What's Happening Salem
Stay connected to your community with "What’s Happening Salem," your go-to podcast for all things Salem, Oregon. Every Friday morning, we bring you the latest news, events, and stories from the past week, keeping you informed and engaged with what's happening in your city. Whether it's local government updates, community events, or neighborhood highlights, "What’s Happening Salem" ensures you never miss a beat. Tune in weekly to stay in the know and be part of the vibrant Salem community.
Doing the Good We Can Do Today: Marion County's Response to Crisis
Welcome to What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, host Jacob Espinoza sits down with County Commissioner Converse to discuss Marion County government, public service, and the challenges facing Salem today.
Topics covered include:
Understanding Local Government
How county, city, state, and federal governments work togetherThe historical origins of county government in OregonWhy counties are essential but often misunderstoodThe Commissioner's Journey
From lawyer to county commissioner: the personal story behind public serviceWhy local relationships matter in politics and governanceBalancing ambition with genuine community careCurrent Challenges & Solutions<...
Coffee Talks: Revitalizing Downtown Salem with Derek Gilbert & the Holiday Traditions Parade
Welcome to the first episode of Coffee Talks—a new series from What's Happening Salem in partnership with the Salem Reporter!
In this special episode, Jacob Espinoza and Rachel Alexander from the Salem Reporter sit down with Derek Gilbert, a First Citizen award winner and champion of bringing back Salem's beloved Holiday Traditions Parade. Discover:
The inspiring story of how a few community members came together to revitalize downtown Salem after the pandemic
The origins of the Holiday Traditions Parade—from a four-block event to an almost mile-long celebration attracting over 10,000 people
Ho...
We're Not Going Into Lockdown Over Rumors: Inside Salem-Keizer's Biggest Challenges
Welcome to this episode of What's Happening Salem!
Jacob Espinoza sits down with Andrea, the superintendent of Salem-Keizer School District, to dive deep into the challenges and opportunities facing our schools.
In this candid conversation, they discuss:
The Budget Crisis: A $25 million budget reduction looming for Salem-Keizer schools—and what it means for your kids' educationImmigration and School Safety: How the district is protecting all students while navigating complex enforcement issues in our communityThe Attendance Crisis: Why fewer kids are showing up to school post-pandemic and what needs to changeTest Score Progress: The encouraging mo...The Math Behind Salem's Future: How Commercial Real Estate Shapes Community
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
Jacob Espinoza sits down with Josh Kay from First Commercial Real Estate to explore the business and community side of Salem's real estate landscape. In this insightful conversation, they discuss:
The challenges and opportunities in Salem's commercial real estate market are as a tertiary market in transition.
Why projects like roller skating rinks don't pencil out economically, and what actually makes developments viable.
The multi-year transformation of iconic downtown spaces, such as Liberty Plaza (now The Forge), and the process of repositioning...
Coffee Breaks: Detroit Lake Drawdown, Rogue Brewing's Closure, and Salem's Evolving Economy
Welcome to another episode of What's Happening Salem, a new weekly series in partnership with the Salem Reporter—your quick coffee-break update on the stories shaping our community.
This week, Jacob Espinoza is joined by Rachel Alexander from the Salem Reporter to unpack two major local stories:
• Detroit Lake’s 2025 drawdown:
Why the water level must be lowered, what it means for endangered fish, and how Salem is preparing to protect our drinking water system from sediment overload.
• Rogue Brewing’s sudden closure:
What happened, what it signals for Oregon’s s...
30,000 Hungry Children: Marion & Polk County's Food Crisis Explained
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this critical episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Rick Gaupo from Marion Polk Food Share to discuss the unprecedented food insecurity crisis facing our community. Rick provides an inside look at:
The impact of SNAP benefit disruptions on 75,000+ individuals across Marion and Polk CountiesHow 30,000 local children are being affected by policy changesThe role of food banks as the "safety net to our safety net programs"Community response and how locals are stepping up to helpThe difference between emergency response and long-term challenges aheadUpcoming changes from HR1...Coffee Breaks: Salem's SNAP Crisis, School Budget Cuts, and ICE Arrests: What You Need to Know
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this Coffee Talk edition—a new series in partnership with Salem Reporter—Jacob Espinoza sits down with Rachel Alexander from Salem Reporter to discuss:
Oregon's last-minute push to distribute SNAP benefits amid federal uncertaintyHow local food pantries continue dealing with increased demand since COVIDSalem-Keizer schools facing $25 million in cuts and potential layoffsThe ongoing tension between rising costs and state funding for educationRecent ICE arrests in Salem and the challenges of reporting on immigration enforcementWhy local nonprofits are crucial for tracking what's happening in our communitySu...
