Best Miningminds Podcasts (2025)

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#196- Bob Sterns & Virginia Bennett 1:09:28

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9h ago1:09:28

1:09:28

As we wrap up our tour to the Minnesota Iron Range, Mining Minds had the opportunity to sit down with Bob Sterns and Virginia Bennett of US Steel Minntac for a raw and insightful conversation about life, mining, and community in Minnesota’s Iron Range. From Bob’s deep-rooted family history in mining to Virginia’s journey from military brat to analy…

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#195- IRRR & IMA: Ida Rukavina & Kristen Vake 59:10

6d ago59:10

59:10

What does pride, legacy, and the future of mining look like on Minnesota’s Iron Range? In this episode, we sit down with Ida Rukavinia, Commissioner of the Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation, and Kristen Vake, Executive Director of the Iron Mining Association of Minnesota, to dig deep into the history, culture, and future of mini…

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#194- US Steel: Michael Bakk & Chrissy Bartovich 1:17:27

21d ago1:17:27

1:17:27

In this special episode of the Mining Minds Podcast, we sit down at U.S. Steel Minntac with Mike Bakk, Director of Facilities Excellence, and Chrissy Bartovich, Senior Director of Environmental. From humble beginnings to leading major projects that shape the future of steelmaking, Mike and Crissy share their personal journeys, leadership lessons, a…

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#193- Iron Range: Matt & Julie Lucas 1:17:20

30d ago1:17:20

1:17:20

In this episode of Mining Minds, we sit down with Matt and Julie Lucas at their home on Minnesota’s historic Iron Range. From growing up in Hibbing and Chisholm to careers in environmental consulting, mining operations, and advocacy, Matt and Julie share their personal journeys that reflect the resilience and determination of the mining industry. M…

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#192- Iron Range: Darleen Gargano & Talia Sandys 1:09:00

1M ago1:09:00

1:09:00

Overlooking iconic Hibbing Taconite Mining Operation in Minnesota, Mining Minds had the opportunity to speak with two remarkable women whose stories capture the history and heart of mining in the state. First, we’re joined by Talia Sandys, Communications and Engagement Director for Mining Minnesota, who has been our guide through the region’s rich …

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#191- Iron Range: Dean DeBeltz 1:10:54

2M ago1:10:54

1:10:54

Get ready for one of our most unforgettable episodes yet—recorded on a pontoon boat floating on Fall Lake, at the edge of the iconic Boundary Waters in Minnesota! This isn’t just another podcast; it’s a full-circle conversation with Dean DeBeltz, a third-generation Iron Ranger, passionate outdoorsman, and Vice President of External Relations & Proj…

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#190- Iron Range: Rory Oberhelman & Johnny Eloranta 42:59

2M ago42:59

42:59

In this special on-location episode, Mining Minds travels to the heart of Minnesota’s Iron Range to sit down with Rory Oberhelman, Senior Project Coordinator, and Johnny Eloranta, Community Relations Advisor at New Range Copper Nickel. Broadcasting from the iconic nickel room, the conversation dives into the history, pride, and promise of mining in…

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#189- Workforce Development Panel Discussion 1:44:50

2M ago1:44:50

1:44:50

The mining industry stands at a crossroads. With a rapidly aging workforce, persistent misconceptions, and the growing demand for innovation, the need to reshape how we attract, develop, and retain talent has never been more urgent. In this powerful panel edition of the Mining Minds Podcast, we bring together six influential leaders from across the…

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#188- Elko Replenish Med Spa 2:06:39

3M ago2:06:39

2:06:39

In this episode of the podcast Mining Minds sits down with two remarkable women reshaping the health and wellness landscape: Melissa Montalvo and Josie Cervantes of Elko Replenish Med Spa. Together, they reveal how their professional experiences—from ER trauma to urgent care frustrations—sparked a vision: to create a space that not only heals but e…

