Inside Olympia

Inside Olympia--Health Benefit Exchange CEO Ingrid Ulrey and State Medicaid Director Charissa Fotinos Oct 29, 2024

On this episode of Inside Olympia....Austin Jenkins sits down with Health Benefit Exchange CEO Ingrid Ulrey and State Medicaid Director Charissa Fotinos.

Inside Olympia -- Washington Adjutant General Gent Welsh Oct 23, 2024

An in-depth interview with Adutant General Gent Welsh, who leads the Washington National Guard, Military Department and Emergency Management Division.

Inside Olympia -- Insurance Commissioner Candidates Oct 16, 2024

Washington's Office of Insurance Commissioner is open for the first time in nearly a quarter of a century, as current Commissioner Mike Kreidler will not run for reelection. Vying to replace him are two state senators: Democrat Patty Kuderer and Republican Phil Fortunato. Learn about their priorities for this important but often overlooked statewide office, this week on Inside Olympia.

Inside Olympia -- WA Liquor and Cannabis Board Director Will Lukela Oct 09, 2024

On this week's show....He came from one state that pioneered the legal use of recreational cannabis -- Colorado -- to another pioneering state, Washington. Meet Will Lukela, the director of the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board.

Inside Olympia---Senators Karen Keiser and Mike Padden Oct 02, 2024

This week Austin Jenkins sits down with retiring legislators Karen Keiser and Mike Padden.

Inside Olympia -- Roger Rogoff, Office of Independent Investigations Sep 25, 2024

This week on Inside Olympia...Roger Rogoff, director of the state's Office of Independent Investigations, which is set to begin examining police deadly force cases.

Inside Olympia---Amber Leaders, Co-Chair of the Joint Legislative Executive Committee on Behavioral Health. Sep 19, 2024

On this week's Inside Olympia ... What will it take to create a robust and comprehensive behavioral health system in Washington? Why is it taking so long to get there? And what are the barriers to success? On the program for the full hour this week, Amber Leaders, Co-Chair of the Joint Legislative Executive Committee on Behavioral Health.

Inside Olympia - Elementary School Principal of the Year Cathy Sork Sep 11, 2024

Host Austin Jenkins sits down for an interview with Washington's 2024 Elementary School Principal of the Year, Dr. Cathy Sork of Dorothy Fox Elementary in Camas.

Inside Olympia -- WA State Teacher of the Year Blaire Penry Sep 05, 2024

Host Austin Jenkins sits down with 2024 Washington Teacher of the Year Blaire Penry. Penry, from the Auburn School District, has been interviewed by Bill Gates, and has a lot to say about online learning, artificial intelligence in the classroom, equity and diversity in education, and more.

Inside Olympia---Washington Fish and Wildlife Stakeholders Jun 26, 2024

Host Austin Jenkins does an in-depth interview with Dan Wilson of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers and Claire Davis of WA Wildlife First.

Inside Olympia---Washington Fish and Wildlife Director Kelly Susewind Jun 18, 2024

On this week's episode of Inside Olympia …. We continue our in-depth look into how Washington manages its fish and wildlife populations. On the program for the full hour is the agency head of the Department of Fish and Wildlife Department Kelly Susewind.

Inside Olympia---Washington Fish and Wildlife Commissioners Jun 12, 2024

This week, the first interview in a three-part series on the management of fish and wildlife in Washington state. Host Austin Jenkins sits down for the full hour with Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission Chair Barbara Baker, and Commissioner Jim Anderson.

Inside Olympia---Ecology Director Laura Watson Jun 04, 2024

On this episode of Inside Olympia...From Hanford cleanup to salmon-harming toxins to the state’s carbon pollution credit program … The Department of Ecology is the regulatory agency in charge. How is ecology managing the state’s most pressing environmental hazards? On the program this week is the Director of Ecology Laura Watson.

Inside Olympia---Dept. of Veterans Affairs Director David Puente May 28, 2024

On this episode of Inside Olympia....Host Austin Jenkins discusses veterans' services and housing with the Director of the WA State Department of Veterans Affairs David Puente.

Inside Olympia --- Addressing the Fentanyl Crisis and Update on the Dept. of Health May 20, 2024

On this week's episode of Inside Olympia … How is Washington State's government working to combat the fentanyl crisis? We talk with Secretary of Health Dr. Umair Shah, and Sue Birch of the State Health Care Authority. Also, what lessons were learned from covid? And how concerned should we be about bird flu? Dr. Shah discusses those and other priority issues for the State Department of Health.

Inside Olympia---Representative J.T. Wilcox May 14, 2024

Host Austin Jenkins sits down for an in-depth interview with retiring former House Republican Leader and State Representative J.T. Wilcox, of Yelm.

Inside Olympia -- Senator Andy Billig May 08, 2024

Host Austin Jenkins sits down for an in-depth interview with retiring legislator Andy Billig, Senate Majority Leader from Spokane.

Inside Olympia---State Drought Update May 01, 2024

A statewide drought emergency has been declared. How low is the snowpack? And what are the implications for fish, farms and people? We ask representatives of the Department of Ecology and Agriculture.

Inside Olympia---Commerce Director Mike Fong Apr 24, 2024

Host Austin Jenkins sits down for an in-depth interview with State Department of Commerce Director Mike Fong.

Inside Olympia---DSHS Secretary Jilma Meneses Apr 19, 2024

An interview with Washington Department of Social and Health Services Secretary Jilma Meneses.

Inside Olympia -- State Representatives Jamila Taylor, Kevin Waters Apr 10, 2024

Interviews with State Representatives Jamila Taylor and Kevin Waters.

Inside Olympia---Senator Sam Hunt, OSPI Chris Reykdal Apr 01, 2024

An exit interview with retiring State Senator Sam Hunt, plus a discussion on K-12 public schools with State Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal.

