LIFT – Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking

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Fixing Oregon: Christine Drazan’s Case for a Hard Reset

Monday, August 17, 2026 • Duration 26:32

Oregon is at a crossroads. Underperforming schools, rising housing costs, and a homelessness system that spends heavily without delivering.

In this episode of the LIFT Podcast, Republican gubernatorial candidate Christine Drazan makes the case for a hard reset, and lays out the changes she believes would make Oregon more affordable, accountable, and livable.

From housing and the business climate to wildfire management, youth homelessness, and classroom safety, Drazan argues that Oregon has lost sight of the basics. She explains why she believes state policies treat businesses as adversaries, how land-use rules can constrain housing supply, and why public policy should better respect the people who keep communities running.

You’ll hear Drazan break down:

Why she believes Oregon’s regulatory burden is driving up housing costs and discouraging builders
What she thinks state leaders misunderstand about rural Oregon, eastern Oregon, and natural resource industries
Why she wants a services-first approach to homelessness, paired with greater accountability for measurable outcomes
How her experience supporting rural youth homelessness programs shaped her views on prevention
What she believes needs to change in public education, from proficiency standards to teacher safety

Throughout the conversation, one principle comes back again and again: Oregonians deserve measurable results.

Christine Drazan is the Republican candidate for governor of Oregon. She has made building a safer, smarter, more affordable Oregon, central themes of her campaign. Learn more about Christine Drazan at: https://www.christinefororegon.com

LIFT: Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking, is a podcast where a community of leaders inspiring forward thinking, come together to confront the toughest issues facing our neighbors, and work towards real solutions for the future of Central Oregon.

As the largest social services organization helping youth in Central Oregon, podcast host, J Bar J Youth Services, believes that we can do better for the youth of our community. LIFT focuses on conversations with leaders that make a difference.

Learn more, and tell us who to interview next, at: www.jbarj.org/LIFT-podcast

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Board House Society: Skating for Community

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 • Duration 23:31

Keith Riggs sits down with Caitlin and Trygve Bjornstad, founders of Board House Society, a nonprofit building an inclusive skate community hub in Bend, Oregon. What started as simple lists of "things I like" and "things I don't" during a midlife reevaluation grew into a mission centered on resilience, connection, and full inclusion; a space where every age and background can belong.

In this episode:

The lessons skateboarding teaches about perseverance and failure
How skating builds multi-generational connection and mutual respect
Board House Society's programs: school partnerships, summer camps, and adaptive skater events
Why supportive environments shape identity and the next generation
Balancing marriage, life, and a shared mission

In a world pulling people apart, Caitlin and Trygve make the case that sports and community spaces can pull them back together. Whether you're a skater, a parent, an educator, or just curious about what real community-building looks like, this conversation will change how you see a skateboard.

🔗 www.boardhousesociety.org | @boardhousebend on Instagram

LIFT: Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking, is a podcast where a community of leaders inspiring forward thinking, come together to confront the toughest issues facing our neighbors, and work towards real solutions for the future of Central Oregon.

As the largest social services organization helping youth in Central Oregon, podcast host, J Bar J Youth Services, believes that we can do better for the youth of our community. LIFT focuses on conversations with leaders that make a difference.

Learn more, and tell us who to interview next, at: www.jbarj.org/LIFT-podcast

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The Decisions That Shape Your Community, with Phil Chang

Sunday, July 12, 2026 • Duration 28:32

Most of the decisions that shape our daily lives happen at the county level, but few people understand how they're made. In this conversation, Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Chang offers an inside look at the realities of local government, exploring how evidence-based policymaking and community engagement influence decisions on housing, land use, wildfire resilience, water, and mental health.

Drawing on more than three decades of experience, Phil explains how counties balance growth with conservation, why affordable housing remains such a complex challenge, and how Oregon's mental health and addiction treatment system affects homelessness across the state. He also discusses what the expansion from three to five county commissioners will mean for representation and governance in Deschutes County.