Coffee Breaks: Halloween Spirit, Food Insecurity Concerns, and Downtown Development Updates
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this Coffee Talk edition—a new series in partnership with Salem Reporter—Jacob Espinoza sits down with Rachel Alexander from Salem Reporter to discuss:
The upcoming Halloween weekend and growing Day of the Dead celebrations in SalemThe impact of potential SNAP benefit interruptions on local food pantries and familiesHow the community is stepping up to support neighbors in needThe JCPenney building deal falling through and what it means for downtown SalemWhy the downtown revitalization effort continues despite setbacksSupport local journalism! Subscribe to Salem Repo...
Coffee Breaks: Halloween, Homeless Camps, and Immigration in Salem
Welcome to this week's episode of Coffee Breaks!
In this episode of our new series in partnership with Salem Reporter, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Rachel Alexander to discuss:
Top Halloween activities in Salem, from Rocky Horror at the Grand to the Lost Forest Zombie ShootMayor Julie Hoy's petition to repeal state homeless camp sweep regulationsRising immigration enforcement concerns and their impact on local businesses and community eventsUpdates on Día de los Muertos celebrations happening around SalemThis is a quick 10-minute update on what's happening in Salem, bringing you the latest news a...
Building Bridges: How Salem Leadership Foundation Connects Community
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Kyle Dickinson, Executive Director of Salem Leadership Foundation, to discuss the organization's vital behind-the-scenes work connecting and empowering Salem's community. Topics include:
How Salem Leadership Foundation serves as a connector and trusted advisor across churches, schools, and nonprofitsThe challenges facing nonprofit leaders in today's uncertain funding environmentSLF's innovative Development Cohort - training 31 local fundraisers to build financially sustainable organizationsThe upcoming "I Start This?" cohort for aspiring nonprofit founders and existing organizations looking to expandThe Prevention Working Group's collaborative approach...Coffee Breaks: New City Manager, Safety Program Expansion, and Airport Funding
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this inaugural Coffee Breaks segment—a new partnership with Salem Reporter—Jacob Espinoza and Rachel Alexander deliver a quick 10-minute update on local news and community developments. This week's episode covers:
Christian Ambury's unanimous appointment as Salem's official city manager (no longer interim).The ongoing state ethics investigation involving Mayor Julie Hoy and five city councilors regarding the former city manager's departure.$680,000 approved for safety and livability programs, including expanded homeless services and crisis response teams.New police homeless service team expansion from four to seven days...Salem News: School Improvements & Downtown Reality Check
Welcome to this episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Rachel Alexander from Salem Reporter to discuss the state of local news and pressing issues facing our community:
Topics covered:
Salem-Keizer schools' first positive test score improvements since COVIDThe reality of downtown Salem vs. public perceptionHow local journalism operates with limited resourcesUpcoming city elections and coverage plansThe challenge of covering national issues with a local angleBrainstorming ways to better serve Salem with digestible news contentTimestamps:
00:01 - Introduction and collaboration concept
01:37...
Vanessa Nordyke on Salem's Mayoral Race: Homelessness, Public Safety & Downtown Revival
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, host Jacob Espinoza sits down with Salem City Councilor and mayoral candidate Vanessa Nordyke to discuss her campaign for mayor and vision for Salem's future.
Topics include:
Why Nordyke is running for mayor after nearly six years on the city councilSalem's three-pronged approach to downtown challenges: safety, health, and cleanlinessThe community health response model to address mental health and addiction crisesAffordable housing progress and the Salem Housing Authority's expanded servicesNorth Salem's concerns and the need for equitable attention across all neighborhoodsHer independent...Building a Wine Business Without Millions
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
Ever wondered what it takes to break into the wine industry without millions of dollars? Host Jacob Espinoza sits down with Sam Parra from Parra Wine Co., a trailblazing Latino winemaker who's proving you can build a successful wine business from the ground up in the Willamette Valley.
From his grandfather's journey through the Bracero program to becoming one of the few Hispanic wine entrepreneurs in Oregon, Sam's story is one of grit, heritage, and hustle. But this isn't just a feel-good success story – it's a ra...
What is it Like to Own a Restaurant in Salem?
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
Jacob Espinoza sits down with two industry veterans to explore the reality of owning a restaurant in Salem, Oregon, in 2025. Joined by Cecilia Ritter, restaurateur and owner of Wild Pear with 25 years in the industry, and Jason Brandt, President and CEO of the Oregon Restaurant and Lodging Association, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to survive and thrive in Salem's food scene.