Inside Olympia---The Rising Costs of Health Care Mar 27, 2024

Host Austin Jenkins interviews Washington Health Care Authority Director Sue Birch about the work of the HCA's Health Care Cost Transparency Board.

Inside Olympia---Lt. Governor Denny Heck & Office of Equity Director Megan Matthews Mar 19, 2024

On this episode of Inside Olympia...We recap the legislative session with Lt. Governor Denny Heck. Plus we meet Megan Matthews, Director of Washington's Office of Equity.

Inside Olympia---Mike Fancher, President of WA Coalition for Open Government Mar 13, 2024

On this week's episode of Inside Olympia....It’s been more than half a century since Washington voters approved the Public Records Act. Now a new report from the Washington Coalition for Open Government warns the spirit and letter of that law are being undermined. We talk with the Mike Fancher, the nonprofit’s president about recommendations for strengthening it.

Inside Olympia---WA's Family and Children's Ombuds & WA's Long-Term Care Ombuds Mar 05, 2024

Host Austins Jenkins interviews WA's Long-Term Care Ombuds Patricia Hunter and Family and Children's Ombuds Director Patrick Dowd.

Inside Olympia---DCYF Secretary Ross Hunter Feb 28, 2024

On this week's episode of Inside Olympia: Austin Jenkins sits down with DCYF Secretary Ross Hunter.

Inside Olympia---Artificial Intelligence Discussion Feb 22, 2024

Artificial Intelligence is the topic of discussion on Inside Olympia this week. Austin Jenkins sits down with state legislators and the Chief Technology and Chief Privacy Officers for Washington State.

Inside Olympia---A Lookback at the Boldt Decision Feb 14, 2024

On Inside Olympia...we take a lookback at the Boldt decision and how that helped secure the fishing rights for tribes in Washington State.

Inside Olympia---Civility in Politics Feb 07, 2024

Host Austin Jenkins talks with local leaders working to promote civility in politics and public discourse: Snohomish Council Council members Jared Mead and Nate Nehring, and Sean O'Brien of the Tri-Cities Civility Caucus.

Inside Olympia---Addressing the Housing Crisis in WA State Jan 31, 2024

This week Austin Jenkins sits down with members of the House Housing Committee and discusses what can be down about Washington State's housing crisis.

Inside Olympia---2024 Legislative Session Update with House Leaders Jan 24, 2024

This week on Inside Olympia....Host Austin Jenkins sits down with House Leadership and discusses some of the hot topics in the State Legislature this year like housing, taxes, and the Climate Commitment Act.

Inside Olympia---State Transportation Issues Jan 17, 2024

Austin Jenkins sits down with Senate Transporttion Committee members Marko Liias (D-Edmonds) and Curtis King (R-Yakima) to discuss some of the hot button transportation issues in the state of Washington. Also State Traffic Enginner Dongho Chang talks with us about making roads and streets safer.

Inside Olympia---Climate, Energy and Technology Jan 10, 2024

Host Austin Jenkins sits down with the chair and ranking Republican of the Senate Environment, Energy and Technology Committee: Democratic Senator Joe Nguyen and Republican Senator Drew MacEwen.

Inside Olympia -- Governor Jay Inslee Dec 15, 2023

A full-hour, in-depth interview with Governor Jay Inslee. On the fentanyl crisis. Behavioral health. Housing and homelessness. Climate change, the Climate Commitment Act, and gas prices. Citizen initiatives regarding police pursuits, the capital gains tax and more. Recent escapes and other incidents at Echo Glen and Green Hill Schools. The I-5 Columbia River Bridge. The impact of inflation on transportation projects, from ferries to culverts. Republican criticisms of the governor. President Biden. The Israel-Hamas War.

Inside Olympia -- Director of the Office of Independent Investigations Roger Rogoff Dec 06, 2023

This week on Inside Olympia ... It's been two years since lawmakers created an Office of Independent Investigations to investigate police deadly force incidents. How many investigators have been hired and trained and when will investigations begin? We get an update from Director Roger Rogoff.

Inside Olympia -- Senate Budget Chair June Robinson, Sen. Karen Keiser's "How To" Legislative Book Nov 30, 2023

This week: In-depth with Senator June Robinson, the new chair of the budget-writing Senate Ways & Means Committee. Plus, veteran State Senator Karen Keiser on her newly published "how to" book for beginning state legislators: "Getting Elected is the Easy Part."

Inside Olympia--Retiring State Economist and Senate Republican Budget Lead Nov 21, 2023

On this episode of Inside Olympia Austin Jenkins sits down with retiring state economist Steve Lerch and Senate Republican Budget Lead Lynda Wilson (R-Vancouver).

Inside Olympia -- New I-5 Columbia River Bridge Nov 15, 2023

We discuss the bi-state effort to build a new I-5 Columbia River Bridge with Project Administrator Greg Johnson, Washington State Rep. Paul Harris, and Oregon State Rep. Susan McLain.

Inside Olympia -- Health Benefits Exchange CEO and State Energy Office Director Nov 08, 2023

This week Austin Jenkins sits down with Ingrid Ulrey CEO of the Washington State Health Benefits Exchange and Michael Furze with the State's Energy Office.

Inside Olympia -- Chris Green Deputy Assistant Director, WA State Commerce Nov 01, 2023

What role will hydrogen and nuclear have in the push to decarbonize Washington? How will federal infrastructure spending help with the transition away from fossil fuels? And what are the particular challenges to transitioning heavy industry to clean energy? On the program is Chris Green of the Washington State Department of Commerce.

Inside Olympia -- Labor and Industries Director Joel Sacks Oct 25, 2023

A full-hour, in-depth interview with the director of Washington's Department of Labor and Industries, Joel Sacks.

Inside Olympia -- Examining Washington's Tax System Oct 18, 2023

We talk with the co-chairs of Washington's recently disbanded Tax Structure Work Group: Senators Noel Frame and Keith Wagoner.

