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:

The Truth About Raising a Family in North Idaho May 06, 2025

Show notes

🎙️ In this heartwarming episode, we meet Kayleigh—a passionate PT, CrossFit enthusiast, and strong woman of faith—who shares her inspiring journey moving from Arizona to North Idaho. 🌲 From community, church, and CrossFit to family, faith, and first responders, this episode explores what makes North Idaho so special. Whether you're a local or just curious, this episode offers heartfelt wisdom, laughter, and real-life advice. 💛
🎓 Top 3 Takeaways from This Episode
1. How community and faith played a key role in Kayleigh’s decision to relocate to North Idaho.
2. The realities of moving with a baby and starting over in a new town with little support.
3. How CrossFit, church, and small-town kindness helped build belonging and purpose.
📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 Connect with Kayleigh Shondee
https://www.instagram.com/kayleighshondee/
💼 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

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
======

What’s REALLY Happening in Harrison, Idaho? Shocking Truths Inside Apr 29, 2025

Show notes

🔴 Whitney Hruza, the passionate owner of One Shot Charlie’s in Harrison, Idaho, shares her journey from Southern Idaho softball player to a small-town business powerhouse. In this emotional episode of the North Idaho Experience, learn how she built a beloved bar from scratch, survived the pandemic, and fights to preserve the spirit of Harrison. Discover the challenges of seasonal business, the impact of Airbnb, and the strength of community roots.
👉 Whether you're curious about North Idaho or a small business advocate, this is a story you won't forget.
📌 Topics Covered in This Episode:
1) The Real Impact of Airbnb on Small Towns
– How tourism can both support and destroy a tight-knit local economy.
2) The Power of Community-Led Businesses
– Why hometown ownership means more than just running a shop.
3) What It Takes to Build and Keep a Business Alive Year-Round
– The innovation, sacrifice, and grit behind operating seasonally.
00:00 Meet Whitney Hruza – Harrison’s Fierce Entrepreneur
01:33 From Softball to Small Business: Her Idaho Origin Story
03:46 How a YouTube Video Sparked a Movement
06:04 The Real Population & Road Challenges of Harrison
08:18 Big City Experience Meets Small Town Dreams
12:19 How One Shot Charlie’s Started With $1,500
14:39 One Shot’s Peak: 2019 & Growing Through Adversity
18:29 How the Pandemic Changed Harrison Forever
20:44 Airbnb: Boon or Doom for the Town of Harrison?
24:29 Local Politics, School Woes & Fighting for the Future
26:28 Harrison’s History: From Mill Town to Modern Struggles
29:11 Staffing Crisis in Small Towns – One Owner’s Creative Solution
31:20 Treating Everyone Equal: No VIPs at One Shot Charlie’s
33:02 The Future of Harrison – Whitney’s Vision for Revitalization
📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 One Shot Charlie's
https://www.instagram.com/oscharrisonidaho?igsh=MTN1czgyaTJsZHl5dg==
https://oneshotcharlies.net/

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
======

These Shotguns Are LEGENDARY – But You’ve Probably Never Seen One Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

Discover the untold stories of Cody Cohen – a former Recon Marine, Coeur d'Alene native, and Genesis Arms team member – as he shares his journey from military to police force, and now building the world’s most powerful shotguns. This episode of the North Idaho Experience dives into real conversations about local culture, 2A values, conservative migration, and life in North Idaho.
🎙 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why Idaho is attracting conservative families seeking freedom 🏡
Cody’s evolution from Recon Marine to tactical firearms innovator 🔫
How out-of-state transplants are influencing North Idaho’s politics & culture 🗳️
👤 Connect with Genesis Arms:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genesisarms?igsh=MXUwcWg3ZTN5MWhpMQ==
Website:https://genesisarms.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
======

Number One Thing Killing Cops | Idaho Law Enforcement Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

What’s REALLY Killing Cops in America?
In this gripping episode, former law enforcement officer Johann Schmitz joins Seth and Eric to expose the number one silent killer of cops: mental health. From the brutal realities behind the badge to the raw truth about suicide rates, this conversation peels back the curtain on what police truly face—and why more need to speak up before it’s too late. Also discussed: the evolution of gunfighting, adapting training for real-life survival, parenting in the AI age, and life after stepping away from the force.
👉 If you care about law enforcement, mental health, or personal resilience, this episode is a must-watch.
🧠 Top 3 Takeaways Viewers Will Learn:
The leading cause of death for police officers isn’t violence—it's suicide caused by untreated trauma.
How modern law enforcement training is evolving, from range to reality-based self-defense.
The importance of vulnerability, balance, and finding identity outside the badge.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:11 From Attorney to Law Enforcement at Age 39
00:10:24 Life Perspective, Balance, and Personal Growth
00:12:38 Stepping Away from Active Duty
00:16:47 The Biggest Unforeseen Challenge in Policing
00:20:04 Mental Health, Identity, and Letting Go
00:29:17 Raising Good Humans in a Tech-Heavy World
00:42:59 Mental Health Advocacy and Breaking the Stigma
00:58:29 Gunfighting as a Martial Art: Training Philosophy
01:03:56 Evolving Law Enforcement Training: Fight to Win
📍 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
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 #coeurdalene #LivinginCoeurdalene #coeurdalenerealestate #yournorthidahoagent #movingtocda #movingtocoeurdalene #livinginnorthidaho #movingtonorthidaho #northidahorealestate #LawEnforcementMentalHealth #WhatKillsCops #PoliceSuicideCrisis
#GunfighterMindset #NorthIdahoPodcast #PTSDAwareness
#PoliceTrainingEvolution #LifeAfterLawEnforcement #PoliceRangeTraining
#MentalHealthMatters

