Christmas may still be a few months away, but we’re already uncorking the holiday spirit in this episode of TLC: Tend Life Community! Greg Bakke, President of The Forgotten Children’s Fund, joins us once again to share how this incredible organization continues to bring hope and joy to children and families across Western Washington.

From the behind-the-scenes buzz of Santa’s workshop to the life changing gift of a brand new bike, Greg gives us a front row seat to the magic that happens when a community comes together. We’ll also take a figurative ride out to Whidbey Island to hear about the M Bar C Ranch, a one-of-a-kind refuge where thousands of kids find adventure, healing, and a little extra holiday magic year-round.

This season, we’re teaming up on a holiday bike drive again, with a goal of donating 50 bikes before December 1st, and Greg shares exactly why something as simple as two wheels can create freedom, confidence, and joy for a child in need. So, pour yourself a glass, settle in, and get ready for a conversation that blends heart, humor, and the true spirit of giving back.

Welcome to your podcast playbook, a crash course in how to launch, grow, and truly love your show. In this episode of the TLC Tend Life Community Podcast, we sit down with Trent DeVerter, founder of Red Trux, the creative force behind seven unique and growing podcasts. Over a glass of wine in our Sipping on Success segment, we dive into everything from finding your niche and building a strong format to the technical and creative strategies that make a show stand out in today’s crowded podcast landscape.

Trent shares the inside scoop on what podcasting is, and what it definitely isn’t. Spoiler alert: it’s a little more complex than just grabbing a mic and chatting with your buddy. We talk about common pitfalls new podcasters face, the importance of strategy before you hit record, and how to build a show that not only gets downloads but creates real connection and community.

Whether you’re just curious about the world of podcasting or ready to launch your own show, this episode is packed with real talk, actionable tips, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to move your ideas from concept to airwaves, without burning out along the way.

In this tail-wagging episode of the TLC: Tend Life Community podcast, we sit down with Dustin Urlacher, the new owner of The Hop and Hound, a beloved dog-friendly craft beer pub in the heart of downtown Bothell, Washington. Since taking the reins earlier this year, Dustin has been putting his personal stamp on this local favorite, while staying true to its loyal two, and four-legged fanbase.

We dig into Dustin’s journey from craft beer enthusiast to pub owner, why he chose The Hop and Hound specifically, and how he's balancing community legacy with fresh ideas. From rotating taps and handpicked ciders to local food truck partnerships and events under the tent, Dustin shares what makes this space more than just a place to grab a pint, it’s a hub for connection, flavor, and furry friends.

Of course, we couldn’t resist diving into the pub’s pup-friendly roots and how dogs remain an essential part of the Hop and Hound culture. Plus, Dustin spills the hops on how he curates his ever-changing tap list, which styles, and breweries he’s excited about right now, and the biggest lessons learned from owning a neighborhood hangout.

And in our Sipping on Success segment, we uncork a surprise - a decade aged beer that’s been hiding in the cellar for 10 years. Spoiler alert: it’s got some stories to tell, too.

If you're a fan of craft beer, local business, dog-friendly spots, or are just curious what it takes to run a successful taproom in the PNW, this episode is worth a listen. Cheers to community, creativity, and canine companionship; this one’s got bite and bark.

What do you get when you mix private equity real estate, workforce housing, and a bold glass of Cabernet Sauvignon? You get an episode of the Tend Life Community Podcast that’s equal parts smart, smooth, and packed with value.

This week, we welcome Alex Burch, Partner at Veritas Equity Partners, to uncork the truth behind investing in multifamily real estate across King and Snohomish counties. We kick things off with a rich Cabernet that pairs perfectly with Alex’s insights on how Veritas is delivering consistent returns while staying rooted in transparency, impact, and integrity.

We break down the fundamentals of private equity real estate, compare it to investing in REITs or buying rental properties on your own, and explore the power of workforce housing as both a financial and social investment strategy. From tax advantages and risk mitigation to community-focused returns, Alex shares what every investor should know before jumping in.

Whether you're looking to grow your portfolio, explore passive income opportunities, or simply sip along and stay informed, this episode is your gateway to smart real estate investing in the Pacific Northwest… with a side of good wine and good company.

This episode of TLC: Tend Life Community Podcast, we’re joined by Torrey Edwards from the Northshore Farmers Markets for a conversation that’s bursting with local flavor. Torrey shares how the Woodinville and Kenmore markets have become more than just places to pick up fresh produce, they’re true community hubs that connect neighbors, support regional farmers, and showcase the very best of what’s grown and made right here in our backyard.

