Almost Paradise In North Idaho

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.

Ted survives the big windstorm, but some trees didn't.Power goes out & he watches the clock tick toward the big game.With the lights out, Ted discovers something not so yummy in his coffee.Ted ponders if bumper stickers are protected by the 1st Amendment.Hunting reindeer in North Idaho is discussed.Pancake syrup and shoes...what a combination!The sun is finally returning, but not very fast...Is Indiana football really the greatest turn around in history? Ted begs to differ.Through it all, Ted learns patience for things he can't control. Kind of...

Mark and Ted chew the fat!Today they talk about:Local flooding, the fall of a sports dynasty & icon, the Monroe Doctrine, Australian shooting and Australia's new social media laws, adults being adults and protecting children, peace through strength (kind of), etc.And they share a few laughs along the way.

Ted lets his imagination run wild in this episode and so he wonders about...North Idaho being invaded by aliens disguised as a comet.Why he is scared of comets, and aliens, and other space invasion scenarios?What Amelia Earhart and Dorothy of the Wizard of OZ have in common? Is Wicked really wicked?Are the characters of Wicked, really wicked?Do we watch, or boycott?Meanwhile, Ted is so thankful for the rain because....

Molly Erickson was lost much of her life, until she was found.When she found Jesus, her life was changed.Today, Molly heads many ministries in Bonners Ferry, including:The Shepard's TableA woman's jail ministryA counselor for Preborn, a pro-life Christian ministryA praise dance workout sessionSunday School TeacherA woman's bible studyMolly is ready to share the hope that The Word offers everyone.

Ted had quite the week, and of course he talks about it all.

Gobble, Gobble! Two guys sit down and prove why they are often referred to as "Turkeys"!The two discover many rabbit holes, and go down almost all of them.Ted wonders why Mark refused to hold his hand.It's time to be thankful...and Ted and Mark are.Enjoy the show and have a safe and fun Thanksgiving!

Chris & Larrie Clark return from Israel with individual, and shared, perspectives.While they both were in awe of walking in the footsteps of Jesus, Chris also enjoyed the geo-political and historical aspects of the trip while Larrie felt a deepening spiritual awareness.While they both felt overwhelming peace, they also saw chaos in various religious sites.Larrie played the guitar during moments of worship, and her voice survived.Chris carried the guitar all over Israel, and his hip survived!Arriving just as Hamas and Israel agreed to a truce and prisoners were exchanged, Chris and Larrie experienced an historic moment in real time.And there were no lines as they were the first group to visit Israel since the war had started two years earlier.They had many adventures, some misadventures, but countless unforgettable memories, on their trip of a lifetime.And they hope to someday return, as there is much more to see and experience.

The North Idaho Classical Academy is hiring and is hosting a job fair!Kris Wickwire, the school's Academic Coordinator, is hosting the fair Tuesday, November 19 from 2 - 5 at the fairgrounds.The academy is set to open in August for the 26-27 school year and they have lots of jobs.Positions range from assistant principal, teachers, food service, transportation, and more.If you ever wanted to get into education and work with kids, this is a great opportunity.Come to the job fair to ask questions and get answers. And find out more about the school itself and what it will be offering kids.Learn how to apply students for enrollment.Ted plans to inquire about the school mascot position! He even has experience!It's a great opportunity to make a difference in a child's life.

Ted got sick over the weekend, but he survived and is back!In this episode Ted considers the slow death of context that is damaging our society.This is not just a Liberal issue, but Conservatives can be guilty too.They were born in November, 1969...but Ted was too old to really appreciate them and their lessons.Tea vs. Coffee, its a real debate and Ted weighs in on this important topic.The community responds and the local food bank had a record week. Way to go Bonners Ferry!Who is Zohran Mamdani, and why should people in North Idaho...and the rest of America, care?Even Frank Sinatra is "Spreading The News!" about what is happening in New York City.Ted answers some e-mails he has received. And in his closing reflections, Ted ponders the beauty, warning, and wisdom of the Northern Lights.

Ted has a cold so...he sounds better!And he talks less!Hallelujah!He also says he is sorry...sort of.Bonners Ferry is coming together to help those in need as the government shutdown continues.A Tragedy in far away Laos is felt here in North Idaho.Ted reacts to a horrible football game and defends an area football hero.Ted reflects on the words of two World War I soldiers that survived a hundred years in the ocean, and still speaks to us today.

