LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY

The Love of Each Other, The Love of Art and The Love of Community: Inside Museo

Hello listeners! Welcome back to Local Whidbey, your weekly dose of small-town magic, creative brilliance, and all the reasons Whidbey Island is the ultimate place to live, love, and soak up inspiration.
 
I’m Magsy and today, we’re diving into the artful heart of Langley, Washington to visit with the owners of Museo, the stunning gallery that’s as much a reflection of our island’s soul as it is a showcase for world-class art. This is where creativity meets community in the most jaw-dropping way, and let me tell you, it’s an experience you don’t want to miss.
 
When I came across the ferry in May of 2020, the first place we stopped, was Langley, WA. Everything was shuttered except the grocery store. So, we grabbed premade sandwiched and ate outside on the bench. As we also peered in the windows of the shops in Langley, I loved the art in Museo and as soon as we all were able to go back to life during Covid, I we drove down to visit inside, instead of outside the fabulous gallery.
 
Behind Museo’s sleek, welcoming doors, you’ll find walls bursting with talent—from bold contemporary pieces to serene landscapes, and stunning depictions of animals, that capture the island’s spirit. But what makes this place truly special isn’t just the art—it’s the story. It’s the way Museo weaves together the threads of artists, locals, and visitors to create something far greater than the sum of its parts. Of course, the new owners Nancy and Michael have their own story that you will not want to miss.
 
In this episode, we’ll uncover the magic of Museo, learn how it’s become a cornerstone of Langley’s vibrant art scene, and hear how it continues to inspire creativity across the island. From the visionaries who curate its exhibits to the artists who pour their hearts into their work, we’re bringing you the inside scoop on what makes Museo a Whidbey Island treasure.
 
I will warn you that, per usual, I interview in person with two mikes.  I don’t have one again … so I will sound kinda far away. It is a gallery with high ceilings. As I always say ‘it’s about the story, not perfection.’
 
So, grab your favorite beverage — and get ready to fall in love with Museo and the incredible creative energy it brings to our little island paradise.
MUSEO INSTAGRAM
MUSEO WEBSITE
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You may also get to know Magsy and subscribe for invites to her supper club, at https://withmagsy.com. 
 

Creating a Bridge of Empowerment, Culture, and Community for Micro Entrepreneurs

Hello, Whidbey friends, and welcome back to Local Whidbey with Magsy! You know, there’s nothing I love more than discovering the heart, soul, and spice of Whidbey Island—and today, we’re diving into all three. If you’re ready for a conversation filled with inspiration, culture, and a little dash of entrepreneurial magic, you are in the right place. 
 
Today’s guest is a powerhouse of passion and purpose: Juliet Dei, the amazing owner of the Whidbey African Store. Juliet has not only brought the vibrant flavors and culture of Africa to Whidbey Island but also created a space that’s all about connection, celebration, and community. From clothing, beads, lotions, soaps, coffee, and more, her store is a little slice of home for some and a world of discovery for others. 
 
Most of you listening and Juliet, do not know me from Eve … however, I have been an entrepreneur and supported entrepreneurship in my career for decades.  I was even the Director of Digital Marketing for eWomenNetwork.  What drew me to Juliet and her African store, was not only because it is HIGHLY interesting content for Whidbey Island, but because of women supporting women. I’m not patting myself on the back. I’m telling you this because Juliet is supporting a much larger cause than just a hobby of selling things we all like to feel better.  Yes, coffee makes me feel better.
 
We are going to talk about Juliet’s journey—from her roots to her vision, what inspired her to create this one-of-a-kind store, and why she believes culture has the power to bring people together. Whether you love unique spices, delicious coffee, beautiful baskets, or just a culture enthusiast, you will love this fun entrepreneurial story. This episode is going to fill your cup (and maybe your shopping cart). 
 
So, let’s get cozy and jump into this beautiful conversation with the unstoppable Juliet Dei. At the end of the podcast, Juliet and I walk through the store and talk about a few of the products. I hope you will stay tuned in a bit longer and maybe hear something that interests you or maybe you are a shop owner on Whidbey Island who just might want to carry a few products from Juliet.
 
Find Whidbey African Store on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY is on @LocalWhidbeyPodcast ... Link: INSTAGRAM 
If you love Whidbey Island Merchandise, I have the perfect branding ... AUDACIOUS ISLANDER(tm) Merchandise can be purchased on sweatshirts, tee shirts, travel mugs, coffee cups, duffle bags and more. Check it out.
 
