MORE EPISODES ON APPLE, STITCHER, SPOTIFY, IHEART, GOOGLE
Lynn McConnell and Annie Kallen
Episode 78
Why voter reform?
The Problem
STAR stands for Score Then Automatic Runoff
Give your favorite 5 stars, give your least favorite zero and score the others as you like.
You can score your conscience.
You don't have to worry about voting for the lessor of two evils or wasting your vote.
Scores are created by adding all the scores until all the ballots are counted.
The two highest scoring candidates are finalists.
The remaining candidates are out of the running.
Next, scores are tabulated in the automatic runoff.
All ballots are considered again, looking at the scores of the finalists to consider the winner.
STAR is non-partisan.
We should be able to vote our conscience, our votes should never be wasted, and our elections should accurately reflect the will of the people.
The initiative would establish STAR voting, where voters rate the candidates for a given office and the top two finishers advance to an automatic runoff.
Susie McLiery
Episode 77
Susie McLiery, is an avid folk musician who has had a myriad of fascinating experiences playing with Spud Siegel, Kid Siegel, Polly Norris, David Quinton, holding dances at the Netel Grange in Clatsop County and playing at the Jewell Harvest Festival.
She and her partner Jim Boswell played with Michael Zametkin and Jim Fink.
Susie was a programmer for KMUN from 1984 until recently with the Gospel Music Show and became a jack of all trades at the station, eventually becoming the program director in ’87.
As a kid she lived in Vermont and spent summers at Martha’s vineyard where they had a house. It was there that she was introduced to folksters such as Tom rush, Maria Muldar, Chambers Brothers, the Islanders and The Weavers. James Taylor was her neighbor.
Sande Brown and Sheila Roley
Welcome to episode # 76
LINKS
Northcoast Paddleboat Cub
[00:02] Jan: Welcome to Paddle Power: Women of the Northwest, where we dive into the world of dragon boating and the extraordinary women behind it. I'm your host, Jan Johnson, and today, we're joined by Sande Brown and Sheila Rowley from the North Coast Paddling Club. Get ready for an inspiring conversation!
[01:24] Jan: Today, we're exploring the fascinating history of dragon boating, a sport that traces its roots back to ancient China. Sande shares a captivating legend of rescue and rivalry on the water.
[02:43] Jan: Sheila gives us a vivid description of dragon boats – they're not just canoes! Learn about the unique dynamics and roles that define this thrilling team sport.
[04:09] Sande: Being a paddler isn't just about swimming skills, but a passion for teamwork and the outdoors. Sande and Sheila highlight the physical demands and benefits of dragon boating, emphasizing its full-body workout.
[07:08] Sande: Discover the journey to becoming a confident paddler, and how it's a continuous learning experience. Sande and Sheila share insights on technique, endurance, and maintaining synchronization within the team.
[09:33] Jan: With practices three days a week, commitment is key. Sande and Sheila give us a glimpse into their training routine, from warm-ups to debriefing.
[10:40] Sande: The North Coast Paddling Club takes on challenges in various races, from Salem's Willamette River to Columbia's breathtaking scenery. Join us as we explore the diverse locations they've competed in!
[13:54] Sheila: Starting a dragon boat team comes with its own set of challenges, including the financial aspect. Sheila discusses the club's journey towards obtaining the boats they need for their vision.
[17:00] Jan: Choosing the right waters for dragon boating is crucial. The team shares insights on finding suitable locations, navigating rough conditions, and ensuring the safety of all paddlers.
[20:47] Sande: The dream of the North Coast Paddling Club extends beyond the team itself. Join us as we envision dragon boat races becoming a highlight of the regatta, bringing communities together.
[22:12] Sheila: Learn about the innovative 'Collaborative Paddle' program, offering organizations the chance to experience team-building and leadership development through dragon boating.
[26:57] Jan: Interested in being part of this dynamic community? Visit the club's website to learn how you can get involved, whether it's through joining the team, suggesting potential docking sites, or contributing to their non-profit initiative.
