Almost Paradise In North Idaho

In this Friday Morning Brew, listener feedback gives way to a thoughtful reflection on Easter—also known as Resurrection Weekend.While some may debate the wording, the focus remains simple: keeping the main thing the main thing. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, His resurrection, and the promise of eternal life for those who believe. It’s a message of hope, but also one that challenges us—not just to accept Him as Savior, but as Lord. From the quiet beauty of North Idaho’s “almost paradise” to the promise of something greater ahead, this reflection gently reminds us what this weekend is truly all about.

After a long night wrestling with whether his April Fools episode was truly finished—or just “good enough”—Ted reflects on a lesson from his early days as a young reporter.A former editor once told him, “Good enough isn’t good enough…not for you.” Those words echo years later as Ted revisits his work, discovering the difference between being done and being right. In this Morning Brew, he explores the quiet tug-of-war we all face—between comfort and effort, between settling and stretching. With a few North Idaho comparisons and a touch of humor, Ted considers the voices that guide us and the danger of chasing perfection instead of purpose. Sometimes good enough really is enough—but when that inner nudge won’t go away, it might be time to lean in just a little more. Because growth doesn’t come from perfection…it comes from progress.

In this special April 1st episode of Almost Paradise in North Idaho, we take a walk through a collection of stories, reports, and “developments” that may—or may not—be exactly what they seem.From unexpected changes at airports…to creative new uses for local facilities…to sightings and situations right here in Boundary County that might have you looking twice at things you’ve always taken for granted…this episode keeps listeners guessing from start to finish.Along the way, we explore how easily perception can shift depending on how a story is told—and how sometimes the line between fact and fiction isn’t always as clear as we might think.You’ll hear about activity in the skies, mysteries beneath the water, and a few familiar local characters making their seasonal appearances. And just when you think you’ve got it all figured out…you may not.Mixed throughout are lighthearted moments, local humor, and a few observations about life here in North Idaho—where things are often simpler, but never boring.So settle in, enjoy the ride, and see if you can separate truth from imagination.Or maybe…just enjoy the mystery.After all…some stories are better when you’re not entirely sure.

We spent a quiet Sunday afternoon at the movies watching Project Hail Mary, expecting a good science fiction story—and we got that. But we also walked away with something more.This isn’t a review so much as a reflection. Beneath the science and the stakes, this is a story about a man facing more than just an impossible mission. He’s facing himself—his doubts, his fears, and his uncertainty about whether he’s truly the right person for the job.It raises a question we don’t often ask out loud: Does the moment make the man, or does the man make the moment? The truth is, most of us don’t really know how we’ll respond when life asks something big of us.What stood out most was not confidence, but growth. Not instant courage, but a series of small decisions to keep going, to keep trying, and to do the next right thing. Along the way, an unexpected relationship reminds us that trust and connection are often built slowly.Maybe our own “Hail Mary” moments aren’t dramatic—but they still ask the same thing of us: to show up, even when we don’t feel ready.

With the Kansas City Royals home opener around the corner, it seemed like the perfect time to talk baseball—but we took a slight detour…into a collection of over 80 baseball caps. From Royals and Wildcats to funny sayings, old teams, TV shows, and even one bearing his mother’s name, each cap tells a story. What starts as a lighthearted look at a “harmless” collection turns into something more meaningful—how the things we keep often reflect the lives we’ve lived, the people we’ve loved, and the memories we’re not quite ready to part with. Along the way, there are a few laughs, a little self-defense, and maybe a reminder that sometimes what looks like clutter…is really a collection of moments worth holding onto. Life, after all, is a lot like a well-worn cap—comfortable, familiar, and best appreciated over time.

This week’s Friday Feedback is a little messy—in the best possible way. From scrambled eggs in a coat pocket to kitchen disasters shared by listeners (including a pizza fire that got a little too real), we share a few laughs and shake our heads together. But it’s not all humor. Listeners also reflect on stories that linger—like the passing of Missy, the simple joy of three barn kittens, and the meaning behind things we hold onto. It’s a mix of letters, memories, and moments that remind us life isn’t always neat… but it’s often meaningful, especially here in Almost Paradise.