Inside Olympia--WA State Democratic and Republican Party Chairs Oct 11, 2023

On this episode of Inside Olympia ... We live in politically tumultuous and polarized times. What does that mean for the near and long term futures of the state's two largest political parties? And how are their new leaders charting choppy waters? On this week state Democratic Party Chair Shasti Conrad and Republican Chair Jim Walsh.

Inside Olympia -- State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti Oct 04, 2023

Washington is among the states with the highest credit ratings -- which is a sign of good fiscal health, and allows the state to get good interest rates on the bonds it sells. But the state also has a significant debt load. What does that right balance look like? Plus, why do so few Washingtonians have retirement savings, and what can be done about that? And what are the chances Congress will pass a cannabis banking law? On the program for the full hour this week, Washington State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti.

Inside Olympia -- Traffic Safety, Litter Prevention Sep 28, 2023

Recent studies show Washingtonians are dying in traffic fatalities at an alarming rate -- plus throwing out 38 million pounds of trash each year onto Washington's roads and public spaces. Host Austin Jenkins interviews Shelly Baldwin, director of the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, and Amber Smith-Jones, State Litter Prevention Coordinator with the Washington Department of Ecology.

Inside Olympia -- Former State Senator Christine Rolfes and House Republican Budget Lead Chris Corry Sep 20, 2023

An exit interview with now-Kitsap County Commissioner Christine Rolfes, who recently stepped down from the State Senate, where she led the state-budget-writing Ways and Means Committee. And, the new Ranking Republican on the budget-writing House Appropriations Committee, Representative Chris Corry.

Inside Olympia -- WA Corrections Secretary Cheryl Strange Sep 13, 2023

The Washington Department of Corrections recently announced plans to close Larch Corrections Center near Vancouver. In addition, the department is pursing major changes in the use of solitary confinement, and wants to remodel Washington prisons based on prisons in Norway. A full-hour, in-depth interview with Washington Department of Corrections Secretary Cheryl Strange.

Inside Olympia -- Internet for All & Housing as Health Care Sep 07, 2023

In-depth interviews with Mark Vasconi, director of the Washington Statewide Broadband Office, and Melodi Pazolt and Scott Tankersley on the state's new Apple Health "Housing as Health Care" program.

An interview with Washington's Adjutant General, Bret Daugherty Jun 28, 2023

A full-hour in-depth interview with Washington's Adjutant General, Bret Daugherty, who commands the Washington National Guard.

Conversations with Current and Former House Republican Leaders Jun 21, 2023

State Representative Drew Stokesbary of Auburn recently was chosen by his colleagues to serve as leader of minority Republicans in the State House of Representatives. We discuss his plans as leader, and how he plans to work with majority Democrats. Stokesbary steps into the role filled until recently by State Representative JT Wilcox of Yelm. In our exit interview with Wilcox, we explore his decision to step down, and look back at his more than five years as House Republican leader.

WA State Republican Party Departing Chair Caleb Heimlich and Press Panel on 2024 Elections Jun 15, 2023

WA Cares Fund Jun 07, 2023

Beginning in July, an estimated three million Washington workers will have an average of $24 per month deducted from their paychecks to help provide them care in their old age. The "WA Cares Fund" is a first-in-the-nation state operated long-term care insurance program. Host Austin Jenkins sits down with WA Cares Director Benjamin Veghte. Plus, State Actuary Matthew Smith on whether long-term the WA Cares Fund is expected to stay in the black.

First-Term State Legislators May 31, 2023

What is it like being a new state legislator? How do you learn to navigate the statehouse? How do you get a bill passed? What are the challenges and opportunities that come with being new? And after one session, what are the lessons learned? Host Austin Jenkins interviews first-term State Representatives April Connors of the Tri-Cities, Travis Couture of Allyn, Sharlett Mena of Tacoma, and Julio Cortes of Everett.

"Decline of Local News" Study discussion with League of Women Voters May 23, 2023

In the 15 years from 2005 to 2020, one quarter of the newspapers in the U.S. shut their doors. The closures left 1,800 communities without a newspaper -- so called news deserts. Here in Washington, three daily newspapers and more than two dozen weeklies have shuttered since 2004. And there have been consolidations and buyouts. Today, six of Washington's newspapers are owned by hedge funds. These are among the findings of a lengthy report from the League of Women Voters of Washington on the decline of local news and its impact on democracy. The report examines the crisis, the impacts, the response and looks to the future. Host Austin Jenkins sits down with Lunell Haught, who teaches at Gonzaga University and is the immediate past president of the League of Women Voters of Washington. And Dee Anne Finken, a former reporter for McClatchy newspapers who teaches journalism at Clark College and who co-chaired the local news study.

Series on the Special Commitment Center (PART 3) May 17, 2023

We continue our look at Washington's sexually violent predator program. How should the state manage cases involving individuals with developmental disabilities? Plus we ask two state lawmakers how the state should balance the requirement to release individuals back into the community with the concerns of communities?

Series on the Special Commitment Center (PART 2) May 09, 2023

We continue our look at how Washington manages people who have been civilly committed as sexually violent predators. What happens when it is time for their release from the special commitment center on mcneil island?

Series on the Special Commitment Center (PART 1) May 02, 2023

Austin Jenkins sits down with CEO and the Chief of Clinical Services from the Special Commitment Center where sexually violent predators are civilly commited.

Post-Legislative Session Debrief with Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck. Apr 26, 2023

What went well? What didn't? What might happen in the future with the Legislature? Austin Jenkins sits down with Washington State's Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck discusses these items and much much more.

Working Families Tax Credit and Fixing the "Medicaid Cliff" Apr 18, 2023

There's a new Working Families Tax Credit available to many Washingtonians. How many who are eligible are taking advantage of it? We ask Kevin Dixon of the Washington Department of Revenue. Plus, with the end of COVID, tens of thousands in Washington may no longer be eligible for Medicaid. We discuss the issue with Dr. Charissa Fotinos of the state's Health Care Authority and Ingrid Ulrey, chief executive officers of the Washington Health Benefit Exchange.