Elizabeth Cole
Welcome to episode # 75
Elizabeth Cole has had a variety of international experiences—
- her junior year in college spent in Ecuador
- volunteering with kids who lived in a gang area of Chicago
- interning in a bilingual school in Mexico
- working with emotionally disturbed children and youth
- translator for Early Head Start.
- taught English is Korea
- teaching as an adjunct at Portland Community College
- taught Chinese students through an online curriculum through the college of Optometry- until covid
- taught Chinese students through an online curriculum through the college of Optometry- until covid
- taught pre-K spanish esl online
- taught ESL at McDaniel High in Portland
- is now enrolled in the nursing program at OHSU
Saori DeBruyn
Welcome to episode # 74
Soprano
Hailed by Northwest Reverb as “a dynamite soprano,” Saori DeBruyn brings dramatic intensity and heart to every one of her performances. Saori’s starring roles include both Susanna and La Contessa in Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro, Elaine in John Musto’s Later the Same Evening, the titular role in Puccini’s Suor Angelica, and Brianne/Lucinda in the world premiere of Mark Lanz Weiser’s The Place Where You Started.
Her solo concert appearances include Vivaldi’s Gloria, Rossini’s Petite messe solennelle with the Dartmouth Glee Club, and in May of 2022, she will perform the soprano solo in Brahms’ Ein Deutsches Requiem with the Eugene Concert Choir.
Her numerous awards and scholarships include first prize at the 2019 Oregon District Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions and the Dean’s Scholarship at the New England Conservatory of Music.
Saori received her master’s degree from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, MA, and her bachelor's from Portland State University in her hometown of Portland, OR.
Erin Hulti
Welcome to episode # 73
Erin Hulti was in that in between space, trying to figure out what she wanted to do in life, when of all places, she was having blood drawn and her conversation with the phlebotomist triggered her career choice.
She is enrolled at Cal Maritime to receive her major in Marine Transportation. She just spent 90 days interning on an oil tanker and loved it.
She will receive her Merchant Mariner license at the end of her four year studies.
Empowering Lives Through Unbound Sponsorship
Welcome to episode # 72
LINKS
VIMEO CLIPS
UNBOUND
Rhonda Grudenic, from Astoria, Oregon has sponsored children from Unbound for the past twenty years.
Gina Andrews from Battleground, Washington is a new supporter and has sponsored children for the past two years.
Together, along with Leslie Hernandez, who works at the Kansas City office as an experience integration coordinator of Unbound, we'll share our experiences visiting Guatemala and seeing our sponsored children.
00:30] In today's episode, meet Rhonda Grudnic and Gina Andrews, two incredible women making an impact through Unbound sponsorship. Discover how they are transforming lives and communities in Guatemala and beyond.
[01:40] Rhonda shares her journey of reinventing herself in her fifties, from a struggling artist to a dental hygienist, and how Unbound sponsorship played a pivotal role in her life.
[02:54] Gina, a devoted mother and dental hygienist from a dental family, opens up about her profound experience meeting her sponsored child, Maria, and the emotional impact it had on her life.
[04:51] Learn about their heartwarming trip to San Luis Toleman in Guatemala, where they met their sponsored kids face-to-face, witnessing the real impact of Unbound's personalized sponsorship model.
[07:12] Discover the power of Unbound's Mother's Groups and how they empower mothers to uplift their families and communities, sharing knowledge and support.
[08:18] Explore Unbound's commitment to education through scholarships and how it transforms lives, creating a ripple effect of positive change in the community.
[13:28] Meet Leslie Herandez, an experience integration coordinator at Unbound, who shares her inspiring journey of working with the organization for over 13 years, touching the lives of countless families.
[20:37] Understand the innovative Entrepreneurship Program, which empowers individuals to start their own businesses and become self-reliant.
[25:27] Interested in becoming a sponsor and making a lasting impact? Visit Unbound.org to explore profiles of children and families in need from 17 countries and join the mission of transforming lives.
[26:44] Show your support by leaving a review for our podcast. Transcripts are available on our website at JanJohnson.com. Tune in next week for more inspiring stories of women making a difference.
