Did you know that a single waste-related bill at the Capitol can impact everything from worker safety to how communities manage trash for decades? On this episode of Trash Talk with Trista, Trista sits down with Minnesota State Representative Wayne Johnson to discuss the waste and recycling legislation introduced during the 2026 Minnesota legislative session, what it takes to move policy forward and why waste policy matters to every Minnesotan.

Hosted by Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy’s Executive Director, Trista Martinson, Trash Talk with Trista is a podcast dedicated to waste management – from the tipping floor to the future of responsible waste policy. Available anywhere you find podcasts.

Learn more about Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy.

• Website: https://recyclingandenergy.org/

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RecyclingAndEnergy

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recyclingandenergy/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/recyclingandenergy/

Did you know that Ramsey and Washington counties manage trash differently than most counties in Minnesota? On the very first episode of Trash Talk with Trista, Trista sits down with Karla Bigham, Washington County Commissioner and R&E Board member, to discuss how Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy was formed, what the organization has accomplished over the past 10 years and how the two counties work together to responsibly manage waste. From recycling and food scraps programs to energy recovery and long-term planning, the conversation explores how local decisions shape the future of trash and sustainability in our region.

Hosted by Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy’s Executive Director, Trista Martinson, Trash Talk with Trista is a podcast dedicated to waste management – from the tipping floor to the future of responsible waste policy. Available anywhere you find podcasts.

Learn more about Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy.

• Website: https://recyclingandenergy.org/

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RecyclingAndEnergy

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recyclingandenergy/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/recyclingandenergy/

Learn more about the Food Scraps Pickup Program.

• Website: https://foodscrapspickup.com/

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/foodscrapspickup/