Bend Don't Break

Bend Don't Break: Keith Sherrill, Small Business Management Coordinator, COCC SBDC

In this episode host Aaron Switzer sits down with Keith Sherrill, Small Business Management Coordinator at the COCC Small Business Development Center. A veteran, educator, entrepreneur, and former U.S. Army Ranger and special operations aviator, Keith shares his journey from military service and multiple deployments to business ownership, higher education, and community leadership in Central Oregon. The conversation explores entrepreneurship, veteran support, the meaning of the American Dream, and the role small businesses play in strengthening local communities. Keith discusses the COCC SBDC programs he leads, including STRIVE, which helps veterans turn business ideas into reality, and explains how leadership lessons from military service continue to shape the way he mentors entrepreneurs across Central Oregon. Questions? Contact Keith at ksherrill@cocc.edu Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don't Break: Bree Beal, Executive Director of BEAT Children's Theatre

In this episode host Aaron Switzer sits down with Bree Beal, Executive Director of BEAT Children's Theatre. Bree shares her journey from a childhood immersed in theater to studying history, working in the title industry, and ultimately returning to her passion through nonprofit leadership. She discusses joining BEAT in 2014, helping guide the organization through leadership transition, growth, and the expansion of programs that connect young people throughout Central Oregon with theater and creative expression. The conversation explores the value of children's theater as a place for creativity, confidence, and community rather than a pathway to professional acting alone. Bree talks about the importance of arts access, the challenges and opportunities facing local theater organizations, and BEAT's mission to help young people grow through storytelling, performance, and collaboration. The discussion highlights why arts education and creative spaces continue to matter for families and communities across Central Oregon. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don't Break: Fiona Noonan, Wildlands and Water Program Manager

In this episode host Aaron Switzer sits down with Fiona Noonan, Wildlands and Water Program Manager. Fiona works with Central Oregon LandWatch to protect forests, wildlife habitat, and water resources across Central Oregon. A landscape ecologist with experience in climate planning, land protection, and natural resource management, she discusses her educational path from Stanford University to Boise State University and the work that brought her back to Central Oregon. The conversation explores wildfire preparedness, forest management, water allocation, irrigation efficiency, and the long term challenges facing Central Oregon's public lands and rivers. Fiona explains how wildfire resilience, land use planning, and water policy are deeply connected, and why thoughtful management of these systems is essential to maintaining a livable future for communities across the region. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don't Break: Alisa Dunlap, Pacific Power's Regional Business Manager for Central Oregon

In this episode host Aaron Switzer sits down with Alisa Dunlap, Pacific Power's Regional Business Manager for Central Oregon. With a background in political science, government affairs, public policy, and utility planning, Dunlap shares how her career evolved from health care policy work at OHSU to helping guide energy infrastructure and customer growth planning across Central Oregon for Pacific Power. The conversation explores the realities of managing energy needs in one of Oregon's fastest growing regions, including long range utility planning, substation development, transmission projects, data center growth, and wildfire safety. Dunlap explains how Pacific Power works with communities, businesses, and local governments to prepare for future demand while balancing public concerns and the reliability needs of Central Oregon's expanding population. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don’t Break: Jeff Curtis, Executive Director of the Deschutes County Fair

In this episode host Aaron Switzer sits down with Jeff Curtis, Executive Director of the Deschutes County Fair. Curtis recently stepped into the role after leading the Alaska State Fair and spending nearly two decades as CEO of the Portland Rose Festival Foundation. With more than 30 years of experience producing fairs, festivals, and community events across the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, he brings a fresh perspective to one of Central Oregon’s longest running traditions. The conversation explores the evolving role of county fairs, the importance of preserving agricultural roots while expanding community appeal, and the lessons Curtis learned from managing large scale events through changing times. He also shares insights into this year's Deschutes County Fair, including entertainment, attractions, and what makes fairs such a meaningful gathering place for Central Oregon residents. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don't Break: Beau Eastes, Marketing Director at Old Mill District & Hayden Homes Amphitheater

In this episode host Aaron Switzer sits down with Beau Eastes, Marketing Director at Old Mill District and Hayden Homes Amphitheater. Beau shares his journey from journalism in Kansas, Oregon, and Utah to marketing leadership in Central Oregon. He reflects on his years at The Bulletin, his transition into marketing, and how his background as a reporter continues to shape the way he connects with the community. The conversation explores the evolution of the Old Mill District, the growth of Hayden Homes Amphitheater, and the vision behind its next chapter. Beau discusses local business partnerships, new development plans, the amphitheater’s expanding concert season, and the importance of creating places that serve both residents and visitors in Central Oregon. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don't Break: Dr Travis Allen, Executive Director of the Central Oregon Symphony Association

In this episode host Aaron Switzer sits down with Dr Travis Allen, Executive Director of the Central Oregon Symphony Association. A Bend native, cellist, educator, and arts leader, Dr Allen shares his journey from studying cello performance and musicology to returning home to build a career in Central Oregon’s classical music community. He discusses his work as a performer, teacher at Central Oregon Community College, and his leadership role guiding the symphony after years of involvement in local music education and performance. The conversation explores the role of a community orchestra, the challenges and opportunities of growing a classical music audience in Bend, and the importance of accessibility in the arts. Dr Allen highlights outreach efforts like Music in Public Places, youth engagement programs, and the symphony’s pay what you can model, all of which aim to make classical music more inclusive and relevant to Central Oregon’s evolving community. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don't Break: Scott Rowles, Founder and Lead Educational Therapist of Potentia Academics

