Advertise on podcast: Move to Tacoma Podcast

In this episode of the Move to Tacoma Podcast Marguerite Martin talks with Nicholas Carr, a Housing Policy Strategic Advisor for Washington State. They talk about why housing in Washington State is so expensive, why homelessness keeps rising in Tacoma and beyond, and why small fixes do not seem to be having the impact everyone wants. Nick explains that housing isn’t just about buildings. It’s an entire ecosystem made up of five connected parts: land and zoning, money and financing, permits and construction, jobs and wages, and how the system responds when things break. When one part fails, the whole system suffers. He argues that Washington’s housing crisis is ultimately an economic problem. The state has one of the most unfair tax systems in the country, where lower-income people pay a larger share of their income in taxes than the wealthy. As costs rise, this imbalance puts renters at risk and strains affordable housing providers. Nick shares ideas for long-term solutions, including creating a true state housing department, using public land to build homes, simplifying rules to lower building costs, investing in construction jobs, and providing direct rental assistance to prevent evictions before they happen. Throughout the conversation, Marguerite pushes back on narratives that blame renters. She emphasizes that tenants are often the most vulnerable people in the system and are doing what they can to survive. This is a wide ranging conversation that explores why communities end up fighting each other instead of addressing the larger economic forces driving the housing crisis. The post How to Fix Housing in Washington State with Nicholas Carr appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

What Is Palmer Scholars? In this episode of Move to Tacoma, Marguerite talks with Malachi Cabrera from Palmer Scholars, a nonprofit started in Tacoma in 1983. The organization helps young people in Pierce County who are underrepresented or face barriers to education and careers. Palmer Scholars works with students while they are still in high school and continues supporting them into adulthood. Preparing Students for College and Reducing Debt Malachi explains the Palmer Legacy program, which helps high school students prepare for college. Students learn how to apply to college, fill out FAFSA forms, and apply for scholarships. They also receive financial support for tuition and everyday needs like books, groceries, and transportation. Because of this support, many Palmer Scholars finish college with very little student loan debt. Career Pathways in Trades and Environmental Work The episode also covers two other programs. Palmer Pathways is a pre-apprenticeship program that introduces young adults to skilled trades like construction and electrical work. Students try different trades, meet people in the field, and even help build a tiny home. The Green Stormwater Infrastructure program focuses on environmental jobs and teaches students about stormwater systems and sustainability work. Why Community Support Matters Throughout the conversation, Malachi shares that what students value most is not just the money, but the sense of community and support. Palmer Scholars connects students with mentors and helps remove barriers like transportation. Listeners are encouraged to learn more, become mentors, or support the organization through donations and community events. The post Palmer Scholars with Malachi Cabera appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

Francis Faye Oak and Devin Rydel Kelly came on the podcast to talk about tenant rights, tenant organizing, and the growing tenant union movement in Tacoma. The conversation centers on the origins and goals of Tacoma for All, a housing justice organization that emerged in response to rising rents, displacement, and deteriorating living conditions, and on the recent fight to defend Tacoma’s voter-approved Landlord Fairness Code from proposed rollbacks at City Council. Francis and Devin explain the difference between traditional “activism” and grassroots organizing, emphasizing the power of building relationships among neighbors around shared material conditions. They discuss how Tacoma for All successfully organized a citizen-led initiative to pass some of the strongest tenant protections in Washington State, and why they now see tenant unions as a crucial next step in building lasting power where people live.  Especially as landlords and local political leaders attempt to weaken those protections. The episode also dives into what a tenant union actually is, using the New York Apartments Tenant Union in Stadium District as a real-world example. Sparked by unresolved maintenance issues and landlord neglect, tenants began talking with one another, realized their problems were shared, and organized collectively to demand safe, healthy, and stable housing. Finally, the conversation broadens to the larger housing crisis, touching on nonprofit housing providers, political accountability, and the limits of relying on market-based solutions for a basic human need. Francis and Devin argue that housing instability is a systemic problem, not a moral failing of tenants, and that real change requires organized tenants, community solidarity, and sustained pressure on local power structures. The episode closes with a call for more Tacoman residents (renters and allies alike) to get involved, build relationships with their neighbors, and recognize their collective power in shaping the city’s future. Tacoma for All is a democratic membership organization that unites tenants, workers, and community members to transform Tacoma into a city governed by and for working people. Together, their goals are to are build a movement to abolish poverty, guarantee housing for all, dismantle racial inequities, and secure a sustainable future. The post NYA Tenants Union and Tacoma 4 All appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