Washington's Behavioral Health System Conversation Apr 13, 2023

Find out what Washington State is doing in the roll of behavioral health. Austin Jenkins sits down with state representatives and discusses this important issue.

First-Term State Legislators Apr 05, 2023

They were elected last November to their first terms in the Washington State Legislature. What are their districts and personal backgrounds, why did they run for office, what issues are they focused on as legislators, and what are their impressions of the Legislature. Host Austin Jenkins sits down with Democratic State Representatives Emily Alvarado and Darya Farivar, and Republican State Representatives Stephanie McClintock and Suzanne Schmidt.

The Latest with Transportation in the State of Washington Mar 30, 2023

What's the latest in transportation? On this episode of Inside Olympia: Austin Jenkins sits down with legislators from the Senate Transportation Committee.

A discussion on Affordable Housing in Washington State Mar 22, 2023

What's the latest with affordable housing in Washington State? Host Austin Jenkins sits down with House Housing Committee members on this episode of Inside Olympia.

Monitoring Money is Politics with Public Disclosure Commission Chair Fred Jarrett Mar 14, 2023

Created by citizen initiative in 1972, Washington's Public Disclosure Commission for 50 years has enabled the public to track money in politics, from election campaigns to lobbying. Host Austin Jenkins sits down with the current chair of the PDC, Fred Jarrett.

Interview with Criminal Justice Training Center Director Monica Alexander Mar 07, 2023

In-depth with Monica Alexander, executive director of the Washington Criminal Justice Training Commission, and author of a new book, Justice, Peace, and the Future of the Police.

K-12 public schools update with WA State Superintendent Chris Reykdal Mar 01, 2023

This week Austin Jenkins talks public schools with WA State Superintendent Chris Reykdal.

Exit Interview with WA State Commerce Director Lisa Brown Feb 22, 2023

An exit interview with Washington Department of Commerce Director Lisa Brown, who is stepping down after leading Commerce for four years, including through the COVID pandemic.

Workforce Shortage Discussion with State Legislators Feb 14, 2023

What is the Legislature doing about the state's workforce shortage? On this episode of Inside Olympia Austin Jenkins sits down with members of the Washington State Senate and House of Representatives and discusses possible solutions to alleviate the issue.

Discussions on regulated substances, gambling, and Psilocybin Feb 09, 2023

Interviews with Representatives Shelley Kloba and Kelly Chambers, the Chair and Ranking Republican on the House Regulated Substances and Gaming Committee; plus, Senator Jesse Salomon on his bill to legalize supervised use of psilocybin.

A Conversation with Washington State Senate Leaders Feb 01, 2023

What's the latest with the State Senate's leadership. Austin Jenkins sits down with Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig (D-Spokane) and Senate Republican Leader John Braun (R-Centralia).

A Conversation with Washington State House of Representatives Leaders Jan 26, 2023

On this week's Inside Olympia we go in-depth with legislative leaders: House Democratic Majority Leader Joe Fitzgibbon, and House Republican Minority Leader JT Wilcox. Their perspectives on, and priorities for, the 2023 legislative session.

Senate Environment Committee Leadership and State Capitol Reporters Jan 17, 2023

Host Austin Jenkins interviews the new chair of the Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee, Senator Joe Nguyen, and the ranking Republican on the committee, Senator Drew MacEwen. Plus, State Capitol journalists Jerry Cornfield and Laurel Demkovich discuss the top issues of the 2023 legislative session.

State Budget discussion with budget writers. Jan 13, 2023

Governor Jay Inslee Dec 15, 2022

An in-depth interview with Washington State Governor Jay Inslee -- looking back at 2022 and ahead to 2023, including his priorities for the annual legislative session which kicks off on January 9.

Dr. Karen Johnson, Director of the Office of Equity Dec 07, 2022

Host Austin Jenkins interviews Dr. Karen Johnson, the director of the Washington State Office of Equity, who is leading state government's efforts to work equity into all its programs and operations.

Health Insurance and the State's Economy Nov 22, 2022

Inside Olympia's host Austin Jenkins sits down with Health Benefit Exchange Interim CEO Jim Crawford and the State's Chief Economist Steve Lerch.

A Discussion about the Federal Infrastructure Funding for Washington State Nov 16, 2022

One year has passed since the federal government approved infrastructure funding for the states. What has this money meant for Washington State and what will it deliver in the coming years. Austin Jenkins sits down with individuals from WSDOT, Association of Cities and WA state Association of Counties.

An interview with long-time Associated Press State Capitol Correspondent Rachel La Corte Nov 10, 2022

Long-time Associated Press Capitol Correspondent Rachel La Corte is stepping down from the AP after nearly 18 years covering the Washington Legislature and state government. Her recollections about the headline stories, the changing nature of the media, and much more.

A discussion with the head of the WA State Dept. of Transportation Nov 02, 2022

This week host Austin Jenkins sits down and discusses the state of transportation in Washington State with the head of WSDOT Roger Millar.

New Airport Discussion Continuation with State Legislators Oct 27, 2022

In our second episode dealing with airport capacity and the possibility of a new commercial airport in Washington, host Austin Jenkins sits down with Sen. Karen Keiser and Rep. Tom Dent. Both serve on the state's Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission. Sen. Keiser has long represented the district that incudes SeaTac Airport, and Rep. Dent of Moses Lake, who is a pilot and owned an aviation company.

New Airport Discussion Oct 26, 2022

With SeaTac Airport reaching capacity, the state is looking to potentially site a new international airport in Western Washington. Plus, what does the future of aviation look like in general in the state that gave birth to Boeing? Host Austin Jenkins interviews David Fleckenstein, director of the WA State Department of Transportation's Aviation Division, and two members of the Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission, charged with identifying airport expansion options, including a possible new airport: Warren Hendrickson and Steve Edmiston.