In this quieter Morning Brew, we take a moment to reflect on something we don’t always like to think about—letting go. When longtime neighbors finally leave their beloved country home for a simpler life closer to family and care, it brings a truth a little closer to home. For those of us who love the land, the space, and the rhythm of rural life, the question isn’t if… but when.This episode gently explores that tension—holding tightly to what we love while recognizing that seasons change. With a mix of personal reflection, a touch of North Idaho perspective, and a few steadying scriptures, we consider what it means to plan wisely without worrying, and to appreciate deeply without clinging too hard.Not today… but someday. And until then, there’s still coffee to drink, work to do, and a view out back that reminds us just how good life really is.

In this heartfelt conversation, we step into the life of a North Idaho family navigating a season of growth, change, and quiet trust in God’s plan. As Chloe pursues new opportunities and prepares to return home for a time, her parents reflect on the balance between letting go and holding on. Their journey is marked by faith—guiding a father as he considers expanding his business, a mother serving women through high-risk pregnancies, and two older sons building strong lives of their own.This episode explores the beauty of transition: celebrating independence while cherishing connection, embracing opportunity while remaining grounded in gratitude. Through it all, this family leans on their faith, trusting that each new step is part of a greater purpose. It’s a story of love, growth, and learning to follow God’s will—wherever it may lead.

Spring officially arrived last Friday—but somehow, I missed it. Maybe that says something about how this season really works, especially here in North Idaho. We’ve had glimpses—50-degree days, melting snow, longer light—but the wind reminds us we’re not quite there yet. Then came a true spring day: 60s, no wind, and a chance to get our hands dirty in the yard. The trampoline is up, tennis is calling, and signs of life are everywhere. Still, we know better than to rush it. Spring is coming—but around here, it teaches us patience every step of the way.

In this lighthearted but sentimental Morning Brew, Ted reflects on the stories our old work coats can carry.Joy's worn coat once belonged to her father and he still walks the barnyard with her in spirit as she feeds horses, pets donkeys, and gathers eggs.Ted’s coat, on the other hand, simply tries to survive firewood, rough bark, and one very unfortunate decision — forgetting he had put eggs in a pocket that already had a small hole in it.What follows is a kitchen floor egg disaster, two enthusiastic cleanup dogs, and a lesson about patching pockets, laughing at life’s messes, and appreciating the everyday stories hiding in the coats we wear.Ted then reflects on the value of people over things, and how we sometimes forget that.

Today Ted's March Madness Morning Brew captures the spirit of the tournament through the eyes of a fan who knows just enough to be dangerous—and isn’t afraid to admit it. With Gonzaga and Idaho University carrying the hopes of North Idaho, Ted leans into the excitement, unpredictability, and shares the experience that makes March special, while steering clear of overanalyzing stats or pretending to have a perfect bracket. Ted ponders the various mascots that dot the land - the good, and the bad, and the ugly!Along the way, Ted tries to sprinkle in humor, a few gentle jabs (including at your own Kansas State Wildcats’ absence), and a light, thoughtful nod to faith—wondering, with a grin, which team mascots might catch heaven’s attention. More than anything, this episode celebrates community: coworkers filling out brackets, friends gathering around TVs, and the simple joy of rooting for “our team.” Win or lose, busted bracket or not, it’s a reminder that sometimes the madness is the fun here in North Idaho.

In this episode of Almost Paradise in North Idaho, we spend time with the Better Together Animal Alliance Care Center in Ponderay—where the mission goes far beyond sheltering animals. It’s about helping dogs, cats, and people find each other… so everyone is truly better together.Ted shares his own story of three barn kittens—Tiger, Hissy, and Bash—who found their way from under a stack of hay bales to a healthy, happy life with a little help from the Better Together Animal Alliance Care Center. Along the way, we explore what really happens behind the scenes at a clean, modern facility run by people who genuinely care.But this conversation goes deeper. What’s the difference between a stray cat and a feral cat? What can communities do about growing cat colonies? And how do cats—independent as they are—fit into the natural order alongside dogs, who seem wired for companionship?We also highlight the programs and services available to the public, offering practical help and education for pet owners across North Idaho and beyond.And, as often happens on the porch, the conversation drifts toward bigger questions—like whether animals have a place in eternity.Because in the end, whether here or beyond…We really are better together.