In this episode the Move to Tacoma Podcast- host Marguerite Martin sits down with Mayor-Elect Anders Ibsen for a candid, wide-ranging conversation about how Tacoma is governed. They discuss what meaningful accountability can actually look like in a city with a city-manager system. Ibsen reflects on growing up in Tacoma, his early years on City Council, and the door-to-door conversations that shaped his mayoral campaign. He describes what he calls the “reverse internet”: face-to-face conversations that reveal most residents are not extreme or angry, but deeply concerned about housing stability, homelessness, affordability, and public safety. The discussion explores the gap between how safe people in Tacoma feel and their lived experience in their own neighborhoods,. Anders shares why he thinks perception, visibility, and trust matter as much as response times and crime statistics. Throughout the interview Marguerite presses Ibsen on the questions many residents struggle to understand: What power does the mayor actually have? Who is accountable when systems don’t work? How can Tacoma make progress without new money or federal help? Isn’t the City of Tacoma about to go through a budget shortfall? Ibsen outlines his view of the mayor’s role as a coalition-builder and agenda-setter. Tacoma doesn’t have a “strong mayor,” the mayor of Tacoma is more a Speaker of the House. He sees his role as focused on articulating clear goals, aligning council and staff, and insisting on follow-through. The conversation dives into specific examples, including scaling Tacoma’s underused therapeutic court system as an alternative to incarceration, regional partnerships to address homelessness, and the upcoming city manager search. Ibsen argues that many solutions already exist but lack coordination, accountability, and political will. Anders thinks that leadership means making priorities explicit, measurable, and visible to the public. This episode offers a rare, inside look at how local government actually works in Tacoma, the limits of mayoral power, and what residents can realistically expect from their next administration. Most importantly? How Tacomans can hold it accountable. The post Mayor of Tacoma Anders Ibsen appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

Hailey Hernandez knows what it takes to survive and thrive in Tacoma’s restaurant scene. Born and raised in Washington, she worked for years in the restaurant industry before burning out on low wages, toxic environments, and exploitation. In 2022, with only $300 and a $2,400 payday loan, she and her husband Dante launched Sidepiece Kitchen out of a shared commissary space in South Tacoma. What started as a small hustle to pay the bills quickly became one of Tacoma’s most beloved local businesses. In this candid interview, Hailey shares the highs and lows of opening a restaurant in Tacoma without a business plan, big investors, or corporate backing. She talks about leveraging Instagram to connect directly with Tacoma locals, running successful grassroots fundraisers, and building out their South Tacoma brick-and-mortar location with their own hands. More than just biscuits, Sidepiece Kitchen lives their values: fair pay, health benefits, and community over profit. If you follow them online you know they’re not shy about standing up for what they believe in. Whether you’re dreaming about how to open a restaurant in Tacoma, Washington, or you just love a good underdog story, Hailey’s journey is a must-listen. The post The Side Piece Kitchen Story with Hailey Hernandez | Move To Tacoma Podcast appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