In this candid discussion, they cover:
The harsh financial realities: operating on 3-5% margins while food costs surgeWhy...Why Nat Borchers is Investing in Salem
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
Two-time MLS Cup champion Nat Borchers is betting BIG on Salem - and he's putting his money where his mouth is. From the 45th Parallel to downtown's JCPenney building, this soccer legend turned real estate mogul is transforming Salem one property at a time.
In this powerhouse conversation, discover:
Why a champion athlete chose Salem over anywhere else in the world The massive JCPenney vision: rooftop bars, basement night markets, and family entertainment hubs How Salem's "boring" reputation is completely wrong (and provable)The downtown...Helping Salem Train for Their First Iron Man
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
Jacob Espinoza sits down with three local experts to dive deep into training for Salem's Ironman 70.3 triathlon. Joining the conversation are John Moore from the Physical Therapy Project, Moses Keener and Scott Cycle, and Conrad Venti, who completed his first half Ironman this year.
In this comprehensive discussion, they cover:
Getting started: From initial inspiration to race day commitmentEssential equipment recommendations for swimming, cycling, and running on a budgetCommon training misconceptions and injury prevention strategiesThe powerful community aspect of triathlon training in SalemNutrition strategies for...Can We Still Grow Here? A podcast episode about farming in Oregon.
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Brian Zielinski from Scenic Valley Farms and Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell for an in-depth discussion about the recent DLCD (Department of Land Conservation and Development) farm stands rulemaking proposal that sparked statewide controversy among Oregon farmers.
You'll learn about:
What the DLCD farm stands rulemaking actually proposed and why it caused such an uproarThe real challenges facing Oregon farmers today - from rising costs to decreasing revenuesHow Marion County, as Oregon's #1 agricultural producing county, handles farm...What Happened With Avelo and the Salem Airport?
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanor Ryan are joined by Brent DeHart from Fly Salem for an in-depth conversation about the past, present, and future of commercial aviation at Salem-Willamette Valley Airport. This discussion comes on the heels of Avelo Airlines' announcement that they're discontinuing service to Salem as part of their broader West Coast exit strategy.
You'll learn about:
The real story behind Avelo's departure from Salem and why it had nothing to do with local performanceHow Salem's air service recruitment actually works...Maeghan Egli on Balancing Pro Bodybuilding and a Career in Real Estate
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanore Ryan are joined by Maeghan Egli, a professional IFBB bodybuilder and Sales Director at Ticor Title, for a fun and insightful conversation about the discipline of professional bodybuilding, the power of mindset, and how a calling can find you in unexpected ways.
You'll learn about:
Maeghan’s journey to becoming a professional bodybuilder and the mindset that fuels her success both on and off the stage.How the discipline from fitness spills over into career success, relationships, and pe...Tiffany Bulgin on Isaac's Room and Salem's Youth Development
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this first live episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanor Ryan sit down with Tiffany Bulgin from Isaac's Room and the IKE Box to discuss:
The inspiring story behind Isaac's Room.The power of community support during life's most challenging moments.Downtown Salem's revitalization with new local ownership and exciting developments.And much more!Timestamps:
00:23 - Live recording introduction
05:05 - How technology changed live music culture
09:01 - The mission behind Isaac's Room
16:42 - The launch and lead philosophy<...
Fire Chief David Gerboth on Salem’s Community Safety Innovation
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanore Ryan sit down with Salem Fire Chief David Gerboth to discuss:
The major transition bringing Salem’s ambulance service back in-house with 60 new hires.Plans for alternative service delivery to preserve resources for major emergencies.Preparing for wildfire season and Fourth of July safety.And much more!Timestamps:
06:42 - Interview with Fire Chief David Gerboth begins
12:51 - The culture of compassion in emergency response
20:10 - Bringing ambulance service back to Salem Fire De...
Karlee Flores on Building Floso's Dirty Soda Empire
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanore Ryan speak with Karlee Flores about:
How Karlee built Floso with a community-first approach and experience in content marketing.The realities of entrepreneurship, social media visibility, and managing growth with integrity.Staying grounded and authentic while navigating personal identity and business in Salem.And much more!Timestamps:
00:17:24 - Meet Karlee and Floso
00:22:05 - Growth through business struggles
00:33:11 - The dirty soda inspiration
00:38:48 - Introvert shift from online to retail
Brandon Eastman on Building Bentley's Coffee Empire
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanore Ryan speak with Brandon Eastman, founder of Bentley’s Coffee, to discuss:
Brandon’s journey founding Bentley’s Coffee and the hard lessons he learned building a beloved local brand.The culture of growth and loyalty at Bentley’s, including employee promotion and community-focused expansion into Redmond and Boise.Bentley’s commitment to giving back through dog-friendly philanthropy and why prioritizing local animal shelters became central to their mission.And much more!Timestamps:
00:01:17 - Communication mishaps and calendars
00:11...