You may also get to know Magsy and subscribe for invites to her supper club, at https://withmagsy.com. 

Building Brilliance: Hai Anh Vue and the Future of Learning on Whidbey Island

Today’s guest is about to blow your mind, expand your horizons, and quite possibly make you wish you’d paid more attention in science class. 
We are talking to the brilliant Hai Anh Vue, the powerhouse behind the Whidbey Island Language, Art, and STEM Center—or, as the cool kids say, WILASC. Now, I know what you’re thinking: ‘Wait, an educational center that combines languages, art, and STEM? That’s like the ultimate brain-boosting trifecta!’ And you would be absolutely right. 
Hai Anh has created something truly special—an innovative space where curiosity thrives, kids (and let’s be honest, adults too) can explore new ideas, and learning is anything but boring. Whether it’s diving into a new language, getting hands-on with science, or unleashing creativity through art, WILASC is making education feel like an adventure.  We have all seen the ads on social media called ‘Masterclass’, where experts in their field let you in on how they have mastered their craft.  This is the same thing, but for the kids!
I’m genuinely inspired by Hai Anh and everything she’s accomplished. In just four years on the island, she’s launched WILASC, brought it to life, and built a team of local instructors to support her vision. She told me she simply decided to put herself out there and *make it happen*. And let’s be honest—while the saying “build it and they will come” sounds great, it’s not the full story. Success takes more than a good idea. You have to solve a real problem, create a structure that delivers on its promises, and keep spreading the word, day after day. It’s hard work. It’s perseverance. It’s navigating resistance, roadblocks, and setbacks. 
What impresses me most about Hai isn’t just that she’s incredibly smart—it’s that she’s doing *all* of that. And because of her vision, dedication, and grit, our children on this small island now have access to opportunities they might never have had otherwise.
So, get ready for a conversation about why this kind of learning matters, what it takes to build a center like this on Whidbey Island, and why you should never underestimate the power of combining left-brain logic with right-brain creativity. Trust me, you’re going to want to take notes. Let’s get to it!"
 
Find WILASC on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY is on @LocalWhidbeyPodcast ... Link: INSTAGRAM 
If you love Whidbey Island Merchandise, I have the perfect branding ... AUDACIOUS ISLANDER(tm) Merchandise can be purchased on sweatshirts, tee shirts, travel mugs, coffee cups, duffle bags and more. Check it out.
 
You may also get to know Magsy and subscribe for invites to her supper club, at https://withmagsy.com. 
 
 
 

The Hive Mindset: How Misty Ellis Brings Global Glam to Small-Town Style

Welcome back to ‘Local Whidbey’ where we spotlight the people, businesses, and creativity that make Whidbey Island the special place we all love to call home. Today, we are buzzing into the vibrant world of all-around queen bee, Misty Ellis, owner, stylist, and educator of The Hive Salon … where style, community, and self-expression come together in the most fabulous way.
 
My interest in Misty as an Audacious Islander goes beyond the fact that I am a client of hers, find her to be interesting and impressed by how much she gives back to the Oak Harbor Community. She has lived in different parts of the world and doesn’t let living in a small community limit her access to bringing her clients the best. She literally goes to London every year for their ‘Top of the Industry’ hair and products show.  I wish she needed a tag along to carry her bags … anything … I’m so there.
 
Misty’s passion for creating beauty goes beyond haircuts and color—it’s about empowering every client to feel confident, radiant, and unapologetically themselves. With an emphasis on connection and care, Misty has cultivated a space where everyone who walks through the door feels like part of the family. 
 
From stunning transformations to small, thoughtful touches, Misty and her team have built The Hive Salon into more than just a business—it’s a hub of creativity and community right here on Whidbey Island. Today, we’ll hear Misty’s story—how she has built her business over the years, her philosophy on beauty and self-care, and her passion for educating and training stylists.
 
If you’ve noticed, today I changed the intro music. It is an ode to Misty and you’ll find out why later in her interview. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired. By the end of this episode, you’ll understand why The Hive Salon is such a beloved part of our Whidbey community!
 
Find Misty and The Hive on Instagram.
 
Follow LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY is on @LocalWhidbeyPodcast ... Link: INSTAGRAM 
If you love Whidbey Island Merchandise, I have the perfect branding ... AUDACIOUS ISLANDER(tm) Merchandise can be purchased on sweatshirts, tee shirts, travel mugs, coffee cups, duffle bags and more. Check it out.
 