During the day Jennifer Wright is the editorial assistant and community writer for the Bonners Ferry Herald.But when the sun goes down and the kids go to sleep she writes paranormal romance novels!Think vampires (and perhaps other creatures of the night!)Other than that, she is just your typical mother of 5 making ends meet here in Bonners Ferry.She loves her community and writing about the people in it.But her imagination and creativity takes her other places as well.Jennifer shares her favorite stories she has written for the paper, and shares some insight into her books...past, present, and future.

Ted has no guests, and no adult supervision, as he tries to do a podcast by himself!It's autumn in the Pacific Northwest and Ted considers a number of timely, and not so timely, topics.A recent kidnapping of a missionary pilot in Africa causes Ted to think of former guest Phillip Weaver who is now a missionary pilot serving the Haiti and Dominican Republic area.The painful end of the Mariners' seasons has Ted feeling for his friend as he remembers his own playoff pain in years gone by.Ted has new chairs for his guests!Ted ponders if Halloween is good, or evil, in a thoughtful conversation with himself.Ted opens up on a major issues that has him and his friend Terry divided. Could this be the end?Ted reminds everyone to fall back one hour this weekend, and get new calendars!The weekend events are highlighted.Finally, Ted reflects on friendship in general, and a special one in particular.

Wanting to save the bowling alley, Robert Endicott formed a partnership of local businessmen and together they have done just that. Relying on his vision of relationship, friendship, and community they have transformed the once dark, smokey, unsupervised facility. Three phases of remodeling has turned it into an entertainment hub for the community that is clean, well lit, supervised, safe, and modern. There is something for everyone at the new Liberty Lanes.Some of the major improvements include a new sports bar, new (and more reliable) pin-setting machines, new scoring system, new lighting, a clean and modern kitchen, and a newer lane conditioning machine. And more dynamic changes are on the way that will match the national trend of moving the bowling experience from sport bowling (leagues) towards entertainment and recreational bowling (which includes "Hyper Bowling").And a giant LED wall is being planned that will allow bowlers to watch their favorite ball games and other entertainment, while bowling.Details to all this, and much more fascinating information, is included in this extended edition of Almost Paradise in North Idaho.

Episode 80Tim Garcia is doing what he can to provide a safe and productive workplace environment. His dream when moving to North Idaho was to find freedom and provide an exceptional workplace environment.He and his family found that freedom immediately.And now he has created The Coalition, a new building designed to bring entrepreneurs together. The facility offers workspaces of various sizes and features while also providing an open common area including a coffee bar and refreshments. It is a unique structure of glass and steel that is inviting and functional. It is a great place to run a business and invite clients.Tim has many plans for future activities for his new enterprise. Tim shares his hopes and dreams, and details on why he moved his family to North Idaho.

Guided by a simple faith, Chris and Larrie are about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.Just as Israel and Hamas begin on what the world hopes will be a season of peace, Chris and Larrie will be visiting the Holy Land.They have experienced many ups and downs in their lives, including the loss of their son. But through it all they have relied on and believed in God's plan.And now, during this momentous time, they will be in Israel.Between them they have been a teacher, a pastor, a screen printer, an owner of a real estate agency., a singer, and several other things to the community of Bonners Ferry.Now they will be pilgrims in the land of Jesus' birth and crucifixion. They will follow his steps and see what he saw.Is the timing a coincidence? Or, is it providence?

Stop the presses! The Seattle Mariners are in the playoffs. Lets take a break from the serious issues of the day that causes stress and, sometimes, heartache, and have some fun.Is it possible for Mariners to finally make the World Series for the first time ever? Ted does a deep dive and explores if they are true contenders, or a pretenders. Meanwhile, the Seahawks and the Oregon Ducks are off to great starts in football.It's a special time to be a sports fan in the Pacific Northwest.And Ted thinks Jesus is ok with that.

From the frozen expanse of Antarctica to the scorching sands of the Middle East, retired Navy Seabee Captain Kevin Ball lived a life few can imagine. As a Seabee, he built the impossible--airstrips, bases, and vital facilities (and sometimes he had to blow things up!). His men faced extreme elements and enemy threats. In this episode he shares stories of courage, leadership, ingenuity, and humorous nicknames he earned along the way. He gives listeners a rare glimpse into the life of a man who proved that when the Navy needs something built, nothing can stand in the way...even a wall of ice!

Ted is serious today as he says goodbye to Charlie KirkMeanwhile, Jesus Welcomes Charlie Kirk Home!How should we react?Concerns about America's current state are shared.Concerns about America's future are discussed.