A Conversation with the Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz Oct 12, 2022

We debrief on this year's wildfire season, forest health, salmon restoration, balancing the demands of timber communities and environmental groups on state forests, and much more with Washington Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz.

A Conversation with the Director of the WA Office of Independent Investigations Oct 05, 2022

Washington state is creating a first-in-the-nation independent state office which will investigate police use-of-force incidents. Host Austin Jenkins interviews Roger Rogoff, tapped by Gov. Jay Inslee to be the first director of the new Washington Office of Independent Investigations.

NW Power and Conservation Council Executive Director Sep 29, 2022

The NW Power and Conservation Council was created in 1980 to develop a regional power plan and fish and wildlife program to balance the NW's environment and energy needs. We talk with the council's executive director, Bill Edmonds.

A Conversation with U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington Sep 28, 2022

He starred on the second season of the hit series "Survivor," he was Gov. Inslee's general counsel, and in October 2021 was appointed by President Biden as the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington: an in-depth interview with Nick Brown.

A Conversation with Legislative Leadership Sep 15, 2022

Host Austin Jenkins interviews Senate Democratic Majority Leader Andy Billig of Spokane and House Republican Floor Leader Jacquelin Maycumber of Republic: their thoughts on the 2022 elections and issues likely to dominate the upcoming 2023 legislative session.

State Veterinarian and Agriculture Update Sep 07, 2022

Farming interviews with State Veterinarian Dr. Amber Itle, whose mission is protecting animals against disease outbreaks, like the current threat posed by Avian Bird Flu; and Ignacio Marquez, the Yakima-based regional assistant to the director of the WA State Dept. of Agriculture.

The Opioid/Fentanyl Crisis, State Economy and Revenue Jun 30, 2022

We discuss the opioid/fentanyl crisis with Dr. Charissa Fotinos, State Medicaid Director/Health Care Authority Behavioral Health Medical Director. Plus, the state of the state economy, and the latest state revenue forecast, with WA Chief Economist Steve Lerch.

Traffic Safety, Veteran Issues Jun 22, 2022

Host Austin Jenkins sits down for in-depth interviews with Shelly Baldwin, director of the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, and Alfie Alvarado-Ramos, director of the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs.

Utilties and Transportation Commission Chair Dave Danner Jun 16, 2022

The Utilities and Transportation Commission has been closely involved in helping ratepayers and utilities negotiate the COVID pandemic. Plus, the UTC is overseeing the state's planned transition to clean energy. This week host Austin Jenkins interviews the chair of the UTC, Dave Danner.

DSHS Secretary Jilma Meneses Jun 09, 2022

Jilma Meneses leads state government's largest agency, the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), which provides services to one in every four Washingtonians -- the aged and disabled, low-income people, persons with behavioral health issues, and more. Host Austin Jenkins sits down for a full-hour, in-depth interview with Secretary Meneses.

WA State Department of Corrections Secretary Cheryl Strange Jun 02, 2022

One year into her tenure as secretary of the Washington State Department of Corrections, Cheryl Strange discusses the challenges of operating prisons during COVID, morale of corrections workers and inmates, her efforts to create a more therapeutic approach in state prisons, and more.

State Board for Community and Technical Colleges Executive Director May 26, 2022

She's spent four decades in Washington's community and technical college system. Now, she's stepping down as leader of the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. What are the challenges and opportunities facing this system of nearly three dozen colleges spread across Washington state? We talk with outgoing SBCTC Executive Director Jan Yoshiwara.

State Auditor Pat McCarthy May 19, 2022

Over the past year, the Office of the State Auditor has released performance audits on long-term care worker training, voting ballot rejection rates, and K-12 student behavioral health issues. Coming soon: audits on customer service at the WA Employment Security Department, the backlog in sexual assault kit testing, and the state's road toll collection system. This week we sit down for the full hour with State Auditor Pat McCarthy.

K-12 Public Schools May 11, 2022

We discuss the state of the state's K-12 public schools with State Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal. Plus, the view from inside the classroom with Pamella Johnson, an academic and behavioral intervention specialist at Rochester High School.

Youth and Young Adult Homelessness May 04, 2022

This week: Homelessness among school-aged youth and young adults in Washington -- the scope of the problem, and what state government and one private organization are doing to address the problem. Host Austin Jenkins interviews Kim Justice, executive director of the state's Office of Homeless Youth Prevention and Protection, and Julie Patino, executive director of A Way Home Washington.

Retiring CEO of the Health Benefit Exchange and Retiring State House Majority Leader May 04, 2022

Pam MacEwan is retiring as CEO of Washington's Health Benefit Exchange, after a career spent focused on expanding access to health care. We'll hear her thoughts on health care in our state. Representative Pat Sullivan is stepping down from the State House after nearly two decades in office, much of it as Democratic Majority Leader. He's played a key role in budget negotiations, education funding with the McCleary decision, and more.

A COVID update with Dr. Scott Lindquist and a discussion with WA State Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck. Apr 15, 2022

After a long downward trend, there's a recent uptick in COVID cases. Should we be concerned? We ask State Epidemiologist Scott Lindquist. Plus, he worked on the issue in Washington D.C., and now he's made housing affordability and availability one of his signature issues in this Washington. We talk housing, the 2022 legislative session and more with Washington State Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck.

A discussion on the state's capital gains tax and a conversation about the cannabis industry Apr 13, 2022

Will Washington's new capital gain's tax survive the courts? We debate that question with two University of Washington law professors. And we check in with the chair of the Liquor and Cannabis Board on the State of Washington's cannabis industry.