Mickey Walker on the Future of Salem-Keizer Volcanoes Baseball and Community Entertainment
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza speaks with Mickey Walker and Eleanore Ryan about:
Mickey Walker’s journey from shagging home run balls as a kid to leading the Mavericks League and Roto Rooter Park in Salem.The transformation of Volcanoes Stadium into a vibrant community venue blending baseball with live entertainment and local culture.Creative challenges and insights into balancing family life with managing a multi-use sports and event venue.And much more!Timestamps:
00:10:26 – Mickey’s childhood at the stadium
00:18:46 – Future vision for Volcanoe...
Chad Johnson on Salem's Comedy Scene and Building Community Through Laughter
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza speaks with Chad Johnson and Eleanore Ryan about:
Chad’s foundational role in building Salem’s comedy scene and how it’s grown from just eight comics to a thriving community.The unique challenges and rewards of producing live comedy shows, including the grassroots success of Cakes Comedy.How comedy builds community and personal resilience through authentic storytelling and consistent effort.And much more!Timestamps:
00:01:30 - The Grand’s new comedy role
00:04:34 - Creating unforgettable live events
00:10...
Alyssa Lockwood on Sip and Stroll and Salem's Nonprofit Community
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza speaks with Eleanore Ryan and Alyssa Lockwood about:
Eleanore's rapid rise in comedy, balancing shows in Eugene, Albany, and Salem, and the evolution of her personal style and confidence onstage.Alyssa’s role at Garten Services and how they empower individuals with disabilities through employment, community, and support programs.The growth and impact of Sip and Stroll, a downtown Salem event blending local business promotion, community connection, and nonprofit fundraising.And much more!Timestamps:
00:01:10 - Comedy show at Max’s Tave...
Maria Hinojos Pressey and Allan Pollock on Salem's Public Transportation
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Eleanore Ryan speak with Allan Pollock and Maria Hinojos Pressey from Cherriots about:
Maria and Allan’s shared commitment to making public transportation more accessible and sustainable in Salem.How Cherriots is expanding service, adding electric buses, and using technology to enhance rider experience.The social, economic, and environmental benefits of transit and how it's shaping the city's future.And much more!Timestamps:
00:06:43 - Introducing Cherriots team
00:08:01 - Mission and rider priorities
00:13:14 - Launching electric bu...
Chelsea Opfer on Salem's Dark History and Underground Tunnels
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers speak with Chelsea Opfer of Ghost of the Grand about:
Chelsea’s deep dive into Salem’s haunted history and the revival of ghost tours through immersive storytelling.The mysterious tunnels beneath downtown Salem and their ties to Chinese immigrant communities and forgotten narratives.How local events like Ghost of the Grand and Ghoul’s Night Out bring Salem’s dark past to life in fun and meaningful ways.And much more!Timestamps:
00:03:43 - First impressions of Salem
Superintendent Castañeda and Eleanore Ryan on School Budgets and Student Support
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem! In this episode, Jacob Espinoza speaks with Superintendent Andrea Castañeda and comedian Eleanore Ryan about:
Andrea's experience leading the Salem-Keizer School District through financial hardship and her commitment to transparency and growth.The increasing need for behavioral and mental health support in elementary schools and how the district is responding.Why investing in relationships, community engagement, and joy-driven leadership matters for public education.And much more!Timestamps:
00:02:14 – Sharing personal journeys of resilience
00:03:07 – The weight of school budget decisions
00:04:49 – Grace vs. account...
Ali Virtue, MS NTP, on Nutrition and Healthy Eating in Salem
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with nutritionist Ali Virtue, MS NTP, to discuss:
Practical approaches to healthy eating and fitness that work for busy lifestyles.Budget-friendly strategies for eating healthy in Salem.Simple habits that create major health improvements.And much more!Timestamps:
00:58 - Jacob shares his fitness journey and current goals
05:16 - Debunking myths about healthy eating and diet approaches
12:22 - Budget-friendly grocery shopping strategies for healthy eating
21:10 - Ali's favorite Salem restaurants for...
