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Justin Arana, the Operations Director at Acres of Hope Youth Ranch, is a man deeply invested in the success of the organization. His journey to the ranch began in the construction industry, where he spent 20 years running a family business with his father and brother. Despite the challenges of working in a family-run business, Justin eventually left construction in 2020 to support his wife, Emmy, in realizing her vision for Acres of Hope. Justin reflects on the decision: “My wife had this incredible vision for the ranch, but I wasn’t originally part of it. I never thought I’d leave the business, but in 2020, I stepped away to help Acres of Hope get off the ground. It’s the hardest thing we’ve ever done, but it’s also the most rewarding.” At Acres of Hope, Justin oversees the day-to-day operations, ensuring that the property is maintained and that the programs run smoothly. His role involves everything from property repairs and coordinating with volunteers to participating in mentorship sessions with the youth. It’s a hands-on job that requires dedication and a deep understanding of both the needs of the ranch and the children they serve. Emmy’s Vision: The Heart Behind Acres of Hope While Justin keeps the ranch running, the heart of Acres of Hope lies with his wife, Emmy. Her journey toward founding the ranch is one filled with personal struggle and a deep desire to help others. Having experienced significant trauma during her teenage years, Emmy turned to horses, God, and mentors to guide her through those dark times. She later became a teacher in the Salem-Keizer School District, where she saw first-hand how many of her students were struggling with similar issues. Inspired by her own healing experience, Emmy envisioned a program that paired troubled youth with horses. What started as a simple dream—a weekend hobby to help kids in need—eventually evolved into a full-scale nonprofit. Today, Acres of Hope provides mentorship and therapeutic experiences for at-risk children, all at no cost to the families they serve. Justin says of Emmy’s vision: “She knew what it was like to feel lost, and she wanted to give these kids something more than just traditional therapy—a place where they could find healing through relationships with horses and people who genuinely cared.” Healing Through Horses: The Core of the Program The cornerstone of Acres of Hope is its equine therapy program, where kids are paired with horses to build trust, confidence, and leadership skills. Horses, as Justin explains, are naturally social animals that require a strong leader, making them the perfect companions for children who often feel powerless in their lives. Learning to lead and care for a horse gives these kids a sense of control and responsibility that many of them have never experienced before. The ranch focuses on addressing critical issues like suicide, bullying, and gender identity by giving children a safe and supportive environment to grow. Through working with the horses, the children gain more than just riding skills—they develop self-confidence, emotional resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose. Justin reflects: “You can’t force a horse to do anything. That’s why working with them is so impactful for these kids. It teaches them patience, respect, and trust—things they may not have had at home.” The Role of the Community and Volunteers Acres of Hope thrives because of the generous support from the local community and its many dedicated volunteers. From mucking stalls to leading mentorship sessions, volunteers play a critical role in every aspect of the ranch’s operation. Justin and Emmy rely heavily on these community members to keep things running smoothly, ensuring that the kids always have a safe and welcoming environment when they visit. The ranch is entirely community-funded, relying on donations and fundraisers to provide its services at no cost to the families it serves. The annual auction, a highlight of the year, has grown in popularity, with last year’s event raising nearly $200,000. Justin emphasizes: “We couldn’t do this without our volunteers and donors. They are the backbone of Acres of Hope, and we’re so grateful for their unwavering support.” Looking to the Future As the demand for Acres of Hope’s services continues to grow, Justin and Emmy are focused on expanding their programs while maintaining the personalized care that has made the ranch so successful. One of their upcoming goals is to develop a junior mentorship program, where former participants will mentor younger children, creating a cycle of healing and growth within the community. Despite the growing need for their services—there are currently between 50 and 75 families on the waiting list—Justin and Emmy remain committed to quality over quantity. They believe that the deep, lasting relationships they build with each child are what truly make the difference. Justin reflects on the journey: “We’re not just here to run a business. We’re here to change lives. Every child who comes to Acres of Hope deserves the best care we can give them, and we’ll continue to do that for as long as there’s a need.” How to Get Involved If you’re interested in supporting Acres of Hope Youth Ranch, there are several ways to get involved. The ranch is always looking for volunteers, donors, and community partners who share their passion for helping at-risk youth. Whether you can volunteer your time, donate to the cause, or attend the annual auction, every contribution makes a difference. To learn more about Acres of Hope, schedule a tour, or sign up for their newsletter, visit their website or follow them on social media. If you’re moved by Justin Arana’s story and the powerful work being done at Acres of Hope Youth Ranch, don’t miss the full podcast episode. Hear the complete interview, dive deeper into the mission, and explore how this unique ranch is transforming lives. Plus, subscribe to our newsletter for future updates on Justin, Emmy, and more inspiring guests who are making a difference in Oregon and beyond. Listen to the full podcast here  and stay connected for more incredible stories!

