The Partnership Podcast

What does one person in a slightly smelly chicken suit have to teach us about building a stronger community? Quite a lot, actually. Erik sits down with local community advocate Tim McMahon to talk about mental health awareness, civic engagement, voter registration, and why simply showing up can change lives. From holding signs promoting the 988 crisis line to encouraging neighbors to get involved at town meetings and Vail Yeti hockey games, Tim shares why connection, compassion, and persistence matter more than recognition. It's an inspiring conversation about ordinary people making an extraordinary impact—one conversation, one sign, and one act of kindness at a time. 

Small Non-Profit of the Year winner SpeakUp ReachOut is making a profound impact across Eagle County by creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to live a life worth living. Erik sits down with Executive Director Erin Ivie and Awareness and Brand Manager Leslie Robertson to discuss how the organization is taking a proactive, public health approach to suicide prevention through education, collaboration, workplace wellness, firearm safety initiatives, and peer support. They share powerful stories of hope, the importance of reducing stigma around mental health, and how partnerships with schools, first responders, businesses, and community organizations are helping save lives. This is an inspiring conversation about compassion, connection, and the collective responsibility we all have in supporting one another.Learn more about Speak Up Reach Out HERE

Eriks heads down to the Eagle Branch of the Eagle Valley Library District for a very special tour of the Bookmobile with Tegan, Rocio, Patty and Monique, all of whom play an important role.  Recently honored as the 2026 winner for Innovation in the Public Sector, The Bookmobile is bringing library services directly to communities that have limited access to a physical library, ensuring residents across nearly 1,700 square miles can read, learn, and connect close to home. Equipped with Wi-Fi, Chromebooks, a printer, a wheelchair lift, and collections in both English and Spanish, the Bookmobile provides a full-service library experience that is tailored to the unique needs of each community it visits. In response to growing demand, the District has expanded service to additional locations, including The Community Market in Gypsum, Roundup River Ranch, and Freedom Park in Edwards, increasing access to educational resources for even more residents. By removing transportation barriers and creating welcoming, accessible spaces for lifelong learning, the Bookmobile strengthens connections, promotes equity, and enriches communities throughout Eagle County.Learn more about services and routes for the Bookmobile HERE

Moe’s Original BBQ, honored as the 2026 Vail Valley Partnership Business of the Year, has grown from a single restaurant into a thriving brand with 51 locations nationwide—all while keeping its headquarters right here in Eagle County. In this episode, Erik sits down with Jeff Kennedy, one of the three owners behind the company’s success, to talk about what truly sets Moe’s apart.Jeff shares the business philosophies that have guided their growth, the intentionality behind every aspect of the company, and the culture they've worked hard to build. He also offers one powerful piece of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders hoping to achieve similar success.Whether you're a fan of great barbecue, passionate about business, or simply looking for inspiration, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Tune in to discover the secret ingredients behind Moe’s remarkable journey.Learn more about Moe's HERE

Erik sits down with podcast favorite Holly Johnson to unpack the current state of insurance in the valley—and why alternative models, including those offered by Global Life Family Heritage, are becoming increasingly attractive for both individuals and businesses.If Holly can make insurance make sense to Erik…you know this conversation is approachable, practical, and right on time.Learn more about all of this and contact Holly HERE

Erik heads to the Wildland Fire Office to speak with Hugh Fairfield-Smith, Division Chief of Wildland Fire Operations about what's in front of all of us this summer with the severe drought conditions we will most certainly be facing.  This is a message of hope - Hugh and his team have been preparing for a summer like this and are ready - but also one of preparedness with some great tips as to what you can do to create fire safe areas for both home and business.  As Hugh says in the podcast, "Wildfire is a unique natural disaster in the way that you can mitigate and prepare to lessen the severity."Learn more about how you can be prepared HEREFor Eagle County Preparedness resources visit HEREHugh also mentions for an inspection email [email protected]

