Let’s Talk Bend

Latest Episodes:

Bend Tree Project Sep 18, 2026

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Bend's trees are an important part of our community, and community members are helping count every one.

In this episode of Let's Talk Bend we chat with Urban Forester Ian Gray about the Bend Tree Project, a volunteer-powered effort to map and inventory trees across the city. The information collected will help build a critical database for managing and preserving Bend's urban forest for generations to come.

Water and Fire in the High Desert Jul 08, 2026

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Can you be both Firewise and WaterWise?

Yes! Protecting your home while conserving water is possible!

On this episode of "Let's Talk Bend" hear from local experts as they share practical tips for creating a safer, more resilient home, while conserving one of our most precious resources. From defensible space and fire-resistant landscaping to smart irrigation strategies, this conversation is packed with ideas you can put into action today.

Behind the Badge: A Conversation on Officer Well-Being May 15, 2026

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As we honor National Police Week, we’re shining alight on the people behind the badge and the importance of supporting their well-being.

In this episode, Lieutenant Tommy Russell and Captain Nick Parker share how the Bend Police Department aims to support mental health wellbeing.

Transportation Projects: Investing in Safer Streets Mar 20, 2026

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From road work to safety improvements, Bend has a lot in motion. Join us as we explain how current construction and transportation projects fit together, why timing makes it feel like everything is happening at once, and what it all means for getting around Bend.

Art in Public Places Nov 14, 2025

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In this episode we hear about Art in Public Places, a local non-profit who commission and install sculptures and artwork in Bend’s roundabouts and public spaces. We sat down with the Art in Public Places Board President, a roundabout artist and City of Bend staff who support this work to talk about Bend’s unique art collection.

Water Conservation Through Shared Effort Sep 26, 2025

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In this episode, you’ll hear about water conservation efforts place across our city. We sat down with the City of Bend’s Water Conservation Manager, a Landscape Architect from Bend Park and Recreation, a Lab Analyst from a local beverage company, and two community members that participated in the City’s turf removal program. Together, they share insights, experiences and practical strategies for building a more water conscious community. Tune in to discover how small changes are making a big impact and how you can be a part of the solution.

Navigating the road to a safer, more connected Bend May 30, 2025

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On this episode, you'll hear about summer construction projects taking place across town. You’ll hear from a City Councilor, a Transportation Bond Oversight Committee member and a City Engineer as they talk about what it takes to make our transportation system safer – and how we’re using the projects as opportunities to replace outdated water and sewer infrastructure.

Reducing Your Home's Wildfire Risk Mar 31, 2025

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Recently, many of you received a letter that included information about the City's Flammable Vegetation Code and best practices to help protect your home from wildfire risk.

In the latest episode of "Let's Talk Bend", we talk to a community member about their perspective and questions they have about the letter.

You'll also hear from our Director of Risk and Emergency Management Carrie Karl, Fire Inspector Melissa Steele and Code Enforcement Officer Julie Craig to explain the purpose of the letter and answer those common questions from the community.

Introducing Your 2025 City Council Feb 03, 2025

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The City of Bend podcast is back with a brand-new name: Let's Talk Bend!

Let's Talk Bend dives deep into local issues through conversations with City of Bend staff, stakeholders and community partners to understand the diverse perspectives that make up our vibrant community.

In the first episode of Let's Talk Bend, we sit down with the 2025 Bend City Council to learn more about them, and what they are focusing on for the year ahead.

Revisiting Wildfire Safety with Bend Fire & Rescue Chief Todd Riley Jul 05, 2024

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Our very first episode of the Inside Bend Podcast came out three years ago! To celebrate three years of Inside Bend, we wanted to take a trip back to one of our past podcasts which covers a topic that is still just as important today: wildfire.

This episode originally aired back in May of 2022 when we spoke to Bend Fire and Rescue Chief Todd Riley about wildfire safety and what you can do to help protect your home and your community from the threat of wildfire.

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