In this episode host Aaron Switzer sits down with Scott Rowles, Founder and Lead Educational Therapist of Potentia Academics. Scott is a licensed teacher and certified professional educational therapist who has worked in local public schools and at Central Oregon Community College. Through his work, he supports students across a wide age range in building executive function skills, confidence, and the tools they need to succeed academically and personally. The conversation explores how today’s educational landscape is becoming more complex, from the lasting impacts of COVID to the growing role of technology in the classroom. Scott explains how educational therapy fills gaps for students experiencing stress, anxiety, and skill deficits, while offering practical insight into motivation, focus, and independence. This discussion highlights challenges and solutions that are especially relevant to families and educators navigating education in Central Oregon. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don’t Break: Phil Chang, Deschutes County Commissioner

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Phil Chang, Deschutes County Commissioner, to explore a pivotal moment for local leadership as the county prepares to welcome a new wave of commissioners. Phil reflects on his role stepping into senior leadership, the outcomes of the recent election, and how Deschutes County’s political landscape is shifting alongside its rapid growth. He shares candid insights into the challenges of governing in an environment where national narratives increasingly shape local decision making. Together, Aaron and Phil dive into the region’s most pressing issues, including housing, land use, behavioral health, and homelessness, along with the importance of evidence driven policymaking and stronger collaboration between the county, cities, and community partners. Phil outlines his vision for a more pragmatic and solutions oriented approach to governance, emphasizing the need to support innovative staff, cut through ideological gridlock, and focus on outcomes that move the community forward. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, accountability, and the future of Central Oregon. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Kirk Schueler, President and CEO of Brooks Resources Corporation

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Kirk Schueler, President and CEO of Brooks Resources Corporation, to explore the evolution of Bend through the lens of one of its most influential developers. Kirk shares his journey from a career in accounting and auditing to helping shape some of Central Oregon’s most recognizable communities, including Northwest Crossing. Along the way, he reflects on the collaborative efforts that defined Bend’s growth, from the West Side Traffic Consortium to early decisions that introduced roundabouts and walkable neighborhood design. Together, Aaron and Kirk dive into the realities of growth in a changing city—how land use policy, housing demand, and community values intersect, and what’s at stake as Bend continues to expand. They also discuss the shift away from large-scale master planned developments toward more urban, mixed-use projects, and the importance of maintaining “complete neighborhoods” that balance housing with services and livability. Tune in for a grounded conversation about leadership, long-term thinking, and what it means to build a community that lasts. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don’t Break: Emerson Levy, Oregon State Representative, House District 53

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Oregon State Representative Emerson Levy, an attorney, educator, and public servant representing House District 53. Emerson shares how her work is grounded in community input—from tackling lithium battery fires at local landfills to navigating complex legislation around liability, transportation funding, and environmental safety. She offers a candid look at how ideas become laws, and the role collaboration plays in moving policy forward. Together, Aaron and Emerson explore the realities behind Oregon’s budget challenges, the failed gas tax vote, and the growing urgency around education reform in a tech-heavy world. Emerson also reflects on bipartisan problem-solving, the personal toll of public service, and her vision for stronger, more accountable governance. It’s a thoughtful conversation about leadership, transparency, and what it means to show up for community in a moment of change. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don’t Break: Shanan Kelley, Writer, Emcee, Auctioneer, and Comedian

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Shanan Kelley, writer, emcee, auctioneer, and comedian whose heart‑centered humor has made her a cornerstone of Central Oregon’s nonprofit and creative communities. Shanan shares how she built a unique career blending storytelling, performance, and purpose—from launching The Nightlight Show in Bend’s early creative days to becoming a sought‑after host for fundraising events across the region. Together, Aaron and Shanan explore the evolving world of nonprofit events, the craft of connecting with live audiences, and the responsibility that comes with using humor to bring people together. They also reflect on creativity, community, and what it takes to keep showing up for the work you care about. It’s a candid and uplifting conversation about resilience, reinvention, and making a life that feels both meaningful and uniquely your own. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don’t Break: Peter Franc, Executive Director of Ballet Bend

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Peter Franc, executive director of Ballet Bend, to talk about his journey from a young dancer in Atlanta to performing and leading at the highest levels of professional ballet. Peter shares how his early training, international career, and time with Oregon Ballet Theatre shaped both his artistic perspective and his approach to leadership in the arts. Together, Aaron and Peter explore what it takes to build a cultural organization from the ground up and why Bend is ready for a broader arts scene. They discuss the vision behind Ballet Bend, the balance between classical and contemporary performance, and the role the arts can play in a growing community. It is a thoughtful conversation about creativity, discipline, and the opportunity to shape the future of Central Oregon’s cultural identity. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don’t Break: Keith Witcosky, Redmond City Manager