Erik heads to the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District to speak with Lauren Snyder, Government and Public Relations Manager and David Norris, Director of Business Operations about what's in front of all of us this summer with the severe drought conditions we will most certainly be facing.  This is a message of hope - the ERWSD team have been preparing for a summer like this and are ready - but also one of preparedness as to what to expect with water restrictions and how it takes all of us banding together, a skill that this valley truly has.Learn more about your water usage and how to be prepared HERE

Erik heads to the Avon offices of Summit Express to sit down with Jackie Roppel, Owner and Human Resource Manager of Summit Express. Their conversation covers the unique challenges of running a transportation business in the high country, building a strong company culture, and Summit Express’s innovative approach to hiring—an approach that businesses of all sizes can learn from. Jackie also shares how Summit Express supports the broader business community while maintaining its well-known reputation for serving the region’s tourism industry.Learn more and make your reservations HERE

Erik sits down with Deanna Woodroffe, owner of Vibrant Health of Colorado, for a thoughtful conversation about functional medicine, personalized care, and the evolving landscape of healthcare. Deanna explains what functional health really means and how her practice focuses on understanding the root causes of health issues rather than simply treating symptoms.They also explore Vibrant Health’s membership-based model, designed to build strong relationships between provider and patient while delivering research-based, individualized care.If you’ve ever wondered how healthcare might work differently — with more time, more connection, and more focus on the whole person — this conversation offers an insightful look at a model that’s gaining traction.Learn more about Vibrant Health of Colorado HERE

Erik is joined by Vail Valley Partnership President and CEO Chris Romer for a timely conversation about Colorado’s new requirement that high schools offer Personal Finance courses. The new AP Business with Personal Finance class equips students with practical, real-world skills—how to build a career, manage money wisely, and gain momentum toward the most popular college major in the country.Developed in partnership with college faculty and industry leaders, this rigorous yearlong course gives students the opportunity to earn college credit and an employer-endorsed credential before they even graduate. Chris shares why this isn’t just another mandate to check off—but a powerful opportunity. By leaning into this requirement, our community can better prepare students for their futures while also strengthening the pipeline of talent local businesses so desperately need. It’s about aligning education with opportunity—and making sure the next generation is ready to thrive.Learn more about this important initiative HERE

Erik heads to one of his favorite places on Earth—the stunning mountain town of Red Cliff—to sit down with Justin Carter, Founder and President of Brand-On. Justin shares his entrepreneurial journey, what it really takes to open a showroom in Red Cliff, and why building a business in a remote mountain town is both incredibly challenging and deeply rewarding.This is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever dreamed of turning a side hustle into a sustainable business—one that supports a family, serves the valley and the region, and reaches the world through a strong online presence. And yes… Erik loves every minute of being there.Learn more about Brand-On HERE

Erik is joined by Beth Swearingen and John Tedstrom from the Vail Valley Theatre Company to preview their ambitious and joy-filled 2026 season. From big, bold productions to beloved community offerings like Valley Voices and improv—described by John as “really just games with friends”—this conversation captures the heart of what makes VVTC so special.February 7th is a community Casting Call for all shows, including Rent, Murder on the Orient Express, Rocky Road Improv, and A Christmas Carol, and talk about how VVTC has grown into more than a theatre. It’s a safe space, a gathering place, and— for many— a second family.  IF you cannot make Feb 7th, never fear, there are more than enough ways to get involved.Find out more about the upcoming Casting Call HEREFind out more about Vail Valley Theatre Company HERE

 Jake Voss, Assistant General Manager of the Residence Inn Vail, takes Erik on a “plodcast” (yes, that’s walking + podcasting and Erik is still very proud of it) through the property to explore the amenities and, more importantly, spotlight an often-overlooked community resource. With affordability and short-term housing options increasingly hard to find in the Valley, the Residence Inn offers a comfortable, flexible solution for local businesses needing temporary placements for employees and families. Jake leads the tour, Erik asks the questions, and together they unpack why this hotel is more than a place to stay — it’s a practical workforce tool for our community. Learn more about the Residence Inn Vail HERE