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#187- Trampus Cook 3:04:10

3M ago3:04:10

3:04:10

In this episode of the Mining Minds Podcast, we sit down with Trampus Cook, Regional Director for RAM Enterprise Inc., whose journey through the mining world is as rich and layered as the ore bodies he’s helped uncover. A fourth-generation miner and cowboy at heart, Trampus takes us through his early days jacklegging in narrow veins of California g…

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#186- WIM: Jessica Scanlan 1:54:53

4M ago1:54:53

1:54:53

In our final episode from the 2025 Women in Mining Conference, we’re joined by the passionate, bold, and trailblazing Jessica Scanlan—geological engineer, social media influencer, and founder of Mine Life Media. Jessica shares her unique path from a small-town girl in handmade dresses to becoming a respected voice in the mining industry. We dive in…

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#185- WIM: Margaret Hinton & Paige Courtney 1:00:02

4M ago1:00:02

1:00:02

Recorded on-site at the 2025 Women in Mining National Conference in San Antonio, this episode brings authentic, unfiltered stories from two rising voices in the mining world—Margaret Hinton and Paige Courtney. With backgrounds as diverse as cotton farming and competitive athletics to engineering and financial investigations, Margaret and Paige dive…

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#184- WIM: Jennie Davis 59:41

4M ago59:41

59:41

Mining Minds is recording again from San Antionio for the Annual Women in Mining Conference—and in this powerful episode, we sit down with Jennie (Rice) Davis, a trailblazer whose mining journey redefines perseverance, grit, and growth. Starting as a janitor at just 18, Jennie carved her way through the industry—hauling rock in 777s, navigating ear…

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#183- Patti Haye 2:15:08

5M ago2:15:08

2:15:08

In this heartfelt and humor-filled episode, Mining Minds sits down with the unforgettable Patti Haye — mother, grandmother, storyteller, and true pioneer of family life. At 87 years young, Patti takes us on a powerful journey through her life growing up post World War II, navigating early motherhood, and supporting a family through decades of cross…

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#182- WIM: Kimberly Myhre and Alexia Carver 1:02:50

5M ago1:02:50

1:02:50

Join Mining Minds on location at the Women in Mining 2025 National Conference in San Antonio, Texas, as we sit down with two dynamic women shaping the future of mining—Kimberly Myhre and Alexia Carver. Sponsoring the trip were Arnold Machinery and Gold West Fire and Safety, this special episode dives deep into the real-world experiences of women at…

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#181- JD Sundseth 1:55:04

5M ago1:55:04

1:55:04

In this episode of Mining Minds, we sit down with JD Sundseth—owner of Mountain States Mine Development and Reclamation LLC. JD takes us on a candid journey through his life: from a small-town kid in Spring Creek, Nevada, to a tire-slinging high schooler at Les Schwab, to operating heavy equipment in remote mountain terrain. He opens up about start…

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#180- Industry Solutions 1:09:33

6M ago1:09:33

1:09:33

Mining Minds is excited to announce our strategic partnership with Jerry Rynearson and JSR Fleet Performance. In this episode we discuss what the influence of mining looks like, we explore the critical importance of understanding operational material management and how past lessons can serve to educate the future of the mining industry. We discuss …

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#179- Tony Morfin 2:02:22

6M ago2:02:22

2:02:22

Tony Morfin, Partner and CEO of Gold West Fire and Safety, sits down with Mining Minds to share his personal journey of hard work and resilience. A third-generation miner and proud Nevadan, Tony grew up surrounded by the mining industry, offering a firsthand perspective on what it’s like to grow up in a mining town. From the age of 13, when he star…

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#178- Merlyn McGraw 2:02:20

7M ago2:02:20

2:02:20

In this episode, Mining Minds sits down with Merlyn McGraw, a man whose life journey has been shaped by the hard work and values he learned growing up on a ranch in Wyoming. Merlyn shares stories from his early years working alongside his family, where he first understood the importance of hard work, respect, and dedication. From his humble beginni…

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#177- Clorinda Cosper 2:01:34