Whether you're a Deschutes County resident, a civic leader, or simply interested in how local government works, this episode offers a thoughtful look at the policies and decisions shaping Central Oregon's future.

Learn about Phil Chang at: https://www.deschutescounty.gov/

LIFT: Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking, is a podcast where a community of leaders inspiring forward thinking, come together to confront the toughest issues facing our neighbors, and work towards real solutions for the future of Central Oregon.

As the largest social services organization helping youth in Central Oregon, podcast host, J Bar J Youth Services, believes that we can do better for the youth of our community. LIFT focuses on conversations with leaders that make a difference.

Learn more, and tell us who to interview next, at: ⁠www.jbarj.org/LIFT-podcast⁠

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Andrea Bell on the Future of Housing in Oregon

Friday, July 3, 2026 • Duration 23:28

In this episode of LIFT: Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking, host Keith Riggs sits down with Andrea Bell, Executive Director of Oregon Housing and Community Services, for a thoughtful conversation about the intersection of housing, policy, and community well being.

Andrea shares how her childhood, shaped by service and community connection, continues to influence her leadership and commitment to systemic change. She offers a candid look at the complexities of policy and bureaucracy, explaining why sustainable solutions require both strategic systems thinking and meaningful community input.

Together, they explore what it takes to create housing solutions that truly meet people’s needs; flexible, locally driven strategies to innovative models that integrate housing, early learning, and supportive services.

Andrea also discusses why housing is about far more than shelter. It is deeply connected to freedom, health, dignity, and identity, essential to helping individuals and families build stable, successful futures.

This episode is a must-listen for community advocates, policymakers, social workers, educators, and anyone committed to creating more equitable communities.

Learn more about Andrea Bell at: https://www.oregon.gov/ohcs/about-us/pages/executive-director.aspx

LIFT: Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking, is a podcast where a community of leaders inspiring forward thinking, come together to confront the toughest issues facing our neighbors, and work towards real solutions for the future of Central Oregon.

As the largest social services organization helping youth in Central Oregon, podcast host, J Bar J Youth Services, believes that we can do better for the youth of our community. LIFT focuses on conversations with leaders that make a difference.

Learn more, and tell us who to interview next, at: www.jbarj.org/LIFT-podcast

The Surprising Role Neighbor Impact Plays in Boosting Regional Economies with Scott Cooper

Thursday, June 11, 2026 • Duration 25:39

The challenges facing Central Oregon are complex, but the solutions start with understanding how community organizations walk alongside those in need.

In this episode, Scott Cooper, Executive Director of Neighbor Impact, reveals the unseen stories, innovative programs, and strategic partnerships making a real difference in the lives of over 60,000 residents each year. You'll hear surprising insights into how federal and state funds are fueling a regional economic engine, while learning about the reach of Neighbor Impact.

If you're passionate about building a stronger, more equitable Central Oregon, this conversation illustrates what's possible when the community comes together.

Learn more about Neighbor Impact at: www.neighborimpact.org

LIFT: Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking, is a podcast where a community of leaders inspiring forward thinking, come together to confront the toughest issues facing our neighbors, and work towards real solutions for the future of Central Oregon.

As the largest social services organization helping youth in Central Oregon, podcast host, J Bar J Youth Services, believes that we can do better for the youth of our community. LIFT focuses on conversations with leaders that make a difference.

Learn more, and tell us who to interview next, at: ⁠⁠www.jbarj.org/LIFT-podcast⁠⁠

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The Unexpected Power of Trust: How Law Enforcement Rebuilds Community Confidence with Sheriff Ty Rupert

Thursday, June 4, 2026 • Duration 24:07

Most people encounter law enforcement on their worst day. Sheriff Ty Rupert shares how he's supporting the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office by focusing on trust, community connection, and proactive leadership. In this honest conversation, Sheriff Rupert explains how restoring trust is like laying a new foundation, one built on transparency, accountability, and authenticity.

