That Upper Left Life

The boys and I talk about Family Christmas Traditions. But Christmas isn't just about customs and presents; its about the people we share them with. We dive into the beautiful, sometimes complicated dynamics of familyduring this time of the year - the laughter, the nostalgia and the moments that make the holidays unforgettable.

Today we discuss a new Top 10 we are going to tackle in the coming episodes. Yes, it deals with myths, lore and legends from Washington State. Comment below for the ones we might have missed or your insight on what we are about to talk about.

In this raw and redemptive episode, Randy Budano from That Upper Left Life, Deena Budano of Dream Big with Deena Budano, and Caleb Altmeyer from Helping Captives sit down for a powerful conversation about transformation, purpose, and restoring hope.Caleb opens up about his deeply personal journey—from attending a private Christian school to dropping out of high school and falling into the grip of addiction. But his story didn’t end there. Through God’s grace, Caleb experienced a radical transformation that led him to a life of service and healing.Now, as the founder of Helping Captives, Caleb is devoted to supporting women impacted by sexual exploitation, offering them a pathway to restoration and renewed dignity. One of the most moving parts of our conversation is the story of how Helping Captives recently purchased the former DeJa Vu strip club—once a symbol of exploitation—and is transforming it into an intake and healing center dedicated to helping women begin their journey of recovery.This episode is a testament to how lives, spaces, and stories can be redeemed. It’s a conversation filled with hope, healing, and the power of saying “yes” to a higher purpose.To find out more about Helping Captives and to connect with Caleb. https://helpingcaptives.org/ on facebook and instagram @ helping captivesHomeHelping Captives: Combating sex trafficking & empowering survivors

In this heartfelt episode, I am joined by Jennifer Smid, owner of The Curated Cottage, along with Deena Budano of Dream Big with Deena Budano, for a beautiful and honest conversation about faith, entrepreneurship, motherhood, and purpose.Jennifer shares how she launched The Curated Cottage in less than 15 days, growing it into a warm and lovely boutique that now features 25 amazing curators. She opens up about the challenges of being a single mom, the deep impact of her relationship with her own mother, and the unwavering role her faith in God and Jesus has played in every step of her journey.With heartfelt humility, Jennifer explains that The Curated Cottage isn’t just her store—it’s God’s store, and she’s simply the one blessed to run it. Now, after about a year and a half of ownership, she reflects on the joy, growth, and daily challenges that come with stewarding something so meaningful. This episode is a reminder that when faith meets action, incredible things can happen. If you’ve ever needed encouragement to trust the process and follow God’s plan, this one’s for you. The Curated Cottage is located at 915 E Hawthorne Rd Suite B, Spokane, WA 99218 You can find and follow the Curated Cottage on Facebook and Instagram @thecuratedcottageco and Website is Home |TheCuratedCottageCothecuratedcottageco.square.site

Welcome to 2025! I decided to take a couple of months off to recharge for the new year! Today we talk about the craft of making knives. I am joined with Cory Olsen and Christian Payne and talk about our experiences of creating knives.

Deena and I talk about our newly formed LLC and DBA Brushes Up with the Budano's. We talk about how we got here and what the future brings. budanoartdesignco@outlook.com FB - @BrushesUpwiththeBudanos IG - @BrushesUpwiththeBudanos

Deena and I talk about Bigfoot Records and the murals I've created inside and out. We talk about how it came to be, my concept of the project and future projects with Bigfoot, Mike and Lucas.

Deena and I talk with Letty Villanueva owner of Nueva Nails and Mitch Davis owner of Midnight Waffles. We talk about their struggles, their successes, their passion for self-expression and place in this world. Midnight Waffles: midnightwaffles.com IG @midnightwafflescreative Letty Villanueva - Nueva Nails: nueva-nails.square.site IG @letiticia_villanueva West Central Wubs https://youtu.be/8MIIRvry-II?si=CdzIa_RSx9xM79Pr

I revisit Bigfoot Records in the Garland District, talking with Father and son owners, Mike and Lucas, to see how things progressed in a year. Bigfoot Records 905 W Garland Ave Spokane, WA 99205 IG - @bigfootrecordsspokane FB - @bigfootrecords bigfootrecordsspokane.com

Join Deena and I for a delightful conversation with Susan Nielsen, owner of the company and daughter of company Founder Gabe. Gabe is the founder and company "personality." Discover the rich history and delicious offerings of this second-generation family business, renowned for Gabe's Original Dressing & Marinade and Mama's Mediterranean Spices. Learn about the origins, evolution, and versatility of their signature products, and get inspired by ideas for using these spices in various recipes. We also highlight local retail locations where you can find Gabe’s Gourmet Foods products, including Egger's Better Meats South Hill location, My Fresh Basket, Wanderlust Delicato, Simply Northwest, Elz Tastes & Teas, Spice & Vine Mercantile, and The Culinary Stone in Coeur d'Alene. Plus, hear about their efforts to expand retail partnerships and the availability of products through their online store and the future of cooking demonstrations and cooking classes. Tune in and savor the magic of Gabe's Gourmet Spices that have 55 years of love in every bite. Find Gabe's Gourmet Foods Spices on: Instagram and Facebook @gabesgourmetfoods To purchase Gabe’s gourmet foods all local retailers: Egger's Better Meats South Hill location, My Fresh Basket, Wanderlust Delicato, Simply Northwest, Elz Tastes & Teas, Spice & Vine Mercantile, and The Culinary Stone (Coeur d'Alene). Gabe's Gourmet Foods Spices are also available at 23 retail locations nationwide and online at www.gabesgourmetfoods.com.

Today we talk about Lilac City Comicon 2024.

Sheila Fritts and Deena Budano host a captivating podcast titled “Remembering Expo 74.” In this podcast, they interview individuals who attended the Expo '74 in Spokane. Through firsthand accounts, they explore various aspects of the fair, including music, downtown development, environmental themes, and the fair’s impact on shaping the city. You can find the podcast on platforms like Apple and Spotify. Kudos to Fritts and Budano for their commendable efforts in keeping Expo '74 memories alive.

In this podcast episode I am joined with Deena Budano of “Dream Big with Deena Budano” as we engage in a phenomenal conversation with Monica Simeon, co-owner of Sister Sky.  Monica candidly shares the hurdles and victories of being a Brown, Woman-owned business and unveils the evolution of Sister Sky over its 25-year .  Join us for a captivating discussion on entrepreneurship, cultural heritage, and the power of mentorship in realizing dreams. You can find SisterSky at SisterSky.com or on their social media platforms, @1SisterSky on Facebook and @sistersky_ on IG.

Today is a different kind of podcast.  It’s not about the PNW.  It’s about a handful of friends that had a good time making music.  Welcome three of the four members, including myself, of Mounting Mother Magnet.  We talk about where we’ve been and what we are up to.  Here’s Part 1.

Welcome to the latest episode! Today That Upper Left Life and Dream Big with Deena Budano have a delightful conversation with Khuyen Shirath, the owner of Kiss My Lash and Self Care Spa and Lounge. In this episode, Khuyen, Deena Budano and I really get into the powerful themes of survival and dreaming big. Khuyen shares her incredible journey from overcoming language barriers as a Vietnamese immigrant in Spokane, Washington, to transitioning from corporate life to successful entrepreneurship. Tune in as we explore resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. To connect with Khuyen you can find her on Instagram @Khuyennie @kissmylash and @selfcare_spaandlounge. or check out her link https://msha.ke/selfcare_spaandlounge To connect with me find me @thatupperleftlife or at my podcast on Spotify at That Upper Left Life. To connect with Denna Budano find her at her podcast on Spotify at Dream Big with Deena Budano. Also, the event space Khuyen and I talk about @thepergola.509venue https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=30650687@selfcare_spaandlounge • Milkshake Website Builder

Today I have a conversation with Nicholas DeCaro, chef, restauranteur, entrepreneur and artist. We talk the talk in this one. Chef Sin gives us his origin story, motivation and inspiration as well as preparing us for world domination. Follow The Island Style Food and BBQ family build community through the universal language of food on Facebook Island Style Food & BBQ and Instagram @island_style_food Please subscribe to this channel on wherever you listen to podcasts and interact with us on Facebook That Upper Left Life and Instagram @thatupperleftlife

Leavenworth, Washington. Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, this charming Bavarian-inspired haven wholeheartedly embraces the enchantment of winter. Have you been to Leavenworth? What activities have you done there? We touch on some of the activities that we have done and also what we will do this weekend.

Today we discuss the pros and cons of owning a health tracker. If you haven't already, please subscribe to the podcast. If you can, please help support this podcast via monthly donation. Interact with us through our FB and IG pages. We'd love to hear from you!

Here’s your chance to tell the world about the Best of the Inland Northwest. The Inlander is devoted to celebrating local excellence, so VOTE LOCAL. And don’t forget to share the ballot with friends — and add your comments about your favorites as you go! Balloting ends Feb. 21 at midnight; Winners will be announced in the March 28 issue. bestof.inlander.com VOTE AND WIN! If you answer at least 20 questions, you’ll be entered to win a deluxe prize package from Visit Spokane!  Balloting rules and prize package details at inlander.com/bestofinfo

Welcome to 2024! Today I talk with, my buddy, Sean Borst, Senior Executive Chef for Lumin Field. We talk about his beginnings, his duties and, of course, food. If you haven't already, please subscribe to the podcast. If you can, please help support this podcast via monthly donation. Interact with us through our FB and IG pages. We'd love to hear from you!