A conversation with State Treasurer Pellicciotti and retiring state Rep. Jesse Johnson Mar 31, 2022

In-depth interviews with State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti, and retiring State Rep. Jesse Johnson. The State Treasurer is pressing Congress to pass new banking laws that would help prevent robberies at cannabis stores. And, he wants the state to provide "baby bonds" to children from low-income and marginalized communities. Rep. Jesse Johnson is stepping down for family reasons after three years in the state House of Representatives, years in which he played a key role in enacting changes to policing laws. He discusses his decision to step down, and possible future plans.

An interview with the President and Executive VP of The Evergreen State College Mar 24, 2022

The Evergreen State College is 50 years old. But recently it has struggled with declining enrollment. So how is the school celebrating its past and planning for its future? Austin Jenkins sits down with the college's Interim President John Carmichael and Executive VP Dexter Gordon.

A conversation with long-time senior political reporter Essex Porter Mar 17, 2022

In honor of Sunshine Week, host Austin Jenkins sits down for the full-hour with recently retired, long-time KIRO 7 Senior Political Reporter Essex Porter. His thoughts on the importance of covering politics and government, the future of local news, and more.

A conversation with Washington State's Commerce Director Mar 10, 2022

From housing and homelessness help to small business assistance, the WA Department of Commerce has played a key role in the state's response to the COVID pandemic. Host Austin Jenkins talks with Commerce Director Lisa Brown.

A discussion on behavioral health and a conversation with a retiring state senator. Mar 03, 2022

Behavioral health is again a top issue in the Legislature -- we discuss with State Sens. David Frockt and Keith Wagoner. Plus, we interview State Sen. Reuven Carlyle, who is stepping down after a legislative career marked by involvement in issues like climate change, data privacy, abolishing the death penalty, and foster care.

A discussion with senate budget leaders and a conversation with the state's chief economist Feb 24, 2022

This week majority Democrats in House and Senate released their proposed supplemental operating budgets -- we discuss with Senate Ways & Means Chair Christine Rolfes, and the committee's ranking Republican, Sen. Lynda Wilson. Plus, the state's chief economist, Steve Lerch, talks about the state of the state's economy and the billions in new revenue in the latest state revenue forecast.

A DISCUSSION ON HOMELESSNESS AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN WASHINGTON STATE Feb 17, 2022

They're seemingly two of the most intractable problems in society: homelessness and substance abuse. What can state legislators do to address these crises? We talk with State Reps. Strom Peterson, Andrew Barkis, Lauren Davis and Dan Griffey.

A DISCUSSION ON FIREARMS BILLS AND CLIMATE-RELATED PROPOSALS Feb 17, 2022

Sen. Patty Kuderer and Jim Walsh debate firearms bills being considered in Olympia this year, including a measure that would prohibit the sale of high-capacity magazines. Plus, what climate-related proposals are moving through the Legislature? We talk with Reps. Joe Fitzgibbon and Mary Dye.

HOUSE REPUBLICAN LEADER JT WILCOX AND HOUSE EDUCATION COMMITTEE MEMBERS Feb 03, 2022

Our 4-week series of interviews with legislative leaders wraps up, as we talk with House Republican Minority Leader J.T. Wilcox. Plus, we discuss K-12 education bills and priorities with Reps. Sharon Santos and Alex Ybarra.

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE LAURIE JINKINS AND A DISCUSSION ON HOMELESSNESS AND HOUSING LEGISLATION Feb 03, 2022

We continue our series with legislative leaders -- this week, Democratic House Speaker Laurie Jinkins (D-Tacoma). Plus, we discuss housing and homelessness legislation with Senators Patty Kuderer (D-Bellevue) and Phil Fortunato (R-Auburn).

A CONVERSATION WITH SENATE REPUBLICAN LEADER JOHN BRAUN AND A DISCUSSION ON POLICE ACCOUNTABILITY LEGISLATION Jan 20, 2022

Senate Republican Minority Leader John Braun discusses his caucus' priorities for the 2022 legislative session. Plus, Reps. Jesse Johnson and Gina Mosbrucker discuss "follow up" police reform bills, many of them making tweaks to bills passed in 2021.

STATE COVID UPDATE AND A DISCUSSION WITH SENATE MAJORITY LEADER BILLIG Jan 14, 2022

Host Austin Jenkins interviews Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig of Spokane about the goals and priorities of the Senate Democratic Caucus for the 2022 legislative session. Plus, State Epidemiologist Dr. Scott Lindquist on the Omicron COVID variant and its impact on Washington state.

A CONVERSATION WITH WA STATE GOVERNOR JAY INSLEE Dec 16, 2021

Host Austin Jenkins sits down with Washington State Governor Jay Inslee.

A CONVERSATION WITH WA STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL BOB FERGUSON Dec 08, 2021

We go in-depth with State Attorney General Bob Ferguson -- on his lawsuit against opioid manufacturers, police accountability, the Arlene's Flowers case, and much more.

IN-DEPTH INTERVIEWS WITH SUE BIRCH AND MIKE KREIDLER Dec 02, 2021

In-depth interviews with Sue Birch, who manages state Medicaid and many other health care programs as director of the WA Health Care Authority. Plus, State Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler on his ongoing effort to ban credit scores from being used to set personal insurance rates.

A CONVERSATION WITH DEPARTING WA STATE SECRETARY OF STATE KIM WYMAN Nov 19, 2021

Host Austin Jenkins interviews out-going Secretary of State Kim Wyman. She resigned to accept an appointment to serve as the Senior Election Security Lead for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the nation's lead for cyber, infrastructure, and election security.

A DISCUSSION ABOUT THE LATEST WITH THE STATE REDISTRICTING COMMISSION AND POLICING LEGISLATION WITH STATE LEGISLATORS Nov 18, 2021

The WA Redistricting Commission agreed on new state legislative and congressional district boundaries -- but a day after the statutory deadline. Now the redistricting plan is in the hands of the WA Supreme Court. What happened, and what's next? We sit down with Sarah Augustine, non-voting chair of the State Redistricting Commission. Plus, what grade do state lawmakers of both parties give policing legislation approved by the 2021 Legislature? And what's potentially on tap for 2022? We discuss policing policy with Reps. Roger Goodman and Gina Mosbrucker.