Join us in empowering lives through Unbound sponsorship and witness the transformational power of love and support.
Bonnie Lively
Welcome to episode # 71
inks:
KMUN radio programs
Join Bonnie LIvely and me as we unravel the remarkable journey of her journey from knitting hobby to wholesale yarn profession,
Facing financial hardships as a widow and single mom, she navigated the complexities of debt, discovering a deeper understanding of the logistics of debt management.
She transformed her life through sheer determination and resourcefulness. Discover how she merged her passion for fashion and background in sociology to thrive in the yarn industry.
Through her involvement in the National Needlework Association and a pioneering needle arts mentoring program, she empowered at-risk kids in her community, sparking a positive change through creativity. Tune in to explore her experiences running a yarn shop, teaching knitting at the college, and supporting after-school programs for children.
Delve into the inspiring stories of her theatrical endeavors, finding family and a sense of belonging in the world of theater.
Alongside her daughter, she discovered healing through joint performances, and her commitment to community radio for over 30 years brought continues to bring her great joy.
Join us on this insightful podcast as we stitch together the tapestry of resilience, embracing life's challenges with strength, creativity, and unwavering determination.
Alli Forsstrom
Welcome to episode # 70.
I thought it would be fun to “interview” a woman from the past….
Since this is the middle of July and Regatta season in Astoria, we’ll listen to Lauri Serafin talk about Alli Forsstrom,
the 14th Regatta queen. You’ll see some differences in how things work now with the court, as opposed to how it was in the beginning.
I’ve also included clips from Melissa Grothe’s interview, episode # 19, another Regatta queen, where she tells some of what goes into making a queen and the benefits of being in the court.
You can find out more on Lauri’s website where you can see photos and read an article on
Alli’s life as well as follow along with Lauri and her husband’s remodeling journey of the Forsstrom house. theforsstromhouse.com
Julie Hoffman
Episode 69
Ever wondered what it would be like to teach overseas? This podcast will satisfy your curiosity.
Join guest Julie Hoffman as she takes you on a captivating journey through her and her husband's experiences teaching abroad and beyond.
Julie and Matthew, a dynamic couple with a passion for education, have traversed the globe, imparting knowledge and discovering new cultures along the way. From the picturesque streets of Italy to the vibrant classrooms of Haiti, the bustling cities of Indonesia to the serene landscapes of Taiwan and Mauritania, they have left their mark as educators and adventurers.
But their journey didn't stop there. After their time overseas, Julie and Matthew decided to take a break and settle down in Astoria, Oregon. Here, they embarked on a different kind of venture, opening Gaetano's, an Italian Deli that brings the flavors of their international travels to the local community.
In this episode, Julie shares their personal stories, lessons learned, and insights gained from teaching in diverse environments. She delves into the challenges they faced, the triumphs they celebrated, and the unforgettable moments that shaped their teaching careers.
Whether you're an aspiring teacher, a seasoned educator, or simply curious about life overseas, this episode will provide a unique and inspiring perspective.
Ye-Jin Lee and Se-eun Ju
Episode 68
Join Jan and her surprise guests as they share their travel experiences, love for climbing, and the exploration of exciting activities in the Northwest.
- Surprise guests Se-eun and Ye Jin, friends of Jan's daughter Emily.
- Se-eun, from South Korea, shares how she met Emily during her visit to Korea and how she finally got the opportunity to visit her friends in the United States.
- Ye Jin, also from South Korea, talks about her experience living in the States for eleven years due to her father's academic pursuits and her subsequent return to South Korea. She discusses the challenges of maintaining her English proficiency and the differences in education systems between the two countries.
- Jan explores their recent trip to Oregon, highlighting the scenic landscapes they encountered during their four and a half hour drive from Bend to Brownsmead. They discuss the beauty of the river, forest, and blue sky, as well as the sight of the Three Sisters and Mount Hood.
- The guests mention their visit to the Grange and the enjoyable experiences they had, including live music by the Brownsmead Flats and trying out local food like mashed potatoes.