TG Brown has firsthand experience with both the best and worst of humanity. As a tribal police officer in Grand Ronde, his debut novel Tribal Honor  delves into these contrasting experiences and what happens when the two collide. Set against the backdrop of Oregon’s rich landscapes, Brown weaves a gripping mystery that explores the darker sides of life, infused with the authenticity of his personal and professional journey. Local Roots & Authenticity Brown’s decision to set Tribal Honor  near Dallas Oregon was deeply personal for the author. Despite suggestions to use larger, more recognizable settings, Brown kept his story grounded in the Dallas-Salem area. For readers familiar with Oregon, the local references add a layer of familiarity and connection that sets his work apart from mainstream thrillers. “I love Oregon,” Brown said, emphasizing how important it was for him to reflect his home state in his writing. In particular, his work as a tribal police officer for Grand Ronde gave him a unique perspective, allowing him to portray both the beauty and challenges of the region. By drawing from his life in law enforcement, Brown adds a layer of authenticity to the mystery elements of Tribal Honor , making the story feel real and grounded. Building Relatable Characters Brown’s protagonist, Warren Lawson, is a reflection of both his personal and professional life. As a tribal police officer and CrossFit enthusiast, Warren mirrors many of Brown’s passions, but with a twist—he’s more heroic. Brown aimed to create a character readers could look up to while keeping him grounded in his flaws. “I wanted him to give hope in a world that’s not very hopeful,” Brown said, reflecting on how Warren’s struggles make him relatable. Through Warren, Brown explores themes of justice, family, and redemption, drawing heavily on his own experiences as a police officer in Grand Ronde. His approach to character development has been influenced by authors like Stephen King, who taught him that strong, relatable characters can engage readers even in genres they may not typically enjoy. The Therapeutic Power of Writing For Brown, writing is more than just a creative outlet—it’s therapy. His work as a police officer exposes him to some of the darker sides of life, and writing allows him to process those experiences. “Even though it’s fiction, it’s still cathartic,” Brown said. His wife, a therapist, has found it difficult to read his work at times, knowing how much of his personal pain is reflected in the story. Yet, for Brown, it’s necessary to infuse these real emotions into his writing to make it feel genuine. Initially, Brown wrote from the heart, with little structure or planning. However, after struggling with writer’s block during his second novel, he adopted a more structured approach. He now outlines his books thoroughly, ensuring his stories are cohesive and his character arcs well-developed. Expanding Horizons: Exploring New Genres While Tribal Honor  is rooted in crime and mystery, Brown has ambitious plans to branch out. He’s currently workin g on a supernatural thriller inspired by his wife’s love for Stephen King and plans to write a Western dedicated to his father. Brown is excited to challenge himself by exploring different genres, believing that stepping outside his comfort zone will make him a better writer. Overcoming the Challenges of Self-Publishing As a first-time author, Brown faced the uphill battle of getting Tribal Honor  published. After numerous rejections from traditional publishers, he found success with a publishing consultant who guided him through the self-publishing process. The consultant helped Brown design his book cover, publish through platforms like Amazon, and even market his