Happy holidays from the Astoria Podcast where we are getting to know our neighbors and those who help our community thrive. I’m your host, Brie Mittan. I hope this episode finds you with a fridge overflowing with Thanksgiving leftovers and the anticipation of all the holiday cheer yet to come. For this season finale, I want to share some bonus content from some of the guests who were featured in this first season of the show. In this episode, we talk about Astoria’s holiday magic and share some fun personal memories that are sure to put a smile on your face.

Let’s get to know Ray Miner, songwriter and children's book author. Many years ago we made a holiday music album together and that experience set my life on a trajectory that led me here to make this show for you. In this episode, me and Ray talk about making a Christmas album together and discuss how music transcends generational boundaries. Listen in while I chat with a very dear friend and enjoy this sneak peek into my past life.

Let's get to know Ella Louise Smith, Co-Producer of Powella Productions. In this episode, we discuss falling in love with our spouses, good food, and our mothers. She co-produces the Kong Show which provides a space for diverse acts to perform throughout our neighborhood. Ella has a gift that lets people feel seen and included. She has so much love for this community and I’m excited to celebrate her and let you know more about this incredible woman.

Let’s get to know Jason, owner of Astoria Cutlery. In this episode, we get to know our neighborhood cutler and how his unique service is made possible because of the Astoria community. Jason shares about the struggles of growing his business and what keeps him going when things get hard.

Let’s get to know Crystal, the owner of Crystal’s Confections. In this episode, we talk about accepting criticism while staying true to yourself and how people-pleasing does not serve you both in life and business. She loves what she does and that joy is felt in every custom design that she creates. Her story is so uplifting and so much about her life resonates with me. I hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as I did.

Let’s get to know Jahleesa, co-owner of Planet Sis Candles. In this episode, she shares how they keep their brand fresh and how she and her sisters navigate owning a business together. And for those of you who are new to Astoria, or have been dreaming about selling your products in local shops, then this is the episode for you because Jahleesa shares about how she got her products in stores and the things that make Astoria so special. I had such a great time getting to know Jahleesa and I know you will too. To find out more about Planet Sis candles visit their website at Plantsis.co.

Let’s get to know Nieves, owner of Sexy Batch Baking Company. In this episode, we discuss what a science officer has to do with baking cookies and we get personal about the loneliness and struggles of starting your own business. Nieves gives me some unsolicited parenting advice that I found quite inspiring and I think you will too.

Welcome to the Astoria Podcast where we are getting to know our neighbors and those who help our community thrive. I’m your host, Brie Mittan. On this show, I have personal conversations with local business owners and we get to know our community in a whole new way. Whether you’ve just moved here or you’ve lived here all your life, you don’t want to miss this first-ever season of the Astoria Podcast.