Inspired Island

In this episode, we meet the multi-talented musician Jason Staczek. Jason tells us how a seventh-grade music teacher in Miami sparked his interest in music, and how he finally decided to pursue a career in music after studying physics at the University of Michigan. Tune in to hear about Jason‘s journey from touring with a band in his twenties to his current career composing film scores, producing music, and more! http://www.voiceofvashon.org/user-content/inspired-island-jason-staczek

In this episode, Grace sits down with legendary photographer Ray Pfortner. Ray has worked in the world of professional photography for over 20 years and knows the industry inside and out.  Ray describes how he first got into photography, his unconventional career path, and the stories behind some of his most iconic photographs. They also chat about Ray’s passion for coaching new talent – including here on Vashon Island! Ray's website: http://www.raypfortner.com/

In this episode, Wendy Dahl joins us to talk about her passion for helping people better understand their furry family members! At Dahl Animal Behavior and Massage, Wendy works with people and their pets all around Vashon Island and beyond. Wendy will discuss how her love for animals started in childhood, and how she follows her passion in both her career and volunteer work. You’ll also hear how Wendy helped your host, Grace McRae, build a stronger relationship with her own puppy “Rio.” Wendy's website: https://dahlbehavior.com

In this episode, we get to know Dave Hatfield of the Pink Tractor Farm! Dave has worked as a professional chef for over 20 years, but he often struggled to find fresh, high-quality ingredients. When the recession hit, Dave started growing vegetables in his front yard for the restaurant he was running in Bend, Oregon. He soon realized that these vegetables were fresher than anything he could buy. Five years ago, Dave and his wife moved to Vashon and began farming and hosting elaborate farm-to-table dinners. Tune in to hear more about Dave’s passion for all things food-related! Pink Tractor Farm's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinktractorfarm

In this episode, we sit down with Laura Cherry of Dragon’s Head Cider to hear how she turned a passion for cider into a successful business! In 2010, Laura and her husband Wes moved to the island with the dream of starting a cidery. Laura did not have any prior experience in the beverage industry, but she dove headfirst into planting an orchard and experimenting with cider making. Today, Dragon’s Head Cider is home to over 3,000 fruit trees and their award-winning ciders are sold across the state and beyond.

In the inaugural episode of Inspired Island, we sit down with Vashon native Alex Sinner! We chat about what growing up on Vashon is like, how nature inspires Alex’s work at Vashon Woodworks, and his passion for music and trucks. Follow Alex on Instagram! www.instagram.com/oneboot206 Vashon Woodworks website: https://vashonwoodworks.com

Welcome! In this super-short first episode, you'll meet your host and learn the backstory of "Inspired Island."