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:

Badge, Bar & Burgers: A Veteran CO Builds Community in North Idaho May 12, 2026

Show notes

What does it look like when a former California corrections officer leaves the system, moves to North Idaho, and builds one of the most beloved veteran and first responder bars in the region? In this episode, we sit down with Brent Trope — owner of The Bunker Bar and Burger Bunker in Post Falls, Idaho — to hear the full story.
Brent spent years working inside some of California's most notorious state prisons before transferring to Kootenai County Corrections and ultimately walking away from working for anyone else. From bouncer to bar owner, Brent has built a community hub on Spokane Street in Post Falls that is veteran-owned, military and first responder friendly, and known for its no-drama atmosphere, killer burgers, live music, private dinners, and genuine human connection.
We talk about what makes The Bunker Bar different from every other bar in North Idaho, how it became a lifeline for veterans and first responders dealing with isolation and mental health struggles, and why Post Falls is rapidly becoming the most exciting spot in the Inland Northwest. Plus — no open container laws, outdoor fire pits, breakfast starting at 7AM, and a catering company that can make your event unforgettable.
If you're moving to North Idaho or just visiting, The Bunker Bar needs to be on your list.
🎙️ Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts — search @northidahoexperience
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421

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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
======

Running for County Commissioner: Growth, Taxes & the Future of North Idaho May 08, 2026

Show notes

What does it actually take to run Kootenai County — and is the person stepping up to do it ready for the job? In this episode, we sit down with Julie Hensley, candidate for Kootenai County Commissioner District 1, for one of the most practical and eye-opening conversations about local government we've had on this show.
Julie isn't a career politician. She's a former ER nurse from one of the busiest emergency rooms in California, a small business owner, a commercial real estate investor, and a mom who moved to North Idaho in 2018 because she believed in what this community stands for. Now she's running for county commissioner because she sees what unmanaged growth, unchecked spending, and an outdated comprehensive plan could do to everything North Idaho residents love about living here.
In this episode we break down what a county commissioner actually does, why Kootenai County's 20-year-old comprehensive plan is dangerously outdated, what $144 million in county budget actually pays for, the jail expansion and infrastructure strain, the Rathdrum Aquifer water supply — and why nobody has tested it recently. We also get into small business over-regulation, responsible growth versus property rights, public land access, and why Idaho's May primary matters more than the November general election for local races.
This is the kind of informed, real-talk local conversation that helps you make a better decision at the ballot box. Early voting starts May 4th. Election Day is May 19th.
Disclaimer: North Idaho Experience does not endorse political candidates. We provide information so you can make an informed vote.
🎧 Follow North Idaho Experience on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts for more local voices and community conversations.

📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 Connect with Julie Hensley
https://www.hensleyforcommissioner.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
======

From Gang Unit Officer to Idaho Candidate: A Real Talk on Crime, Growth & Community May 05, 2026

Show notes

What does a former LAPD Gang Unit officer, Mexican Mafia specialist, and probation officer bring to a Kootenai County Commissioner race? A perspective that no career politician can match.
In this episode, we sit down with Steve, candidate for Kootenai County Commissioner District 2, for one of the most candid conversations about North Idaho's future we've had on this podcast. Steve moved to Idaho from Las Vegas after nearly three decades in law enforcement in Southern California — and now he's bringing that frontline experience to the ballot box.
We dig into the real issues facing Kootenai County: a $144 million county budget with 60% going to the Sheriff's Department, the threat of Mexican Mafia and gang activity quietly expanding into the Inland Northwest, the Rathdrum Aquifer water supply concerns, the controversial sheriff's helicopter program, responsible growth versus property rights, the public transit debate, and what it actually takes to manage a county government the right way.
Steve isn't a politician. He's a blue collar worker, a community voice, and someone who has spent his career understanding crime, community, and consequences at the ground level. This is a conversation every North Idaho voter needs to hear before heading to the polls.
Disclaimer: North Idaho Experience does not endorse political candidates. We provide information so voters can make informed decisions.
🎧 Listen to the full episode on North Idaho Experience — available on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

