Debi sits down for a chat with Kathy Stancik, retired employee of Woodbine Cemetery in Puyallup.

Kathy shares her experiences helping families through the process of death, grieving, and burial. She also shares tales of the history of Puyallup found in the cemetery, including graves of many of the city's founders and original citizens.

To learn more about Woodbine Cemetery:

https://www.puyallupwa.gov/164/Cemetery

Debi talks to leaders from the Puyallup/Sumner Chamber Of Commerce. Alison Schaffer is the President and CEO and Diana Collins is the Executive Vice President.

Alison and Diane, both long-time Washington residents, discuss the importance of the Chamber to local businesses big and small and the value of collaboration between entrepreneurs and Chamber representatives. They also offer wonderful learning opportunities for local business owners via their Leadership Institute.

To learn more about the Puyallup/Sumner Chamber of Commerce:

https://www.puyallupsumnerchamber.com/

To discover more about the Leadership Institute:

https://www.puyallupsumnerchamber.com/leadership-institute

Tricia and Elizabeth discuss all the wonderful free services offered by their Community Center to improve the quality of life for all ages, including senior activities and the Seeds of Change community meal program. Working with seniors and children has given them both wonderful stories to tell, some of which they share.

To learn more about Mountain View Community Center:

https://www.mtviewcommunitycenter.org/

To learn about their free Study Buddies tutoring program for children:

https://www.mtviewcommunitycenter.org/study-buddies-tutoring-program

To learn about the Seeds of Change meal program:

https://www.mtviewcommunitycenter.org/community-dinner

Debi chats with Yonilda "Yoni" Morales of Dulce Cafe and Chicanos Mexican Food Truck.

Yoni shares her experience opening her first coffee shop, Dulce Cafe, in downtown Puyallup in May of 2025. She brings a Mexican flare to traditional Pacific Northwest coffee, crafting exciting fusion drinks as well as offering novel takes on Mexican sweets. Her family runs a long-standing Mexican food truck just down the street and she discusses juggling two small businesses.

Learn more about Dulce Cafe:

https://www.dulcecafewa.com/

Debi sits down with Kennedy Boyd, one of Puyallup's very own Daffodil Princesses.

Kennedy shares her academic aspirations of becoming an OB-GYN, the people who most inspire her, and the quest to become a Daffodil Princess, where winning the title is only the beginning.

Learn more about the Daffodil Festival and becoming a princess here:

https://thedaffodilfestival.org/so-you-want-to-be-a-princess-everything-you-need-to-know-about-daffodil-selection/

Debi chats with Christine Seymour and Laura Ross of The Ethel Gathering Group.

The Ethel promotes social connections and organizes activities to help senior women combat loneliness and isolation. The Ethel Gathering Group of Puget Sound covers the west side of Washington from the Canadian border to the Oregon Border. Christine and Laura plan events and offer outreach to new members of The Ethel and infuse their efforts with the experience and hope they have from overcoming hardships in their own lives.

To learn more about The Ethel Gathering Group of Puget Sound:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ethelgatheringpugetsoundwa/

To learn more about The Ethel project itself:

https://www.aarpethel.com/gathering-groups

Debi sits down with Robin Bradford, Collection Development Librarian from Pierce County Library System.

Robin selects and purchases adult fiction titles for all the branches of Pierce County Library System. She shares her love of reading and some of the experiences that led her to a librarian career. If you have wondered what goes into the selection of books in a large library system, Robin is the one to ask.

To learn more about Pierce County Library System:

https://mypcls.org/

https://www.stepbystepfamily.org/

To find out about Farm 12, their menu, and their mission:

https://www.farm12.org/

Debi chats with superhero librarian and author Nancy Pearl, the only librarian to have her own action figure.

Nancy's storied life as a Seattle librarian and writer includes publishing multiple books, a stint as a professor at the University of Washington, talk shows on PBS and NPR, and being named 2011 Librarian of the Year. She reminisces with Debi about running book clubs, her childhood library influences, humorous encounters at work, and her top titles to read today.