Commissioner Bethell on Addiction Treatment Funding Cuts
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell to discuss:
The recent $3 million funding cut to Bridgeway Community Health, Salem's largest addiction treatment provider.How the Oregon Health Authority's grant allocation process impacts local treatment services.Current legislative efforts to improve funding distribution based on population needs.And much more!Timestamps:
00:30 - Introduction with Commissioner Bethell
03:22 - Background on the recent funding cuts to addiction treatment
16:58 - How funding decisions impact Bridgeway's new facility...
Dr. Jessica Howard on Chemeketa's Future and Workforce Innovation
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with Dr. Jessica Howard, President of Chemeketa Community College, to discuss:
How Chemeketa is adapting to rapidly changing workforce needs through innovative programsThe upcoming May renewal bond that will maintain current tax rates while funding critical facility updatesThe integration of AI and cutting-edge technologies in education and career preparationAnd much more!Timestamps:
03:40 - How Chemeketa stays relevant in a changing workforce landscape
11:47 - Using advanced technologies like AI in education
<...Congresswoman Salinas on Tariffs and Federal Budget Impacts
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Congresswoman Andrea Salinas to discuss:
The economic impacts of proposed tariffs and market volatility on Oregon businesses.How federal budget cuts directly affect Salem communities - from Social Security office closures to education funding.Infrastructure concerns including Detroit Lake water management and bridge safety.And much more!Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction with Brandon Sommers discussing business uncertainty
12:47 - Conversation with Congresswoman Salinas begins
15:58 - Three ways federal budget cuts impact Salem
<...Max Carnage on Salem's Best Breakfast Burritos
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Max Carnage, Salem's favorite foodie, to discuss:
His journey creating over 60 food review videos on YouTube.The quest to find Salem's best breakfast burrito.The importance of supporting local restaurants.And much more!Timestamps:
07:18 - Max's YouTube food review series
11:37 - Exploring Salem's breakfast burrito scene
15:57 - Top breakfast burrito recommendations
25:10 - New and exciting food spots in Salem
33:59 - Future of food spaces in Salem's mall<...
Britany Randall on Housing Regulations and Senate Bill 1537
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza sits down with Britany Randall, land use expert and consultant, to discuss:
Senate Bill 1537 and its impact on housing development.The challenges of housing affordability in Salem.Ways to improve housing productionAnd much more!Timestamps:
05:10 - Workforce housing explained
07:42 - Regulations vs. affordability
12:34 - State housing accountability office
18:59 - Housing production challenges
22:40 - Historical housing affordability
29:42 - Importance of community investment
34:05 - Window requirements example
Jordan Truitt on Salem's Wildfire Response and Community Leadership
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with Jordan Truitt to discuss:
His experience leading the relief efforts during the 2020 wildfires.How the community came together during crisis to support those affected.The lasting impact of volunteer work on personal growth.And much more!Timestamps:
00:55 - Jordan's community involvement and board positions
06:59 - The 2020 wildfires
13:16 - Community response to donation requests
30:17 - How the experience changed Jordan's perspective
36:11 - The importance of...
Punx With Purpose on Supporting Unhoused Youth
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with Hailey and Cheyenne from Punx With Purpose to talk about:
How they created a nonprofit serving unhoused and at-risk youth in Salem through low-barrier, youth-driven programs.Why prevention and youth mental health support are crucial for breaking cycles.How community connections make their work possible.And much more!Timestamps:
00:34 - Introductions and recent award recognition
06:54 - What Punx with a Purpose does
10:55 - Youth homelessness and couch surfing...
Jodi Blackman on United Way's Evolution and the Awesome 3000
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with Jodi Blackman from United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley to discuss:
The evolution of United Way over the past decade. Taking over the Awesome 3000 community event. How nonprofit funding is changing. And much more!Timestamps:
03:37 - United Way's service transformation
08:28 - Enrichment Academy program overview
12:09 - Federal funding uncertainties
18:59 - Fiscal management approach
21:26 - Awesome 3000 acquisition
28:49 - Event sponsorship opportunities
33:39...
Paul Tigan on Salem's Budget Solutions and Livability Levy
Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!
In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with City Councilor Paul Tigan to discuss:
Salem's current budget challenges. The upcoming livability levy proposal. Why local government matters in our daily lives. And much more!Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction and welcome
03:39 - Reasons for running for City Council
09:00 - Business consulting experience and city communications
12:23 - Understanding Salem's budget challenges
16:36 - Independent financial audit findings
20:23 - Livability levy details and property tax...