In this epsiode J.Marie gives her version on the classic communications technique of bridging. We are all familiar with when a policitian or leader is asked about something they don't want to answer and they redirect the conversation to another topic they do want to talk about. This can easily feel disingenuous, but as leaders being able to redirect a conversation or pivot when you are asked something you can't or wont answer is a tactic you want in your bag of rhetorical tricks. J.Marie gives the run down on the ABC's of bridging: Acknowledge, Bridge, Convert. She wraps the concept of up with additional skills to create a more holistic method of redirecting conversation while remaining transparent and authentic.

Public leaders are often remarkably effective at engaging your communities through active listening. After decades as a communication and leadership consultant, J.Marie has found that leaders often miss an easy opportunity to use what you've heard to not just make good decisions, but to also build trust and credibility. She will talk about the extra step you can take to demonstrate to your constituents that what you've heard has transformed your thinking and is guiding your decisions and actions moving forward. In this episode, J.Marie provides you the roadmap by which you can close the loop of communication to demonstrate to audiences that not only do you listen, but you care.

It is a very human, often subconscious, habit to assume we understand what others are thinking and why they do the things they do. In this episode J.Marie shares a true story that demonstrates how thoroughly wrong we can be ... and how quickly our own inner experience can shift simply by remembering that we are responsible for the stories we tell ourselves. She also notes how this technique works in reverse, giving you a tool to free yourself from the assumed perspectives and judgements of others and empowering you to take responsibility for your own truth.

In this episode, Emily and Kyle talk directly to Snohomish County business owners (and the locals who want to support them). The message is simple: you don’t need to become a soccer expert — you just need a plan.First, we break down what “activation” really means for most local businesses: hospitality. Small, visible signals that say “we’re ready for you” during the predictable moments of a big soccer summer — pre-game planning, between-match wandering, and post-match celebrating.Then we bring in real examples from people already doing it: Wendy Poischbeg (Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce) on how to connect what you already do with what people are excited about, Nikki Koth (Stoup Brewing) on scaling watch parties and marketing with newsletters and community partners, Cheryl Rose (Soccer Post) on simple take-home ideas that bring customers back, and Jamie French-Bialek (Snohomish Sports Dome) on getting small-town businesses involved.TakeawaysThe best activations are not complicated — they’re specific and repeatable.“Activation” is mostly hospitality: one or two small choices that make it easier for people to choose you.Any business can participate (not just bars and restaurants).Use the playbooks and toolkits so you don’t have to guess what’s allowed.In this episodeThe three customer moments businesses can plan for: pre-game planning, between-match wandering, and post-match celebratingWendy Poischbeg’s core advice: connect what you already do with what people are excited aboutA menu of easy options: watch parties, matchday specials, early openings, window displays, jersey discounts, trivia, and neighbor partnershipsHow Stoup Brewing is approaching watch parties, marketing, and partnerships with local soccer communitiesHow The Soccer Post is using brackets and free posters to create repeat visitsHow Snohomish Sports Dome is surveying local businesses and building community-wide participationWhere to find the playbooks and toolkits (including language and licensing guidance)Business resourcesEverett Chamber “Game On Everett” playbook + toolkit:  www.everettchamber.org Snohomish County Sports Commission business engagement resources: snocosports.orgSeattle World Cup resources: https://www.seattlefwc26.org/resources/playbooksCall for listenersIf you’re a business owner doing something fun — big or small — send us a note. We want to highlight local spots that are welcoming people well this summer. And if you’re an event-goer, make it a goal to support a few local businesses while you’re out enjoying the watch parties and community events.DisclaimerAlways follow posted rules, licensing guidance, and on-site staff direction, and use official sources for the most up-to-date information.Follow From Pitch to Puget Sound on your favorite podcast app.Sign up for our newsletter with important links from the show.Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.History of Soccer is courtesy of Washington State Legends of Soccer. Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/

Keith Stocker, fourth-generation farmer and owner of Stocker Farms, shares the story behind one of Snohomish’s most beloved destinations. From the early days of local farms embracing agro-tourism to the collaboration that helped put Snohomish on the map, Keith offers a behind-the-scenes look at the land, legacy, and creativity that continue to shape the valley. He also gives us a peek at what’s new at Stocker Farms this year, including speed dating, car shows, and fresh ways to welcome visitors into the story.