Erik has a conversation with Mollie Case to talk about the return of Rocky Mountain Ski Fest to Beaver Creek and the heart behind the mission.  Rocky Mountain Ski Fest blends skiing, live music, and purpose into one unforgettable winter experience—raising funds and awareness for pediatric cancer research.The multi-day event features a concert with Old Dominion and Edwin McCain, a fun-filled ski day with the artists, supporters, and pediatric cancer warriors, and The Lodge Sessions—a special songwriter round hosted by legendary broadcaster Storme Warren and featuring Chris DeStefano, Jon Nite, and Edwin McCain in an intimate lodge setting.This event isn’t just about great music and mountain views- it’s about creating meaningful moments and making a real impact for families affected by pediatric cancer. Find out more and get tickets HERE

Erik gets a chance to spend some time with Dennis McMahon, Brand Strategist and Founder of HyFyve.  Dennis and his incredible team have been responsible for some of the most notable branding and marketing campaigns here in the valley and Erik picks his brain on his process, inspiration and some of those basic questions every business asks when it's time to revamp or rebrand.Dennis and Erik discuss the recent They Did What? campaign, a no-nonsense travel guide that advocates for sustainable adventuring in Eagle County. Businesses! They Did What? was built for you and this place, please visit TheyDidWhat.org for assets that you can share with your team and clients.Learn more about HyFyve HERE

Erik heads down to the Eagle County Airport for a conversation with Rachel Yandle, the longtime General Manager of Dollar and Thrifty Car Rentals. Sure—they cover the essentials: the best vehicles for winter driving, the eternal all-wheel vs. four-wheel debate, and even a little roundabout etiquette. But at its core, this episode is about hospitality.Dollar and Thrifty stand apart as the only locally owned car rental companies in Eagle County, and you can feel that difference in everything they do—from exceptional customer service to impressive employee retention. Case in point: Rachel has been with the company for 21 years, and now her son works alongside her.So what’s the secret sauce? According to Rachel, it all comes back to genuine hospitality. Tune in for insights and practical takeaways that any business—big or small—can learn from.Learn more and book with Dollar HERELearn more and book with Thrifty HERE 

Erik sits down with Holly Johnson—author, profit-acceleration coach, and seasoned business strategist—for an insightful conversation about the everyday mistakes that hold organizations back. Together they unpack practical, easy-to-apply strategies for overcoming procrastination, taming your inbox, and elevating genuine human connection in the workplace. With deep experience both here in the Valley and across the country, Holly brings a wealth of perspective that resonates with businesses of every size. This episode delivers lessons you can put to work immediately. Learn more about Growth Solutions Coaching HERE

Seth Ehrlich, CEO of SOS Outreach, joins Erik at VVP’s new office for a conversation about the organization’s 33-year journey, the thousands of young people it has supported, and the recent surge of community members stepping up as volunteer mentors.Seth reflects on what this moment reveals about a broader shift across the nonprofit landscape. It is one fueled by love for this valley and a shared belief in what’s possible when we invest in one another. In a time when division feels loud, this discussion offers a grounded message of hope and a reminder of the power of community connection.Tune in to hear how you can make a difference right here at home. Learn more about SOS Outreach and how you can be a Mentor HERE 

 Erik visits the Core Transit Operations Center in Gypsum for an inside look at the heartbeat of Core—its people. Through compelling conversations with four dedicated team members—Dave, Cisco, Alex, and Al—you’ll gain a fresh perspective on what makes transit more than just transportation. Their stories reveal valuable insights for businesses of all kinds, from innovative employee retention strategies and building internal talent pipelines to fostering a genuine sense of belonging that fuels purpose and performance. Learn more about Core Transit HERE