work. Reviews have played a critical role in Tribal Honor ’s success. Brown emphasized how crucial it is for new authors to receive feedback on platforms like Amazon, as it helps build credibility and visibility. “Reviews literally put food on the table,” Brown said, urging readers to leave honest reviews to support indie authors like himself. The Future of Warren Lawson Brown’s next book, a sequel to Tribal Honor , is set to release in the summer and takes place during the 2020 Oregon wildfires. The fast-paced story will follow Warren Lawson over a 24-hour period as he navigates a series of challenges amid the wildfires. Brown’s goal is to build on the world he established in his first book, creating a deeper connection with the characters while introducing new ones. Final Thoughts TG Brown’s journey from a tribal police officer in Grand Ronde to a published author is one of perseverance, passion, and deep community ties. His commitment to authenticity, both in setting and character development, has earned him a loyal readership in Oregon and beyond. With new projects on the horizon, TG Brown’s work continues to shine a light on the rich cultural landscape of Oregon. If you haven’t yet, be sure to check out Tribal Honor  and support this rising local talent. Listen to the Full Podcast Want to hear more of TG Brown’s journey, inspirations, and writing process? Listen to the full podcast episode here  and dive deeper into his thoughts on writing and law enforcement. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter  for exclusive updates on future projects from TG Brown and other upcoming podcast guests! Support TG Brown Visit tg brown books  or find Tribal Honor  on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Leave a review, subscribe to his newsletter, and stay updated on his upcoming releases.

In this episode of Hustle Northwest , we sit down with Carissa , the owner of The Tipsy Lemon , a unique mobile bar service in the Pacific Northwest . From buying the business to learning the ropes of bartending on the go, Carissa shares her journey of creating unforgettable cocktail experiences at events across the Pacific Northwest . Starting with a Lemon Carissa and her business partner bought The Tipsy Lemon  after discovering the mobile bar industry on a Netflix show. They took over an already-built trailer and got to work—despite Carissa having no formal bartending experience. “We didn’t know where we were going with it, but we finally found our passion,” she said. Catering to Every Occasion The Tipsy Lemon offers various packages, from beer and wine to signature cocktails. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or backyard gathering, Carissa and her team handle everything, including licensing and inquiries. “My worst fear is running out of supplies,” she laughed, but they’ve learned to handle every challenge. Challenges of Running a Mobile Bar Carissa also shared how she faced an issue with another business using a similar name, causing some confusion. “I didn’t know what to do; it had never happened before,” she explained. But instead of letting it bring her down, it only pushed her to continue building a unique brand. Stay Connected Like this article? Great! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter  to get even more insights on the guests and locals we interview! Community and Passion Beyond serving delicious drinks, Carissa loves building connections. “I want to be everyone’s friend,” she said about working with clients and vendors. She’s also part of a supportive mobile bar community in the Pacific Northwest , where owners exchange advice and tips to help each other grow. For booking inquiries and to learn more about The Tipsy Lemon , visit their website .

