🎙️ Guests Phil and Amanda DuPont joined us to discuss the incredible work being done through the Create Your Own Journey Foundation, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting youth and families throughout Salem, West Salem, Polk County, and the greater Willamette Valley.
🔗 Learn more: https://www.createyourownjourney.com/ or on their Facebook page
The DuPonts shared how their foundation goes far beyond athletics, helping provide:
🎒 Backpack drives
🎁 Toy drives
📚 School supplies
🏆 Scholarships and sponsorships
🤝 Mentorship opportunities
⚾ Athletic equipment and training access
We also discussed their newest project, CYOJ Hit Lab in West Salem, which provides athletic development opportunities while focusing on something even bigger: building confidence, removing barriers, and creating positive support systems for young people. Learn more about CYOJ Hit Lab here: cyojhitlab.com
💃 Phil and Amanda also promoted the upcoming 2nd Annual Daddy Daughter Dance, taking place from 6–9 PM, with tickets still available through their website.
Their story is a powerful reminder that strong communities are built by people who quietly step up and invest in the next generation.
🎙️ Guest Dennis Kneale, journalist, media strategist, former Fox Business anchor, and author of Oregoners: How One State Chased Away Businesses and People, joined us to discuss his book and concerns about Oregon’s direction.
🔗 Learn more: https://oregonersbook.com/
Dennis argues that Oregon has become a cautionary tale for other states, citing concerns about:
🏙️ Homelessness
🚔 Public safety
💼 Business climate
📉 Economic growth
🏫 Education performance
⚡ Energy policy
Dennis described Oregon as a “canary in the coal mine,” explaining how policies affecting public safety, affordability, education, energy, and economic opportunity have contributed to businesses, employers, and taxpayers looking elsewhere. The conversation explored whether Oregon can change course and what lessons other states can learn from its experience. Denise recently read Oregoners while on vacation and strongly recommends it as a must-read for Oregonians—and for anyone who wants to understand how well-intentioned policies can produce unintended consequences and why Oregon has become a cautionary tale for the rest of the country.
A fascinating show focused on community leadership, investing in young people, and the policy choices shaping Oregon’s future.