Erik sits down with Samantha Hodgkins, Executive Director of Caregiver Connections, for a thoughtful conversation about one of our valley’s fastest-growing populations—adults aged 65 and older—and the incredible people who care for them.Caregiver Connections’ mission is to empower family caregivers of older adults by connecting them to vital resources, support, and moments of respite. Erik and Samantha discuss what that means for our local business community and the valley as a whole, while sharing simple, meaningful ways to get involved.If you know a family member, friend, or neighbor who could benefit from this important conversation, please share the podcast with them—and learn more about Caregiver Connections HERE

 Erik welcomes Tia Bent to the podcast for an insightful conversation about the world of project management and its impact on businesses of every size and focus. Tia shares how effective project management weaves together marketing, communications, process improvement, and strategic planning to drive results. This episode is a must-listen for any business with big goals but not always enough time or structure to bring them to life.Find more information about Peak Management Solutions HERE

Erik heads to Eagle River Water and Sanitation District to talk about our most precious resource...and what's coming to protect our waters.  ERWSD will be putting a ballot measure forward this coming election season and David Norris, Director of Business Operations joins Erik to talk about this regulatory-driven necessary upgrade and what a "yes" or "no" vote will mean in terms of your wastewater bill moving forward.Find more information about this ballot measure HERE

Erik heads over the Mountain Youth offices to chat with Executive Director Michelle Hartel and Marketing and Events Manager Nick Krishnan about the amazing work that Mountain Youth did over this past summer, their plans for this upcoming school year and what the future holds for this important organization.  Their vision is that ALL youth in Eagle County thrive and hear how they are making that a reality.Learn more about Mountain Youth HERE

Erik welcomes Brett Donelson, Founder and CEO of The Cycle Effect to the podcast.  Brett discusses where the idea for TCE came from and how it's grown over the years through their strategic and thoughtful processes.  Brett also the current state of affairs with non-profits and how we can all rise above the political turmoil of our world to focus on the mission.  This podcast is a must for non-profits looking to grow and any business that sees big things in their future!Learn more about The Cycle Effect HERE 

Erik heads to Colorado Mountain College to chat with Anne and Scott Pasquale about their recent award from the Vail Valley Partnership Success Awards, Small Non-Profit of the Year, and why they are such a deserving non-profit (and business!)  Learn about what a "food incubator" is, why they support the Community Market, how all of this came to be and what the future holds!  You'll also hear Chef Scott's favorite dish and why...because Erik just had to ask!Learn More about Little Bird Creative Community HERE. 

Erik heads to Minturn to spend some time with Spence and Stefanie Neubauer, owner/operators of Minturn Whisky Co. and The Wee Dram and honestly has a hard time leaving!  They discuss business creation, strategies for growth, following your passion...and sip some fine whiskey in their unique "third space", a place for all, tourists, locals and even Erik to unwind and feel at home.  Eagle River Whisky was recently named Small Business of the Year at the annual Success Awards by Vail Valley Partnership. Listen in and you'll be sure to know why!Learn more about Minturn Whisky Co. HERE.

Erik has the opportunity to speak to two amazing guests, both leaders in their respective mental health fields.  Dr. Charles Raison is the Director of Vail Health Behavioral Health Innovation Center as well as a professor of Human Ecology and Psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin and Dr. Christine Whelan from Emory University, affectionalty known as "The Purpose Professor".  Dr. Whelan gives a preview of her upcoming event, "Living With Purpose as a pathway to Health and Wellbeing" that will be held Thursday, July 10th from 12-2PM at the EagleVail Pavilion.  Join them for this stimulating conversation about the idea of turning purpose from an innocuous noun into a powerful verb and the practical steps one can take to make this a reality.Learn more about this and sign up for the event on July 10th HERE.Learn more about Vail Health Behavioral Health Innovation Center HERE

Erik get's a chance to talk with Brandon Daruna, CEO of Eagle County Paramedics.  They discuss both comprehensive Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and the community paramedic program, which provides health services in the home, increasing health and well-being by mobilizing care, addressing healthcare gaps and connecting people to necessary services.  Learn more about Eagle County Paramedics HERE

At the 2025 Annual VVP Success Awards, we were honored to highlight Julio Garcia as our Young Professional of the year and Erik had a chance to sit down with him recently. In 2024, Julio Garcia Jimenez produced 141 episodes of Conexión Latina, welcomed over 200 guests, and created 10 unique segments to better serve the Latino community in Eagle County. He also launched Conecta en Vivo, a 24/7 livestream of Spanish-language programming, expanding access and visibility. As both producer and host, Julio manages every aspect of the show while also contributing to Good Morning Vail as a bilingual host. While TV8 no longer exits in our valley, Julio's work continues in community connections, elevating underrepresented voices, and fostering a greater sense of belonging across cultures.

Erik heads to the Eagle County School District office to talk Community Engagement with Superintendent Phil Qualman and Engagement Coordinator Tia Luck.  They discuss a number of initiatives meant to bring students, families and businesses together with the common goal of supporting the next generation.  In the words of Superintendent Qualman, "Our students are watching, and we will continue to lead by example, proving that education is the most powerful tool to combat hate and build a brighter future."Learn more about the incredible work being done in student engagement HERE

Erik heads to Eagle to chat with Ben Caton, State Farm Agent and Owner to talk about insurance...and so much more.  Erik and Ben discuss retirement planning, the challenges of taking over a "legacy" business, and the changing state of insurance both locally and regionally.  Ben isn't afraid to answer the hard questions such as, "why are premiums going up?" and "how should I prepare for natural disasters?" (fire or otherwise).  Ben and his team are in the business of protecting people when they are at their most vulnerable and we're lucky to have people like him and his team in this valley.Learn more about how State Farm can protect you HERE.

Erik heads to Edwards to talk with American Plumbing Heating Cooling and Electrical CEO and Owner Brad Payne.  Brad talks about his business journey from acquiring and refining into strategic growth and how that has lead to where they find themselves today.  They also discuss some of the latest trends in heating and cooling and the homeowner in Erik really struggles not to come out!  Listen in to hear a great business story, learn more about American Plumbing Heating Cooling and Electrical HERE

Erik heads on down to Coldwell Banker to meet Amy Pates, a residential and commercial broker with a wealth of knowledge and experience in this Valley.  They discuss the current Real Estate climate, housing trends and commercial trends.  Erik asks Amy the question that many of us wonder, "Is it still possible for a young professional to find housing and make this place their home?"Listen in and I know you'll be intruiged by her answer.  Find out more information about Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties HERE

Erik "heads on down" to the Eagle River Center to check out the action at Trio Therapy Partners this week.  He's joined by Lauren Cremonese, Executive Director, Doctor of Physical Therapy and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning and Amanda Moody, Director of Operations and Occupational Therapist.  Tom the Horse is standing nearby as well, although he keeps pretty quiet.  Lauren and Amanda talk about the many facets of Trio including Occupational and Physical Therapy, Mental Health Counseling and Equine-Assisted Learning.  Trio Therapy Partners is a 501(c)3 organization that believes in taking an individual's rehabilitation journey to the next level by utilizing multiple environments to create meaningful change.  Learn more about Trio Therapy Partners HEREFind information about the annual Mountain Hoedown out at 4 Eagle Ranch on May 31st, 2025 and register HERE

Erik gets a chance to spend some time with Peak Plumbing Heating and Cooling with owner Mike Goldberg.  Mike talks about his business philosophy, hiring practices and the power of an education in the trades.  In addition, Mike takes Erik on a tour of Peak PHC to show their new training area for the future plumbers of this valley.To learn more about Peak Plumbing Heating and Cooling click HERE 

Join Erik as he gets a tour of Roundup River Ranch from Mackenzie Koffenberger-Young, The Community Engagement and Recruitment Manager for this wonderful organization.  RRR is part of the SeriousFun Children’s Network, a global community of medical specialty camps founded by Paul Newman. He believed that kids with serious illnesses needed a place to “kick back and raise a little hell.”Mackenzie gives Erik the rundown of what a week at camp looks like for both campers and volunteers, and talks about the vision and future of the site.  Join us on this podcast to see it through their eyes but, PLEASE, take the time to see if there might be any volunteer opportunities you or your organization can be a part of!Find out more information HERE 

Erik is joined by Erin Ivie, Executive Director of SpeakUp ReachOut, to talk about the history, current initiatives and future of the organization.  Erin gives historical perspective and current insights into our valley's mental health as well as discusses the upcoming Workplace Wellbeing Summit on Friday, April 11th.This immersive, workshop-style event is designed for teams of 5-10 members per organization. Through engaging & hands-on sessions, participants collaborate to create tailored roadmaps that align with their organization's unique needs and culture. The summit empowers teams with the tools and knowledge to foster a healthier, more supportive work environment, promoting overall employee well-being and contributing to a positive organizational impact.

Erik goes on location to the new Salvation Army headquarters and is joined by Monica Villalobos-Russell, Executive Director, to talk about their new location, new staff and the ways in which they serve the community.  Monica shares why community partnerships and engagement with the Salvation Army is so important and how we can all be part of the solution.Learn more about the Salvation Army HERE

"Insurance protects what we love."  Join Erik this week as he welcomes a friend to the podcast, Tony Martinez, President and Principal Agent at Cornerstone Insurance and Financial Group.  Tony frames insurance in the best possible way, explaining when we are protecting our businesses it's more than just "insurance", it's about the success of the entire community.  In this episode, Tony shares lessons for all businesses and uses examples from property management and the restaurant industry.  From his love of the community and being able to deliver those unicorns (you've got to listen), Tony is a trusted voice for business.Learn more about Cornerstone Insurance and Financial Group HERE.

This week Erik is joined by Kaitlyn Merriman, Senior Manager of Youth and Family Programs for YouthPower365 to talk about an important topic. The Vail Valley Foundation’s YouthPower365 is intensifying efforts to combat youth violence and promote student success through enhanced family-centered initiatives. Kaitlyn talks about the $1 million federal grant from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, enabling the hiring of a full-time family engagement coordinator at YouthPower365 and a student support specialist at Eagle County Schools.  Erik and Kaitlyn also discuss simple warning signs and techniques for violence reduction and awareness.Find more resources for families HERERecent article from the Vail Daily HERE

Erik is joined by Core Transit Deputy Director Scott Robinson for an enjoyable conversation about Core Transit.  Scott shares that Core isn't just "ECO Transit with a new name" it's a completely new company with an expanded community vision.  They discuss the company formation, the marketing vision and the fact that Core Transit was honored with the Large Community Transit Agency of the Year award at the fall Colorado Association of Transit Agencies (CASTA) conference. This award recognizes outstanding best practices or projects undertaken by transit agencies serving communities of over 15,000 people and Scott discusses how it's an honor to receive this for a new company and that they have much more in store for Eagle County.And he talks about expanded winter routes!Learn more about Core Transit HERE

Erik is joined in "the Bistro" (yes, that's what he calls his office) by Samantha  Hodgkins, Executive Director of Caregiver Connections to talk about an extremely important, and often overlooked, demographic. With older adults 65+ as the fastest growing population in Eagle County and 70% of people preferring to age in place, Caregiver Connections is expanding its reach to address the growing needs of caregivers and their family loved ones.Samantha talks about resources that help family caregivers of older adults support their loved ones aging in place including care consultations, respite programs and additional resources that will empower them to be the best caregivers they can be.Find more about Caregiver Connections HERE

Let's talk energy savings!  With winter breathing down our necks we all are wondering the same thing, "Am I prepared?"Black Hills Energy is ready for this question and happy to help.  Erik is joined by Amy Fiala, Energy Efficiency Expert and Jason Auslander from Public Affairs to talk about simple steps we can all do to make our houses more efficient as well as long term solutions that make sense for both your family and the planet.  They also dig into hiring in this field and some of the potential careers that exist in the energy field.We wanted an experienced voice on this podcast and we sure found one! Black Hills Energy serves more that 1.34 million customers across 8 states.  For more information on how to prepare for winter and other safety issues, courtesy of Black Hills, click HEREContact JasonContact Amy

Erik gets a chance to go on one of his "plodcasts" where he walks and talks with a local business and is so happy to tour the newly renovated Eagle River Inn in Minturn.  Tierney Delude, General Manager at the Eagle River Inn provides the tour and information, guiding Erik through the idea, the renovation process and the reception the Inn has received.  Spoiler alert, it's already a local's favorite!  This is a true example of making a dream a reality and what it takes to do so in this place.  Take this tour with Tierney and Erik and hear the story of bringing The Eagle River Inn back to Minturn.Learn more and book your stay HERE

Erik gets a chance to talk with someone he has long respected in this valley, Bob Bandoni, Executive Director of Students Shoulder to Shoulder.  For years Bob and his team have shared ethical leadership practices with the youth of this valley and it's a better world because of it.Bob explains how leadership influences every part of society, and its ethical quality determines whether it drives progress or exacerbates challenges. The Annual Ethical Leadership Forum, on October 18th at the Sebastian in Vail, hosted by Students Shoulder-to-Shoulder, aims to inspire leaders to adopt and implement principles of ethical leadership.Featuring influential leaders and change-makers like Jennifer Simpson, Richard Lackey, and Dr. Karambu Ringera, the forum will explore innovative models of ethical leadership.Register and learn more HERE

In this episode, VVP's Erik Williams welcomes Katie DiGiacomo, President and Owner of Hot Jobs Staffing & Recruiting, recent honoree of Coloradobiz’s Top 100 Woman-Owned Businesses.  They talk about hiring in the high country vs the front range, retention strategies, trends in the workplace, and the future of hiring for jobs in places where housing and childcare costs have made relocation more difficult in recent years.  Katie's expertise and experience hiring in the mountain communities make for a fascinating conversation about where our mountain communities are headed.  If your business is experiencing any struggles in hiring and retaining the best, this podcast is for you.Find more information HERE

Erik has a chance to spend time with a truly extraordinary person, Brielle Kelley.  Brielle is a school-based therapist at Homestake Peak School and Eagle Valley Elementary School as well as as working at Your Hope Center.  Her passion is for her students to succeed and it comes through loud and clear with the strategies and techniques she employs including cultural and linguistic responsivity and her case study work within families.  She has helped to foster support groups for childcare workers and teaches social and emotional learning to students through the mentoring program at SOS outreach.  If it truly does take a village to raise our children, we should all be incredibly thankful that Brielle is a part of our village.  Learn more about what's being done for our students and how you can help in your own way!

Erik get's a chance to spend time with Gracie Rounds, which is always time well spent!  Gracie's Coffee was named Best Emerging Business of the Year at this year's Success Awards and Erik and Gracie go through her timeline of seeing a need, starting a business, growing that business and...spoiler alert...selling the business to another up and coming entrepreneur!Learn more about Gracie's Coffee HERE

Erik has a chance to sit with Ryan Santilli, Director of Sales with AVA Rafting and Zipline, for a wide-ranging discussion of trends in outdoor recreation.  They discuss the COVID "bubble" of outdoor tourism, where it stands now, and the challenges of hiring and retention in a highly seasonal business.  Ryan also teaches Erik what Via Ferrata is and why everyone wants to do it!Learn more about all the amazing outdoor opportunities that AVA offers HERE

In this podcast Erik gets a chance to chat about HR trends, challenges and solutions on a national scale with Yutaka Takagi, Principal Product Evangelist with isolved and how that transfers to our mountain communities with local isolved Business Coach Scott Trainer.  They discuss what national trends are happening around employee engagement and retention as well as break down bridging the gap between the employee experience and the customer experience...and why that's so vital in today's business culture. Learn more about isolved HEREContact Scott directly: [email protected] Yutaka directly: www.linkedin.com/in/yutakatakagi/