In this special St. Patrick’s Day Morning Brew, Ted pours a strong cup of coffee and takes listeners on a short trip to Ireland—without leaving North Idaho. Who was St. Patrick, and why is his story still told centuries later? Along the way, Ted explores the famous legend of Patrick chasing the snakes out of Ireland, and the more likely explanation involving glaciers and geography. He also shares the simple lesson of the shamrock, which Patrick used to explain the idea of the Trinity. With a mix of humor, history, and Irish folklore, this episode reminds us that behind every holiday there’s usually a real story worth telling. So grab your favorite mug—Irish coffee if you’re feeling festive—and enjoy a few green thoughts for the day. And as always, Ted closes with a reminder that life is pretty good… almost paradise, here in North Idaho.

About a month ago I discovered something surprising about myself. After seventy-two years of staying out of the Jail, I finally managed to get locked up… by Facebook.Apparently a harmless little post triggered the mysterious “community standards” department and landed me in what folks call Facebook Jail. My sentence was short, but it gave me time to think about algorithms, free conversation, and the strange modern town square we now live in online.So this morning’s Brew is a lighthearted confession about my brief career as a social media criminal… and why Jesus’ advice to be wise as serpents and gentle as doves still applies today.

Ted shares some of the comments and feedbacks he gets about his attempts to do his podcast.That are all nice, because he won't share the ones that aren't nice!

After an afternoon of cutting firewood with his friend Terry, dark clouds and rain convinced Ted it might be a good time to stop and head to the Three Mile Café for pie—except the café is out of pie and the ice cream machine isn’t working. Over coffee and cookies they watch the weather change. By the time they return home, the rain has turned to a gentle snowfall—the kind of snow that’s pretty to watch but doesn’t require shoveling.

Today on Almost Paradise in North Idaho, I sit down with retired Naval Flight Officer Mike Peterson for a fascinating conversation about life in the cockpit—or as Mike jokingly puts it, the back seat, where the “important work” happens.Mike served aboard aircraft carriers navigating and targeting from high-performance fighter jets, guiding missions in situations where American troops were sometimes dangerously close to the action. He shares stories of the intensity of carrier operations—launching and landing on a deck that tilts, rolls, and heaves in the middle of the ocean—and the unforgettable “pucker moments” that come with flying at the edge of chaos.With humor and perspective, Mike compares the legendary F-14 Tomcat to a classic Pontiac GTO muscle car, while the newer Super Hornet, packed with advanced technology, reminds him more of a highly capable Honda Civic.Along the way we hear about call signs, mistakes that turn into lifelong nicknames, the teamwork required to succeed in aviation, and the discipline and character built through service.Today Mike applies those lessons to leadership and strategy in civilian life. Our conversation also explores patriotism, history, and the importance of understanding the challenges facing our nation today.It’s a thoughtful, entertaining look at service, responsibility, and the lessons learned both in the air and on the ground.

When the clocks jump ahead for Daylight Saving Time, our bodies don’t always get the memo. In this Morning Brew, Ted shares a few front-porch reflections on those groggy Monday mornings when the alarm clock and our inner clock don’t quite agree. With a strong cup of coffee in hand, he talks about darker mornings, sleepy greetings, and the importance of staying alert on the highways, especially when deer might be starting their day too. With a little humor, a little wisdom, and a reminder that even lost hours eventually settle in, Ted encourages listeners to wake up, take it slow, and face the day with patience and a good brew.