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 your grocery bill is increasing - Jason Hanley on Rising Beef Prices & Agriculture Challenges Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

🥩 Are food shortages coming? Is beef about to get even more expensive? We sit down with Jason Hanley of Acme Acres to talk about North Idaho’s farming industry, rising meat prices, and the future of food security.
🚜 With beef prices skyrocketing, egg shortages making headlines, and inflation affecting grocery stores, we break down what’s happening in the agriculture industry and how farmers & ranchers are struggling to keep up.
🔎 In this episode, we discuss:
✅ Why beef prices are climbing & how it affects your grocery bill
✅ The impact of egg shortages & whether it's a real crisis
✅ How government regulations & supply chain issues affect local farms
✅ The importance of supporting local ranchers for food security
💡 Thinking about becoming more self-sufficient? Learn why homesteading, raising chickens, and supporting local farmers might be the best decision you can make for your family.
📩 Interested in moving to North Idaho? Contact our real estate team (former first responders & veterans) to find your dream property! 📞🏡
💬 What do you think about rising food prices? Let us know in the comments!
🔔 Subscribe for more in-depth discussions on North Idaho, self-sufficiency, and real estate insights!

👤 Connect with Jason Hanley - Acme Acres
GRASS FED MEAT HOTLINE (208) 714-0478(call or text 24/7)
https://acmeacres.us/

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
======

Moving To Montana vs Idaho- Pros, Cons & Costs Revealed! Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

Thinking of moving to Montana or Idaho? 🏔️ In this episode, we sit down with Abram Antonucci, a real estate expert in Bozeman, Montana, to compare the Montana housing market vs. Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. We cover cost of living, home prices, job opportunities, and politics—including whether Montana is going woke. If you're debating Montana vs. Idaho for your next home, this podcast is a must-watch! 🔥
📲 Thinking of moving? Contact our real estate team to find the perfect home in Montana or Idaho!
✅ Top 3 Things You'll Learn in This Video:
1️⃣ Montana vs. Idaho Real Estate Market – Which offers better value? 🏡
2️⃣ Cost of Living & Taxes – What you NEED to know before moving 💰
3️⃣ Politics & Community Culture – Is Montana really changing? 🚨
📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 Guest: Abram Antonucci, Realtor, Former LEO

#Northidaho #coeurdalene #LivinginCoeurdalene #coeurdalenerealestate #yournorthidahoagent #movingtocda #movingtocoeurdalene #livinginnorthidaho #movingtonorthidaho #northidahorealestate #MontanaVsIdaho #MovingToMontana #MovingToIdaho #BozemanMontana #CoeurDAlene #MontanaHousing #IdahoRealEstate #CostOfLiving #RealEstateInvesting #BestPlaceToLive

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
======

Washington Gun Law Updates 2025 - Time to move to Idaho Mar 25, 2025

Show notes

🔫 Inside North Idaho Arms: The Gun Store That’s Changing the Industry🇺🇸
In this episode of The North Idaho Experience Podcast, we sit down with BZ from North Idaho Arms, one of the **fastest-growing gun stores in Idaho, to talk about gun laws, the future of firearm ownership, and why people are traveling from all over to visit his store.
🚨 Topics Covered:
✅ The real reason Washington gun laws are getting stricter– and how it’s affecting small gun shops
✅ Why Idaho remains one of the most pro-gun states in the U.S.(and how to keep it that way)
✅ The impact of gun regulations on local businesses and why so many firearm stores are closing
✅ How North Idaho Arms became a go-to spot for gun owners from WA, MT, and even BC!
🔥 PLUS: Behind-the-scenes stories from SHOT Show, insights on gun sales, and the future of firearm policy.
📌 If you support the Second Amendment, you NEED to watch this episode!
📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 Connect with Bryan Zielinski
https://northidahoarms.com/
(208) 457-3031
4013 West Riverbend Avenue, Post Falls, Idaho 83854, United States

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 power of owning your digital presence- Website & Email Strategy, What Really Works in 2025 Mar 18, 2025