- Jan learns about Se-eun's previous visit to New York City and Ye-Jin's love for American food, specifically mashed potatoes with gravy sauce, which is not commonly found in Korea.
- They talk about their shared interest in climbing and how they met Emily through climbing lessons in Korea. Ye Jin mentions her recent injuries and the challenges of getting back into climbing after a two-year break. Se-eun expresses her desire to explore various sports and outdoor activities available in Emily's area, including kayaking and backcountry skiing.
- Ye Jin describes her passion for bouldering and the accomplishment she feels when solving climbing problems. She also discusses her transition to lead climbing and the sense of self-competition and endurance it brings.
- The episode concludes with a discussion on the physical training required for climbing and the overall joy and fulfillment it brings to their lives.
Episode 67 Debbie Little
Debbie Little is president of the local VFW. She shares about her involvement and the needs of our local vets. She also is involved in many more community outreaches, one of which is the volunteer coordinator at Providence Hospital where she was able to introduce Ziggy, a therapy sheep-a-doodle to patients and staff.
Episode 66 Sophia Komba
Sophia grew up in Tanzania in a household with her five siblings, where taking in guests and those in need was a way of life. Living in the country taught her to garden, and care for farm animals.
She talks about school there, where one has to choose three subjects which will determine your future path.
She was able to receive a diversity visa to come to the United States to study to become a pharmacist. This visa is given by lottery.
She lived with her cousin in Virginia and was so surprised to see how many roads there were, especially that they were paved.
She chose pharmacy because she thought she could make a difference.
Episode 65 Deirdre Whitehead
Dierdre Whitehead spent a number of years in Alaska where she and her husband were bush pilots- delivering mail, groceries, things that were need in the back countries and islands.
They spotted for herring, which could sometimes be a bit nerve-wracking.
As an employee with the newspaper, she worked in the darkroom, developing
photos. An art that might be long gone since everything is now digital.
Her passion, though, was when she discovered Brain Integration and how to administer it to alleviate attention deficit disorder, learning disabilities, and more.
Links for more information:
Crossinology
Prescott Brain Integration
Nancyology
A Revolutionary Way of Thinking Dr Charles Krebs
MORE EPISODES ON APPLE, STITCHER, SPOTIFY, IHEART, GOOGLE
Episode 64 Bunny Keterman
Bunny Keterman has worked as a firefighter, worked with child protective services and survived the Paradise fire but lost her home,
She has PTSD.
She also has fibermyalgia and chronic fatigue.
But she strongly believes that people do have a choice in how you think and act even in the most horrible of situations.
LINKS: Bunny's blog, which chronicles the above is called the absurdess
Episode 63 Shaelyn Bangs
Shaelyn Bangs is 13 years old and wants her voice to be heard as a proponent of pediatric mental health.
As someone who has lived with anxiety most of her life, she has had to learn to navigate the mental health services available to her.
It took three years for her to receive the care she needed.
As a dancer, she has won numerous awards.
Her goal is to get an engineering degree so she can make robots to send to NASA.
Episode 62 Debbie Hazen
Today’s guest is Debbie Hazen, a long time Clatskanie, Oregon resident. She grew up in a family of newspaper reporters and later became owner and editor of the Clatskanie Chief.
She has always loved being involved in her small town community, volunteering and she doesn’t let anything stop her to make things happen- even while raising triplets.
As a long-lost relative of the Birkenfelds, she was able to access funds to restore the old event center and later to restore and manage the Flippin Castle.
This woman knows a lot of history!
Episode 61 Kelsey Balensifer
Kelsey Balensifer got her degree in journalism and first job in Washington DC.
That's when she met a friend on Twitter who led her to the Pacific Northwest and
eventually became her husband.
She was the event director at the
Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce.
One event was planning the Great Columbia Crossing and all that goes with it including coordinating with ODOT, local hospitality, advertising and weather reports.
Episode 60 Kari Henningsgaard
Are you a nature lover? Interested in helping injured wildlife? This interview with Kari Henningsgaard, interim director of the Wildlife center of the North Coast tells all about the center, volunteering and summer camps.