In this Morning Brew reflection, Ted shares the simple tools that help him notice life more carefully—a small spiral notebook and a four-color Bic pen carried in his shirt pocket. This habit by Ted was formed years ago when he was a journalism student and teacher. It now it has become a daily companion for podcast ideas, observations, and reminders worth remembering. Written in red ink so they stand out, these notes capture moments that might otherwise pass by unnoticed. It’s a lighthearted look at listening more than talking, paying attention to the world around us, and how even the smallest habits can help us slow down, reflect, and find stories hiding in everyday life.

In this Morning Brew reflection, Ted shares a lighthearted story about a stubborn molar and a tired old fence post—two things that recently demanded his attention. The tooth had quite a history, including a root canal more than twenty years ago, and after weeks of whispering, talking, and finally yelling, it was clear a trip to the dentist couldn’t be avoided. The verdict? Extraction.At the same time, a wooden gate post on Ted’s property has been slowly giving up the ghost as well. A couple of steel T-posts have it temporarily standing, but everyone knows that fix won’t last forever.Somewhere between dental chairs and leaning fence posts, Ted reflects on the dangers of living life on autopilot. Whether it’s our health, our habits, or the small warnings life gives us, wisdom often comes from listening to the whispers before they become shouts.Sometimes the simplest lessons come from everyday things around us.

In this Morning Brew reflection, Ted briefly acknowledges the growing tensions and conflict in the Middle East, offering prayers for those affected while choosing not to add more noise to an already crowded news cycle. Instead, he turns his attention to something closer to home in North Idaho.After his ATV suddenly died while plowing snow, a series of friends stepped in to help. From Jim helping tow the machine to Ted's garage, to retired mechanic Bob diagnosing a loose spark plug, to Terry lending a strong back cutting and splitting firewood for next winter, the stories all point to the same truth: community matters.Sometimes the most important headlines never make the news. They happen in garages, driveways, and wood piles—where neighbors show up, lend a hand, and remind us what friendship really looks like.

Retirement sounds simple—work hard, collect the watch, and enjoy the rest. But as Harold and I talk through on this front porch episode, it’s not that tidy.For many men, work isn’t just what we did. It’s who we were. So what happens when the job title disappears? When the alarm clock stops ringing? When you’re suddenly home… all the time?In this honest conversation between two guys in their 70s, we wrestle with the loss of identity that can sneak in after retirement. We talk about living on a fixed income, adjusting expectations, and learning how to share space—and time—with the spouse in a whole new way. There’s humor, a little self-reflection, and yes, a few hard truths about mistakes we’ve both made along the road.Harold leans into the deeper faith questions: Does purpose retire? Does calling have an expiration date? I try to keep it grounded in everyday reality—projects in the garage, men’s groups, community involvement, and the simple discipline of staying useful.If you’re retired, nearing retirement, or walking beside someone who is, this conversation may sound familiar. Because when the career chapter closes, life doesn’t. In many ways, it’s just beginning again.Pull up a chair. The coffee’s still hot.

In this meaningful episode of Almost Paradise in North Idaho, Ted introduces his new “Morning Brew” segment — a simple way to begin the day with reflection, gratitude, and a little North Idaho perspective. But this sunrise also carries a sunset. Ted shares a heartfelt farewell to Missy, their 18½-year-old rescue dog who quietly blessed the family for a decade. Independent and steady, she reminded them that faithful presence is its own kind of love. In both beginnings and goodbyes, we’re reminded that every season is a gift — and that even the smallest lives leave lasting fingerprints on our hearts.

Noah stops in and visits with Ted about a wide range of local issues.He is disappointed that he got all ready for his first North Idaho winter, and then it didn't happen.Noah considers himself a true Badger now as he is hooked on the high school sports scene.Other issues discussed include: The North Bench Fire Department financial challenges, the upcoming political races, the Canadian flag issue, the Canadian border walk for peace, the recent USA - Canadian hockey games for the gold, and searching for a social life here in Bonners Ferry.

