Johnny has worked for one organization his whole time in Jackson and that is working for the town of Jackson. He started driving the START Bus as a way to ski in the day and work at night. Now he leads one of the most essential departments in the Jackson community, The Public Works Department. Many of us don’t even realize all of the essential services this department handles, from maintaining public infrastructure, keeping our roads and sidewalks operational, managing our waste to ensuring we have clean water to drink. These are only a few of the core responsibilities of the Public Works Department.
Read MoreBrian was born and raised in Jackson. His father owned a pharmacy and his mother ran a Montessori school for many years. He is now raising his own family in the valley and works as an engineer for the town of Jackson. When he isn’t working to help Jackson’s infrastructure he is helping make people laugh. Brian is a founding member of Laff Staff – Jackson’s resident improv group.
Read MoreEmily is the Executive Director and Station Manager of Jackson Hole Community Radio, KHOL. She is also developing a new podcast called Under the Covers that will go in-depth on some of our oldest and most popular folk songs.
In this episode, Emily shares what brought her out to Jackson. She talks about how she pivoted from a position as a community planner into community radio. Emily goes into what it takes to be a volunteer DJ at KHOL and how radio continues to thrive as a medium for news and information. Stephan and Emily also discuss the podcast she is producing that dives into the history of some of our most covered folk songs.
Read MorePhil made his way out to Wyoming a week after graduating from college in Massachusetts. After spending a summer guiding tourists on fly fishing trips, he transitioned into the non-profit sector and took a position at the Teton Science School. Utilizing his knowledge of scientific literacy and non-profit operations Phil pivoted to a job as Executive Director of Yellowstone-Teton Clean Cities. His work with Clean Cities helped Phil discover his passion for working on energy efficiency projects and paved the way for him to take an opportunity to be the Executive Director of Energy Conservation Works.
Listen to this episode to learn all about what Energy Conservation Works does for the Jackson Hole community. Phil goes into detail about the programs that not only reduce energy consumption but can also save residents and businesses lots of money. Stephan and Phil also talk about the history of conservation in the Valley and how Lower Valley operates differently than other energy companies.
Read MoreIn this episode, Brenden talks about what goes into monitoring Avalanche conditions around the highways. He shares what it is like currently being the only full-time Avalanche forecaster in the state and what the public sometimes perceives his role as. Brenden goes into why WYDOT takes certain precautions and how stressful keeping the roads safe can be. Stephan and Brenden also discuss mudslides and how it is handled differently than avalanches.
Read MoreBob is a grandfather, entrepreneur, former mayor of Jackson, former county commissioner, the founder of Shervin’s Independent Oil, and a born and bred Jackson local.
In this episode, Bob shares the history of his family lineage and the story of when he was born back in 1933. He talks about what it was like growing up in Jackson in the 40s and how isolating the winters could be. Bob reminisces about his time working in Big Piney and how a scuffle almost led to his demise. He goes into how he met his wife, moved back to Jackson, and eventually started Shervin’s Independent Oil. Stephan and Bob discuss all the changes that have happened in Jackson since the 30s and what Bob accomplished when he was mayor and county commissioner.
Read MoreLaurie helped run the Jackson Hole Land Trust for 15 years and now she is the president of the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole. She is also an avid climber, ultra runner, and a lover of dogs.
In this episode, Laurie shares how her tenure at the Nature Conservancy brought her out to the Valley. She talks about the work she did with the Jackson Hole Land Trust and how it led her to her current role at the Community Foundation. Laurie describes what it was like to take on such a big position just as the pandemic was forcing closures and safety measures. She goes into the impact that climbing and outdoor recreation have had on her life and how she is driven to get out into nature to re-energize. Stephan and Laurie also discuss the importance of stepping up to support the community and what makes the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole truly unique.
Read MoreIn this episode, Jerry shares why he left Minnesota to move out to the mountains. He goes into how he survived owning a bookstore during the recession of 2008. Jerry gives insight into how the library chooses the media and books it loans out and how long they typically last. He talks about the podcast he does for the library on KHOL called Back of The Stacks. Stephan and Jerry also discuss all the other services the library offers on top of their amazing book selection.
Read MoreEverything Jay does revolves around cycling. He is an ultra-endurance cyclist, ambassador, guide, teacher, speaker, race director, and sponsored athlete.
In this episode, Jay shares why he left a lucrative career in the city to move out west. He talks about the moment his life changed when he found his passion and reason for living. He explains the intense preparation and dedication that goes into doing an endurance ride. Jay goes into the work he does for the cycling community and why he doesn’t want to just be labeled a professional athlete. Stephan and Jay also talk about the importance of mentorship and how it can be rewarding on both sides.