A CONVERSATION WITH DIRECTORS OF THE OFFICE OF CIVIL LEGAL AID AND OFFICE OF PUBLIC DEFENSE Nov 18, 2021

They're two small state offices with big roles in the state's courts. We sit down with Jim Bamberger, director of the WA Office of Civil Legal Aid, and Larry Jefferson Jr., director of the WA Office of Public Defense.

A CONVERSATION WITH WASHINGTON STATE'S CHIEF JUSTICE STEVE GONZALEZ Nov 04, 2021

This week Austin Jenkins hosts an in-depth interview with Washington State Supreme Court Chief Justice Steven Gonzalez.

A CONVERSATION ON WASHINGTON'S HEALTH BENEFIT EXCHANGE AND UNEMPLOYMENT IN WASHINGTON Oct 28, 2021

What health insurance plans will be available next year on the private market? We talk with Pam MacEwan, CEO of the WA Health Benefit Exchange. Plus, WA Employment Security Commissioner Cami Feek on unemployment and long-term care insurance.

WA STATE CORRECTIONS SECRETARY & TEAMSTERS LOCAL 117 PRESIDENT DISCUSS STAFF REDUCTIONS Oct 21, 2021

AUSTIN JENKINS DISCUSSES STAFF REDUCTIONS WITH STATE CORRECTIONS SECRETARY CHERYL STRANGE AND TEAMSTERS LOCAL 117 UNION PRESIDENT MICHELLE WOODROW.

A CONVERSATION WITH OUTGOING SENATOR DARNEILLE AND THE STATEWIDE REENTRY COUNCIL DIRECTOR Oct 15, 2021

Host Austin Jenkins interviews Jeannie Darneille, who is stepping down from the State Senate to become the state's first Assistant Secretary -- Women's Prison Division. Plus, Christopher Poulos of Washington's Statewide Reentry Council.

A CONVERSATION WITH THE RCO DIRECTOR AND ORCA RECOVERY COORDINATOR Oct 07, 2021

Washington's Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) is a small state agency with a huge role in funding outdoor recreation and conservation projects throughout the state, from soccer fields to salmon habitat. Host Austin Jenkins interviews Megan Duffy, director of the RCO, and Tara Galuska, who works within the RCO as the state's orca recovery coordinator.

LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE DISCUSSION Sep 30, 2021

A new long-term care insurance requirement will soon go into effect, affecting millions of Washingtonians. Host Austin Jenkins sits down with Ben Veghte, director of the WA Cares Fund, and Sens. Karen Keiser and Curtis King, who serve on the advisory commission which can recommend changes to the plan.

A CONVERSATION WITH HOUSE LEGISLATIVE LEADERSHIP Sep 23, 2021

We continue our fall interviews with state legislative leaders. This week: the House of Representatives. Host Austin Jenkins sits down with Democratic House Speaker Laurie Jinkins and House Republican Leader J.T. Wilcox.

A CONVERSATION WITH SENATE LEGISLATIVE LEADERSHIP Sep 16, 2021

Host Austin Jenkins talks COVID, policing policy and more with Senate Democratic Majority Leader Andy Billig of Spokane and Senate Republican Minority Leader John Braun of Centralia.

INTERVIEW ON THE STATE'S COVID BATTLE Sep 09, 2021

The COVID delta variant is surging in Washington, stretching hospitals and the health care system to their limits. Host Austin Jenkins discusses the latest COVID developments with the WA Dept. of Health's Acting Chief Science Officer, Dr. Scott Lindquist, and Washington State Medical Association President Dr. Nathan Schlicher.

A CONVERSATION WITH THE SECRETARY OF WSDOT Jul 29, 2021

Austin Jenkins sits down and discusses Washington's transportation infrastructure with the Secretary of the Washington State Department of Transportation Roger Millar.

A CONVERSATION WITH THE NEW EQUITY OFFICE DIRECTOR AND L&I DIRECTOR Jun 24, 2021

Host Austin Jenkins sits down with the first director of the state's office of equity Dr. Karen Johnson, and the Labor & Industries director Joel Sacks.

A CONVERSATION WITH DEPT OF CHILDREN, YOUTH & FAMILIES SECRETARY AND A DISCUSSION ABOUT THE STATE'S REDISTRICTING EFFORTS Jun 16, 2021

Host Austin Jenkins interviews WA Department of Children, Youth & Families Secretary Ross Hunter, and Lisa McLean, executive director of the 2021 WA State Redistricting Commission.

COVID 19 DISCUSSION AND LOTTERY INCENTIVES FOR GETTING VACCINATED Jun 10, 2021

State Epidemiologist Scott Lindquist with the latest on the state's battle against COVID, and WA Lottery's Kristi Weeks on Washington's "Shot of a Lifetime" vaccination lottery.

WASHINGTON STATE'S DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Jun 10, 2021

Austin Jenkins goes in-depth with Dept. of Commerce Director Lisa Brown on the eviction moratorium, broadband expansion, aerospace and more.

A Conversation with Washington's Lieutenant Governor and Insurance Commissioner May 26, 2021

In-depth interviews with two of Washington's statewide elected officials: Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck, and Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler.

Police Reform & Accountability Legislation Part 2 May 20, 2021

In the second of a two-part series, we get perspectives from law enforcement organizations on policing bills passed by the 2021 Legislature. Guests: Criminal Justice Training Commission Interim Executive Director Monica Alexander, and WA Fraternal Order of Police Vice President James Schrimpsher.