7M ago2:01:34

2:01:34

On this episode of Mining Minds, we sit down with Clorinda and Shawn Cosper to talk about the unique and often challenging life of a traveling miner's wife. Clorinda opens up about her journey, from growing up in a small town and planting roots to give her children stability, to meeting Shawn, and navigating the traveling miner’s life. As we dive i…

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#176- Rodrigo Barbosa 1:31:12

7M ago1:31:12

1:31:12

In this episode, Mining Minds sits down with Rodrigo Barbosa, the CEO of Aura Minerals, to explore his leadership philosophy and approach to building thriving organizations. Rodrigo shares insights gained from his diverse experience working across different companies and cultures, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment where people c…

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#175- Jason Bubba 1:50:14

8M ago1:50:14

1:50:14

In this episode, Mining Minds sits down with Jason Bubba, Chief Operating Officer of NORCAT, a leader in mining innovation and training. Born and raised in a mining town, Jason’s journey is deeply influenced by his early passion for martial arts, which has shaped both his personal and professional life. From entrepreneurial ventures to working his …

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#174- The Glizzy 2:10:23

8M ago2:10:23

2:10:23

Welcome into this episode of the podcast and to the Glizzy Golf Invitational – where golf, questionable commentary, and unforgettable moments collide! This isn’t your average tournament. With participants from across the mining industry and with varying backgrounds, the Glizzy Golf Invitational in Elko, Nevada brings together engineers, geologists,…

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#173- Capstone Copper 2:16:35

8M ago2:16:35

2:16:35

On this episode of Mining Minds, we travel to Miami, Arizona, to take part in Capstone Copper's Open Family Days—an event designed to showcase the mine site, the dedicated individuals working there, and to foster community education. We sat down with David Gines, the maintenance manager for Capstone Copper, to discuss the event and hear about his p…

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#172- Jim LePera 1:56:44

9M ago1:56:44

1:56:44

In this episode, Mining Minds welcomes Emmy Award-winning producer Jim LePera for an in-depth conversation about his extraordinary career in sports television and golf broadcasting. From his Philadelphia roots to working with some of the biggest names in the industry, Jim offers a fascinating look into the evolution of sports media and the pivotal …

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#171- Elmer Cantlon 1:41:36

9M ago1:41:36

1:41:36

In this episode, Mining Minds welcomes equipment operator Elmer Cantlin, as he’s carving out a new path in the mining industry. From his Reno roots and youthful adventures in hunting and fishing to embracing the realities of life on a haul truck, Elmer offers a candid and deeply personal account of his journey. Elmer reflects on how his upbringing,…

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#170- The Role of Nevada's Mining Industry Pt. 2 1:29:20

10M ago1:29:20

1:29:20

In Part 2 of The Role of Nevada's Mining Industry, Mining Minds dives deeper into the critical topics shaping the industry now and, in the years, to come. We examine production trends in Nevada and around the globe, forecast upcoming business shifts, and highlight the evolving role of mining vendors. Additionally, we address the challenges of attra…

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#169- The Role of Nevada's Mining Industry Pt. 1 1:33:28

10M ago1:33:28

1:33:28

In this 2-part podcast Mining Minds takes you deep into the heart of the Nevada Mining Industry. Reviewing a presentation discussed at this year’s annual Nevada Mining Association Conference we dive into the critical topics shaping the mining industry's future. From fostering a "Stop the Waste" culture to analyzing Nevada’s economic trajectory, we …

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#168- Liebherr PR776 Event Recap 55:24

11M ago55:24

55:24

In this episode of the podcast, Mining Minds partners with Liebherr Mining to recap the highly successful Dozer Rodeo event held in Northern Nevada. Join us as we explore the excitement and energy of the event, from the operators' experiences to the strong sense of community that was built throughout the week. We dive into the development of the PR…

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#167- Stay On The Path 1:13:08

11M ago1:13:08

1:13:08

Get ready for an epic episode of the Mining Minds Podcast! This time, the tables turn as special guest host Conway Fraser takes over to interview the owners and hosts of Mining Minds! For our new listeners and die-hard followers alike, we’re diving into who we are, how it all began, and our journey through the mining industry. This layback/undercut…

