Mining Minds

Episodes

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  #235- Intercollegiate Mining Games: Robbie Yordt 21.08.2026 39m

  Recorded underground at the University of Arizona's San Javier Underground Mining Laboratory during the 48th Annual Intercollegiate Mining Games, this episode of Mining Minds features Robbie Yordt, a systems engineering student building a path into mining engineering. Robbie grew up in San Diego with a love for the outdoors, Scouts and hands-on learning. He entered college interested in aerospace and mechanical engineering, but an invitation to an SME student meeting - and the welcoming mining community he found there - changed the direction of his education and career. He shares what attracted him to mining, including the people, the scale of the work and the industry's commitment to safety. Robbie also explains his student-operations role at San Javier, his crushed-stone internship experience in Southern California and his upcoming underground engineering internship with Redpath at South32's Hermosa project. IN THIS EPISODE ·      How SME and MineXchange introduced Robbie to the mining industry ·      Why exposure can matter more than experience for the next generation ·      The importance of authentic mining outreach and storytelling ·      Hands-on student learning inside the San Javier underground laboratory ·      What systems engineering can contribute to mining operations and equipment ·      Robbie's goals for a career built around good people, meaningful work and time outdoors YouTube- https://youtu.be/qza7xFpIKNU EPISODE SPONSORS Safety First Training & Consulting - https://safetyfirstelko.com Walsh Reclamation, Inc. - https://walshreclamationinc.com Motor Mission Machine & Radiator - https://www.motormission.com Learn more about Mining Minds and explore additional episodes at https://miningmindsllc.com. Content advisory: This episode contains explicit language. Listener discretion is advised. Chapter titles and short notes 00:00  Cold Open: Learning Through Failure Robbie discusses making mistakes safely while gaining hands-on experience. 01:45  Meet Robbie Yordt Meet the systems engineering student building his future in mining engineering. 03:09  San Diego Roots and the Outdoors Robbie shares how Scouts, camping and outdoor leadership shaped his interests. 06:02  From Aerospace to Mining An SME student meeting and MineXchange changed Robbie's career direction. 08:21  Mining's People, Scale and Safety The camaraderie, equipment and safety culture that attracted Robbie to mining. 15:36  Reaching the Next Generation Why students need accessible opportunities to explore mining at their own pace. 17:04  Marketing Mining Authentically Using real people, images and stories to introduce mining without forcing the message. 23:25  Internships and the Hermosa Project Robbie discusses crushed-stone operations and his upcoming Redpath internship. 25:54  Student Operations at San Javier Hands-on learning, student access and underground projects at the laboratory. 31:26  Systems Engineering and Robbie's Future Robbie explains systems engineering and shares his equipment interests and career goals.
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  #234- SOUTH32 Hermosa: Skylie Estep 19.08.2026 1h 8m

  In Episode #234 Mining Minds, sit down on location at South32 Hermosa with Skylie Estep, Human Resources Director, for a conversation about opportunity, family, workforce development, and building the next generation of mining professionals. Skylie shares her journey from moving to Nevada as a young mother and starting as a temp at Goldstrike Underground to building a career in recruiting, human resources, and workforce development. She reflects on the influence of her father, the people who gave her an opportunity early in her career, and the risks and sacrifices that ultimately led her to South32 Hermosa. The conversation dives into what it takes to build the workforce and culture of a greenfield mining project from the ground up. Skylie discusses Hermosa's commitment to developing a local workforce, partnerships with education and training programs, entry-level pathways into mining, and Centro, South32's remote operating center in Nogales designed to make mining careers accessible to a broader range of people. From recruiting experienced miners to developing tomorrow's workforce, this episode offers an inside look at the people, planning, and community investment behind one of Arizona's most exciting mining projects. A huge thank you to the South32 Hermosa Team for welcoming Mining Minds on site and giving us the opportunity to experience the project firsthand. Sponsors: ·       Walsh Reclamation ·       Safety First Training and Consulting ·       Motor Mission Machine and Radiator YouTube- https://youtu.be/79Ljd45bnM0 Mining Minds — digging deeper into the people, culture, and stories that move the mining industry forward.   Chapter Notes: 00:00 — Creating New Pathways Into Mining Skylie introduces Hermosa's vision for making mining careers more accessible. 02:30 — Growing Up in a Mining Family Skylie shares her mining-family roots and why she never expected to join the industry. 05:00 — Starting at Goldstrike A move to Nevada leads to her first mining job and the beginning of her career. 13:30 — Building a Career in Mining Skylie moves from operational support into recruiting, HR, and workforce development. 22:00 — Developing Future Miners She reflects on recruiting, internships, training programs, and watching people grow in the industry. 26:00 — Career, Family, and Sacrifice Skylie discusses balancing motherhood, career growth, and her move to Arizona. 34:30 — Building South32 Hermosa Skylie explains joining a greenfield project and helping build Hermosa's team and culture. 43:30 — The Future of Hermosa's Workforce The discussion covers local hiring, Centro, education partnerships, and creating long-term community opportunity.
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  #233- SOUTH32 Hermosa: Project Management Team 12.08.2026 54m

