In this powerful episode, we sit down with Catherine Dennis whose life and work are a testament to what it truly means to create spaces of belonging. From her work in early childhood education to launching initiatives that uplift her community, she has devoted her life to building inclusive, supportive environments where every person—especially the youngest—feels seen and valued.But her journey didn’t stop at programs and policies. As an adoptive mother to children who don’t look like her, she has wrestled with uncomfortable truths, dismantled her own assumptions, and embraced the deep work of growth and empathy.Together, we explore the transformative power of listening, the role of self-reflection in creating inclusive communities, and what it really takes to make people feel like they belong—not just in theory, but in everyday life.Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply someone who wants to foster more connection in your world, this episode will leave you inspired to lead with love, humility, and purpose.

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 flavorful episode, we sit down with Jeff, the owner and pitmaster behind Jeff's Texas Style BBQ, a beloved local BBQ spot that’s serving up more than just incredible brisket. We dive into his journey through the military and music to finding his calling in smoked meats and community building.But this isn’t just a story about BBQ—it’s a conversation about equity, representation, and what it means to create a space where everyone feels welcome. Jeff reveals how his experience at his first job shaped his philosophy and why diversity in the food industry matters.Pull up a chair, grab a plate, and join us for a rich, honest conversation about purpose, passion, and paving a path that feeds both people and progress.

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

In this episode, we break down the myth of "I get my clients from networking and referrals so I don't need social media." Toni shares her experience as a networker who has attended hundreds of networking events and belongs to several referral groups - and show she uses social media to enhance her credibility and build the kind of trust that gets her hired. She shares how she "pre-conditions" prospects and moves them from strangers to warm contacts. Tune in for her exact strategy for creating content that reflects a consistent, clear message, puts you top-of-mind, and speeds up the decision-making process.