We plough into what makes these markets stand out from others in the region, the thoughtful vendor curation, and the added touches that bring people back week after week, including a new cooking demo series using ingredients sourced right from the stalls. We also got a taste — literally, of some of the incredible finds you’ll discover at the markets. During the episode, we sampled sweet strawberries, tart tayberries, creamy pistachio kefir yogurt, colorful macarons, and a delicious lemon loaf. Torrey also brings in a stunning bouquet of flowers straight from one of the market’s local growers, reminding us that beauty at the market goes far beyond the plate.

Whether you're a farmers’ market regular or someone who’s curious about where to find fresh, local food and support your community, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and just the right amount of sweetness, and will inspire you to grab your reusable tote bag and spend a Saturday in Woodinville or an evening in Kenmore. Tune in for stories of community connection, local food, and the simple joys that come from eating what’s in season. It’s time to crop it like it’s hot! And don’t miss our quick Real Estate Round Up at the end, where we discuss that not every buyer’s “must have” is actually a must.

This week on the TLC: Tend Life Community Podcast, we’re tearing down the idea that fences and decks are just background features. We’re joined by the dynamic duo behind Heilman Deck & Fence, Andy, and Amanda Heilman, for a conversation that goes beyond the picket line. From design trends that turn your yard into a personal paradise to practical tips that could save you thousands, this episode is stacked tighter than a cedar deck board with must-know advice.

We kicked things off with a crisp 2023 Sauvignon Blanc from Barnard Griffin, bright, zippy, and perfect for sipping while dreaming of your next backyard upgrade. Then we dove into a full-bodied discussion on everything from when to repair vs. replace, how to weatherproof like a pro in the Pacific Northwest, and which DIY dreams are best left to the professionals. Plus, we uncovered the latest outdoor living trends and even peeked over the fence to see what the future holds for home exteriors.

Whether you're planning your next project or just want to spot contractor red flags before it's too late, this episode nails it. And don’t miss our signature Real Estate Roundup, where we shine a light on the rise of wire fraud in real estate transactions, and why email-only communication is a risk you can't afford.

So, grab a glass and join us for a conversation that’s equal parts education and inspiration. Your backyard will thank you.

From the quiet charm of Montesano to the heart of Music City and now center stage in the Pacific Northwest, Brian James has followed the melody wherever it’s led and it’s made for one unforgettable soundtrack. In this episode of the TLC Tend Life Community Podcast, we sit down with the singer-songwriter whose path has taken him from penning tunes in Nashville to becoming a beloved local performer in Woodinville and the Pacific Northwest.

Brian talks about how his small-town upbringing shaped his storytelling, how writing for major publishing houses (and even Cadillac commercials!) transformed his creative approach, and why the Pacific Northwest feels like home. We talk crowds, community, the magic of live music, and yes, the occasional gig-gone-wild story that every musician seems to collect.

And it wouldn’t be an episode without a little wine and a live performance! For this week's Sipping on Success, we uncorked a bold and delicious Black Tongue Syrah from Stevens Winery right here in Woodinville, an ideal pairing for Brian’s soulful sound. Stick around until the end, where Brian treats us to a live acoustic performance that’s sure to strike a chord.

This episode is part concert, part conversation, and all heart. So, grab your glass, turn up the volume, and settle in, it’s time to get in tune with local icon Brian James.

This episode of TLC, Tend Life Community, we’re raising a glass of Zachary’s Ladder by Gorman Wines and climbing straight into backyard bliss with Janell and Michael Miller of M3 Decks & Outdoor Living, because when it comes to outdoor spaces, these two know how to nail it from the ground up.

Born from necessity and built with purpose, the Millers share how a personal challenge led to the creation of M3 Decks & Outdoor Living, and how that need sparked a passion for transforming outdoor spaces. What started as a solution became a mission to bring thoughtful, lasting design to backyards across the Pacific Northwest. We dig into the M3 difference, think steel-framed beauty, biophilic design, and a design-first approach that turns Pinterest boards into yards worth partying in.

We talk trends (yes, outdoor fire features are still hot), phasing big dreams into reality, and the art of knowing when to DIY and when to call in the pros. Michael even spills the beans on wildest deck disasters he’s seen, and trust us, it's a cautionary tale that might have you side eyeing that wobbly railing.

Whether you're dreaming of a cozy outdoor nook, planning a full backyard transformation, or just here for the deck puns, this episode is your blueprint for inspiration. And of course, we wrap things up with a few favorite gems in and around Woodinville.

Tune in, get inspired, get informed, and get decked out.