Connect Vegas Episode 20- Gina Yager

Welcome to Connect Vegas, the podcast that interviews the leaders and creators who build our community—the people who make Las Vegas into the best place to live, work, and visit.I’m your host, Ben Laifsky, and in this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with my friend Gina Yager, CEO and founder of GYC Vegas. Gina is one of the most respected PR professionals in town, with over 25 years of experience helping businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs tell their stories and gain visibility.In our conversation, Gina shares insights into the art of public relations, her personal journey from Southern California to building a successful agency in Las Vegas, and how she continues to give back to the community through nonprofits and mentorship.Key Comments from the ConversationGina describes her agency’s ideal clients: innovative businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits of all sizes.She explains the value of PR in today’s fast-moving world, helping brands control narratives, build trust, and stay relevant.She shares her personal background, from wanting to be a fashion designer as a child to unexpectedly finding her path in PR.Gina recounts the challenge and fear of starting her own firm, and how networking through the Chamber of Commerce gave her early momentum.She highlights misunderstandings about PR—many think it’s just parties, red carpets, or press releases—while in reality it’s a strategic and creative process.Gina emphasizes the importance of integrated marketing, noting that PR works best alongside advertising, social media, and other efforts.She talks about Vegas as a community, how it feels like a small town where connections are vital and everyone is willing to help.Notable Quotes“Every business has a compelling story to tell, but they often struggle to effectively communicate it. That’s where PR becomes invaluable.”“Perception can shift in an instant. PR helps you control that narrative, stay relevant, and build trust.”“I always say we just love telling really cool stories.”“I was terrified when I started my own agency. But walking into that Chamber expo gave me my first client—and they’re still with me today.”“People trust what others say about you more than what you say about yourself. PR helps you earn that trust.”“If I was down to my last dollar, I’d spend it on PR.” – quoting Bill Gates“Vegas is still a small town. Everyone is one degree away from knowing the right person to connect you with.”