In this episode of Almost Paradise in North Idaho, I sit down with my friend Jim Bottoms — a man many around here affectionately call our own Cowboy Poet.Jim is a gifted songwriter, poet, and author who has quietly spent years putting faith, life, and hard-earned wisdom into words. He stopped by the studio with his guitar, shared some songs, recited some of his poetry, and talked about his latest book. But more than that, he shared the story behind the stories.Jim reflects on the winding path that led him to Bonners Ferry, including a clear sense of God’s urging that this was the place he was meant to be. Along the way, he spent years involved in theatre, did some teaching, rode horses, raised a family, and learned to listen for God’s gentle direction through every season.Today, with most of his children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren living nearby, Jim considers North Idaho “almost paradise.” He also helps host Vintage Worship Night every third Saturday — a growing gathering centered on old gospel hymns and classic worship songs that point straight to the heart of the faith.This is a thoughtful, relaxed conversation about creativity, obedience, legacy, and using whatever gifts God has placed in your hands.If you enjoy meaningful lyrics, quiet faith, and stories that remind us God is still at work in ordinary lives, you’ll feel right at home with this episode.

U.S. Highway 95 is more than a roadway—it’s a shared journey. From Sandpoint to the Canadian border, it carries the daily stories of families, workers, and neighbors simply trying to get where they’re going and return home safely.In this episode of Almost Paradise in North Idaho, we share conversations with Idaho Transportation Department officials, Idaho State Patrol leaders and troopers, and the Boundary County Sheriff, recorded at the recent Highway 95 Corridor Safety Workshop in Bonners Ferry. They discuss challenges, plans, and the realities of keeping a vital rural highway safe.Running through every conversation is a quiet wisdom: “The prudent see danger and take refuge.” Slowing down, staying alert, and driving defensively are small choices that can protect precious lives.This episode invites us to see driving not just as a task, but as stewardship—of our own lives and of one another. When we watch the road and watch out for each other, we honor the value of every mile and every soul traveling it.

In this episode of Almost Paradise in North Idaho, we pull up a chair with lifelong Boundary County resident and real estate agent/broker Darlene Schneider for a down-to-earth conversation about home, community, and the changing face of North Idaho.Darlene grew up here, drove logging trucks as a teenager, raised a family in these valleys, and later found her way into real estate after her kids were grown. Along the way, she’s gained something you can’t learn from a manual — a deep understanding of this place and its people.This isn’t a sales pitch. It’s a neighborly talk about what folks should really know if they’re thinking about moving here, what longtime residents are seeing as the area grows, and how to approach change without losing what matters most.Darlene shares why getting involved in churches, clubs, local groups, and community events is one of the best ways to learn the North Idaho way. She also speaks honestly about challenges like homesickness, family left behind, and discovering that winter up here has a personality of its own.If you care about finding a home, not just a house — and keeping the soul of North Idaho intact — this conversation is for you.

The Bonners Ferry Gun & Horn Show is back this weekend, and it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest and best yet. In this episode of Almost Paradise in North Idaho, Kevin Dye joins us to preview what folks can expect and why this long-standing community tradition continues to matter.From firearms, horns, and outdoor gear to an expanded outdoor expo that’s free to the public, this year’s show places a strong emphasis on education, demonstrations, and hands-on experiences for kids and families. The goal is simple: promote safe, responsible gun ownership, encourage hunting and fishing, and pass along North Idaho’s outdoor heritage to the next generation.Kevin also shares how faith, family, music, and life in the outdoors shape his passion for serving on the committee and keeping the focus positive and non-political.If you care about tradition, community, and the outdoors, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

At just 22, Chloe is chasing callings, not comfort. From trading a California beach lifestyle for North Idaho winters, to working in her family’s pizza parlor, to now teaching English in the Dominican Republic, Chloe’s life has been shaped by curiosity, courage, and a willingness to say yes.In this episode, we talk about cultural adjustments, stepping into the unknown, serving in one of the poorest neighborhoods in her host town, and trusting God even when the future isn’t clear. It’s a conversation about adventure, humility, and what can happen when a willing heart meets an open door.