Police Reform & Accountability Legislation May 13, 2021

Police reform legislation was one of the most high-profile and contentious issues of the 2021 legislative session. We discuss with Democratic State Rep. Jesse Johnson of Federal Way and Republican State Sen. Mike Padden of Spokane.

DEBATING HOW TO TREAT DRUG POSSESSION May 06, 2021

We dig into the Supreme Court's "Blake" decision decriminalizing drug possession, and the Legislature's response. Guests: Sens. Manka Dhingra and Ron Muzzall, Reps. Lauren Davis and Gina Mosbrucker.

Review of the 2021 Legislative Session with Caucus Leaders Apr 29, 2021

Majority Democrats and minority Republicans offer starkly different reviews of the 2021 legislative session. We sit down with Democratic House Speaker Laurie Jinkins, Senate Democrat Majority Leader Andy Billig, Senate Republican Leader John Braun, and House Republican Leader JT Wilcox.

A conversation about equity legislation and a discussion with two first-term republican legislators Apr 22, 2021

Rep. Melanie Morgan, chair of the Members of Color Caucus, on Democrats' focus on equity in the 2021 Legislature. Plus, first-term state Reps. David Hackney and April Berg.

A Conversation about WA State Corrections Apr 15, 2021

We go in-depth with Steve Sinclair, who is retiring as secretary of the Washington Department of Corrections. Plus, Joanna Carns, the director of the state's recently created Office of Corrections Ombuds.

A conversation with two first-term republican legislators. Apr 08, 2021

This week on Inside Olympia we talk with two first-term Republican representatives, Peter Abbarno of Centralia and Mark Klicker of Walla Walla.

State operating and capital budget discussion. Apr 01, 2021

It's budget time at the State Legislature, as lawmakers look to approve three state budgets: operating, capital, and transportation. This week we cover two of the three: we go into the details of the state operating budget with Senate budget leads Christine Rolfes and Lynda Wilson, and talk about the capital or construction budget with State Reps. Steve Tharinger and Mike Steele.

Adult and juvenile criminal justice reform. Mar 25, 2021

We discuss adult and juvenile criminal justice with Senators Jeannie Darneille and Chris Gildon. Plus, an interview with first-term State Representative Tarra Simmons, who went from incarcerated felon to law student to attorney to the State Legislature.

Misinformation and Disinformation in Social Media and an Update on K-12 Schools Mar 18, 2021

We talk with UW Associate Professor Kate Starbird about her research on the spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media. Plus, Senators Lisa Wellman and Brad Hawkins discuss school challenges during COVID, including learning loss, and what the 2021 Legislature is doing to help public schools.

Foundational Health discussion with Legislators and an Update on the Legislative Session with members of the Capitol Press Corps Mar 11, 2021

We go in depth with Sens. June Robinson and Ann Rivers on foundational public health; plus, Capitol journalists Joe O'Sullivan of The Seattle Times and Sara Gentzler of McClatchy newspapers recap the 2021 Legislature at its halfway point.

A Conversation with the New Secretary of Health and Conversation with Two New Legislators Mar 04, 2021

He moved from Texas and took the reins of the state's Department of Health amidst the COVID-19 pandemic: meet Washington's new Health Secretary, Dr. Umair Shah. Plus, we continue our interviews with first-term lawmakers -- this week, two Republicans new to the Legislature: Sen. Jeff Wilson of Longview and Rep. Cyndy Jacobsen of Puyallup.

The Past and Future of Policing and also a Freshman Legislator Feb 25, 2021

Host Austin Jenkins discusses the past and future of policing with Sue Rahr who is the outgoing executive director of the Criminal Justice Training Commission. Also Austin sits down with freshman legislator state representative Jamila Taylor of Federal Way.

A Conversation with Washington's new Lieutenant Governor and State Treasurer Feb 18, 2021

Washington's new Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck served 8 years in Congress, and before that founded TVW the state's version of C-SPAN, was chief of staff to Governor Booth Gardner, and was speaker of the State House. We discuss his goals and priorities as lieutenant governor, plus look back at his years in Congress and the political discourse in Washington, D.C. New Washington State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti served 2 terms in the State House, and before that was an assistant state attorney general prosecuting health care fraud and elder abuse, as well as a deputy prosecutor for King County. We talk about the role of the state treasurer, and the particular stamp he intends to put on the office.

Child Care and Media Literacy Feb 11, 2021

Majority Democrats in Olympia are proposing a capital gains tax to fund an expansion of child care. We debate those proposals with Reps. Tana Senn and Tom Dent. Plus, in the social media era, is it time for students to be taught media literacy and digital citizenship? We talk with two senators who have a bill to do just that: Sens. Marko Liias and Shelly Short.

Policing reform and Stu Elway polling results Feb 04, 2021

We talk policing reform and accountability with House Public Safety Chair Roger Goodman and the ranking Republican on the committee, Rep. Gina Mosbrucker. Plus, an interview with pollster Stuart Elway, whose latest statewide poll reveals deep political differences among Washingtonians.

Kids Returning to School, Covid and the State Budget Jan 30, 2021

We talk with Senate Republicans' new lead on the state budget, Sen. Lynda Wilson of Vancouver. Plus, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal on reopening schools during COVID, and education policy in the 2021 Legislature.

COVID and the state budget Jan 21, 2021

Jan. 21, 2021 – The Senate's Special Committee on Economic Recovery, which met throughout the summer and fall, just released its COVID recovery plan -- we discuss the plan with Senators David Frockt and Shelly Short. Plus, we sit down with Senate Ways & Means Chair Christine Rolfes about the state budget, spending and proposals for new taxes.

2021 Legislative Leadership Jan 20, 2021

Jan. 14, 2021 – With the kickoff of the 2021 Washington State Legislature, host Austin Jenkins sits down with two legislative caucus leaders: House Republican Minority Leader J.T. Wilcox, and Senate Democratic Majority Leader Andy Billig.

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