Tamiko Nimura’s book, “A Place for What We Lose: A Daughter’s Return to Tule Lake” centers on her father’s unpublished memoir about his family’s incarceration during WWII. The book contains a history she revisited during a difficult period in her life. Growing up in California, Nimura moved to Tacoma in 2004 and later learned about the city’s lost Japanese American community, which was forcibly removed in 1942. She emphasizes how racism and policies like Executive Order 9066 led to the displacement of over 700 Tacoma residents, most of whom lost their homes and businesses permanently. Resistance and Relevance Today Tamiko Nimura discusses Japanese American resistance to incarceration, including legal challenges, protests, and acts of cultural resilience, such as kite-flying contests in the camps. She draws parallels to current immigration detention policies, particularly the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, and stresses the need for collective action. Organizations like Tsuru for Solidarity and La Resistencia work to oppose these systems, and she encourages listeners to support them through education, donations, and political advocacy. Tamiko Nimura urges listeners to bear witness to suffering and engage in resistance, whether through protests, supporting marginalized communities, or preserving accurate histories. She highlights the importance of intergenerational storytelling and grassroots organizing, framing her book as both a personal tribute and a warning against repeating past injustices. New chat The post Tacoma History & Intergenerational Resilience with Tacoma Author Tamiko Nimura appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

Silong Chhun moved to Tacoma as a two-year-old Cambodian refugee. In this interview on the Move to Tacoma Podcast Silong recounts his upbringing on the Eastside. Tacoma’s Eastside is a place of deep community and cultural richness. He shares memories of growing up in low-income housing, where families relied on each other for support, and highlights the role of places like Tacoma Community House in helping refugees adapt. Despite challenges, Silong emphasizes the strong sense of belonging and the vibrant mix of immigrant-owned businesses, food spots, and community gatherings that define the area. He discusses how the Eastside has evolved, noting improvements like Swan Creek Park’s development while acknowledging ongoing struggles with disinvestment. Silong reflects on the neighborhood’s resilience, where residents historically relied on each other rather than institutions, and how this fostered a unique, self-sufficient culture. He also addresses gentrification concerns, stressing the need for economic opportunities without displacing long-time residents, and celebrates the area’s diversity, from its multilingual grocery stores to its weekend swap meets. Silong invites listeners to engage with his community and explore Tacoma’s Eastside. Whether for its hiking trails, thrift stores, or some of Tacoma’s best Mexican food. He underscores the importance of knowing your neighbors and supporting local businesses, sharing his vision for a thriving but authentic Eastside. New chat The post Growing Up in Tacoma’s Eastside Neighborhood with Silong Chhun appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

How to Open a Coffee Shop in Tacoma, Washington Kevin Lee, the founder of Third Space Coffee in Downtown Tacoma, joins the Tacoma real estate agent Marguerite Martin on the Move to Tacoma Podcast to share the story of how his new café came to be — and what it really takes to open a small business on Pacific Avenue. Kevin moved to the Tacoma area with his immigrant parents from New York City in the mid-2000s. He grew up learning the ropes of running coffee stands and cafes with his family, went to culinary school, and later managed Beecher’s at SeaTac Airport during the pandemic. After years of working behind the scenes in food service, he’s now building something of his own in the heart of Downtown. Kevin’s Instagram went a little viral recently thanks to his honest, behind-the-scenes reels explaining what goes into the price of a cup of coffee and how much it really costs to start a café. His transparency, work ethic, and humor make this a must-listen. If you’ve ever thought about opening a coffee shop, restaurant, or any kind of small business in Tacoma, you’ll love this conversation. The post How to Open a Coffee Shop in Tacoma with Kevin Lee from Third Space appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

In this episode of the Move to Tacoma Podcast, host Marguerite Martin speaks with Catherine Feeney, a local artist and founder of South Sound Plein Air. Catherine shares her journey from growing up in Tacoma to rediscovering her passion for painting later in life. She explains what plein air painting is. En Plein Air is painting outdoors to capture natural light and atmosphere, and how the practice connects artists with both nature and community. The conversation covers how plein air painting became popular, what supplies beginners need, and how anyone, regardless of skill level, can join the South Sound Plein Air group. Catherine and Marguerite discuss the value of creative expression, overcoming self-doubt, and the joy of painting outside with others. Catherine also shares details about upcoming plein air meetups in Tacoma, including plans for seasonal and themed events, and how people can get involved. En Plein Air Painting Tacoma The post En Plein Air Painting in Tacoma with Catherina Feeney appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

Marguerite hosts Sean Leacy from Tacoma Dads, a supportive group aimed at fostering connections among fathers in Tacoma. Sean talks about how the group evolved from its beginnings as a small, private Facebook group in 2016 to its current form with hundreds of members. The group organizes regular events like adventure days, game nights, and cold water plunges, providing dads with opportunities to connect with their peers, share their experiences, and receive support. Tacoma Dad’s Group Sean explains the importance of providing a space where dads can meet regularly and discuss their challenges. This includes parenting challenges and beyond. Tacoma Dad’s Group encourages dads to embrace their roles and find joy in their journeys while also understanding that fatherhood can be challenging and isolating. Their events range from adventure days at local parks to monthly dad’s nights out. Tacoma Dad’s offers different activities to suit a variety of interests. The community strives to be inclusive, supporting all types of families and advocating for acceptance and diversity. Sean also shares personal insights into how building this community has been therapeutic for him. Sean emphasizes that while the group initially leaned heavily on social media for organization, it has now found success on Discord, where members can chat and coordinate events. Despite the challenges of balancing parenting and socializing, he encourages fathers to push past their reservations and engage with the group, stressing how important it is to make new friends and find support networks. The post Tacoma Dad’s Group with Sean Leacy appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

When it comes to private schools in Tacoma, what are your options? On the Move to Tacoma podcast Marguerite Martin interviewed Cheryl Schenk, an expert on Tacoma’s private schools. This interview digs into what makes these the different private schools in Tacoma unique and how parents can find the best fit for their children. Cheryl talks about the types of private schools available in Tacoma. They discuss why parents might choose private schools as an option for their Tacoma student and some history on the schools in the area. Marguerite annd Cheryl discuss practical steps parent should take as they select a school for their student, such as: How to assess the quality of a school for your student How to navigate the enrollment process and how that process will vary school to school Guidance on reflecting on WHY you’re choosing a particular school with a reminder to keep the student’s needs front and center The diverse array of private schools in Tacoma represents not just different educational philosophies but communities ready to embrace and nurture students in a variety of unique ways. As families moving to Tacoma navigate these choices, this episode with Cheryl offers a valuable roadmap for considering what each Tacoma school can offer beyond academics. The post Private Schools in Tacoma with Cheryl Schenk appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

The latest episode of the Move to Tacoma Podcast features an interview with Anzhane Slaughter of YBH (Young Black Homeowners). Anzhane shares about moving to Tacoma from Seattle to buy her first house in South Tacoma and what owning a home has meant to her. Since 1990 Black Homeownership has been declining in Tacoma. In partnership with the City of Tacoma Anzhane and YBH will be bringing culturally relevant and trauma-informed homeownership classes to Tacomans to help turn that stat around. Classes will run throughout the summer and into fall and cover credit, budgeting, and government assistance programs from both the city of Tacoma and the state of Washington using a 2M fund to offer down payment assistance to Black families. In this podcast Marguerite and Anzhane talk about Tacoma’s racist history when it comes to housing. That racism has excluded Black Tacomans from homeownership. To learn more about Tacoma’s history of steering, redlining, and excluding Black Tacomans from homeownership check out Kate Martin’s article, “How Racism Kept Black Tacomans from Buying Houses for Decades.” Anzhane shares about what solutions people inside government, non profit, and the real estate community have come up with to help Black Tacomans own their homes. Thanks to TAPCO Credit Union for sponsoring our first ever video podcast on such an important topic. And special thanks to Pacific Nomad Media, Producer Doug, and Yu and the whole crew at Indo Asian Street Eatery for giving us a place to record on short notice! You can stream the full episode on iTunes, Spotify, and MovetoTacoma.com. You can watch the video on YouTube.   The post Anzhane Slaughter from Young Black Homeowners appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

Does Tacoma have good schools? This podcast interview from “Move to Tacoma,” hosted by Tacoma Real Estate Agent Marguerite Martin, features Tanisha Jumper, the Chief Communications Officer for Tacoma Public Schools. The conversation delves into the nuances of public school funding, the vibrancy and diversity of Tacoma Public Schools, and a focus on the transformative work being undertaken within Tacoma Public Schools. Tanisha’s Background Marguerite and Tanisha start off talking about how Tanisha grew up in Steilacoom, attending Steilacoom Schools. After living and working in Ohio she returned to live in the house she grew up in with her kids, who are attending the same schools she did- even with some of the same teachers. She shares what she loves about living in Steilacoom and the Pacific Northwest. Current Status of Tacoma Public Schools Are Tacoma Public Schools Good Schools? Tanisha says emphatically YES. She explains the importance of bond measures to fund school infrastructure projects, given that state funding primarily covers educational activities, not facilities maintenance or improvements. Tacoma just passed their bond, which means there’s funding for new schools and to improve schools across the district. The passing of the bond shows the community support for Tacoma Schools. This funding is essential for maintaining and improving school environments for kids. The conversation covers a lot of ground about Tacoma schools including: The passing of a substantial bond measure to replace eight schools, enhancing learning environments with modern facilities and equipment. The district’s emphasis on diversity, innovative programs, and the high graduation rate at TPS that surpasses state averages. The introduction of specialized High Schools and programs that cater to students’ varied interests and talents. They are: SAMI (Science and Math Institute) in North Tacoma in Point Defiance Park IDEA (Industrial Design Engineering and Art) on the Eastside of Tacoma SOTA (School of the Arts) in Downtown Tacoma FOSS ( International Baccalaureate® (IB) in Central Tacoma Efforts to ensure equity in education, including initiatives to provide every student with a laptop and access to a broad curriculum regardless of their school. A detailed look at the challenges and opportunities within the district, including addressing the needs of students facing housing insecurity and mental health challenges. Tanisha underscores the district’s commitment to meeting students’ needs, promoting inclusivity, and preparing them for future success through various partnerships and programs. With all the national controversy around what schools teach about American history and LGBTQ issues, what is TPS’s approach to curriculum? Tacoma Public Schools’ (TPS) approach to LGBTQ+ students and teaching America’s full history highlights the district’s commitment to inclusivity and comprehensive education. Here’s a summary of the key points: Whole Child Approach: TPS emphasizes the Whole Child Initiative.  WCI has received national and international recognition for supporting students’ mental health.  It creates welcoming, supportive school environments. This approach ensures that all students, including LGBTQ+ students, are accepted and supported for who they are. Clubs and Supportive Environment: The district hosts a variety of clubs for students. This includes the Black Student Unions, API (Asian Pacific Islander) clubs, trans clubs, and ally clubs across its high schools. These clubs reflect TPS’s commitment to creating spaces where students’ identities, cultural backgrounds, and historical backgrounds are acknowledged and celebrated. Curriculum Standards and Transparency: The curriculum in Tacoma Public Schools aligns with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) standards for Washington State. This ensures that there is no restriction on teaching about America’s history of racism or LGBTQ+ rights. Tanisha emphasizes that the district is transparent about its curriculum. The curriculum taught in Tacoma Schools is designed to reflect historical accuracy and inclusivity. Educational Innovation and Relevance: TPS teachers employ innovative methods to make learning relevant and engaging. Including addressing how historical and current biases have impacted communities of color and the LGBTQ+ community. This includes exploring the ethical dimensions of science and history, ensuring that students understand the complexities of these subjects in relation to diversity and equity. Support for LGBTQ+ Students: TPS is committed to supporting LGBTQ+ students by allowing them to express their identities safely. They do this by incorporating discussions about gender and sexuality in a respectful and educational manner. The district fosters an environment where students can explore their identities without fear of discrimination or exclusion. Open Dialogue and Community Engagement: The district encourages open dialogue about its curriculum and initiatives. TPS is willing to discuss its approach to inclusivity and comprehensive education with the community. This openness is part of TPS’s broader strategy to engage with and respond to the needs of its diverse student population. The post Tacoma Public Schools with Tanisha Jumper appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

