North Idaho Experience

Thinking about moving to North Idaho? Already live here? This is your show.

North Idaho Experience is the podcast that takes you inside life in Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Sandpoint, and beyond — through honest conversations with the people who actually live it. Local business owners, community leaders, first responders, veterans, real estate insiders, and everyday North Idahoans share what this region is really like.

North Idaho is one of the last places in America where freedom isn’t just a bumper sticker — it’s how people actually live. Strong communities, individual rights, faith, hard work, and old school American values aren’t fading here. They’re thriving.

Every episode covers what matters here: the housing market, outdoor lifestyle, local politics, community values, self-reliance, and the stories that make North Idaho unlike anywhere else.

If you’re relocating to Idaho from California, Washington, or anywhere else — or you’re already rooted here and love this place — hit subscribe and join the community.

New episodes every week. Long-form conversations. Real people. No fluff.

🎙️ Guest or sponsorship inquiries: info@nidexperience.com 🌐 northidahoexperience.com ▶️ Also on YouTube: https://bit.ly/thenorthidahoexperience

Latest Episodes:

Life Off Grid in North Idaho with Survivalist Karie Lee Knoke from Alone Season 9 Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Karie Lee Knoke, finalist on Alone Season 9, wilderness survivalist, and founder of Sacred Cedars Wilderness School in North Idaho. Karie shares her incredible 75-day journey in the wild, surviving harsh conditions, finding creative food sources, and building shelter without modern conveniences. We dive into her survival strategies, life off-grid, foraging skills, and how these experiences shape her mission to reconnect people with nature. Whether you're into survival shows, outdoor living, or curious about the North Idaho lifestyle, this is a must-watch.
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421
📌 Topics Covered in This Episode:
Survival Mindset: Learn how mental resilience can be just as important—if not more—than physical skills in extreme environments.
Primitive Skills & Foraging: Hear practical tips on shelter building, food sourcing, and essential tools for wilderness survival.
Life Off-Grid: Discover what it’s like to live a primitive lifestyle while balancing modern conveniences, plus insights from running a wilderness scho0l

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northidahoexperience/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northidahoexperience
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHz9XczupyJ93VRtqfQEW-g

For the most up-to-date real estate listings check out our North Idaho Experience mobile app - click above to start searching today!
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/north-idaho-experience/id6755906887
Grab our Relocation Guide: https://sholink.to/Relocation
Your Ultimate Selling Game Plan guide: https://sholink.to/Sellerguide
💼 Interested in sponsoring a future episode or collaborating with us?
Email us at info@nidexperience.com
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421

Sponsored by:

North Idaho Arms, LLC

4013 West Riverbend Avenue, Post Falls, Idaho 83854

(208) 457-3031CONTACT@NORTHIDAHOARMS.COM

https://northidahoarms.com/

Finding Freedom Idaho INC
Equal housing opportunity
======

Inside the Float Tank: Mental Health Recovery for Veterans and First Responders Aug 19, 2025

Show notes

Discover how sensory deprivation float tanks, cold plunges, saunas, and red light therapy can improve mental health, recovery, and focus—especially for first responders, veterans, and anyone dealing with stress or PTSD. In this episode of the North Idaho Experience Podcast, we sit down with Chris Erdal to explore his passion for helping others through wellness modalities. Hear our firsthand experiences at Release Float Spa in Post Falls, Idaho, plus insights on biohacking, nutrition, morning routines, and how to make wellness more accessible to the community. Whether you're "North Idaho curious" or just looking for ways to boost your physical and mental health, you'll walk away with actionable ideas to try.
If you’re thinking about making North Idaho your home, our real estate team is here to help.
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421
Three Key Takeaways
What floating really feels like – A detailed breakdown of sensory deprivation tanks, how they work, and what to expect in your first session.
Wellness stacking for deeper results – How combining cold plunges, saunas, and red light therapy can help you drop into a meditative state faster.
Mental health benefits for veterans & first responders – Real stories of improved sleep, clarity, and recovery after using float therapy.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northidahoexperience/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northidahoexperience
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHz9XczupyJ93VRtqfQEW-g

Sponsored by:

North Idaho Arms, LLC

4013 West Riverbend Avenue, Post Falls, Idaho 83854

(208) 457-3031CONTACT@NORTHIDAHOARMS.COM

https://northidahoarms.com/

Finding Freedom Idaho INC
Equal housing opportunity
======

Life as a SWAT Sniper: Inside 21 Years of Tactical Law Enforcement Aug 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode , we sit down with Mike Bertucci from Sniper Craft Northwest—a former SWAT sniper and law enforcement veteran with 23+ years of experience. We cover sniper tactics, real-world sniper deployments, differences between military and police sniper schools, and the truth behind what SWAT snipers actually do. Mike shares firsthand accounts from officer-involved shootings, sniper training, urban operations, and wild hog hunts in Florida and Texas.
This is a must-watch for anyone curious about tactical law enforcement, the realities of modern policing, and what life is like for elite snipers behind the scenes.
🎯 Three Key Takeaways:
What law enforcement snipers actually do—including real-world distances, gear setups, and mission planning.
The difference between military and police sniper schools—and why urban tactics matter more than long-range precision.
Behind-the-scenes of a real SWAT sniper shooting—including mindset, training, and decision-making under extreme stress.

📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 Connect with Snipercraft Northwest
https://www.snipercraftnw.com/
💼 Interested in sponsoring a future episode or collaborating with us?
Email us at info@nidexperience.com
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northidahoexperience/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northidahoexperience
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHz9XczupyJ93VRtqfQEW-g

Sponsored by:

North Idaho Arms, LLC

4013 West Riverbend Avenue, Post Falls, Idaho 83854

(208) 457-3031CONTACT@NORTHIDAHOARMS.COM

https://northidahoarms.com/

Finding Freedom Idaho INC
Equal housing opportunity
======

Why Washington Is Losing Citizens to Idaho with retired WA Senator Lynda Wilson Aug 12, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the North Idaho Experience, we sit down with retired Washington State Senator Lynda Wilson for an eye-opening conversation about politics, personal freedoms, and protecting Idaho's conservative roots. Drawing from her years of experience in Olympia, Lynda explains the legislative changes that turned Washington into what it is today—and why Idahoans should pay attention. We also explore crime rates, the fentanyl crisis, public safety, and the importance of elected sheriffs. Whether you're a North Idaho local or considering a move here, this episode will make you think.
👉 Thinking of relocating to North Idaho? Our real estate team is here to help. This podcast is our passion—but real estate pays the bills. Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421
✅ Top 3 Takeaways
How Washington changed so quickly—and how Idaho can avoid the same fate.
The real-world impacts of progressive legislation on public safety, drug policy, and education.
Why local elections and community involvement matter more than ever, especially when it comes to sheriffs and schools.

📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
💼 Interested in sponsoring a future episode or collaborating with us?
Email us at info@nidexperience.com
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421

#Northidaho #coeurdalene #LivinginCoeurdalene #coeurdalenerealestate #yournorthidahoagent #movingtocda #movingtocoeurdalene #livinginnorthidaho #movingtonorthidaho #northidahorealestate #NorthIdahoExperience #LyndaWilson #WashingtonPolitics #IdahoFreedom #ProtectIdaho #MovingToIdaho #SecondAmendment #FentanylCrisis #RealEstatePodcast #LocalElectionsMatter

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northidahoexperience/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northidahoexperience
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHz9XczupyJ93VRtqfQEW-g

Sponsored by:

North Idaho Arms, LLC

4013 West Riverbend Avenue, Post Falls, Idaho 83854

(208) 457-3031CONTACT@NORTHIDAHOARMS.COM

https://northidahoarms.com/

Finding Freedom Idaho INC
Equal housing opportunity
======

Surviving a Grizzly Bear Attack: The True Story of Bob Legasa Aug 05, 2025

Show notes

Join us for an incredible conversation with Bob Legasa, professional freestyle skier, Emmy Award-winning TV producer, avid bowhunter, and grizzly bear attack survivor. Bob shares his inspiring journey from skiing in North Idaho and competing worldwide to surviving a life-threatening bear encounter. Learn about his decades-long career in freestyle skiing, bowhunting adventures across Montana and Idaho, and the life lessons learned from the outdoors.
Whether you’re passionate about skiing, hunting, or North Idaho’s outdoor lifestyle, this episode is packed with adventure, stories, and wisdom from one of the most fascinating people in the region.
🎯 Three Takeaways
The evolution of freestyle skiing from the 1980s to today and what it was like competing globally.
Essential survival tips for grizzly bear country and how Bob survived a near-fatal attack.
Lessons from decades of bowhunting, including elk hunting strategies and conservation insights.
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421

👤 Connect with Bob Legasa
https://www.instagram.com/freeridemedia?igsh=MTRhN24ycDYwbGI3Mg==

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northidahoexperience/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northidahoexperience
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHz9XczupyJ93VRtqfQEW-g

Sponsored by:

North Idaho Arms, LLC

4013 West Riverbend Avenue, Post Falls, Idaho 83854

(208) 457-3031CONTACT@NORTHIDAHOARMS.COM

https://northidahoarms.com/

Finding Freedom Idaho INC
Equal housing opportunity
======

Healing First Responder Trauma with Equine Therapy: From PTSD to Peace Jul 29, 2025

Show notes

🔴 Discover the powerful healing impact of equine therapy for PTSD in this emotional and inspiring episode of the North Idaho Experience. We sit down with Orlando and Adriana from Hoof and Hope Healing to talk about trauma, first responder mental health, and how horses are changing lives. We also share raw personal stories from years in public safety, offering an honest look at the mental toll of the job—and how healing begins. If you're a veteran, first responder, or someone navigating trauma, this episode could be the first step toward hope.
🌐 Learn more about Hoof and Hope Healing: hoofandhopehealing.com
📍 Located near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho & Otis Orchards, WA
🎯 Top 3 Things You’ll Learn
How equine therapy works—especially for first responders and veterans.
The science behind horse-human connection for emotional healing.
Real stories from those who've experienced PTSD and how therapy has helped.

📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 Connect with Hoof and Hope Healing:
hoofandhopehealing.com
💼 Interested in sponsoring a future episode or collaborating with us?
Email us at info@nidexperience.com
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421
Grab our Relocation Guide: https://northidahoexperience.com/homebuyer-guide/
Your Ultimate Selling Game Plan guide: https://northidahoexperience.com/seller-guide/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northidahoexperience/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northidahoexperience
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHz9XczupyJ93VRtqfQEW-g

Sponsored by:

North Idaho Arms, LLC

4013 West Riverbend Avenue, Post Falls, Idaho 83854

(208) 457-3031CONTACT@NORTHIDAHOARMS.COM

https://northidahoarms.com/

Finding Freedom Idaho INC
Equal housing opportunity
======

Train, Hunt, Succeed: Inside the ElkShape Business with Dan Staton Jul 22, 2025

Show notes

🔴 Join us for a deep dive with Dan Staton, founder of ElkShape and longtime North Idaho resident, as we explore the intersection of fitness, entrepreneurship, and backcountry elk hunting. Dan shares how he turned his passion into a business, the evolution of content creation in the outdoor industry, and what it really takes to prepare for elk season both mentally and physically. Whether you're an aspiring hunter, content creator, or someone thinking of moving to North Idaho, this episode is packed with insight.
🔔 Subscribe for more interviews, North Idaho stories, and outdoor adventure content.
✅ 3 Key Takeaways:
Turning Passion into a Business: How Dan built ElkShape from a side hustle into a full-time brand around elk hunting, fitness, and content creation.
Training for the Hunt: Why staying "in elk shape" year-round isn’t just about hunting success—it's a lifestyle.
Freedom, Values & Location: The appeal of North Idaho to conservative families seeking freedom, outdoor life, and community.
00:00:00 Introduction to Dan Staton & ElkShape
00:02:38 How ElkShape Became a Full-Time Business
00:06:09 The Reality of Hunting Content on Social Media
00:10:04 Ethics & Controversy in Bear Hunting
00:13:53 Grizzly Attacks & Bear Spray Discussion
00:25:14 Staying in "Elk Shape" Year-Round
00:31:21 The Broken Food System & Raising Healthy Kids
00:38:05 Why People Are Moving to North Idaho
00:46:13 Business Partnership Lessons from the Archery World
00:50:34 How Dan Learned to Hunt Elk Without Using Calls
📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 Connect with Dan Staton and Elk Shape
https://linktr.ee/elkshape?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwLbryRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp5NuO2cNr86eAPXvOxPVw1DYaYb9jUb9ol_R1itb_LRYAxieNzNTT9NFVzS-_aem_uWe2Jz0Y_I_ddQYaiN_1iA
💼 Interested in sponsoring a future episode or collaborating with us?
Email us at info@nidexperience.com
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421
Grab our Relocation Guide: https://northidahoexperience.com/homebuyer-guide/
Your Ultimate Selling Game Plan guide: https://northidahoexperience.com/seller-guide/
👉 Subscribe for more interviews, neighborhood tours, and tips on North Idaho living!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northidahoexperience/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northidahoexperience
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHz9XczupyJ93VRtqfQEW-g

Sponsored by:

North Idaho Arms, LLC

4013 West Riverbend Avenue, Post Falls, Idaho 83854

(208) 457-3031CONTACT@NORTHIDAHOARMS.COM

https://northidahoarms.com/

Finding Freedom Idaho INC
Equal housing opportunity
======

Most Common Boating Fails on Lake Coeur d'Alene – Real Rescues & Lessons Jul 15, 2025

Show notes

In this engaging episode of North Idaho Experience, we sit down with Captain Tony and Captain Austin from Marine Rescue CDA to discuss their critical role on Lake Coeur d'Alene. Discover incredible stories from recent boat rescues and marine salvages, including an intense operation involving a burning boat. Gain valuable insights on boat safety, common causes of boat breakdowns, and why having marine rescue assistance is essential for every boat owner in North Idaho. Whether you're a seasoned boater or new to the waters of Coeur d'Alene, this episode is packed with practical advice to keep you safe on the lake.
Three Key Takeaways:
What to do during a boat emergency or breakdown.
Insight into marine salvage operations and how boats are safely recovered.
Essential boat safety tips and the importance of marine rescue coverage.
📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 Connect with Marine Rescue CDA
https://www.marinerescuecda.com/
💼 Interested in sponsoring a future episode or collaborating with us?
Email us at info@nidexperience.com
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421
Grab our Relocation Guide: https://northidahoexperience.com/homebuyer-guide/
Your Ultimate Selling Game Plan guide: https://northidahoexperience.com/seller-guide/
👉 Subscribe for more interviews, neighborhood tours, and tips on North Idaho living!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northidahoexperience/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northidahoexperience
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHz9XczupyJ93VRtqfQEW-g