You may also get to know Magsy and subscribe for invites to her supper club, at https://withmagsy.com. 
 
 

Canvas & Soul: The Artful World of Kathrine Leigh Holley

Picture this ... sweeping brushstrokes of vibrant color, stunning landscapes that feel alive, and portraits that capture the very essence of a soul. That's the magic of Kathrine Leigh Holley, a prolific oil painting artist right here on Whidbey Island. Kathrine's work is nothing short of mesmerizing. Her canvas is where stories unfold, and emotions come to life. 
But wait, there's more! Kathrine isn't just an artist; she's a creative powerhouse wo embodies the Whidbey spirit of innovation, heart, and connection ... all while raising young children. Today we dive into her journey, how she turned her love of painting into a life of purpose, the stories behind her masterpiece, and why she believes Whidbey Island is the ultimate muse.
So, grab your coffee (or maybe a glass of wine, it's five o'clock somewhere), settle in, and get ready to be inspried by the one and only Kathrine Leigh Holley. Let's dive in!
Check out Kathrine Leigh Holley's Work: You can find her work locally at Penn Cover Gallery. She has sold 1329 pieces of art on ETSY and favorited by over 4k users. To see her work, check out her, INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK or all the reviews on her ETSY page.
 
Follow LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY is on @LocalWhidbeyPodcast ... Link: INSTAGRAM 
If you love Whidbey Island Merchandise, I have the perfect branding ... AUDACIOUS ISLANDER(tm) Merchandise can be purchased on sweatshirts, tee shirts, travel mugs, coffee cups, duffle bags and more. Check it out.
 
You may also get to know Magsy and subscribe for invites to her supper club, at https://withmagsy.com. 

Capturing the Soul of Whidbey Island Music with Dennis Browne

You know how some people just have that magic touch? Like, they can capture a moment so perfectly that you swear you can hear the music, smell the salty sea air, and feel the collective joy of a crowd in a single photograph? Well, that’s Dennis Browne for you. This guy is basically the unofficial historian of Whidbey’s music scene—except instead of a dusty old textbook, he tells the story through stunning photography. 
 
Dennis has been everywhere—from intimate backyard jam sessions to full-blown festival stages—documenting the heartbeat of Whidbey Island’s incredible music culture. He’s got the eye, the passion, and probably the best backstage access of anyone on the island. And today, we’re pulling back the curtain on what it’s like to be the guy behind the lens, capturing the soul of Whidbey one epic shot at a time. 
 
So, get ready for an interview that is a bit longer than my usual but very worth it. Dennis has great stories and information you will want to hear, some laughs, and maybe—just maybe—some insider tips on how to look extremely cool in concert photos. 
 
By the way, the interview was recorded at Bailey's Corner Store, where all the music goes down. Several regulars came into eat and Bailey's brought me a fantastic hamburger and fries as well.
 
Follow LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY is on @LocalWhidbeyPodcast ... Link: INSTAGRAM 
If you love Whidbey Island Merchandise, I have the perfect branding ... AUDACIOUS ISLANDER(tm) Merchandise can be purchased on sweatshirts, tee shirts, travel mugs, coffee cups, duffle bags and more. Check it out.
 
You may also get to know Magsy and subscribe for invites to her supper club, at https://withmagsy.com. 

Broken, Reborn, and Resilient: Maria Wickwire and the Journey of Anillos

Today, we’re diving headfirst into the world of art, passion, and creative brilliance with the one and only Maria Wickwire, a phenomenal sculpture artist who’s redefining what it means to make art come alive. 
 
Maria’s work isn’t just something you see—it’s something you feel.  Her sculptures tell stories, spark emotions, and remind us that art isn’t just about decoration—it’s about connection. From the way she molds her materials to the heart and soul she pours into every piece, Marie is the kind of artist who leaves an unforgettable mark, both on her creations and everyone lucky enough to experience them. 
 
If you didn’t know already, Maria’s beautiful sculpture Anillos is front and center at the Price Sculpture Forest in Coupeville. I love it so much and used it in my Instagram post with my trailer for this podcast. She was told about it and that is how she and I connected. One of my favorite galleries is Museo in Langley. Her pieces are there as well. So, you know … I just had to interview her.
 
Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on Maria’s journey—how she found her calling, the inspiration behind her incredible sculptures, and what it’s like to create art that is placed in a natural wonderland that is Whidbey Island. Whether you’re an artist yourself or someone who just appreciates beauty, Maria’s story is a testament to following your passion and creating something extraordinary. 
 