👤 Connect with Steve Em
https://www.thegoptrashman.com/
📌 Topics Covered in This Episode:
Why gang activity and Mexican Mafia influence is already creeping into the Inland Northwest — and how Steve's decades as an LAPD gang unit officer and Mexican Mafia specialist give him unique insight into what Kootenai County law enforcement is up against and what needs to change.
The hard truth about Kootenai County's $144 million budget — why the Sheriff's Department is consuming 60% of county resources, what that means for taxpayers, and what a fiscally experienced commissioner could actually do about it.
The real debate over North Idaho's growth — from the Rathdrum Aquifer water supply and the risks of unchecked development, to the public transit debate and why impact fees should have been collected years ago — and what responsible local leadership looks like going forward.

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
======

Breaking the Silence: Inside Child Abuse Cases & the Fight to Protect Kids May 01, 2026

Show notes

Child abuse. Domestic violence. Sexual assault. These are subjects most people don't know how to talk about — but Scott Coleman has spent his career doing exactly that. In this episode of North Idaho Experience, we sit down with Scott, a former law enforcement officer and current Director of the Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) at Safe Passage in North Idaho, to pull back the curtain on how child abuse cases are actually handled from the moment a child discloses abuse all the way through the court system.
Scott walks us through what a forensic interview looks like, why child victims are forced to testify in front of their abuser under Idaho's confrontation clause, how Safe Passage provides 24/7 crisis advocacy for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, and what predator grooming actually looks like so parents can recognize the warning signs. He also opens up about the psychological toll this work takes on law enforcement and advocates alike — and why mental health support for first responders is critically underfunded.
Safe Passage has been serving North Idaho since 1970. The Children's Advocacy Center was founded in 2014 and provides forensic interviews, free counseling, and medical exams at no cost to victims. If you or someone you know needs help, their 24/7 crisis line is 208-664-9303, or visit safepassageid.org.
This episode touches on difficult subjects including child abuse and domestic violence. Listener discretion is advised.
🎙️ North Idaho Experience | Real conversations about life, community, and people who make North Idaho better.
📺 Watch on YouTube

👤 Connect with Safe Passage
https://www.safepassageid.org/childrens-advocacy-center

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
======

North Idaho Republicans vs KCRCC: What's the Difference and Why It Matters Apr 28, 2026

Show notes

What exactly is the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee — and who's running it? In this episode of North Idaho Experience, we sit down with Brent Reagan, engineer, inventor, and Chairman of the KCRCC, for one of the most informative deep-dives into local Idaho politics we've ever had on the show.
Brent breaks down exactly how the KCRCC works from the ground up — 74 precincts, proportional representation, secret ballot vetting, and an 80,000-copy voter guide mailed to every household in Kootenai County. He explains the difference between the KCRCC and North Idaho Republicans (NIR), why vetting candidates actually protects voters, and how an engineer's problem-solving mindset is reshaping grassroots conservative politics in North Idaho.
We also get into Idaho's rapid population growth, why Kootenai County has gone from 75,000 to 170,000 residents, how remote work is transforming who moves here and why, and Brent's outside-the-box ideas on everything from subsidized Uber replacing county bus routes to creative land-use solutions that preserve open space without pulling it off the tax roll.
If you vote in Kootenai County or anywhere in North Idaho — and especially if the primary is coming up — this episode gives you the clearest, most honest look at how your local Republican party actually operates.
🎙️ North Idaho Experience is your source for real conversations about politics, community, and life in North Idaho.

North Idaho Experience does not endorse any candidate or political organization. This is informational content to help voters stay informed.