Sponsored by:

North Idaho Arms, LLC

4013 West Riverbend Avenue, Post Falls, Idaho 83854

(208) 457-3031CONTACT@NORTHIDAHOARMS.COM

https://northidahoarms.com/

Finding Freedom Idaho INC
Equal housing opportunity
======

The Fight for Freedom in North Idaho: Government, Voting & Community | Inside Idaho Politics Jul 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the North Idaho Experience Podcast, we sit down with Lilly Allman, the voice behind "In the Know Idaho" — a politically satirical Instagram channel that’s become a favorite among conservative Idahoans. We dive into real conversations about the dangers of ranked-choice voting, why local government matters, how satire can fuel civic engagement, and the threat of population shifts on North Idaho values.

From explaining how the government is supposed to work (and how it doesn’t) to exploring the balance between freedom and regulation, this conversation tackles real issues affecting Idahoans today. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just North Idaho curious, this episode will leave you thinking harder about who’s making decisions — and how those decisions impact your freedom.

✅ Top 3 Takeaways

Why ranked-choice voting is viewed as a serious threat to conservative states like Idaho.
The role of satire and independent media in educating voters about local politics.
How population changes and complacency can shift the political landscape

📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 In the Know Idaho on IG:
https://www.instagram.com/intheknowidaho?igsh=MWh6dWZ5aGphaTZiaA==
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421
Grab our Relocation Guide: https://northidahoexperience.com/homebuyer-guide/
Your Ultimate Selling Game Plan guide: https://northidahoexperience.com/seller-guide/
👉 Subscribe for more interviews, neighborhood tours, and tips on North Idaho living!

#NorthIdaho #MovingToIdaho #IdahoPolitics #RankedChoiceVoting #LivingInIdaho #ConservativeValues #IdahoRealEstate #CoeurDAlene #FreedomInIdaho #InTheKnowIdaho

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/northidahoexperience/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/northidahoexperience
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHz9XczupyJ93VRtqfQEW-g

Sponsored by:

North Idaho Arms, LLC

4013 West Riverbend Avenue, Post Falls, Idaho 83854

(208) 457-3031CONTACT@NORTHIDAHOARMS.COM

https://northidahoarms.com/

Finding Freedom Idaho INC
Equal housing opportunity
======

Inside California Politics: Ryan Tillman’s Bold Run for California Governor Jul 03, 2025

Show notes

🔴 In this powerful episode of Inside California Politics, we sit down with Ryan Tillman — law enforcement officer, community leader, and now an independent candidate for California Governor 2026. Known for his Breaking Barriers platform, Ryan shares his inspiring personal story, from a high-crime neighborhood to becoming a police officer, and now aiming to heal California’s deep political divides. He speaks boldly on immigration, crime, homelessness, education reform, and the need for transparent, people-first leadership. Whether you’re in California or considering moving, this interview provides valuable insight into the state’s political future.
*** North Idaho Experience does not endorse Ryan Tillman, this podcast is for educational purposes only ***
🎓 Three Things You'll Learn:
Why Ryan Tillman believes California's current leadership is failing and what he plans to do differently.
How his career in law enforcement shaped his views on crime, public safety, and community engagement.
What policies he proposes to revive California’s economy and restore faith in governance — including ideas on immigration, homelessness, and education.
00:00:00 Introduction: Meet Ryan Tillman
00:05:56 Becoming a Police Officer and Early Challenges
00:11:33 Launching Breaking Barriers and Bridging Divides
00:14:45 Why Ryan Is Running for California Governor
00:21:41 Use of Force and Public Misconceptions
00:25:14 Immigration, Education, and Explaining the "Why"
00:32:45 Independent Politics and Rejecting Extremes
00:44:54 Ryan's Policy Priorities: Economy, Safety, Education
01:04:21 Homelessness in California: Real Talk and Real Solutions
📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 Connect with Ryan Tillman
https://www.tillman26.com/
💼 Interested in sponsoring a future episode or collaborating with us?
Email us at info@nidexperience.com
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421
Grab our Relocation Guide: https://northidahoexperience.com/homebuyer-guide/
Your Ultimate Selling Game Plan guide: https://northidahoexperience.com/seller-guide/