What does it take to turn a passion for magic into a career?  In this episode of Hustle Northwest , we sit down with Finn the Magician , a professional Magician & performer in Salem Oregon, who’s been captivating audiences at corporate events, house parties, and more. Finn’s journey into magic is filled with perseverance, mentorship, and the art of entertaining crowds, whether large or small. From Hobby to Headliner Finn’s love for magic began at age 16 after a chance encounter with a street magician in Seattle. Since then, he’s evolved from practicing card tricks to becoming a well-known name in Salem’s entertainment scene. Starting as a hobbyist in 2010, Finn began performing professionally in 2017, and today, he’s known for his captivating close-up magic and engaging stage performances. Mentorship and Continuous Learning Like many in the performing arts, Finn attributes much of his growth to the guidance of mentors. “I have mentors who travel the country—guys I look up to and learn from regularly,” Finn shared. These relationships have helped shape his approach to magic, allowing him to constantly improve and adapt his performance for any audience, whether at a corporate event or a backyard gathering. The Challenges of Magic Of course, not all shows go perfectly. Finn reflected on one gig where things didn’t go as smoothly as planned: “I didn’t realize how chaotic it would be starting the show at 5:30… it was like a zoo!” But he takes every challenge in stride, viewing them as learning experiences. “You get so much better at your craft when you embrace your mistakes,” he noted. Keeping Magic Fun and Inclusive Finn’s approach to magic sets him apart. “I don’t like making fun of people in my shows. Some magicians do, but I don’t,” he explained. For him, it’s about ensuring the audience has a fun, positive experience. Whether it’s a close-up trick or a large stage show, Finn focuses on reading the room and engaging with participants in a way that makes them feel part of the magic. Stay Connected Want more behind-the-scenes insights and stories like Finn’s? Follow us on Instagram  and our social media platforms to get updates on upcoming episodes of Hustle Northwest , exclusive content, and sneak peeks into the world of local entrepreneurs. The Magic of Perseverance Finn’s story isn’t just about sleight of hand—it’s about passion, persistence, and continually evolving in his craft. His journey from a curious teenager to a Salem magician who dazzles crowds shows that with the right mindset, dedication, and a love for the art, you can turn any dream into a reality. For booking inquiries and to stay updated on Finn the Magician’s  upcoming performances, visit his Instagram .

Hey Hustle Northwest readers!  If you’ve been following along, you know we love diving into the stories behind local businesses and the people who make them thrive. Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Deborah Bauer , one of the driving forces behind West End Boutique . This family-owned business has grown from humble beginnings in Albany, Oregon, to multiple locations across the state. Deborah’s passion for retail, family roots, and adaptability have fueled West End’s success. #WestEndBoutique #FamilyOwnedBusiness Adapting to Change West End Boutique started in 2011, transitioning from a men’s clothing store to a women’s fashion hub in response to the 2008 financial crisis. “2008 forced us to pivot and find what worked in a new retail climate,” Deborah explained. Now with locations in Salem, Eugene, and Woodburn , they’ve built a loyal following by keeping up with trends and listening to their customers. #RetailSuccess #WomenFashion The Role of Community West End’s growth wouldn’t have been possible without strong community ties. “We rely on the community to tell us what they love, and we shape our inventory around that,” Deborah shared. Through social media and customer engagement, the boutique has maintained deep connections with shoppers, ensuring their styles stay fresh and relevant. #ShopLocal #CommunitySupport Challenges and Resilience From economic downturns to the challenges posed by the pandemic, Deborah reflects on how the boutique has weathered the storms. “We had to rely heavily on our website during 2020, but it was a necessary shift,” she said. The pandemic pushed West End to strengthen its online presence while continuing to face the everyday challenges of retail. #ResilienceInBusiness #RetailChallenges Stay Connected Like this article? Great! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter  for more insights into the guests and locals we interview at Hustle Northwest . #HustleNorthwestPodcast #SubscribeNow Looking Ahead Looking to the future, Deborah believes that women's fashion boutiques retail will shift away from traditional malls and move towards community-centered, outdoor and storefront shopping experiences. With that vision, West End Boutique may expand further into areas like Lake Oswego , where outdoor shopping thrives. #FutureOfRetail #BoutiqueShopping For more about West End Boutique  and their latest fashion collections, visit their website  or check out their Facebook page .

Have you ever wondered how a small brewery can become the heart of a community?  This week on Hustle Northwest , a Salem, Oregon-based podcast , we sat down with Matt Spinner, co-founder of Snow Peak Brewing  in Stayton. Matt and his wife, Crystal, took their passion for home-brewing and turned it into a community-focused business that’s making waves in the Willamette Valley . From Home Brew to Brewery Matt and Crystal started Snow Peak Brewing here in Stayton Oregon in 2015 after realizing Stayton didn’t have a brewery. Inspired by a small operation they discovered in Montana, they used their skills in fabrication and construction to make their dream a reality here in the Santiam Canyon. Now, Snow Peak Brewing is more than just a place to grab a pint—it’s become a central gathering spot for locals. Facing Challenges with the Community’s Support Like many small businesses in Oregon , Snow Peak Brewing faced its share of obstacles, from equipment issues to power challenges. But with the help of their supportive community, Matt and Crystal pushed through, creating a space that hosts events like trivia nights, “Bingo for a Cause,” and class reunions—keeping the small-town spirit alive. Beer, Events, and Future Plans If you’re in the Willamette Valley  and haven’t tried their award-winning beers like Citra Lee  and Hay Box Amber , you’re missing out. With future plans to expand the brewery by adding a kitchen and offering new options like seltzers, Snow Peak Brewing is on a path to becoming an even bigger player in the local craft beer scene. Did You Know? We’re a Salem, Oregon podcast , and we’re launching a newsletter! Be sure to subscribe and get exclusive access to behind-the-scenes content, plus updates on who we’ll be interviewing next. Support local, learn from the best, and stay connected with us. Key Quotes from Matt • On Starting the Brewery : “We were trying to figure out what our area didn’t have… and we said, well, there’s not a brewery.” • On Community : “We wanted Snow Peak to be the community’s brewery and we wanted people to feel part of it.” Looking Forward As a podcast based in Salem, Oregon , we’re all about highlighting the hard-working, passionate people who make our local businesses thrive. Snow Peak Brewing is just one example of how a small business can truly impact its community, and we can’t wait to share more stories from around the valley. Check out Snow Peak Brewing  on Instagram  or visit their Facebook page  to learn more about their award-winning beers and upcoming events.

Ever wondered what it’s like to leave a 16-year career in law enforcement for real estate?  On this episode of Hustle Northwest , we dive into the story of Joe Skipper , an Oregon police trooper who made a bold shift to become a real estate agent. Joe’s transition highlights the resilience and adaptability needed for success, and his story is full of insights for anyone thinking about a career change. From Patrol to Properties Joe’s background in law enforcement saw him serve as a state trooper, major crimes detective, and part of the governor’s security detail. But after years in the field, he sought a different path, inspired by his wife’s family, who has been in real estate for over 30 years. “I always wanted to run my own business,” Joe shared, and now he’s doing just that as a thriving real estate agent. Mental Health and Career Challenges One of the more impactful parts of Joe’s story is his candid discussion about the mental health challenges he faced in law enforcement. “It’s a really mentally unhealthy career,” he reflected, stressing the need for better support for officers. The stresses of night shifts, dealing with major crimes, and protecting high-profile figures all contributed to his decision to seek a new path. Stay Connected Want more inspiring stories from local business owners like Joe? Follow us on Instagram  and other social media platforms for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive access to upcoming episodes. Stay in the loop as we bring you more stories from Salem and beyond. Partnering with His Wife Joe also shared insights into working with his wife, Christina, who recently joined the real estate world. Together, they focus on nurturing client relationships rather than pushing sales. “Giving clients valuable advice that works for them has been key to our success,” Joe noted. Looking Ahead Joe’s journey from Oregon state police trooper to starting his business in real estate agent is a testament to the power of reinvention. Whether you’re in law enforcement, real estate, or another field entirely, Joe’s story shows that with the right mindset, you can embrace new opportunities and thrive. Connect with Joe Skipper  on Facebook  to learn more about his real estate journey and the services he offers in Salem, Oregon.