👤 Connect with Kootenai County GOP
https://www.kootenaigop.org/

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
======

From Cattle Ranch to Courtroom: The Journey of a North Idaho Prosecutor Apr 27, 2026

Show notes

Running for district judge in North Idaho's First Judicial District, Benjamin Allen brings a rare combination of rural Idaho roots, a decade of prosecutorial experience in Shoshone County, and a deep commitment to community service. In this episode of North Idaho Experience, we sit down with Ben to talk about what it really takes to be a fair, grounded, and effective judge in a small but high-caseload jurisdiction.
Ben walks us through his journey from cattle farming in a 600-person town along the Clearwater River to becoming Shoshone County's elected prosecuting attorney — a path that took him through Gonzaga Law School, the U.S. Attorney's Office, and four diverse legal internships. We dig into the drug trafficking realities on I-90, the search warrant process, the controversial Idaho Clark decision and its impact on domestic violence and DUI arrests, gun trusts under the National Firearms Act, and what it truly means to be a servant-leader on the bench.
Whether you're a North Idaho voter, a Second Amendment advocate, or someone who cares deeply about local justice and public safety, this conversation is packed with substance. Benjamin Allen is running in a nonpartisan race — which means ALL five northern Idaho counties will see his name on the ballot, regardless of party affiliation.
🎙️ North Idaho Experience is your source for real conversations about the people, politics, and community shaping life in North Idaho.

👤 Connect with Benjamin Allen
https://ballen4judge.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
======

Faith, Felonies & Local Politics: John Padula on Recovery, Community, and Running for Kootenai County Commissioner Apr 24, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the North Idaho Experience, hosts Seth and Eric sit down with John Padula — a fourth-generation North Idaho native, pastor, former drug addict, ex-convict, and candidate running for Kootenai County Commissioner Seat 1. John shares his raw, inspiring story of transformation: from 17 years of addiction and six years in state prison, to becoming a pastor, housing over 800 people in recovery, and now stepping up to serve his community in local government.
John discusses the most pressing issues facing Kootenai County, including the proposed Hayden police department, responsible growth and water aquifer concerns, out-of-state recreation pressures at Hauser Lake, the fentanyl crisis and its devastating impact on recovery programs, fiscal responsibility in county budgeting, law enforcement funding and deputy retention, judicial accountability through citizen court watch programs, and his vision for common-sense conservative governance rooted in servant leadership — not career politics.
Whether you care about public safety, local politics, addiction recovery, or the future of North Idaho, this is a must-watch conversation before the May 19th primary election. John even encourages voters to also look at his opponent, Julie Hensley, and vote for whoever best matches their values.
🎙️ Watch the full episode on the North Idaho Experience YouTube channel or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms.
📌 Election Date: May 19th | Kootenai County Commissioner Seat 1
🌐 John's Website: padulaforcommissioner.com | Facebook: Padula for Commissioner
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as political endorsement. North Idaho Experience does not endorse, support, or advocate for any political candidates or campaigns.
🛠 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
======

Policing, Politics & Kratom:Former Captain Seth Green on Crime, Leadership, and North Idaho's Future Apr 21, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the North Idaho Experience, we sit down with Seth Green — former Captain of the Shoshone County Sheriff's Office — for a raw, unfiltered conversation about law enforcement, local politics, and the drug crisis reshaping North Idaho communities.
Seth walks us through the harrowing active shooter attack at the Shoshone County Sheriff's Office — a gripping, real-time account of heroism, split-second decisions, and what understaffed law enforcement looks like in a crisis. He breaks down the political upheaval inside Shoshone County, including controversial budget cuts, a revolving door of leadership, and the real cost of underpaying rural deputies.
We also dig into the growing Kratom crisis — a legal, gas-station drug that Seth says is as addictive as heroin — and why law enforcement is sounding the alarm. Plus: political polarization, the dangers of partisan extremism in local government, and why Seth believes civil discourse — not culture war — is the answer.
Seth also previews his new law enforcement venture and the launch of Idaho Court Watch, a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) designed to keep citizens informed on judicial candidates.
This episode is a must-watch for anyone who cares about public safety, local Idaho politics, and the future of policing in North Idaho.
⚠️ Content Warning: Detailed description of an active shooter incident. Not suitable for young children.
Watch the full episode and more on the North Idaho Experience YouTube channel or listen on all major podcast platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music.
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421
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
📌 Topics Covered in This Episode:
*An inside account of the Shoshone County Sheriff's Office shooting
*The hidden crisis of Kratom — a legal drug more potent than morphine
*Why underfunding rural law enforcement is a public safety disaster