  In this episode of Mining Minds, we sit down with the leadership team behind South32 Hermosa in Southern Arizona: Andy Thompson, Vice President of Project Delivery; Aaron Lamb, Project Director; Miguel Lamadrid, General Manager of Operations; and Joe Dase, Construction & Execution. The team takes us inside the realities of building a major underground mining project on an exceptionally tight footprint—from shaft sinking, concentrator construction, dewatering and water treatment to the project's "Bluetooth laydowns," an 11-day continuous headframe pour, and the logistics required to keep construction moving safely and efficiently. The conversation goes beyond construction to explore the culture and long-term vision behind Hermosa: developing a local Santa Cruz County workforce, building a regional mining supply chain, supporting critical mineral production, and integrating autonomous equipment, remote operations, real-time data and AI into the mine of the future. At the center of it all is a clear leadership commitment: build the project without fatalities or life-changing injuries, create lasting opportunities for the community, and prove that advanced technology works best when it empowers the people doing the work. The best mining stories are never just about the project. They're about the people building it.   Chapters: 00:00 South32 Hermosa: Building a Major Mine on a "Postage Stamp" 06:30 Inside the Hermosa Project: Shafts, Concentrator & Construction Progress 08:30 "Bluetooth Laydowns" — Solving Hermosa's Massive Logistics Challenge 10:30 Building the Right Team, Culture & Trust from Day One 15:00 The 11-Day Continuous Headframe Pour vs. Arizona Monsoon Season 17:00 50% Complete: Leadership, Humility & Executing a World-Class Project 21:00 Water Treatment, Dewatering & Investing in the Local Community 25:00 Critical Minerals: Zinc, Silver, Lead, Manganese, Copper & U.S. Security 39:30 The Future of Mining: Autonomous Equipment, Remote Operations & AI 49:00 No Fatalities, No Life-Changing Injuries — The Legacy Hermosa Wants to Build
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  #232- Intercollegiate Mining Games: Mia Crawford 09.08.2026 1h 8m

  In Episode #232, Mining Minds sits down with Mia Crawford at the University of Arizona's San Xavier Underground Mining Laboratory to explore the experiences shaping her future in mining. Mia shares how her father's legacy inspired her to pursue mining engineering, the determination required to balance college with three jobs, and how hockey helped her develop the confidence and grit to succeed in a demanding industry. Mia also takes listeners inside the Intercollegiate Mining Games, her internship experience with Capstone Copper, and her responsibilities as a student safety manager. Through honest conversations about leadership, mentorship, imposter syndrome, public misconceptions about mining, and her ambitious career goals, Mia represents a driven new generation ready to learn, lead, and carry the mining industry forward. A BIG thank you to the University of Arizona's San Xavier Underground Mining Laboratory, Scott Shields and the entire University of Arizona mining school for the incredibly warm welcome and for making this episode possible. We look forward to future opportunities to highlight our mining schools, celebrate emerging talent and help build the future of mining—one story at a time. Watch on YouTube- https://youtu.be/sMa2QfYhL9I Episode Sponsors: Motor Mission Machine and Radiator Safety First Training and Consulting Walsh Exploration- Troy Hawkins #MiningMinds #ThisIsMining #IntercollegiateMiningGames #WomenInMining #MiningEngineering #FutureOfMining #NextGenerationOfMining #MiningLeadership #MiningCareers #UniversityOfArizona   Podcast Chapters: Opening- Mining, Responsibility and Everyday Minerals 01:00- Meet Mia Crawford 05:00- Mandarin, Hockey and an Unconventional Childhood 12:00- Turning Loss into Purpose 17:00- Three Jobs, College and High Expectations 23:00- The Intercollegiate Mining Games 25:00- Breaking into Mining at Capstone Copper 32:00- Hands-On Operations, Leadership and Mentorship 41:00- Big Goals, Imposter Syndrome and Personal Grit 59:00- Safety, Risk and the Next Generation
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  #231 — 40th Annual Elko Mine Expo Keynote Podcast 04.08.2026 59m

  Episode #231 is LIVE — 40th Annual Elko Mine Expo Keynote Podcast  Mining Minds sat down with Amanda Hilton, President of the Nevada Mining Association; Don Dwyer, General Manager of Orla Mining's South Railroad Project; and Vern Goglio, Senior Manager at Cementation USA, for a conversation on the past, present, and future of Nevada Mining. From the evolution of safety and leadership to workforce development, women in mining, contractor partnerships, community trust, and what it will take for Nevada to remain a global mining leader, one message stood out: we can't just tell people mining has changed — we have to demonstrate it. The industry continues to evolve because of the people willing to learn, lead, listen, and challenge the way things have always been done. Whether you work at the face, support operations, develop projects, educate the next generation, or serve our mining communities, we all have a role in shaping what comes next. The past shaped us. The present is challenging us. The future is ours to build. A special thank you to Motor Mission Machine & Radiator for sponsoring this keynote podcast and for continually supporting Mining Minds and the people who make this industry what it is. #MiningMinds #ThisIsMining #ElkoMineExpo #NevadaMining #MiningIndustry #HumanElement #MiningLeadership #WorkforceDevelopment #FutureOfMining YouTube Link- https://youtu.be/aD82l_5ODBU Chapters: 04:25- From Disposable Labor to the Human Element 10:25- Leadership Is No Longer Just Technical Skill 19:15- Nevada Is #1—but the Future Depends on Workforce 25:10- What Changed for the Miner Starting Today? 31:25- Public Trust Starts Before the Mine Does 35:45- Mining Doesn't End at the Pit 40:00- Contractor + Owner: One Team, One Culture 43:35- Stop Letting Yesterday Define Modern Mining 52:15- Building Communities—and Advice That Lasts a Career
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  #230- South32 Hermosa: Pat Risner 30.07.2026 56m

    From a Coal Mine Summer Job to Leading America's Next Critical Minerals Project Pat Risner had no mining background, no family in the industry, and no plan to end up here. One summer underground changed everything. Now, as President of South32 Hermosa, he's building one of the most important zinc and manganese projects in the country — from the ground up. In this episode, Pat joins Mining Minds to share his journey from Oklahoma to BHP's global operations, the leadership lessons he learned the hard way, why culture came before anything else at Hermosa, and how a smaller footprint, less water, and deep tribal partnership are redefining what a modern mine looks like. 🎧 New episode of Mining Minds — out now. #MiningMinds #Hermosa #South32 #CriticalMinerals #Zinc #Manganese #MiningIndustry #Leadership #SafetyFirst #Sustainability #SupplyChain #Podcast  🎧 Full episode of Mining Minds is out now. Episode Sponsors: ·        Safety First Training and Consultin ·        Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals ·        Motor Mission Machine and Radiator #MiningMinds #Hermosa #South32 #CriticalMinerals #Zinc #Manganese #MiningIndustry #Leadership #SafetyFirst #Sustainability #SupplyChain #ArizonaMining   Chapters:  1.      The "getting culture right" moment (cold open hook) — "The minute I went underground, I was kinda captivated, and the one thing I didn't wanna screw up here was to try to get the culture right... that's an opportunity we should not squander here." 0:00 – 0:12 2.      First-generation miner origin story — "There's no mining in my family... I really didn't get exposed to it until college, and knew nothing. I went into it completely blind." Great "underdog to president" narrative hook. 6:06 – 6:17 3.      On tribal engagement / social license (strong ESG angle) — "We started really early... engaging with up to 12 different tribes, build relationships, build trust... understand how we can modify and change the project." 15:20 – 16:08 4.      Leadership without subject-matter expertise — "Leadership is not the same as being the one doing the work, and leadership is a different skill than the subject matter expertise that the people have doing the work." Excellent standalone leadership quote. 25:28 – 25:47 5.      On approachability and trust — "You just learn as much as you can about every individual personally, help them learn more about you and who you are, and then you can start building some trust." 29:35 – 30:00 6.      The safety "guarantee" philosophy (very quotable) — "We guarantee everyone goes home safe and well... 'guarantee' is a bit provocative in the mining industry." 40:57 – 41:17 7.      Small footprint stat (great infographic/quote card) — "70 years of mining, we'll only disturb 750 acres... the big open pit mines are 10, 20, even as big as 40,000 acres." 46:55 – 47:30 8.      90% less water stat — "We'll use 90% less water... your typical base metal mines will use between 60 to 20 gallons of water for every pound of metal — we'll use 0.5." 47:25 – 47:50 9.      National security / critical minerals angle (strong for policy-minded LinkedIn audience) — "97 plus percent of the battery grade manganese in the world comes from China... this is an opportunity to really reduce national security risk." 49:35 – 49:55 10.   Zinc supply gap stat — "We see a four-million-ton gap between zinc supply and demand by the early 2030s. To put that into context, you'd have to develop three Hermosa's every year." 49:55 – 50:20
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  #229- Scott Shields 24.07.2026 1h 27m

  What does it mean to truly think like a miner? In this episode of Mining Minds, we head underground to the University of Arizona's renowned San Xavier Underground Mining Laboratory for our first-ever underground podcast recording. Joining us is Scott Shields, General Manager of Sales for Komatsu Southwest, Strategic Advisor to the San Xavier Laboratory, and a fifth-generation Arizona miner whose career has taken him from the copper mines of Morenci to more than 150 mining operations across 24 countries. Scott shares an incredible journey built on hard work, mentorship, humility, and a passion for developing the next generation of miners. From growing up in a family with deep mining roots to helping shape university programs, leading global mining initiatives, transforming supply chain operations, and returning to Komatsu, Scott offers valuable leadership lessons that apply far beyond mining. Whether you're a student entering the industry, a seasoned miner, or someone passionate about leadership, this conversation is packed with stories, wisdom, and reminders that mining has always been—and always will be—about people.     Chapters: 02:00 – Recording Underground at the San Xavier Laboratory 06:00 – The Collegiate Mining Games & Future Mining Leaders 12:00 – Five Generations of Mining Heritage 19:00 – From Accounting to Mining Engineering 27:00 – Returning to University & Building a Legacy 38:00 – Leadership, Culture & Mentorship 42:00 – Global Mining, Komatsu & Lessons from Around the World 56:00 – Transforming Supply Chain at Nevada Gold Mines 01:05:00 – Preserving Mining Traditions Through the Collegiate Mining Games 01:14:00 – Returning Home, Family & Komatsu 01:19:00 – Building Memories, Family First & Final Reflections
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  #228- Allison Anderson 15.07.2026 1h 5m

  Great mining projects don't begin with equipment—they begin with trust. In this episode of Mining Minds, we sit down with Allison Anderson, a highly respected external affairs and communications professional, to explore one of the most important—and often least understood—roles in modern mining. Allison shares her unconventional journey from journalism and public relations to becoming a trusted bridge between mining companies, government, and the communities they serve. From advancing AngloGold Ashanti's North Bullfrog and Arthur projects to supporting workforce development, education, local partnerships, and long-term community investment, Allison provides an inside look at the work happening long before mining begins. She explains how meaningful communication, transparency, and genuine collaboration create lasting relationships—not only for a successful project, but for the future of communities like Beatty, Nevada. This conversation is a reminder that while mining may produce the resources the world depends on, it's the people, partnerships, and trust built along the way that ultimately determine its success. Special thanks to AngloGold Ashanti for opening its doors and giving Mining Minds the opportunity to highlight the people, partnerships, and purpose behind responsible mining. To learn more about AngloGold Ashanti and stay up to date on their Nevada Projects, sign up for their e-newsletter by clicking the link. https://nevadaprojects.anglogoldashanti.com/newsletter/   Episode Sponsors: Walsh Reclamation Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Safety First Training and Consulting Episode Chapters:    01:05 Growing Up, Competition & Finding Her Path 05:02 From Journalism to Public Relations 09:14 Military Life, Family & Returning to Nevada 12:10 Discovering Mining Through the Nevada Mining Association 16:05 Building Communities with i-80 Gold 22:10 Authentic Communication Creates Trust 26:08 AngloGold Ashanti's Vision for Beatty's Future 30:03 Community Partnerships That Last Beyond Mining 35:00 Creating Opportunities for the Next Generation 39:08 North Bullfrog, Beatty & A Sustainable Future 48:15 Endless Opportunities and Lessons from Mining
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  #227- Dave Spicer 24.06.2026 1h 5m

  What if the future of mining isn't just measured in ounces produced—but in the communities, habitats, and generations it leaves behind? In this episode of Mining Minds, we sit down with Dave Spicer—miner, rancher, entrepreneur, conservation advocate, and lifelong Beatty resident—for a thought-provoking conversations about the future. Dave's story is deeply intertwined with the history of Beatty, Nevada, from growing up on a ranch and living off the land to building businesses, supporting mining projects, and dedicating decades of his life to ensuring his hometown has a future. What makes this conversation unique is Dave's perspective on the relationship between mining, conservation, and community development. Through habitat restoration, trail development, species conservation, and local partnerships, he has spent years bringing people together around solutions that benefit the land, the community, and the mining industry. Learn more about Dave's efforts and how you can get involved below. Storm-ov.org Trails-ov.org We'd like to thank AngloGold Ashanti for making this episode possible and for supporting conversations that highlight the people, partnerships, and opportunities shaping the future of our industry. Episode Sponsors: Motor Mission Machine and Radiator Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Safety First Training and Consulting   Episode Chapters 00:00 Building a Future Beyond Mining 01:05 Growing Up in Beatty and Ranch Life 05:08 Living Off the Land 08:02 Discovering Mining Opportunities 11:00 The First Major Mining Boom 13:45 Creating Opportunity After the Bust 16:20 From Dimensional Stone to Entrepreneurship 21:10 The Amargosa Toad Conservation Fight 26:05 Turning Conflict into Collaboration 29:15 Partnering with AngloGold Ashanti 35:05 Trails, Recreation, and Community Legacy 50:45 Inspiring Future Generations
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  #226- AngloGold Ashanti: The Next Shift 19.05.2026 1h 32m

  The future of mining isn't coming — it's already clocked in. In this episode of Mining Minds, The Next Shift, Mining Minds sits down in Beatty, Nevada with a panel of young professionals from AngloGold Ashanti who are helping redefine the future of modern mining from the ground up. From geology and environmental planning to HR, communications, and project development, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what mining really looks like today — and what it will become tomorrow. The panel dives into the realities of building a world-class mining project, the responsibility that comes with developing rural communities, and the innovation driving the next generation of the industry. You'll hear honest conversations about mentorship, sustainability, technology, workforce culture, and the misconceptions that still surround mining. More importantly, you'll hear from the people stepping forward to carry the industry into its next era. We'd like to thank AngloGold Ashanti for opening the door and providing us an opportunity to showcase their people and the work they are doing to support the entire mining industry. To learn more about AngloGold Ashanti and stay up to date on their Nevada Projects, sign up for their e-newsletter by clicking the link. https://nevadaprojects.anglogoldashanti.com/ Episode Sponsors: Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Safety First Training and Consulting Motor Mission Machine and Radiator     Chapters:  01:37 Meet the Panel 12:47 Perception Versus Reality 21:55 Telling Mining's Story 31:00 Blind Gold Discovery 32:08 Community and Generations 36:49 Hiring Traits and Resumes 43:37 Environmental Planning Basics 48:07 Office Admin Behind Scenes 57:23 Cross Functional Collaboration 01:00:48 Hollywood vs Real Mining 01:08:37 Changing Public Perception 01:11:27 Career Superpowers 01:13:51 Project Headline Dreams
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  #225- Part 2: Hector Denogean 15.05.2026 1h 51m

  Arizona Copper Country, Global Mining Projects, Leadership & Legacy Recorded at the historic Ore House in Oracle, Arizona, this episode marks Part 2 of Hector Denogean's incredible mining journey. If you haven't heard the beginning of Hector's story, be sure to check out Episode #164- Part 1: Hector Denogean Episode #225- Part 2: Hector Denogean   Episode Sponsors: AngloGold Ashanti North America Safety First Training & Consulting Walsh Reclamation Inc.    Episode Chapters:    02:33 Mammoth Memorial and Copper Corridor 07:07 Training the Next Generation 11:21 Community Impact and Responsible Mining 26:19 Traveling Mines Nevada to Michigan 32:39 Rock Bursts Explained 35:49 Memorials and Respect 41:14 Mexico Work Begins 50:40 Cartel Road Encounters 59:04 Visible Ore and Theft 01:08:41 Career Reflection and Expos 01:14:41 Family Roots in Sonora 01:28:50 Final Colombia Assignment 01:37:07 Advice to Young Miners
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  #224- AngloGold Ashanti: Mary Koerner 11.05.2026 1h 21m

  From Service to Safety, Building Trust, and Leading Forward In Episode #224 of the Mining Minds Podcast, we sit down with Mary Koerner, Health, Safety & Security Manager at AngloGold Ashanti's Nevada project, to explore what it truly means to build safety and culture from the ground up—at a stage where every decision carries weight. From growing up in a small Montana town to serving 12 years in the Army Reserves, Mary shares how her experiences have shaped her approach to leadership today. Her path through mining, manufacturing, and other industries has given her a unique perspective—one that blends technical expertise with a deep understanding of people. She dives into the difference between systems and culture, why health hazards often go unnoticed compared to visible safety risks, and what it takes to earn trust in environments where credibility isn't given—it's built over time. Drawing from her experience across multiple industries, Mary reflects on the challenge of adapting her leadership style and applying best practices in new environments.   To learn more about AngloGold's Nevada Projects and to sign up for their e-newsletter click the link: https://nevadaprojects.anglogoldashanti.com/newsletter/   A special thank you to AngloGold Ashanti for supporting Mining Minds and helping us showcase the incredible people and opportunities that make this industry.   Episode Sponsors:  JSR Fleet Performance Walsh Reclamation Inc.  Safety First Training & Consulting    Episode Chapters: 02:06 Growing Up Montana 06:51 Deployment And Coming Home 13:57 College And Newmont Start 17:58 Industrial Hygiene Explained 21:30 AI And Exposure Data 28:41 Beyond Mining New Industries 36:12 Regulators And Standards 42:39 Paper Mill Safety Transfer 47:48 Montana Reset And Youth Work 55:25 Starting A New Mine 58:32 Anglo Safety Culture 01:01:52 Community Safety Outreach
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  #223- Mike Hill 07.05.2026 1h 39m

  Betting on Yourself, Breaking Cycles, and Building Something Bigger Recorded from the Copper Brothel Brewery in Sonoita, Arizona, Mining Minds sits down with longtime friend and the Bald Mountain Bad Boy himself, Mike Hill, for a conversation filled with lasting lessons, career pivots, and the realities of rebuilding yourself both inside and outside the mining industry. Mike didn't follow a clean path into mining—or out of it. He walked away from home in Colorado knowing he needed a reset, landed in Nevada chasing opportunity, and got thrown straight into the deep end of underground mining with zero experience and a whole lot to prove. From getting torn apart on the radio as a new nipper to figuring out how to lead teams, build culture, and navigate failure, his story is a series of pivots most people wouldn't take. And he didn't stop there. He walked away from mining. Started over. Took hits personally and professionally. Rebuilt again. Now, he's helping lead a growing business at Liberty Fence & Supply, developing people, and creating something completely new with the Copper Brothel Brewery.   Episode Sponsors:  AngloGold Ashanti Walsh Reclamation Inc.  Safety First Training & Consulting   Episode Chapters:  02:53 Colorado Roots and Family 07:17 First Mining Job as a Temp 14:29 Getting Broken In 30:39 Leveraging Experience for Next Step 32:05 Supply Chain Reality Check 40:13 Authenticity Wins Jobs 44:17 Initiative Beyond Warehouse 51:46 Bald Mountain Bad Boys 54:51 Family Money and Overtime 01:08:07 Job Hopping as Growth 01:17:38 Safety Clash and Injury Wakeup 01:24:59 Scaling Liberty Fence Nationwide
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  #222- AngloGold Ashanti: Joel Donalson 05.05.2026 1h 33m

  In this episode of Mining Minds, we sit down with Joel Donalson, Vice President of Sustainability at AngloGold Ashanti, from their Las Vegas office overlooking the valley. Joel shares a powerful story that spans generations in mining, from growing up in a mining family to helping lead one of Nevada's most exciting new projects. We dive into Joel's journey—from working in an assay lab as a teenager to navigating roles in environmental management, risk, mine engineering, and even ranch operations. His career is a testament to embracing opportunity, adapting to changes, and building a well-rounded perspective across the mining industry. One of the most impactful moments in this conversation is Joel's global perspective on mining: "There was nothing here… people living subsistence lifestyles… and then a mine comes in — now there are roads, schools, infrastructure, opportunity." The North Bullfrog and Arthur projects near Beatty, Nevada, represent more than just potential mining operations—they offer an opportunity to shape an entire region and meaningfully connect one of the state's largest populations to the mining industry in a new and impactful way.   To follow this transformation as it unfolds and stay connected to the latest updates from AngloGold Ashanti's Nevada projects, join their e-newsletter using the link below. AngloGold Ashanti - Nevada Projects   We'd like to extend our appreciation to AngloGold Ashanti North America for welcoming us in and allowing us to highlight their team and the impactful work taking place on this project.   Episode Sponsors: Safety First Trianing & Consulting Motor Mission Machine & Radiator  Walsh Reclamation Inc.    Episode Chapters:    02:43 Joel Mining Roots 10:56 First Assay Lab Job 12:10 Assay Lab Grind 15:39 Back To Mining Boom 23:53 Environmental Closure Work 30:26 Risk Management Mindset 38:36 Short Range Planning Chaos 46:54 Why Environmental Fits 54:37 Mining Changes Communities 01:00:49 Winning Trust on the Ranch 01:05:04 Work Life Balance in Mining 01:10:15 Small Town Mining Stories 01:15:06 Building a New Nevada District
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  #221- Gus Sullivan 02.05.2026 1h 1m

  This one is personal. Beatty, Nevada isn't just another mining town—it's our hometown. It's where we grew up, where we learned what community really means, and where mining first became real to us. Coming back and sitting down with Gus Sullivan, Beatty's Justice of the Peace, isn't just a conversation—it's a chance to reconnect with the people and stories that helped shape who we are. Gus has seen every version of this town. From working at his family's gas station to serving in law enforcement and eventually stepping into the role of Justice of the Peace, his story is woven into the fabric of Beatty. Through decades of change, one thing has remained constant—his commitment to the people who call this place home. This episode also gives a real look at what happens when mining shows up at your doorstep—the growth, the pressure, the uncertainty, and the opportunity. But this time feels different. With AngloGold Ashanti stepping in, there's a clear effort to do it the right way—working alongside the community, supporting local infrastructure, and building with a long-term mindset instead of a short-term boom. It's not just about what mining brings out of the ground—it's about the legacy it builds above it.   We'd like to thank AngloGold Ashanti for opening the doors and giving us the opportunity to showcase the people in our home town of Beatty Nevada.    Episode Sponsors:  Walsh Reclamation Inc. Safety First Training & Consulting Motor Mission Machine and Radiator    Episode Chapters:  02:05 Marine One Discovery 08:50 Deputy Ride Along Hook 12:25 High Speed Lesson 17:48 Mine Boom Shockwave 25:08 Community Policing Trust 28:26 Honoring Dad Legacy 29:41 Clinic Grants and Care 33:13 Town and Mine Partnership 38:25 Beatty Life and Family 40:02 Halloween and Cruising Days 43:25 Coaching and Community 45:25 Grandkids and Big Dreams
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  #220- AngloGold Ashanti: Nick Fouché 30.04.2026 1h 10m

  In this episode, Mining Minds had the opportunity to get back to our roots in a small mining town that's seeing new life through projects like North Bullfrog and Arthur with AngloGold Ashanti. While on site, we sat down with Nick Fouché, Senior Vice President of Nevada Projects for AngloGold Ashanti—an individual who cares just as much about production and the success of the town as he does about the people and the environmental impact. From growing up on the coast of South Africa to leading world-class mining projects across the globe, Nick shares a journey shaped by hard work, curiosity, and a willingness to step into the unknown. This episode goes far beyond a traditional career story. It dives into the evolution of mining through the lens of environmental responsibility, community engagement, and leadership. Nick walks us through his unconventional path—from environmental science and military service to building world class operations—and how those experiences shaped his approach to modern mining. We explore the importance of onboarding, culture, and collaboration, why understanding people is just as critical as understanding geology, and how global experience creates better leaders. Nick also gives us insight into AngloGold Ashanti's Nevada projects, a true tier-one opportunity, and how balancing production, environmental stewardship, and community trust is at the core of their vision. We'd like to thank AngloGold Ashanti for opening the door and giving us the opportunity to showcase their people and the work happening on this project. To learn more and stay up to date on AngloGold Ashanti's Nevada projects, sign up for their e-newsletter by clicking here.   Episode Sponsors: Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Safety First Training & Consulting Walsh Reclamation Inc.    Episode Chapters: 02:10 Growing Up South African 05:27 Choosing Environmental Science 10:06 Why Travel Builds Leaders 15:00 Environmental Values and Mining 20:27 Military Service 31:45 Trust With Communities 40:48 Learning Uranium Mining 47:17 Onboarding Done Right 51:05 Mine Improvement Program 53:27 Global Career Snapshot 57:29 Nevada Project Today
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  #219- BIOBY: Mike Foley, Ashley Burke & Dean DeBeltz 28.04.2026 1h 10m

  What happens when you bring together project leaders, national advocates, and boots-on-the-ground operators—all in one room—to talk about the future of mining in America? Recorded in Duluth, Minnesota at the Better In Our Backyard Winter Dinner, this episode delivers a high-impact series of conversations with some of the most influential voices shaping today's mining landscape. From copper development in Michigan to national policy in Washington, D.C., to the front lines of permitting battles in Minnesota—this episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to move mining projects forward in the United States.  We sit down with Mike Foley of Highland Copper to break down what it takes to bring a fully permitted underground copper project to life—and why infrastructure like smelting and refining remains one of the industry's biggest bottlenecks. Then, Ashley Burke of the National Mining Association joins us to unpack the policy shifts happening at the federal level, the global competition for critical minerals, and why storytelling and public understanding are more important now than ever. Finally, we reconnect with Dean DeBeltz of Twin Metals, diving into the realities of permitting challenges, shifting goalposts, and the long fight to responsibly develop domestic resources—all while preserving the communities and environments that make these regions special. This episode is about momentum, advocacy, and the people pushing mining forward—from the local level to the national stage. If you want to understand where the industry is headed and what's at stake, this is a conversation you don't want to miss. Check out - Minerals Make Life   Episode Sponsors: Walsh Reclamation Inc.  Safety First Training & Consulting Heavy Metals Equipment & Rentals    Chapters:    01:39 Meet Mike Foley 06:58 Smelting Bottleneck Talk 13:08 Community Mining Heritage 19:37 Meet Ashley Burke NMA 21:20 Policy Shift and Strategy 25:24 Permitting Reform Messaging 31:12 Advocacy and Storytelling 39:45 Workforce Development Ideas 42:38 NMA Resources and Mine Expo 44:48 Dean Debeltz & Twin Metals Update in Duluth 50:46 Fair Permitting and Public Trust 55:39 Community Impact and Jobs Multiplier
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  #218- BIOBY: Shari McGregor-Overbye 24.04.2026 59m

  Recorded in Duluth, Minnesota at the Better in Our Backyard Winter Dinner, this episode of Mining Minds brings you a raw, unfiltered conversation with Shari McGregor-Overbye—millwright, industry advocate, and host of the Iron Lady Podcast. From growing up learning the trades beside her father to becoming an onsite mechanic, Shari's story challenges outdated perceptions and highlights the real opportunity within mining and skilled trades. She breaks down the myth that blue-collar careers are a "fallback," sharing how hands-on skills, work ethic, and determination can outperform traditional paths both financially and professionally. This episode dives deep into the realities of working in mining—from shutdown chaos and plant operations to leadership, innovation, and the future of maintenance with AI. Shari also shares how she carved her own path through the industry, earning respect, leading teams, and ultimately stepping into a role where she now works with industry leaders to drive performance and change. Please help us welcome Shari McGregor-Overbye to the Face. Check out the Iron Lady Podcast!   Episode Sponsors: Safety First Training & Consulting Walsh Reclimation Inc. Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals   Chapters:   02:49 Roots and House Moving 04:51 Dad's Influence Early 07:23 Advocating the Trades 12:03 Making Mining Authentic 16:26 Hands On Learning Style 20:37 Earning Respect on Site 26:04 AI in Maintenance 30:52 Plant Shutdown Chaos 35:36 Planner to Supervisor 39:11 Crusher Planning Lessons 42:50 Leading the Shops 44:01 Joining AMCAST Team
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  #217- 2026 Elko Mining Expo: Kimberlee Longley & Selina Morales 22.04.2026 1h 6m

  In this episode of Mining Minds, we go behind the scenes of the Elko Mining Expo — a 40-year legacy event that transforms a tight-knit mining community into a global hub of innovation, networking, and opportunity. Sitting down with the powerhouse team at the Elko Convention Center & Visitors Authority, this conversation uncovers the hardwork, coordination, and passion required to bring over 6,000+ attendees, hundreds of vendors, and massive equipment displays together—year after year. From humble beginnings and small-town roots to managing one of the most anticipated mining events in the industry, Selina Morales and Kimberly Longley share their personal journeys, the evolution of the expo, and what it truly takes to execute an event of this magnitude with a team of just ten people. But this episode goes deeper than logistics. It explores the heart of mining communities — the families, the kids, the traditions, and the future workforce. With new ideas like live podcasting, technical sessions, and even a first-ever Miner's Poetry Contest, this year's expo is pushing boundaries and redefining what connection and storytelling in mining looks like. Join us at the 2026 Elko Mine Expo on June 4th at 10:00 AM for a compelling look at the past, present, and future of our industry. We'll be kicking off the event with a live opening session panel podcast featuring some of the most influential voices in mining. And for the first time, Mining Minds will be hosting the Miner's Poetry Contest on June 5th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. From elementary-aged kids to teenagers, to miners and their spouses, we want to hear the voices that truly tell the story of who we are, the experiences we've lived, and what makes this industry so special. Submit your entry by "brassing in" at MiningMindsLLC.com.   Episode Sponsors: Safety First Training & Consulting Motor Mission Machine & Radiator  Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals    Chapters:  02:50 Selena Background 05:28 Planning the Expo 07:13 Kimberly Background 09:18 Convention Center Events 14:54 Expo Growth Upgrades 20:57 Layout and Expansion 26:52 Expo Week Breakdown 31:57 Networking and Engagement 33:15 Booths Networking Value 37:42 Miners Poetry Contest 52:59 40th Anniversary Plans 56:07 Live Podcast Announcement
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  #216- BIOBY: Brian Goldner 17.04.2026 1h 22m

  What does it feel like to hit one of the highest-grade nickel drill holes on the planet… and not even be on the drill pad when it happens? In this long overdue episode, we sit down with Brian Goldner, Chief Exploration and Operations Officer at Talon Metals, for a front-row look at modern-day exploration, discovery, and the relentless pursuit of what's hidden beneath the surface. Recorded in Duluth, Minnesota at the Better In Our Backyards Winter Dinner, this conversation dives deep into the science, the risk, and the reward of chasing critical minerals in today's world. Brian takes us from a kid in Minneapolis obsessed with rocks to leading one of the most exciting nickel discoveries in North America. We unpack the realities of exploration — a career built on being wrong, challenging assumptions daily, and pushing forward until something clicks. From helicopter-supported fieldwork in remote areas to building an in-house drilling operation during COVID, Brian shares how innovation, teamwork, and timing all play a role in success. At the center of it all is Talon's recent discovery — a drill hole so significant it ranks among the best globally across multiple metals. But this episode isn't just about the win. It's about the process, the failures that lead to breakthroughs, and the responsibility of developing resources the right way — for communities, for the environment, and for the future of domestic mining.   Episode Sponsors: Safety First Training and Consulting Motor Mission Machine and Radiator Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals    Chapters:  01:00 Welcome to Better In Our Back Yards & Talon Metals 04:12 From Physics to Geology 08:45 Discovering Economic Geology 12:00 How Nickel Deposits Actually Form 18:05 Helicopters, Remote Exploration & Field Life 24:00 Mentorship & Learning Under a Legend 28:00 Prospecting, Core & First Discoveries 35:10 Building an In-House Drilling Operation During COVID 44:10 Critical Minerals, Nickel & Global Demand 52:30 The Vault Discovery: A Career-Defining Moment 01:07:30 The Future of Mining, Technology & Exploration