Forest to Frame
Forest to Frame is the podcast where forest restoration meets the future of sustainable building.
Hosted by Russ Vaagen, this series uncovers how cutting-edge science, collaboration, and next-gen sawmilling are transforming the way we manage our forests—and how we build with wood.
Each episode explores how the byproducts of forest restoration—often seen as waste—are fueling a new era of mass timber construction. Think cross-laminated timber, Glulam, and other innovative building materials that are not only strong and beautiful but reduce wildfire risk, support local economies, and redefine sustainability.
You'll hear from the builders, land stewards, scientists, and innovators leading this movement—people who are reshaping the future of our forests, our communities, and the spaces we live in.
This isn’t just a podcast about trees. It’s about what’s possible when restoration and construction work hand-in-hand.
Subscribe now and join the movement—from Forest to Frame.
Episodes
22 episodes
Big Changes at Vaagen Timbers
In Episode 21 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen shares some significant updates regarding the future of Bog and Timbers. Facing a challenging market for mass timber and construction, Russ discusses the decision to sell Vaagen Timbers...
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Episode 21
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10:29
A New Era for American Forests with Hilary Franz
In Episode 20 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen interviews Hilary Franz, former Washington State Commissioner of Public Lands and now CEO of American Forests, as she shares her journey from managing millions of acres of public lands ...
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Episode 20
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54:46
What's Wrong with Our Firefighting
In Episode 19 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen dives deep into the pressing issues surrounding wildfires and firefighting in the Intermountain West. As we transition into the fall season, the impact of wildfires continues to linger,...
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Episode 19
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18:22
Forests, Commerce, and Conservation
In Episode 18 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen interviews Brian Luoma, former CEO of the Westervelt Company. With over 30 years of experience in the forest industry, Brian shares his insights on sustainable forestry, conserva...
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Episode 18
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29:09
Softwood Lumber Promotion
Episode 17 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen explores the vital role of the wood industry in sustainable building, highlighting his partnership with WoodWorks to educate architects and engineers on mass timber and light-frame construction....
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Episode 17
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15:30
Mass Timber Schools
In episode 16 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen dives into the world of mass timber schools, with a special focus on Washington State. Discover the benefits of using locally sourced wood in school construction, including its positive impac...
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Episode 16
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14:30
Canadian Tarrifs
In episode 14 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen highlights the challenges U.S. companies face, including unfair competition due to Canadian government support and the complexities of the U.S. Forest Service's management of timber resources...
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Episode 15
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13:07
AI with Cooper Simson of Martell Ventures
In episode 14 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen interviews Cooper Simson, the portfolio manager for Dan Martell's AI Venture Studio, Martell Ventures as he shares insights on evaluating AI-focused businesses, the importance of aligning int...
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Episode 14
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28:48
Finding the Right Accountant
In episode 13 of Forest to Frame, Russ Vaagen discusses the impact of the post-COVID job market, the importance of aligning risk tolerance between business leaders and accountants, and the value of establishing strong systems and clear e...
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Episode 13
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12:23
It's Wildfire Season Again
In episode 12 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen discusses the impact of wildfires on communities, the importance of forest management, and the role of various tree species in fire resilience. He emphasizes the need for proactive measures i...
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Episode 12
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11:00
AIA National Convention
In episode 11 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen shares his recent experience at the AIA National Convention in Boston, where he engaged with over 10,000 architects and discussed the exciting developments in mass timber construction....
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Episode 11
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8:40
Mass Timber and the Economy
In episode 10 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen discusses the significant shifts that have occurred over the past few years, particularly in the wake of COVID-19, and how rising inflation and interest rates have impacted the building indus...
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Episode 10
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11:01
Public Land Sales
In episode 9 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen delves into the recent discussions surrounding the potential sale of public lands, including Forest Service and BLM properties. He reflects on the widespread misconceptions about what public l...
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Episode 9
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20:34
Mass Timber Planning
In episode 8 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen discusses the innovative advancements at Vaagen Timbers, particularly focusing on their unique software, Timber Sequence Pro. Discover how this technology is revolutionizing the mass ...
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Episode 8
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11:38
A to Z Forest Restoration Projects
In episode 7 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen discusses the importance of large-scale contracts, improved dispute resolution systems, and the need for community involvement in forest restoration efforts. With a focus on creating healthy f...
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Episode 7
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19:17
Green Energy with Biomass
In episode 6 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen discusses the environmental concerns surrounding biomass energy and presents a compelling case for its role as a green energy source.Tune into the future of biomass energy and its ro...
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Episode 6
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14:03
Glulam
In episode 5 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen provides insights into the manufacturing process of glulam, highlighting its finger-jointed construction that allows for the combination of shorter lumber pieces into longer beams and columns. <...
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Episode 5
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11:40
Lumber Drying
In episode 4 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen emphasizes the importance of using high-quality lumber with the correct moisture levels, explaining the significance of the KDHT (Kiln-Dried and Heat Treated) designation. Tune in for ins...
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Episode 4
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13:46
What is Mass Timber
In episode 3 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen explains the various methods of timber harvesting, the benefits of mass timber in construction, and how it allows for a more visible connection between the source of the wood and the final product...
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Episode 3
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13:01
What is Forest Restoration?
In episode 2 of Forest To Frame, Russ Vaagen discusses the historical context of wildfires in the Intermountain West, the consequences of fire suppression, and the importance of managing forest health. Tune in to learn abo...
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Episode 2
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8:17