With Mount Angel Oktoberfest  just around the corner, we sat down with Monica Bochsler  and Whitney Ulven , two of the festival’s directors, to dive into the history, logistics, and community spirit that make this event one of Oregon’s  biggest. Starting back in 1966 with 35,000 attendees, the festival has grown to attract nearly 400,000 people each year. Year-Round Planning for a Massive Event Planning for Mount Angel Oktoberfest starts the moment the previous year’s festival wraps up. “We start the Thursday after festival ends,” said Monica, highlighting the dedication of the team and volunteers. Every year, 7,500 volunteers help run various parts of the event, from food booths to parking logistics. Celebrating Community and Tradition A key focus of the Oktoberfest is its deep roots in the Mount Angel  community. The event not only brings people together for music, beer, and entertainment but also raises funds for local nonprofits. Around 40 organizations participate each year, making it a major fundraiser for schools, churches, and community groups. Food, Fun, and Family One thing that sets Mount Angel Oktoberfest  apart is its variety. From beer gardens and wine gardens to kid-friendly activities like pony rides and petting zoos, there’s something for everyone. Monica and Whitney emphasized the importance of creating an event that welcomes families: “It’s not just for the adults; we want kids to have fun too.” Looking Ahead: Future Growth and Challenges As the festival continues to grow, the organizers are faced with the challenge of maintaining its community feel. Whitney noted, “We’re always thinking about how to keep that small-town charm, even with 400,000 people coming through.” Managing parking, transportation, and crowd flow is key to ensuring the festival remains a fun experience for all. Stay Connected Follow our Salem, Oregon podcast  on Instagram and other social media platforms for exclusive stories about events like Mount Angel Oktoberfest  and updates on future episodes of Hustle Northwest . Giving Back to the Community Funds raised from admission, beer, and food sales are reinvested into the community. “What do we do with that money? We give it back to the community,” Monica shared. This support has a lasting impact, ensuring that Mount Angel Oktoberfest  is more than just a festival—it’s a tradition that uplifts the entire region. For more details about the upcoming Mount Angel Oktoberfest , visit the official website here .

Hey there, we’re Brian and Carrie Corcoran, the husband-and-wife duo behind Hustle Northwest , a podcast based right here in Salem, Oregon . If you’re someone who loves small businesses, supporting local, or just hearing stories about people hustling hard in the Willamette Valley , this is the show for you. Why We Started This Podcast We’re both deeply rooted in the local community—Brian’s a real estate photographer, and Carrie’s a realtor. So yeah, we could’ve easily made this a real estate podcast, but honestly, there’s so much more happening around here that we wanted to dive into, and real estate can be boring for a lot of people. As a Salem Oregon podcast we’ve met so many entrepreneurs throughout Portland, Salem, Corvallis, and Oregon who have amazing stories. We realized people need to hear them. Whether it’s someone launching a business from their garage or a local shop that’s been around for decades, Hustle Northwest  is all about giving these entrepreneurs a platform to share their journeys. What to Expect in Every Episode Every week, we sit down with a different local business owner or entrepreneur. From Salem to Silverton, we’re showcasing the unique people that make this community thrive. You’ll hear about their struggles, triumphs, and what it takes to run a business in Oregon. Some episodes are funny, some are deep, but all of them are real. We keep it raw and down-to-earth because, honestly, life’s messy—and so is running a business. We’re here to inspire other entrepreneurs, but also to show the community what goes on behind the scenes. Why Support Small Businesses? We’re huge believers in supporting local businesses. When you buy local, you’re not just grabbing a cup of coffee or a handmade craft—you’re supporting someone’s dream. And especially here in the Willamette Valley , small businesses are at the heart of everything. Whether it’s the local brewery, the family-run coffee shop, or a small startup, these businesses bring character and grit to our region. If you’re a small business owner yourself or someone who just loves supporting local, this podcast is for you. Our episodes are packed with useful insights, lessons learned, and plenty of moments where we go, “Wow, I didn’t know that.” Connect with Us We’re not just talking to small business owners—we want to connect with you, our listeners, too. So here’s the deal: • Subscribe to Hustle Northwest  on your favorite podcast platform. • Follow us on Instagram for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more. • Sign up for our newsletter to get early access to new episodes, and insider scoops on the local business scene. Let’s make this a conversation. Tell us who you want to hear from next, or drop us a line if you know a small business owner with a story that needs to be told. Join the Hustle Oregon is full of hardworking people who’ve built something out of nothing, and we’re here to celebrate them. From Salem to Corvallis, Portland to Eugene, our goal is to build a community that supports local, hustles hard, and shares inspiring stories. Whether you’re a local business owner looking for tips or someone who just loves supporting your community, there’s a seat at the table for you. Stay tuned for more, and as always—keep hustling.