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
======

Frontline to Frontline CrossFit: One Veteran's Mission Apr 17, 2026

Show notes

What happens when a combat-injured Air Force veteran loses everything — his identity, his purpose, and his health? Tim Henry found his answer in a CrossFit gym, and now he's on a mission to bring that same transformation to veterans, first responders, and everyday people in the Post Falls and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho community.
In this powerful episode of North Idaho Experience, Tim opens up about his IED injury in 2009, his 18-year Air Force career, the depression and identity crisis that followed his medical retirement, two spinal cord injuries, and how CrossFit — and community — pulled him back from the edge. Tim recently opened Frontline CrossFit in Post Falls, Idaho: the only CrossFit affiliate in the city, built by the community, for the community.Whether you're a veteran transitioning to civilian life, a first responder looking for brotherhood outside the station, someone battling PTSD or a physical disability, or just someone who needs a community that actually gives a damn — this episode is for you.
🏋️ Frontline CrossFit | 6020 East Commerce Loop, Post Falls, ID
📱 Instagram: @frontlinecrossfit | 🌐 frontlinecrossfit.com
🪖 Ruck to Rise (free biweekly community rucks) | Instagram: @RuckToRise
📍 ⁨@northidahoexperience⁩ is based in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. New episodes drop regularly. Like, subscribe, and share to support this community.
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421
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
📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.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
======

Mark Fitzpatrick | Former Cop Running for Idaho Governor on Truth, Taxes & Taking a Stand Apr 14, 2026

Show notes

Former cop, entrepreneur, and Old State Saloon owner Mark Fitzpatrick sits down with the North Idaho Experience podcast to share why he's challenging incumbent Governor Brad Little in Idaho's Republican primary. With a background in law enforcement (Newport Beach PD, 1999–2014), a son of a 40-year LAPD veteran, and decades of entrepreneurial experience from California to North Idaho, Fitzpatrick explains why he believes Idaho's "red" state status is a facade — and what he plans to do about it.
In this powerful interview, Mark breaks down the real problems facing Idaho taxpayers, exposes what he sees as corruption and lack of transparency in the current governor's office, and outlines his bold vision for a people-first, transparent government. From eliminating wasteful bureaucracy on Day 1 to hosting open-door town halls with a free taco bar, Fitzpatrick makes the case that Idaho deserves an outsider willing to tell the hard truth.
Whether you're a lifelong Idahoan, a recent transplant fleeing high-tax states, or just someone tired of career politicians, this episode will make you think — and maybe even make you believe change is possible.
🗓️ The Idaho Republican Primary is May 19th — and in a state this red, that IS the real election.
👍 If you found value in this conversation, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE — it's the greatest compliment you can pay us here at North Idaho Experience.
🛠 For Real Estate Services or Questions:
Contact us at seth@nidexperience.com
Phone: 208-618-4421
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
📍 Visit our website for more resources, real estate listings, and local content:
https://northidahoexperience.com
👤 🍺 Learn more about Old State Saloon in Eagle, Idaho and follow Mark's campaign online.
https://www.markfitzidaho.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oldstatemark/
This podcast is for informational purposes only, and we do not endorse or support any political candidates or campaigns.
💼 Interested in sponsoring a future episode or collaborating with us?
Email us at info@nidexperience.com
👉 Subscribe for more interviews, neighborhood tours, and tips on North Idaho living!
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