So, settle in, and prepare to be blown away. By the end of this episode, you’ll see why Maria Wickwire is a true treasure to Whidbey Island. Let’s share some magic, shall we?
 
Follow LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY is on @LocalWhidbeyPodcast ... Link: INSTAGRAM 
If you love Whidbey Island Merchandise, I have the perfect branding ... AUDACIOUS ISLANDER(tm) Merchandise can be purchased on sweatshirts, tee shirts, travel mugs, coffee cups, duffle bags and more. Check it out.
 
You may also get to know Magsy and subscribe for invites to her supper club, at https://withmagsy.com. 

STEPPING INTO A STORYBOOK ON WHIDBEY ISLAND

Today, we’re about to wander into a world where art meets nature, where creativity flourishes under the canopy of towering trees, and where a stroll through the forest feels like stepping into a storybook. That’s right—we’re talking about the Price Sculpture Forest; an open-air art experience that’s equal parts magical and mind-blowing. And who’s behind it? The visionary himself, Scott Price. 
Scott’s not just a creator—he’s a curator of wonder, blending his passion for the environment with his love of art in a way that invites us all to slow down, look closer, and reconnect with the world around us. We’ll chat about how he turned this idea into a reality, the stories behind some of the incredible pieces in the forest, and why Whidbey Island was the perfect place to bring this dream to life. 
So, lace up your hiking boots (or just kick back and imagine the mossy trails), because we’re diving into the world of the Price Sculpture Forest with the amazing Scott Price.
Follow LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY is on @LocalWhidbeyPodcast ... Link: INSTAGRAM 
If you love Whidbey Island Merchandise, I have the perfect branding ... AUDACIOUS ISLANDER(tm) Merchandise can be purchased on sweatshirts, tee shirts, travel mugs, coffee cups and duffle bags. Check it out.
 
You may also get to know Magsy at her website https://withmagsy.com. 
 
 

Rooted in Whidbey: The Story of Foxtail Farm Organics

In today’s episode, we’ll dive into Foxtail Farm Organic Farm's, Stephen and Amy Williams' journey—what inspired them to start their farm, the challenges and joys of organic farming, and what it’s like to be such an integral part of the local food scene. Whether you’re a foodie, a farmer, or just someone who loves supporting local, their story is guaranteed to leave you inspired and maybe even hungry for a fresh salad! 
If you’ve ever visited the Bayview Farmers Market, you’ve likely been drawn to the colorful abundance and friendly vibes of their stand—it’s no wonder they’re the top destination for vegetables, fruits, and farm-fresh goodness. But Foxtail Farm Organics is more than just a farm stand; it’s a labor of love rooted in sustainable practices, a deep respect for the land, and a commitment to bringing healthy, organic produce to the Whidbey community. 
So, grab a cup of tea, settle in, and get ready to learn how Stephen and Amy are growing more than just vegetables—they’re growing community, connection, and a whole lot of love for Whidbey Island. Let’s dig in!
Follow LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY is on @LocalWhidbeyPodcast ... Link: INSTAGRAM 
If you love Whidbey Island Merchandise, I have the perfect branding ... AUDACIOUS ISLANDER(tm) Merchandise can be purchased on sweatshirts, tee shirts, travel mugs, coffee cups and duffle bags. Check it out.
 
You may also get to know Magsy at her website https://withmagsy.com. 
 
 

The World of Salinity with Emily Wilder

Today, we’ll chat with Emily Wilder, who is at the helm of this salty, sea-loving venture Salinity. Emily blends her love for the ocean with her commitment to a greener planet, and why her mission to fight for equal rights is just as important as the high-quality seafood she delivers. This is more than just a business—it’s a movement. 
A true force of nature with a passion for salt water, fresh air, and a better planet, Emily isn’t just about amazing seafood—she's about connection. Connection to nature, to native foods, and to a community that values fairness, sustainability, and the power of protecting our oceans and environment. 
Follow LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY is on @LocalWhidbeyPodcast ... Link: INSTAGRAM 
If you love Whidbey Island Merchandise, I have the perfect branding ... AUDACIOUS ISLANDER(tm) Merchandise can be purchased on sweatshirts, tee shirts, travel mugs, coffee cups and duffle bags. Check it out.
 
You may also get to know Magsy at her website https://withmagsy.com.