Show notes

In today's digital world, your website and email list are more powerful than ever! Social media algorithms change constantly, but owning your digital presence ensures long-term success. In this video, we break down the importance of website and email strategies in 2025 and how they impact your brand, marketing, and business growth.
✅ Why relying only on social media is a dangerous game
✅ How to optimize your website for visibility and conversions
✅ The role of email marketing in building a sustainable business
You'll learn the most effective strategies to drive traffic, generate leads, and create a brand that lasts—without depending on social media platforms that you don’t own.
📌 Topics Covered in This Episode:
How to Create a Powerful Digital Presence – Learn why owning your website and email list is crucial in 2025.
Best Strategies for Website & Email Success – Discover proven techniques for driving traffic, engagement, and conversions.
Avoiding Common Marketing Mistakes – Understand why social media isn’t enough and how to build a more reliable online business.
00:00:00 From Federal Agent to Entrepreneur
00:02:42 Why I Left Law Enforcement
00:11:55 Landing a Job with Megadeth
00:24:04 Behind the Scenes—Rock Band Social Media
00:42:25 The Harsh Reality of the Music Industry
00:46:19 Building a Business from Scratch
00:48:23 The Power of Owning Your Digital Presence
00:50:36 Why Social Media Isn’t Everything
00:52:31 Parenting, Privacy, and the Digital Age
00:56:29 Escaping the Content Treadmill
📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 Connect with Cara Chace
https://www.instagram.com/carachace/
Carachace.com

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
======

Emergency Preparedness in North Idaho: What Every Resident Needs to Know Mar 11, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The North Idaho Experience , we sit down with Sheriff Bob Norris and County Commissioner Bruce Mattare to discuss emergency preparedness, wildfire evacuation laws, scams, and public safety in North Idaho. 🏔️🚨
🚨 What You’ll Learn:
✅ Wildfire Evacuations – Your rights, responsibilities & what local law enforcement will (and won’t) do during an emergency. 🔥🏠
✅ Scams & Fraud in Kootenai County– How scammers are targeting locals & how to protect yourself. 💸🚨
✅ Crime, Illegal Immigration & Law Enforcement Updates*– What’s really happening in North Idaho and what the county is doing about it. 🚔⚖️
🔹 Key Topics Covered:
✔️ The truth about wildfire evacuation orders – Can you be arrested for staying? 🚫
✔️ Will the government commandeer your property or food storage? Get the facts. 🏠🚨
✔️ What to do if you receive a scam call from someone posing as law enforcement.📞🚔
✔️ How North Idaho is dealing with crime & illegal immigration.*🏛️👮‍♂️
✔️ Updates on the county’s emergency preparedness plan & local government policies.🏛️
📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 Connect with Sheriff Norris and Bruce Mattare
Sheriff Norris: https://www.kcsheriff.com/
Bruce Mattare: https://www.bruceforcommissioner.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/

#Northidaho #coeurdalene #LivinginCoeurdalene #coeurdalenerealestate #yournorthidahoagent #movingtocda #movingtocoeurdalene #livinginnorthidaho #movingtonorthidaho #northidahorealestate #NorthIdaho #EmergencyPreparedness #WildfireSafety #KootenaiCounty #IdahoLiving #LawEnforcement #CrimePrevention #ScamAlert #CommunitySafety #DisasterPreparedness

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
======

Solar- Powered Starlink | The Best Portable Power Solution for Internet On-the-Go Mar 04, 2025

Show notes

🚀 **Stay Connected Anywhere with Starlink & Solar Power!** 🌍🔋
In this episode of *The North Idaho Experience*, we sit down with Alex Mallory and Andrew Cole from Starbat to explore a **game-changing portable internet solution** for backcountry enthusiasts, preppers, first responders, and remote workers! 🌲📡
🔹 **What You'll Learn:**
✅ How Starbat's **solar-powered battery system** keeps your Starlink Mini running indefinitely 🌞🔋
✅ Why **off-grid internet** is a must-have for hunting, emergency situations, and mobile businesses 🌎🚙
✅ The **real-world applications** of this cutting-edge device—tested in extreme environments! 🏕️
💡 **Perfect For:**
✔️ Outdoor adventurers, campers, hunters, and off-roaders
✔️ Remote workers and digital nomads
✔️ Emergency responders and preppers
👉 *Get $100 OFF* with code **NIE** at [Starbat.com](https://starbat.com/)
📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 Connect with Andrew Cole and Alex Mauri,
Star-Batt
https://star-batt.com/
#Northidaho #coeurdalene #LivinginCoeurdalene #coeurdalenerealestate #yournorthidahoagent #movingtocda #movingtocoeurdalene #livinginnorthidaho #movingtonorthidaho #northidahorealestate #Starlink #OffGridInternet #SolarPower #PortableInternet #EmergencyPreparedness #RuralLiving #DigitalNomad #HuntingTech #Backcountry #Preppers

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

Sponsored by: