LIFT Podcast: Leaders Inspiring Forward Thinking
Brought to you by J Bar J Youth Services
Welcome to the LIFT Podcast by J Bar J Youth Services, a Central Oregon podcast that brings you community leaders, expert interviews, and real conversations about what matters most. Tune in and feel inspired to help build a better tomorrow.
Each episode spotlights the people, programs, and partnerships that drive meaningful change in Bend and across the Central Oregon region.
Although J Bar J remains nonpartisan, the podcast features current and aspiring political leaders, community changemakers, and individuals working on the ground to make a difference in Central Oregon. As the largest social services organization helping youth in Central Oregon, J Bar J believes we can do better for the youth of our community.
Host, Keith Riggs, leads thoughtful conversations focused on youth development, family support, and lasting community impact.
Ready to dive in? Listen to the latest episodes here, or find us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
Latest Episodes
Episode 4: How to Address Central Oregon’s Growth Challenges: Insights from County Commissioner Patti Adair
Central Oregon has witnessed significant growth over the last decade, leading to a variety of challenges that require effective governance and community engagement. In this post, we dive into an insightful conversation with Patti Adair, a current County Commissioner and Congress hopeful, who shares her experiences and strategies for managing growth in Deschutes County.
Did you know that the overgrowth of Junipers not only causes us to sneeze, but also harms our community’s fire resilience and water availabiity. Are you curious about the deer population? Do you want to know more about that Lava outcropping downtown? Listen to this episode with Patty Adair, and then subscribe to follow the LIFT Podcast – Central Oregon’s newest podcast.
Learn more about Patti Adair at: https://www.pattiforcongress.com/
Episode 3: Shaping Central Oregon’s Future with Tony DeBone
In this in-depth interview, Tony DeBone discusses Deschutes County’s growth, land use challenges, homelessness, and future planning efforts. He shares insights on how Central Oregon is working to manage rapid development while preserving the community values that make the region unique. The conversation also explores innovative geothermal energy opportunities and long-term housing strategies shaping Central Oregon’s future.
Learn more about Tony DeBone at: https://www.electtonydebone.com
Episode 2: How to Address the Housing Crisis: Insights from Rick Russell
Learn how to tackle the housing crisis with insights from Rick Russell. From community involvement to innovative solutions, discover actionable strategies for creating affordable housing.
In this episode, we’ll explore the urgent issue of housing in Deschutes County through the eyes of Rick Russell, candidate for County Commissioner, pastor, and founder of Mountain View Community Development. Rick shares his perspective on why addressing homelessness and housing affordability is critical for our community’s well-being.
Learn more about Rick Russell at voterickrussell.com
Episode 1: Transforming Leadership: Insights from Lauren Connally’s Run for County Commissioner
Discover insights from Lauren Connally’s journey to County Commissioner. Learn about her leadership philosophy, motivations, and vision for systemic change in our communities. Then hear about her focus on upstream solutions for community engagement. All in all, Lauren aims to create a more effective and compassionate system that serves everyone.
Learn more about Lauren Connally at Connally4Deschutes.com
Do you have a topic you would like LIFT to explore?
We would love to hear from you!
Message us here, or email us at LIFT@jbarj.org