Episode 59 Crissy Christian
Crissy Christian is a mom to two adopted kiddos who have grown into amazing humans.
She also fosters dogs to give them confidence and security to become members of new families.
Episode 58 Sara Rea
Sara Rea, my oldest daughter has had a number of career choices throughout the years.
Covid and life situations caused her to seek something completely different— Long haul truck driving!
Only 1% of drivers are women- welcome to a men's world.
She's found that it isn't anything a gal isn't fit to do....
Time to reflect
Great pay
Working alone
Who wouldn't want to pursue that??
Episode 57 Soriah Curtis
Soriah Curtis grew up as one of seven children.
Her dad had been a marine and they moved a number of times.
Being from an abusive family drove her to excel in everything-
soccer, gymnastics and academics.
She spent her junior year of high school as an exchange student to Denmark,
an experience which turned out to be anything but what she expected.
She returned to a downward spiral until she found out she could join the
reserves, where she once again excelled.
She has now found meaning with a group of young adults.
Episode 56 Kim Rose Adams
LINKS:
Outdoor Photograph and Product Design
Instagram
Etsy
Today's guest is Kim Rose Adams.
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina forced her to move and find other opportunities.
She was able to take advantage of reduced college costs in Oregon for refugees and finished her photography degree at Oregon State University.
She currently works as a full time photographer and in her spare time
volunteers at the Wildlife Center of the North Coast where she cares for
and photographs wild birds.
Episode 55 Amanda Rohne
Amanda Rohne has lived in Brownsmead, Oregon since
when she married Dirk Rohne and became a dairy farmer's wife.
She is the mother of two.
She spent the first two years of her life living in her parents' mortuary and later became a mortician.
She organized the Scandinavian festival
She is currently coordinating all events at the Brownsmead Grange.
Episode 54 Leslie Grelle
Leslie Grelle spent five years in Italy, learning Italian, and training horses.
When she returned to the US she began riding classes for:
Native American youth
Inner city kids
Gang shelters
Oregon Council of Hispanic Advancement
Oregon Advocacy Commission Office
She moved to California and started horsemanship experiences for the blind
Coachella Valley Braille Institute
Travel in Israel with Omri
Episode 53 Amy Miles
Amy Miles was adopted as a premature infant.
After she was married and held her babies in her arms she wondered if she could
find her birth mother so she could thank her for giving her up for adoption.
Things didn't turn out as planned.
What she found out rocked her world.
Survivor's network
Melissa Ohden Survived an Attempt on her Life
17,855 babies have survived an abortion since 1973
600 survivors have been connected through Abortion Survivors Network.
The mission is to create a world where the incidence of failed abortions and the lives of survivors is openly discussed and accepted, and survivors and their families are supported and healed.
If you, or someone you know, is a survivor, there is help and hope at abortionsurvivors.org
#abortionsurvivor#amymiles#adoptionisanoption#findingyourbirthmom#godhasaplanforme
Episode 52 Summer Spell
Summer Spell graduated from Azusa Pacific University with a degree in Global Studies. She spent a semester in Uganda staying with a host family. She did an internship with elderly farmers who were struggling agains poverty. She listened to stories from 80-90 year olds. They talked a lot about the changes in the weather patterns since they were young. It used to be predictable, to the day, but in the last decade, the pattern has fallen apart. The sun was getting harsher on their crops.
She participated in creating a documentary about these people and the effects.
CLICK for link to the documentary trailer
Recommended reading:
Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver
The Story of More by Hope Jahren
The Biggest LIttle Farm documentary
Podcast How to Save the Planet
Episode 51 Charlotte Langsev
Born in 1938, Charlotte Langsev's history began in Koenigsberg, East Prussia, where her mom was born.
Her dad was in the army for Kaiser Wilhelm before the First World War.
They moved from there, to Germany, to Blumenau, Brazil, to Edmonton, Canada and finally to Brownsmead, Oregon.
She tells of growing up in Brownsmead, the first school and family history.