The Valley Voice with Jessica Self

Episode 15 "Takin' it to the Streets of North Bend and Snoqualmie, WA"

This episode is a little different! Jessica Self is joined by Laurie Hay of Snoqualmie Inn for a traveling podcast , visiting Downtown North Bend and Snoqualmie post-flood to share an important message: our towns are open, roads are accessible, and local businesses are ready to welcome you!
After unexpected days of closure, the best way to help right now is simple and impactful—shop local, dine local, and support small businesses this holiday season. Many local businesses are also giving back to the community as recovery continues.
For those asking how else to help, volunteer efforts are being thoughtfully coordinated through Love Snoqualmie Valley. Visit their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram for upcoming volunteer opportunities:
👉 https://lovesnoqualmievalley.com 
Thank you to our incredible community for showing up, supporting local, and helping our valley stay strong!

Episode 14 "The Story Keepers: From Steam Engines to Weyerhauser Kidnapping to Today"

Cristy Lake has dedicated her life to keeping Snoqualmie Valley’s history alive. A longtime team member at the Northwest Railway Museum, Cristy has spent years sharing the stories, artifacts, and legacy that define our region. Her own family history is deeply woven into that narrative — reaching back to one of the Valley’s most infamous chapters: the Weyerhaeuser kidnapping of the 1930s, in which her family played a unique and personal role. Now, as part of the Snoqualmie Valley Museum, Cristy continues her mission to preserve and educate, ensuring future generations understand the people and events that shaped this extraordinary place.
Be sure to support and visit the museum — where history comes to life, and the stories of the Snoqualmie Valley continue to inspire.
trainmuseum.org
https://snoqualmievalleymuseum.org/
https://jessicaself.com/
 

Episode 13 "Lighting The Way: The Gray's Way Story"

When tragedy struck, Summer Stumpf found strength in purpose. Through Live Gray’s Way, she’s turned loss into light— raising awareness for DIPG, a rare and aggressive form of pediatric brain cancer, while inspiring others to live with compassion and courage. Partnering with Angela Donaldson, the two have poured their hearts into bringing meaningful community events to Fall City, WA, including the Fall City Festival of Lights—a celebration of love, remembrance, and unity. Together, they’ve created a space where neighbors gather not only to celebrate the season, but to carry forward Gray’s light—spreading hope, kindness, and education throughout the Snoqualmie Valley and beyond.
https://www.livegraysway.org/
www.jessicaself.com
 
 

Episode 12 "Derek Decater - Beyond the Game"

From standout collegiate baseball player to performance coach, Derek Decater has taken his love for the game and turned it into something bigger.  With a strong foundation in Anatomy, body mechanics and nutrition, he has built a welcoming training space for all ages - whether you are chasing athletic goals or just looking to be your best.  Along the way, Derek has trained at multiple high schools and now coaches baseball at Mount Si High School, bringing energy, knowledge, and a genuine love for people in everything he does.
 
www.decaterfitness.com
www.jessicaself.com
 

Episode 11 "Greg Jamiel: A Life of Media, Movement & Meaning"

Episode 11 of The Valley Voice with Jessica Self welcomes a truly inspiring guest — Greg Jamiel of SnoValley Pride! 
Greg’s journey has taken him from the shores of Rhode Island to stages, studios, and screens across the U.S. and beyond. With years of TV and media experience — and travels that span the globe — Greg has now found his forever home in Carnation, Washington. 
In this episode, we dive into his story: how his adventures shaped who he is today, what called him to the Snoqualmie Valley, and how he’s bringing his expertise, creativity, and heart to our Snoqualmie Valley community through SnoValley Pride. Tune in to get to know Greg’s passion for connection, inclusivity, and storytelling — and why we’re so excited to have him in the Valley!
 
https://snovalleypride.org
https://jessicaself.com
 

Episode 10 "Skylines & Soundtracks: Travis Wetherbee's Visual Voice of the Snoqualmie Valley"

In this episode of The Valley Voice with Jessica Self, we sit down with Travis Wetherbee of Last Lite Photography—born and raised right here in the Snoqualmie Valley. Travis shares the fascinating journey of how he picked up a camera, chased auroras, evolved into shooting musicians and festivals, and he’s most knows for his stunning, soul-stirring sunsets that have become his local trademark. With deep roots in the Valley and a passion for light, color, and community, Travis offers a glimpse into the moments behind the lens that continue to inspire both locals and fans far beyond. Catch Travis in person at Festival at Mount Si in North Bend, Washington this weekend, August 8–10. Learn more at festivalatmountsi.org

Episode 9 "From Insurance to Impact: Why Jeff Warren Says "Pick Me" for the Valley"

This week, I'm chatting with Jeff Warren-your go-to State Farm Insurance Agent and one of the Valley's most dedicated community supporters.  But there is so much more to Jeff than guitars and coverage!  We dive into his story-where he came from, how life lead him to the Valley, and why giving back means so much to him.  Jeff's the kind of neighbor we all hope to have.  Tune in for a fun, inspiring conversation with someone who truly puts the good in "good neighbor."

Episode 8 "Windows, Washes & the Fast Lane: Augie Dugar's Wild Ride"

The Valley Voice with Jessica Self is back with an awesome new episode featuring Augie Dugar, owner of Reflection of Perfection - and trust me, this one shines!  We talk about Augie's journey to the Snoqualmie Valley and how he built a business that does way more than just window cleaning, pressure washing, and hanging holiday lights.  Augie's all heart-always giving back to the community and showing up for local causes.  And if that wasn't cool enough...he is now diving into an exciting new adventure with the NHRA!  Yep, racing is part of his story now too.  Tune in to hear about hard work, community love, and chasing big dreams-on the streets and on the drag strip.
#TheValleyVoice
#ReflectionOfPerfection
#AugieDugar
#SupportLocal
#SnoqualmieValley

Episode 7 "Cherry Pie and Conversation"

Rachel Bennett, the proud co-owner of Twede's Cafe' since 2019, is as local as they come-born and raised right here in North Bend.  After heading out on a big adventure for college and life beyond the Valley, she found herself drawn back to her hometown roots.  What started as a part-time job at the iconic Twede's turned into something much bigger: the opportunity to carry on a legendary legacy.  Now, alongside her partner Max, Rachel brings fresh energy to the beloved diner while honoring its Twin Peaks fame and small town charm.  She's proof that sometimes, the best twists in life are the ones that bring you home.
www.twedescafe.com
 

Episode 6 "The Chickadees' Story: Resilience, Community, and Sweet New Beginnings Part 2"

In this episode, we sit down with Dori Ross and Katie Podschwit, the dynamic duo behind Chickadee Bakeshop in Snoqualmie, Wa.  We dive into their personal journeys-how they each found their way to the Snoqualmie Valley over a decade ago, built community roots, and eventually teamed up to create one of the area's most beloved bakeries.  We talk about the incredible rise of Chickadee Bakeshop, the devastating fire that forced them to close their doors, and their inspiring story of rebuilding.  With hearts deeply embedded in service-Dori also runs Snoqualmie Valley Pet Services-these two community driven women are set to reopen Chickadee later this summer, stronger and sweeter than ever.  Don't miss this powerful conversation with two true local legends.