To learn more about the life of the fascinating Nancy Pearl:

https://www.knkx.org/people/nancy-pearl

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nancy_Pearl

https://www.nationalbook.org/people/nancy-pearl/

To read about Nancy's action figure:

https://mcphee.com/pages/history-of-the-librarian-action-figure

To see all the books Nancy has written or collaborated on:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/67412.Nancy_Pearl

Debi presents the third and final episode in her summer travel series. She and her travel librarian guest, Paul, answer questions submitted by library patrons during the library's Summer of Travel event.

Debi and Paul dish about the best places to travel locally and abroad, give tips on how to save money on the road, and answer intriguing trivia about animals and places of the world, plus a whole lot more.

Puyallup Public Library offers travel resources of all types. Visit our website to learn more:

http://www.puyalluplibrary.org

Debi sits down with Shelly Schlumpf and Holly O'Brien, some of the team who run the Meeker Mansion in Puyallup.

Shelly is the President of the Puyallup Historical Society at Meeker Mansion and Holly is the museum's curator. They share stories about the origin and preservation of the mansion, future plans for expansion, and exciting events to come.

To learn more about Meeker Mansion:

https://www.meekermansion.org/

To find out about the Ezra's Hops Gala event on August 16, 2025:

https://www.meekermansion.org/hopgala

Debi hosts part two of three special travel-themed episodes. In this episode, Travel Tips & Tricks, seasoned library staff travelers share the best travel ideas and hacks for everyone, from families to solo travelers and from globetrotters to local road trippers.

Puyallup Public Library offers travel resources of all types. Visit our website to learn more:

http://www.puyalluplibrary.org

Debi hosts the first of three special travel-themed episodes. In this episode, Travel Tales, seasoned library staff travelers share some of their favorite and funniest stories from their trips. There may even be a celebrity sighting!

Puyallup Public Library offers travel resources of all types. Visit our website to learn more:

http://www.puyalluplibrary.org

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, interviews Sara White, Youth Services Consultant, and Tien Triggs, School and Digital Support Librarian, both from the Washington State Library, in part three of three special episodes.

Sara White and Tien Triggs work together to provide training, ideas, programming, and financial support to school libraries and their librarians across Washington. Their grants help fund learning initiatives, STEM events, and teen internship programs. They share insight into their important work and the impact it has on local communities.

Learn more about the Washington State Library:

https://www2.sos.wa.gov/library/

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, interviews more of the wonderful staff of the Washington State Library in part two of three special episodes.

The staff of the Washington State Library provide a stunning variety of historical, archival, reference, and public support services. They sort and organize cultural heritage information, provide access to unique and rare documents, and work to make knowledge and learning available to all Washingtonians. The staff members each share a small piece of what they do every day to bring value to everyone.

Plus, stay tuned for two bonus book reviews from Debi's good friend Helena Caughlan following the main interviews.

Visit the fabulous websites mentioned in this episode:

Washington State Library

https://www2.sos.wa.gov/library/

LinkedIn Learning (via our digital resources page)

https://www.cityofpuyallup.org/892/Apps-and-Online-Resources

Washington Digital Newspapers

https://www.washingtondigitalnewspapers.org

For the book titles mentioned in the reviews:

The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak

Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, interviews some of the wonderful staff of the Washington State Library in part one of three special episodes.

The staff of the Washington State Library provide a stunning variety of historical, archival, reference, and public support services. They sort and organize cultural heritage information, provide access to unique and rare documents, and work to make knowledge and learning available to all Washingtonians. The staff members each share a small piece of what they do every day to bring value to everyone.

Visit the fabulous websites mentioned in this episode:

Washington State Library

https://www2.sos.wa.gov/library/

Digital Public Library of America

https://dp.la/

Washington Rural Heritage Archives

https://www.washingtonruralheritage.org/

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, chats with artist and Girl Scout leader Meghan Darby. Meghan is a Puyallup artist who specializes in digital art and is the creator of Puyallup Library's mascot, Otter B. Reading.

Meghan has lifelong ties to scouting and shares stories of running a troop and her own time in the group as a child.