Ted has a mystery guest today!Don't be intimidated. Behind that stern face, and pointing finger is actually a humble guy.Yes, he loves America.But he also loves apple pie and ice cream.And, he loves to play his Bango and sing.And he has a story to tell. Hopefully we will listen.

Like a pin ball, Mark and Ted bounce from issue to issue.Some issues impact North Idaho...some do not.All offer deep insight. Well, not all.Some topics include:The helicopter that almost landed on Mark.Mark dispels rumors that he got married many times this summer.The need for local officials to more aggressively address the foreign truckers in our area.Why Moyie Springs is trying to annex Mark's neighborhood. (Ted almost fell asleep on that one)How schools are improving in the area, making Mark consider returning to school.Mark shares his love for Taylor Swift, and Ted senses some jealousy issues.Foster, Mark's faithful canine companion, goes under the knife and gets a facelift. But Mark was unable to get a 2 for 1 special for himself.Afterwards Ted reflects on his runaway horses and Jesus' thoughts on friendship.All this and so much more.

Steve and his family share a passion for helping others.God has led them on this mission, literally.It's a mission, and a business, that helps provide a life requiring need for everyone.

Ned is the ace reporter for the local newspaper and he has decided to unplug his word processor, at least for a while, and move back to his home in Texas.Ned has decided to spend some time with family and friends, whom he has missed a lot the past year.He is open to the possibility of returning to North Idaho some day, as he really does like the people and area.He will especially miss the nearby wildlife refuge, where he often retreated to gather his thoughts and rekindle his soul.Ned discusses some of the many stories he covered for the newspaper, and gives some insights and shares some stories behind those stories.

Remember "Goose" from the first Top Gun movie with Tom Cruise? In many ways, Mike Peterson is Goose!Mike talks about his days as a top gun naval aviator fighter pilot while helping Ted achieve an important Trifecta!Mike explains how the guy in the front seat of his jet was really just his chauffeur!Nicknames for his fighter groups included: The Ghost Riders, The Jolly Rogers, The Black Lions, and The Bounty Hunters.Over time the grind of three Middle East wars and various scary moments began to drag on Mike.At first Mike was full of hubris and pride but a specific "pucker" moment (he actually had several) caused him to reevaluate his purpose in life. The impact of his many missions began to make him question if God would forgive him.The birth of his special needs daughter also caused him to lean more into scripture.His transition from military life to civilian life led him to a closer relationship with Jesus.Being a strong conservative, one of the more humbling and difficult experiences for Mike was when he became school board president for a liberal school district in Colorado.He has now formed a consulting group where his team of former navy fighter pilots apply what they learned in military aviation to help businesses and individuals with leadership and organizational skills.

Phillip joins Ted to discuss his dreams and his mission.Phillip is working hard in preparing to be Jesus' hands and feet. He has learned to fly and be an airplane mechanic...all to serve the Lord.Missionary Flights International in Florida is a Christian based aviation ministry serving as a lifeline to missionaries in the Caribbean, and that is where Phillip is going!The plan is specific and concrete. The dream is divinely inspired. The sky is the limit (literally). Now Phillip needs financial support to make it all come together.He is not asking for a hand-out, but a hand-up, as he reaches for a future of helping others and making a difference.

The wheels on the bus go round and round, round and round, round and round...early in the morning!The local school district, and maybe every school district, is looking for bus drivers as the new school year approaches.If you want to be a school bus driver, this is the podcast for you!Harold & Mike have about 40 hours experience between them as school bus drivers but are now retired.Imagine being by yourself, driving with 60 kids behind your back, while navigating snowy roads, and watching for deer and elk. What could go wrong?Stories abound. Some funny and some not so funny.Bottom line, it is very worthwhile...but you have to love kids.Harold and Mike talk about how the job could be better. How the job has changed over the years. And what it takes to be a good school bus driver.

Ben and his wife Carrie visit Ted in studio to discuss a variety of topics.These include: Ben's life in the navy during his multiple deployments to the gulf region.Keeping his ship mates safe from Sea Snakes.Meeting his wife Carrie after she had an accident driving a Seattle city bus...on her 2nd day on the job!His long time involvement with the VFW in the Seattle area and now here in Bonners Ferry.How and why they moved to Boundary County.Their new mission of starting a Veterans Outreach Center here in North Idaho.Helping veterans feel welcomed and complete as they transition from military to civilian life.