Episode 100 arrives on Groundhog Day, which feels just about right. This podcast has always been about showing up—again and again—coffee in hand, eyes open, heart willing. In Almost Paradise, seasons repeat, stories echo, and lessons deepen. Along the way, we’ve learned that faith often grows in the ordinary rhythms: listening, paying attention, and being faithful where we’re planted. This milestone isn’t about perfection or predictions—it’s about gratitude, community, and trusting that even on familiar mornings, God still has something new to say. Thanks for walking this road with us.

Ted kicks off this podcast promoting the US-95 Corridor Safety Workshop. It is being presented by the Idaho Transportation Department and the Idaho State Police. It will discuss ways to make Hwy 95 safer from Sandpoint to the Canadian border. Lots have accidents have happened on this highway the past couple years for a variety of reasons, and proposed solutions will be presented and input from the public is encouraged.Then Ted gets serious and talks about the Minnesota riots, ICE, and the unfortunate recent death of a protestor. What is the deeper causes of this unrest and resistance? Ted suggests something far more sinister and deeper than some might be considering.And then he considers a couple of solutions to this situation. Two extreme ideas for a difficult and challenging situation.In the end Ted concludes with who he thinks if most responsible and has blood on their hands.

Today Linda is the CEO of the local Bonners Ferry Senior Hospitality Center, but she has worn many hats during her life here in the community.And while all of those different adventures were interesting and successful, her current position may be the most fulfilling.Even though she was retired, she was asked a couple years ago to help the senior center recover from some difficult times. She has righted the ship and once again it is providing a much needed haven and bee hive of activities for seniors in the area.Linda's goal if for everyone to not just enjoy the well cooked meals and many activities, but to feel like family.But volunteers and donations are always needed and welcomed to help keep the lights on and the doors open and the coffee hot.

Come join Lee and Ted as he relives his life as a border patrol agent, logger, and football announcer. And mostly they discuss the specific events in Minnesota and the issues of sanctuary cities and states in general and their impact on America. The coffee is hot, the chairs are comfy, and the conversation is friendly. If you find Lee interesting you can hear more from an earlier episode that aired a year ago on January 24, 2025. Lee may be a little rough around the edges, but he really does have a soft heart and a gentle soul. And his smile and laugh will light up any room.

Ted returns with a variety of topics as he flies solo (by the seat of his pants).Topics include:Flat Brecken (What the heck is that?!)Snow finally comes to our little home...but then melts away!Ted gets serious about the events concerning ICE and Minnesota.A history lesson is given on the Monroe Doctrine and why Trump is taking it off the shelf and knocking the dust off of it.Gonzaga basketball is in the Top 10 and doing just fine, naturally.But Mark Few warns of trouble ahead for college basketball.Montana State wins the national championship in overtime. What a game and what a breath of fresh air in college football.Ted and a friend break down the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers NFL playoff game.Which team is more politically and environmentally correct? And sometimes what isn't said is more important than what is said.

Bonners Ferry has a new reporter, Noah Harris.He is a California transplant, but one of the good ones!And he got his drivers license so he could live and work here in Bonners Ferry!Moving from the Los Angeles area of several million to Bonners Ferry has been a bit of a cultural adjustment, which he enjoys.He loves how the friendly people here in North Idaho like to wave at each other. Back home, waving was often met with a level of suspicion and concern.Noah got his degree in Sociology, but discovered a love for journalism while going to school in Australia.He is working hard at becoming a member of the local community, even attending his first ever Monster Truck competition on his first night in town!He has some quarks, like taking a college class on making coffee even though he doesn't like coffee.His goal is to write accurate stories that serve the community. He loves to write investigative stories. He is searching for the truth while earning trust.He came here to become a part of Bonners Ferry, not to change it.

If you are starting to think about owning a home, this is the podcast for you.Ted learns the difference between rockets and mortgages!Key terms Linda Collier discusses and emphasizes include:CommunicationCommunicationCommunicationPlus: Education, being curious, preparing and planning, trust, and other secrets to successful home finance.