To learn more about the Puyallup Library and its programs, follow on social media:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/puyalluplibrary/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PuyallupLibrary/

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, interviews Dr. Pooja Tandon and Dr. Danette Glassy.

Doctors Tandon and Glassy are pediatricians and proponents of the value of outdoor time in the development and happiness of children and their caregivers. They discuss their book, Digging Into Nature: Outdoor Adventures for Happier and Healthier Kids, which covers the earliest stages of growth often missed by other works. The doctors and Debi share stories of the outdoors and naturing in the Pacific Northwest and talk about nature-centric solutions for busy families.

Visit their website, Project Nature, at this link:

https://www.projectnaturewa.com/

To learn more about their book and the American Academy of Pediatrics, visit this link:

https://tinyurl.com/AAPbooklink

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, speaks with retired union rep and history buff William "Bill" Johnston.

Bill recounts fascinating tales of his father's history in World War II, sharing letters written while he was stationed on a minesweeping vessel. He discusses his long ties to the Tacoma and Puyallup areas and his many years spent as a union rep. In his retirement, Bill works as an usher at the State Fair and he recalls colorful anecdotes about people watching.

To learn more about the Washington State Historical Society, mentioned in this podcast, click the link below:

https://www.washingtonhistory.org/

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, speaks with retired librarian and teacher Karen Chapman.

Karen shares tales of growing up in the 1930s and 40s, attending a one-room school house, and childhood shenanigans. She fondly remembers the people who inspired her to become both a librarian and a teacher and a career dedicated to schools in the Puyallup area and support of the Puyallup Fair.

Learn more about careers with Puyallup Schools here:

https://www.puyallupsd.org/careers

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, speaks with Puyallup School District Social Worker Jane Upshaw.

Jane talks about her family and community ties to the Puyallup area, discusses the virtues of patience and listening, and shares her experiences finding purpose in lifting up others.

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, speaks with Honorable Judge Andrea Beall, Presiding Judge for Puyallup Municipal Court.

Judge Beall describes her journey from lawyer to judge and shares stories of family, her time in the Puyallup area, and her favorite book.

After the main interview, stay tuned for a fun chat with Library Assistant Emily, who dishes about her adorable cats and shares several of her favorite reads for fantasy and sci-fi enthusiasts.

Learn more about Puyallup Municipal Court:

https://www.cityofpuyallup.org/558/Court

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, speaks with Gordon Chisholm, volunteer for the Heritage Quest Research Library in Puyallup.

Gordon tells stories from his family's military history, discusses the importance of truth, and shares the harrowing trials and tribulations of the Heritage Quest Research Library over the years. Heritage Quest is a genealogical reference center where anyone can search through over 16,000 printed materials, access heritage databases, and receive live assistance from experienced researchers in discovering your own family history. It's conveniently located near downtown Puyallup, in the Wanna Cupcake Bakery plaza, at:

2102 E Main Ave #105, Puyallup, WA 98372

Learn more at: https://www.hqrl.com or by calling (253) 863-1806

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, speaks with Michelle Price, former Community Planning Specialist in Emergency Management for the City of Puyallup.

Michelle shares fascinating stories of the experiences that shaped her life, including spending 10 years in India. She draws connections between lessons learned overseas and at home in Puyallup. Michelle's bright outlook and aspirations for the community offer hope for the future.

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, speaks Kathy Warren, the President of the Friends of the Puyallup Public Library.

Kathy shares tales of her family's long history in Puyallup, both in the valley and on the hill, and reminisces about time spent in Anchorage, Alaska. She has a wealth of amusing anecdotes about local life in the 1940s to 70s.

As an avid supporter of the Library's programs, Kathy encourages others to join the Friends of the Library and to donate to their cause.

Find out more about the Friends at:

https://www.cityofpuyallup.org/643/Friends-of-the-Library

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, speaks with fashion designer Dan McLean, who has a fashion show coming up on July 20, 2024.

