This episode of Grand Craft Bend welcomes Cascade Lakes Brewing’s owner, Andy Rhine, and brewmaster, Ryan Schmiege. We discuss what’s new with Central Oregon’s second oldest brewery that’s turning 30 years old, craft beer styles that have come, gone, and come back again during that time, and why the Rhine family recently converted it into Oregon’s second-ever not-for-profit brewery. […]
LISTEN: John J. Graham, Executive Director CBIPD At COCC ๐ง
Source Weekly publisher Aaron Switzer visits with the new executive director of the Center for Business, Industry and Professional Development at COCC, John J. Graham. John talks about his new position and why he was lured out of retirement to take it … and also dives into AI and the exciting ways he thinks it […]