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#166- Paul Wilmot 1:51:49

11M ago1:51:49

1:51:49

In this episode, Mining Minds sit down with Paul Wilmot, a multi-generational miner and chemical engineer from East Ely, Nevada, who grew up playing hockey and later found his way to mining. We dive deep into the importance of revitalizing modern mining as a U.S. industry focus and break down natural progressions in mining methods, especially aroun…

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#165- Conway Fraser 1:58:42

12M ago1:58:42

1:58:42

In this episode, Mining Minds welcomes Conway Fraser, co-founder of Fraser Torosay and co-author of Leaders Under Fire! Drawing from his roots in Sudbury, Canada, Conway shares his incredible journey growing up in a mining town on the Nickel Belt, where his passion for storytelling blossomed through high school broadcasting. Conway reflects on his …

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#164- Hector Denogean 3:10:37

1y ago3:10:37

3:10:37

Hector Denogean, a third-generation miner, travels all the way from Arizona to join Mining Minds in studio to share his journey in the mining industry. Hector takes us back to his first job, fresh out of school, where he learned the ropes of working with people—managing personalities, building bonds, and understanding the importance of teamwork in …

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#163- 2024 Eastern Nevada SME 1:30:02

1y ago1:30:02

1:30:02

Get ready for a special episode of Mining Minds as we hit the greens at the White Pine County Golf Course for the Eastern Nevada SME’s annual scholarship fundraiser! This event is all about bringing the community and region together to support the future of mining. We had the unique privilege of sitting down with some bright young minds to discuss …

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#162- Michael Zolotov 1:20:53

1y ago1:20:53

1:20:53

Mining Minds dives deep into the transformative power of AI in the mining industry, led by the visionary CTO and Co-founder of Razor Labs, Michael Zolotov. From his roots in Ukraine to his successful immigration to Israel, Michael shares his unique journey—growing up in a family of doctors, leveraging his military background, and ultimately pioneer…

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#161- John Simpson 2:26:28

1y ago2:26:28

2:26:28

Join us in the studio as we chat with John Simpson, Southwest Regional Manager for Arnold Machinery, who shares his incredible journey from a young boy greasing equipment in Colorado to a seasoned leader in the mining industry. Growing up working for his dad, John was introduced to hard work early on, but his passion for rodeo led him to meet world…

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#160- Amanda Christensen 2:19:08

1y ago2:19:08

2:19:08

In this episode, Mining Minds welcomes Amanda Christensen, Regional Manager for Komatsu in Elko and President of the Nevada Chapter Women in Mining. Amanda shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Montana, where she was heavily involved in sports, to becoming a second-generation miner. Starting as a driller helper, Amanda has worked in vario…

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#159- 2024 Elko Mining Expo 43:14

1y ago43:14

43:14

On this episode of the Mining Minds podcast, we sit down for a quick chat about the 2024 Elko Mining Expo, Breaking Rock with Mining Minds, and what we've been up to this summer. Tune in as we detail some studio highlights, talk about upcoming guests, and walk through some exciting new opportunities for the second half of 2024! Don't miss out on al…

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#158- Leatha Reeves 1:29:22

1+ y ago1:29:22

1:29:22

On this episode of the Mining Minds podcast, we sit down with surveyor extraordinaire Leatha Reeves to explore her remarkable mining journey! Raised in small-town Nevada, Leatha chose to stay home instead of accepting a full-ride volleyball scholarship. Her journey began while waitressing at a local restaurant, where she was recruited to work at th…

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#157- Sally Trujillo 1:19:34

1+ y ago1:19:34

1:19:34

Happy Mother's Day to all the incredible mothers out there! On this episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with a true matriarch, Grandma Sally Trujillo. Her warmth, wisdom, and boundless love have shaped us in ways we can never repay. As we sipped coffee in her living room, we soaked in her life's remarkable journey and cherished her unforg…

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#156- Sam Faga 1:57:45

1+ y ago1:57:45

1:57:45

In the latest episode of our podcast, Mining Minds, had the honor of sitting down with the incredible Sam Faga, External Affairs Superintendent for Kinross Nevada. Sam's journey is nothing short of inspiring - from overcoming challenges as a young parent to navigating through tough economic times, her resilience shines through. Starting as a medica…

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#155- Aaron Witt 1:09:05

1+ y ago1:09:05

1:09:05

Join us in welcoming Aaron Witt, the self-proclaimed "Chief Dirt Nerd" and CEO of BuildWitt, as he sits down with Mining Minds and Joseph Kemp, VP and GM of Kinross Gold Corporation - Nevada, for an industry chat you won't want to miss! Aaron's journey from a kid with no exposure to the dirt world to a passionate advocate for the mining industry is…

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#154- Brandie McDaniel 1:35:31

1+ y ago1:35:31

1:35:31

Join us for the premiere episode of Mining Minds, where Commercial Manager for Cyanco, Brandie McDaniel, steps into our brand-new studio! With a rich family history deeply rooted in mining, Brandie delves into her captivating 30-year journey within the industry. From her upbringing in and around Nevada brothels, to receiving invaluable support from…

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#153- Teryn Faiman 1:21:50

1+ y ago1:21:50

1:21:50

In our last episode before Mining Minds make its big move to the new studio! We're thrilled to have Teryn Faiman, Director of Human Resources and President of Women in Mining for the Nevada chapter, joining us for an inspiring conversation. Teryn shares her journey from growing up around mining to becoming a leader in the industry. She discusses se…

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#152- Jerry Rynearson 2:09:18

1+ y ago2:09:18

2:09:18

Mining Minds sits down in studio with than Jerry Rynearson, the Owner and President of JSR Fleet Performance. Jerry's journey in the mining industry began with a simple job search, but little did he know it would ignite a lifelong passion for equipment operation. He takes us back to his early days, where he learned the ropes by giving breaks to fel…

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#151- Ricky Montoya 2:01:04

1+ y ago2:01:04

2:01:04

Seasoned underground face miner Ricky Montoya joins Mining Minds, at the Face, to talk about mining! Ricky talks about starting out as a lubber on the surface before finding his home in underground mining. He walks us through his early days, learning from “old school” miners, moving from a maintenance function to an operation function, because of a…

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#150- Bryce Cracraft 1:34:25

1+ y ago1:34:25

1:34:25

Family man, competitive archer, and seasoned welder Bryce Cracraft joins Mining Minds in studio to walk us through his mining journey. Hailing from the heart of small-town Nevada, Bryce followed his dreams of becoming an underwater welder, carving a unique path for his mining story. From painting handrails to finding mentorship in seasoned miners, …

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#149- Standard Operating Procedures 1:59:26

1+ y ago1:59:26

1:59:26

On this episode of the podcast, Vern Goglio joins Mining Minds to dive into the world of Standards and more. The conversation unfolds as we explore the intricacies of team building, collaborating with like-minded individuals, and establishing clear expectations. The discussion goes beyond the workplace, delving into the importance of interpersonal …

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#148- Don Dwyer 2:05:35

1+ y ago2:05:35

2:05:35

General Manager for Orla Mining Ltd, Don Dwyer sits down with Mining Minds to walk us through his mining journey. From his high school days in Missouri, he toured an underground mine that would shape his Mining destiny! Don took us through his college years, where he entered a mine rescue program, paving the way for a career dedicated to helping ot…

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#147- Herb Pierce 2:05:57

1+ y ago2:05:57

2:05:57

Aspiring comedian Herb Pierce joins Mining Minds in studio to talk about his mining journey and his next venture in comedy! Growing up in Chico California, Herb made his way to Northern Nevada where he tried his hand in the pharmaceutical field! He discusses starting his life when he met his wife, telling her every joke he knew the first night they…