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Keith Witcosky, City Manager of Redmond, to talk about what it really means to guide a fast growing Central Oregon city through change. From overseeing a 150 million dollar budget and a regional airport to navigating water constraints, housing pressure, and cultural shifts, Keith offers a grounded look at how Redmond has evolved and where it is headed. Aaron and Keith discuss Redmond’s rapid population growth, the economic impact of the airport, long term water planning in the high desert, and the importance of trust between city staff and elected leaders. It is a thoughtful conversation about growth without losing identity and the steady work of keeping a community resilient. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

Bend Don't Break: Meagan Iverson, Sunriver Music Festival Executive Director

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Meagan Iverson, Executive Director of the Sunriver Music Festival, to talk about music as a vehicle for community, connection, and care in Central Oregon. Meagan shares her path from growing up in Southern Oregon to leading one of the region’s most enduring cultural institutions, and how her background as a musician and arts administrator shapes her approach to leadership and collaboration. Meagan and Aaron explore the festival’s year‑round impact, from nurturing young musicians through scholarships, to bringing mindful music moments into local schools, to celebrating American composers during the festival’s 49th season. It’s a thoughtful conversation about why the arts matter, how community organizations thrive through cooperation, and what it means to create shared experiences in Central Oregon. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

Bend Don’t Break: David Bermudez, Executive Director of Bend Science Station

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with David Bermudez, executive director and founder of Bend Science Station, to talk about curiosity, critical thinking, and what it really means to learn science. David shares his journey from teaching at Sunriver Prep to launching a nonprofit that has spent more than two decades expanding access to hands‑on STEM education for students across Central Oregon. David and Aaron explore how Bend Science Station grew from a borrowed lab space into a Net Zero facility on the OSU‑Cascades campus, serving more than 5,000 students and 200 educators each year. The conversation dives into why science education often falls short in elementary schools, how experiential learning builds lifelong skills, and why being “wrong” is one of the most important parts of the scientific process. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion about education, democracy, and helping kids (and adults) learn how to question, test, and think critically. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don’t Break: Jason Stein, Executive Director of Opera Bend

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Jason Stein, Executive Director of Opera Bend, to talk about building and sustaining an opera company in Central Oregon. Jason shares his journey from studying acting in New York City and performing on major stages to putting down roots in Bend and helping fill the void left when Obsidian Opera closed. Along the way, he reflects on what drew him to opera, how his voice shaped his career, and why Bend became home. Jason and Aaron explore the role of opera in a growing community, the balance between local talent and visiting performers, and Opera Bend’s mission to make opera welcoming and accessible. They discuss the “Fear No Opera” philosophy, the realities of producing large-scale performances, and what audiences can expect from upcoming productions—including Die Fledermaus, performed in English with supertitles. It’s a thoughtful conversation about art, risk, legacy, and why live performance still matters in Central Oregon. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don't Break: Clayton Franke, Reporter for LIOF

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Clayton Franke, reporter for the Lay It Out Foundation and The Source, to talk about local journalism, community accountability, and what it means to report from the inside of a rapidly changing city. Clayton shares his path from growing up in Missoula to studying journalism at the University of Oregon, then building his reporting experience at small newspapers across Oregon and Washington before landing in Bend. Clayton and Aaron explore the realities of reporting on local government, housing, transportation, and urban planning in Central Oregon. They discuss the responsibility that comes with telling people’s stories, the challenges facing modern journalism, and why local reporting still matters deeply to the health of a community. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don’t Break: Casey Andrews, Executive Director for COTA (Central Oregon Trail Alliance)

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Casey Andrews, Executive Director of Central Oregon Trail Alliance, to talk about stewardship, public lands, and the people who make Central Oregon’s trail system possible. Casey shares her path from working in national parks and forests across the country to leading one of the region’s most impactful outdoor nonprofits. Casey and Aaron explore the realities of trail maintenance in a high use and fragile environment, the growing role of nonprofit partners as federal staffing declines, and why Central Oregon’s volunteer culture is so unique. The conversation highlights how trails are more than recreation infrastructure. They are economic drivers, community connectors, and shared responsibilities that require long term care and collaboration. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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Bend Don’t Break: Selin Sevinç, Managing Director at Bend Film Festival

In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron Switzer sits down with Selin Sevinç, Managing Director of Programming and Artistic Vision at Bend Film Festival, to explore her journey from Istanbul to Bend and her lifelong devotion to storytelling. Selin shares how she moved through the film world as a critic, screenwriter, and festival juror before finding her home in Central Oregon’s creative community. She reflects on screening nearly a thousand films a year, what makes independent cinema so vital, and why Bend Film remains rooted in collaboration and artistic curiosity. Together, Aaron and Selin dive into the challenges of running a modern film festival, the new shared‑leadership model shaping Bend Film’s future, and the importance of Basecamp—an immersive retreat where filmmakers refine pitches, build community, and fuel their craft. Selin also opens up about her own creative work, including a new short film she plans to direct in Portland, and how she balances parenting, leadership, and the unpredictable rhythm of creative life. Send us Fan Mail Support the show

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