You'll discover how a sheriff’s commitment to being a genuine, approachable leader can shift an entire culture, internally and externally. We break down the real meaning of community-oriented policing, dispelling misconceptions about law enforcement being "us vs. them." Sheriff Rupert emphasizes the importance of service over perception, highlighting real efforts to connect, whether through community events, youth outreach, or simple acts of kindness on the street. You'll also learn how mental health training and strategies for managing homelessness are paving the way for a safer, more compassionate community.

Why does this matter? Because the strength of a community resides in the trust between its people and those sworn to serve. Sheriff Rupert’s focus on listening, planning for the future, and developing leaders from within not only preserves safety but elevates the entire community. His vision isn’t just about today’s challenges, it’s about nurturing the next generation of leaders, one positive interaction at a time.

LIFT: Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking, is a podcast where a community of leaders inspiring forward thinking, come together to confront the toughest issues facing our neighbors, and work towards real solutions for the future of Central Oregon.

As the largest social services organization helping youth in Central Oregon, podcast host, J Bar J Youth Services, believes that we can do better for the youth of our community. LIFT focuses on conversations with leaders that make a difference.

Learn more, and tell us who to interview next, at: ⁠⁠www.jbarj.org/LIFT-podcast⁠⁠

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Shaping Central Oregon’s Future with Tony DeBone

Season 1 · Episode 3

Friday, May 15, 2026 • Duration 28:11

In this in-depth interview, Tony DeBone discusses Deschutes County’s growth, land use challenges, homelessness, and future planning efforts. He shares insights on how Central Oregon is working to manage rapid development while preserving the community values that make the region unique. The conversation also explores innovative geothermal energy opportunities and long-term housing strategies shaping Central Oregon's future.

Learn more about Tony DeBone at: https://www.electtonydebone.com

LIFT: Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking - a podcast where a community of leaders inspiring forward thinking, come together to confront the toughest issues facing our neighbors, and work towards real solutions for the future of Central Oregon.

Learn more at ⁠www.jbarj.org/LIFT-podcast

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How to Address the Housing Crisis: Insights from Rick Russell

Season 1 · Episode 2

Saturday, May 9, 2026 • Duration 24:23

Learn how to tackle the housing crisis with insights from Rick Russell. From community involvement to innovative solutions, discover actionable strategies for creating affordable housing.

In this post, we’ll explore the urgent issue of housing in Deschutes County through the eyes of Rick Russell, candidate for County Commissioner. With Rick's extensive experience as founder of Mountain View Community Development, he shares his perspective on why addressing homelessness and housing affordability is critical for our community's well-being.

Learn more about Rick Russell at: www.voterickrussell.com

LIFT: Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking - a podcast where a community of leaders inspiring forward thinking, come together to confront the toughest issues facing our neighbors, and work towards real solutions for the future of Central Oregon.

Learn more at www.jbarj.org/LIFT-podcast

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Transforming Leadership: Insights from Lauren Connally's Run for County Commissioner

Season 1 · Episode 1

Monday, April 27, 2026 • Duration 24:55

Discover insights from Lauren Connally’s journey to County Commissioner. Learn about her leadership philosophy, her motivations, and her vision for systemic change in our communities. By focusing on upstream solutions and community engagement, Lauren aims to create a more effective and compassionate system that serves everyone.

J Bar J Youth Services is not politically affiliated. As the largest social services organization helping youth in Central Oregon, we believe we can do better for the youth of our community. LIFT focuses on conversations with leaders that make a difference.

Learn more about Lauren Connally at: www.Connally4Deschutes.com

LIFT: Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking - a podcast where a community of leaders inspiring forward thinking, come together to confront the toughest issues facing our neighbors, and work towards real solutions for the future of Central Oregon.

Learn more at ⁠www.jbarj.org/LIFT-podcast

Read moreCollapse

LIFT – Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

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Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

LIFT – Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

Other6

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Similar podcasts and content

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Other6

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities