Ali & Callie Artcast

Step inside the future of entertainment with Jeremy Whittington, founder and creative director of Cinema Quattro, the exciting new boutique cinema opening this November in The NoLL at Liberty Lake. More than just a movie theater, Cinema Quattro is being designed as a creative community gathering place where film, art, music, and live events all come together.

Jeremy shares the vision behind the four intimate screening rooms, the upscale snack bar SnaQ, the stylish DrinQ bar, and an innovative LED screen room that will host everything from film premieres and concerts to poetry, presentations, and special events. We also talk about showcasing local artists throughout the space and creating an experience that extends far beyond the closing credits.

If you've ever dreamed of a movie theater that's as much about community and creativity as it is about cinema, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the Inland Northwest's most anticipated new arts destinations. Learn more at cinemaquattro.com and sign up for their newsletter to keep up on all their events.

Step into the dazzling world of tap shoes, big laughs, and timeless Gershwin melodies as we welcome Paisley Siemens, director and choreographer of Aspire Theatre’s upcoming production of Crazy for You, on stage August 6–9.

In this episode, Paisley shares what makes this beloved musical such a joyful celebration of the golden age of Broadway. We talk about the magic of directing and choreographing a show packed with energetic dance numbers, classic comedy, and unforgettable songs by George and Ira Gershwin—the kind of tunes that audiences instantly recognize and can’t help but hum along with.

Whether you’re a longtime musical theater fan or someone who simply loves great music and a feel-good night out, this conversation is a reminder of why Crazy for You continues to charm audiences decades after its debut. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the creativity, hard work, and sheer fun that goes into bringing this sparkling Aspire Theatre production to life.

Show times are August 6-8 at 7:30 pm, matinee on August 8 and 9 at 2 pm. For tickets visit aspirecda.com.

What happens when you gather an award-winning winemaker, a resident sommelier, and two curious podcast hosts around a table? A few pour decisions... and a whole lot of great conversation.

Recorded at Stylus with resident sommelier Krista French, this episode features Fiona S. Mak, founder and winemaker of SMAK Wines, as we uncork the fascinating story behind Washington's first rosé-exclusive winery. We explore the growing popularity of rosé, dispel a few myths about "pink wine," and learn why Fiona made the bold decision to dedicate her entire label to crafting exceptional rosés.

Founded in 2018, SMAK Wines was established by Fiona S. Mak, the first Asian woman from Hong Kong to own a winery in Washington State at the age of 32. Her thoughtfully crafted, seasonal collection celebrates the flavors and moods of the year: Spring (Sangiovese), Summer (Grenache), Fall (Cabernet Franc), and Winter (Mourvèdre). Even the vibrant labels tell a story, reflecting the joy, personality, and inspiration behind each wine and inviting you to experience the season before you even take your first sip.

Whether you're a devoted wine enthusiast or simply rosé-curious, you'll enjoy Fiona's entrepreneurial journey, her passion for winemaking, and her fresh perspective on an often misunderstood style of wine. So pour yourself a glass, sit back, and join us for an entertaining conversation that's equal parts education, inspiration, and—of course—pour decisions.

For more information about Smak Wines or to become a wine club member, visit smakwines.com.

What a treat to sit down and talk with 10-year-old Clark Shotwell, the young star of John Travolta’s new film Propeller One-Way Night Coach, now streaming on Apple TV.

Clark plays Jeff, a young airplane enthusiast whose cross-country journey with his mother becomes the adventure of a lifetime. Set during the golden age of aviation, the film is written, directed, narrated, and produced by John Travolta—and marks Clark’s feature-film debut.

We talk with Clark about landing the role, working with John Travolta and the cast, the magic of stepping onto a film set, and what it’s like to see your first major movie take flight. It’s a fascinating conversation about acting, Hollywood, and his unexpected journey, including post-premiere interviews and an exciting trip to the Cannes Film Festival in Paris.

Meanwhile, you can see Clark and his entire family perform locally at the annual Christmas show at The Coeur d’Alene Resort, opening the day after Thanksgiving. Tickets for the Christmas show will be available at cdaresort.com/events later this fall.

What compels someone to step off a cliff, a bridge, or a skyscraper with only a parachute between them and the ground?

This week on the Ali & Callie Artcast, we sit down with storyteller, songwriter, and BASE jumping pioneer JD Walker, author of BASE 37, a gripping memoir about the early days of one of the world's most daring sports. As BASE jumper #37, JD was there when the sport was still being invented, sharing the skies with a small band of adventurers who pushed the limits of courage, friendship, and survival.

But this episode is about much more than breathtaking leaps. JD is a natural storyteller whose life has been filled with remarkable twists, unforgettable characters, close calls, and moments of profound reflection. His stories are equal parts thrilling, humorous, and deeply human, offering a fascinating glimpse into what drives people to chase extraordinary experiences.

We also explore another side of JD's creativity through The JD Walker Project. Through heartfelt, Americana-inspired music, he continues to tell stories that resonate long after the conversation ends. You can hear more of his original music at thejdwalkerproject.com

You can find JD’s book on BASE 37. All proceeds benefit the Center for Blind Children.

In this episode we sit down with Carol Davis, a powerhouse jazz and blues vocalist. Carol shares how growing up in San Francisco with a classical pianist mother and a gospel-loving father ignited her lifelong passion for music, drawing inspiration from legends like Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday and Etta James. 

We talk about her early days singing in church at age five, her journey into formal music training and harmony singing in Seattle, and how her performance life evolved alongside careers, family, and even a 25-year tenure as a Los Angeles police officer. 

As a beloved member of the Divas — a multi-genre ensemble with fellow performers Sandra Marlowe and Gaye Kruger Ribble that celebrates women’s voices in jazz, blues, Broadway and beyond — Carol talks about collaboration, community, and what it means to bring soulful storytelling to life on stage. 

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Carol’s sound, this episode gives you a full listen into the heart, history, and harmonies behind one of Coeur d’Alene’s shining voices in jazz and blues.

You can find Carol on Facebook @carol.davis.5437923 and learn where she is singing next!

He's back—and as creatively busy as ever. Friend of the show and multi-talented artist, writer, musician, and concert promoter Michael Koep joins us for another engaging conversation about the many projects keeping his imagination in high gear.

We catch up on the exciting lineup for this year's Koep Concerts summer season, which kicks off on July 8, bringing another series of unforgettable live performances to the region. Michael also shares the story behind his newest musical venture, Psily, whose debut album of all-original songs is set for release this fall, offering listeners a fresh glimpse into his evolving musical journey.

As if that weren't enough, we also dive into the latest developments in Michael's ambitious Neuwirth Mythology series, exploring how this expansive fantasy world continues to grow through storytelling, art, and imagination.

Whether you know Michael as a painter, novelist, musician, or the driving force behind Koep Concerts, this episode is a fascinating look at a creator who never stops making something new.

Learn more about the concert series and upcoming performances at koepconcerts.com, and join us as we celebrate creativity, curiosity, and the joy of following your artistic passions wherever they lead.

Welcome to another music-filled episode of the Ali & Callie Artcast as we catch up with two familiar faces in North Idaho’s arts scene—Max Mendez and Ruth Pratt.

Our conversation begins with a preview of the 2026 Riverstone Concert Series, the beloved free summer music tradition presented by the Coeur d'Alene Arts & Culture Alliance. Beginning July 9, the series returns to Riverstone Park with six evenings of live music, community connection, and summer fun in one of Coeur d’Alene’s favorite outdoor gathering places.

But this episode is about much more than a concert series.

Max shares details about his exciting new venture, Mendez Vocal Works, where he is helping singers of all ages develop confidence, technique, and artistic expression through personalized vocal instruction. He also celebrates a special milestone as he officially joins the Ali & Callie Artcast "5-Timers Club," making his fifth appearance on the podcast and proving once again that he’s always got a new creative adventure up his sleeve. @mendezvocalworks.com

Ruth talks about her latest musical journey as a member of the Tom Tucker Band, bringing her signature talent, energy, and love of performance to audiences throughout the Inland Northwest.

Along the way, we explore the power of live music, the excitement of new beginnings, and why both Max and Ruth continue to find fresh ways to connect with their communities through performance, education, and collaboration.

To learn more about the 2026 Riverstone Concert Series, view the lineup, sign up as a volunteer, or make a donation to help support this free community event, visit artsandculturecda.org

Join us for a lively conversation about music, mentorship, community, and the creative spirit that keeps North Idaho singing all summer long.

When we first invited stained glass artist Atsuko Kroetch to the podcast, we planned to talk about the stunning stained glass horses she created for the cupola of the Coeur d'Alene Historic Carousel. What we discovered was a story far bigger than art alone.

Born in China to Japanese parents, Atsuko shares an extraordinary life journey that spans continents, cultures, and pivotal moments in history. Her path took her from Asia to America, including a fascinating career as an airline stewardess during the Vietnam War. One of the most gripping moments of our conversation recounts her experience leaving alongside refugees on one of the last planes out as the war came to an end—a firsthand account of a historic moment that forever shaped her perspective on life, resilience, and gratitude.

This episode is a powerful reminder that every work of art has a story behind it, and sometimes the artist's journey is every bit as captivating as the work itself. Join us for an unforgettable conversation about history, immigration, perseverance, and the unexpected paths that lead us home.

And for more information about the Carousel, and the book Window to the World, stories about each of the eight horses designed by Atsuko and written by her friend Debbie Weiser, visit cdacarousel.com/stained-glass-windows/.

What happens when curiosity, creativity, and collaboration come together to solve real-world challenges?

In this episode of the Ali & Callie Artcast, we sit down with Marita Diffenbaugh, Director of Innovation for the forward thinking X-Labs program at North Idaho College.

Marita shares how NIC X-Labs is creating a dynamic learning environment where students, faculty, community members, and industry partners come together to exchange ideas, tackle meaningful challenges, and build solutions through design thinking. More than a makerspace or classroom, X-Labs is a collaborative ecosystem where everyone is both a teacher and a learner.

We explore the power of empathy-driven innovation, the importance of relationship-building, and how active learning can unlock human potential. From fostering creativity and critical thinking to addressing community needs, X-Labs is helping shape a future where learning extends beyond traditional boundaries and meaningful change happens through collaboration.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about innovation, lifelong learning, and the remarkable possibilities that emerge when people come together with a shared purpose.

For more information about NIC X-Labs, visit nic.edu/x-labs/ and discover how innovation is taking shape right here in our community.