Tacoma is a union town. Stephen Rue and Carrie Morton from Tacoma Art Museum Workers United share about forming a union at the Tacoma Art Museum. They share about the conditions at the museum that led them to decide to form a union, their long journey to being recognized, and what’s involved as they go to the bargaining table to negotiate their first contract. Tacoma Art Museum Workers United In this episode of the Move to Tacoma podcast, part of Channel 253, the focus shifts to the unique dynamics and challenges faced by workers at cultural institutions, specifically the Tacoma Art Museum, and their journey toward forming a union. We hear from Stephen Ru and Carrie Morton, two museum workers at the forefront of the unionization effort. The episode focusses on the unionization process at the Tacoma Art Museum. Both Steven and Carrie share their backgrounds, including their initial motivations to move to Tacoma and their respective roles at the museum. Steven serves as the Lead Preparator, involved in the hands-on aspects of art installation and exhibition design, while Carrie, initially part of the visitor services team, is now the store manager, curating art from local artists for the museum shop. The conversation delves into the broader issue of worker rights and conditions in the arts sector, highlighting the often overlooked fact that passionate involvement in cultural work—such as in museums—doesn’t always equate to fair compensation or working conditions. This segment of the discussion sheds light on the misconception that the prestige of working in cultural institutions can substitute for adequate pay, leading to the realization among the museum staff that forming a union was a necessary step toward advocating for their rights and improving their workplace. Tacoma is a Union Town Stephen and Carrie talk about how Tacoma is a Union Town with a history of strong unions. They share what they’ve learned about forming a union in Tacoma. Especially the importance of solidarity, the power of collective action, and the impact of community support in their unionization journey. The union’s efforts were not only about addressing immediate concerns like wages and working conditions but also about broader aspirations for equity and justice within the museum and the cultural sector at large. The podcast captures the emotional and logistical complexities of the unionization process, including the engagement with the museum’s administration and board, the role of external union organizations in providing support and guidance, and the pivotal moments that galvanized the museum workers to persist in their efforts despite obstacles. The successful formation of the union at TAM stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the possibility of positive change in the workplace in Tacoma and in museums across the country. The post Tacoma Art Museum Workers United with Stephen Rue & Carrie Morton appeared first on Move to Tacoma.

Pretty Gritty Tours is not JUST the most popular tour company in Tacoma, Washington. Pretty Gritty Tours (and its creator Chris Staudinger) are one of the most entertaining accounts about Tacoma on social media. From Tiktok, to YouTube, to Instagram and Facebook- Chris finds stories from Tacoma’s past and shares them with us in a way that is entertaining and enlightening. What is Pretty Gritty Tours? Pretty Gritty Tours offers the best education, experiences, and tours in Tacoma, Washington. Pretty Gritty Tours was founded in 2016 by Chris Staudinger and Tawny Clark. They lead Ghost Tours of Downtown Tacoma every weekend, and have tons of other tours they offer to individuals and groups that are curious to learn more about Tacoma and it’s lost stories. In this episode of the Move to Tacoma Podcast Chris shares with host Marguerite Martin how the pandemic catapulted Pretty Gritty Tours from a small local tour company into a full on social media sensation. He also talks about Moving to Tacoma to attend PLU, traveling the world with his wife as a travel journalist, and returning to Tacoma to live in the College Park Neighborhood of the North End (AKA UPS Neighborhood). Tacoma’s History and Stories Chris shares about how he finds the stories and historic information that he features in his tours and on his social media channels. He shares one of his favorite Tacoma stories, about the Andelana, a merchant vessel that sank in Commencement Bay in the late 1800’s and all the spooky stories surrounding it.   The post Pretty Gritty Tours of Tacoma with Chris Staudinger appeared first on Move to Tacoma.