Dan McLean is at the forefront of sustainable fashion in Seattle. Since graduating from Seattle Central College’s apparel design program in 2019, Dan has gone on to dress names such as Megan Rapinoe and Ezi Magbegor and has been named Seattle’s most influential person in fashion in 2024 by Seattle magazine. Working out of her SODO studio, Dan upcycles thrifted garments and works with vintage or secondhand fabrics.

Find out more about her works and events at:

https://www.danmclean.org

Instagram: @danmclean - https://www.instagram.com/danmclean/

Get tickets to her upcoming July 20th fashion show at: https://danmclean.myshopify.com/collections/7-20-runway

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, presents a special summer episode speaking with Library Services Manager Aleya Stone.

Aleya recommends and reviews several books for adults to provide reading inspiration for our Summer Reading Program. Adults who read this summer can win a free monogrammed sticky pad and an entry into our drawing for fabulous prizes.

Stay tuned after the main interview for a visit from one of Debi's personal heroes and a friend of the library.

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, speaks with author and historian Candance Wellman.

Ms. Wellman discusses her books on the contributions of intermarried native women to Pacific Northwest history and social development. She sheds light on little-known stories of notable women, backed by meticulous research. Ms. Wellman also reminisces about her career and life in the area. Her books can be checked out from the Puyallup Library.

Stay tuned after the main interview for a visit from one of Debi's personal heroes and a friend of the library.

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, speaks with Karl Lewis, longtime Puyallup resident, retired attorney, and avid community volunteer.

Mr. Lewis discusses his memories of over 40 years living in Puyallup as well as his current efforts to better the community. Karl volunteers at the local food bank and promotes donations as well as helping senior and low-income citizens with tax assistance via a free AARP program.

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, speaks with Karl Helbich, Puyallup-born entrepreneur and owner of Kassel Motorsports.

Mr. Helbich discusses his roots in the local community, friendships, maintaining a thriving European auto repair service, and his scholarship program for young adults seeking to gain skills in the trades.

Learn more about Karl and his business at:

https://kasselmotorsports.com/

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, speaks with Vanessa Nelson, the founder and executive director of Young Black & Brilliant.

Established in January 2021, Young Black and Brilliant (YB&B) is committed to fostering a sense of community among today's youth. Our aim is to curate a platform where young individuals can authentically engage in positive peer interactions, creating an environment conducive to building confidence and enhancing literacy skills. Through community engagement, outreach, workshops, and our book club, we are dedicated to empowering the next generation with the requisite tools and support for both personal and intellectual growth. Join us in shaping a future where brilliance knows no bounds.

Find out more at: https://www.ybnbreadersclub.org/

Instagram: young_blacknbrilliant

Facebook: YB&B

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, sits down with the Paul, the library's Systems & Information Technology Librarian, to talk about life, travel, and philosophies of public service.

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, hosts a jam session to highlight the library's new musical instrument collection. She also sits down as a guest on the Whatcom County Library System's Library Stories! podcast. Then, stay tuned all the way to the end for a visit from a very special surprise guest.

Please visit and listen to Whatcom County's library podcast at http://wcls.org/podcast

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, interviews David Beerbower, a City of Puyallup police officer and library enthusiast. He discusses community-oriented policing, career challenges, and books he enjoys. Debi also shares one of her favorite quotes from a library patron. This is part two of a two-part interview.

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, interviews David Beerbower, a City of Puyallup police officer and library enthusiast. He discusses community-oriented policing, career challenges, and books he enjoys. This is part one of a two-part interview.

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, interviews Greg Snead, Seattle-area philanthropist and adventurer. He discusses climbing the Space Needle for charity and shares recommendations for two of his favorite books, Rowing Into the Son by Jordan Hanssen and The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin.

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, interviews Bonnie Anderson, our Children's Librarian and professional storyteller. She also speaks with our Librarian, Paul, who has a recommendation for a fantasy adventure book series.

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, interviews Nicole Erickson, Interim Library Director. She also speaks with our Library Assistant Sarah, who has a wonderful recommendation for a manga book.

Puyallup Public Library's Outreach Coordinator, Debi, interviews City Manager Steve Kirkelie. She also talks with our resident manga-phile, Rita, who has great recommendations for graphic novels.