The Best Dam Podcast

2025 Spring Jam: Vendor Treats, Vintage Glamour at The Pinup Pageant, and Artisan Awards.We hope you enjoyed the 2025 Spring Jamboree in beautiful Boulder City, Nevada. Spring Jam has been held since 1977 and is considered by many to be Boulder City's first major public festival of the year. We had the pleasure of interviewing a cross-section of civic leaders, artisans, and vendors who help to make this public festival a success.This segment of The Best Dam Podcast features brief interviews with three of our vendors, and the MC and Participants of thjis year's Miss Spring Jamboree Pinup Pagaent. And, we also want to acknowledge the winner of this year's artisan competition, The Bullet Studio.VENDOR AND PAGAENT LINKSCookies by Ying: https://www.cookiesbyying.comAloha Specialites: https://alohaspecialties.com/Aloha Specialites Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alohaspecialtiesllcAloha Specialites Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alohaspecialtiesllc/America's Best Coffee - Funnel Cakes, Street Corn, and LemonadeThe Bullet Studio: https://www.thebulletstudio.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebulletstudio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebulletstudio/2025 Miss Spring Jamboree Pinup Pagaent: https://missspringjamboree.com/LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about the Boulder City Chamber of Commerce.Click here to find The Best Dam Podcast on our website. You can also find us on your favorite Podcast Directory by searching for The Best Dam Podcast.Cookies by Ying, Aloha Specialties, America's Best Coffee, Funnel Cakes, Street Corn, Miss Spring Jamboree, The Bullet Studio, Boulder City, Spring Jamboree, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast#CookiesbyYing #AlohaSpecialties #America'sBest Coffee #FunnelCakes #StreetCorn #MissSpringJamboree #TheBulletStudio #BoulderCity #SpringJamboree #BoulderCityChamberofCommerce #TheBestDamPodcastCREDITSThe Best Dam Podcast is a Boulder City Chamber of Commerce podcast production.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by ZakharValaha from Pixabay.Miss Spring Jamboree  photos by Nancy Bailey Photography (aka our first Miss Spring Jamboree 2022.

2025 Spring Jam Spotlight - Interviews with Young Entrepreneurs Creating, Selling, and LearningWe hope you enjoyed the 2025 Spring Jamboree in beautiful Boulder City, Nevada.Spring Jam has been held since 1977,  and is considered by many to be Boulder City's first major public festival of the year. We had the pleasure of interviewing a cross-section of civic leaders, artisans, and vendors that help to make this public festival the success that it is.This segment of The Best Dam Podcast features brief interviews with many of the participants at this year's Young Entrepreneur Market. Join us as we chat with a talented group of kids—some as young as five—who are launching their own creative ventures, from handmade jewelry and 3D printed figurines, to home-baked sweets and even original barbecue sauce. You’ll hear stories of inspiration, the passion behind their products, and a few clever sales strategies that might just surprise you.Whether they’re selling rainbow bracelets, custom cutting boards, or delicious bundt cakes, these young entrepreneurs are learning real-world business skills and embracing the joy of sharing their creations with the community. So sit back and enjoy this collection of inspiring conversations with future makers, bakers, and risk-takers at Boulder City’s Spring Jam!LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about the Boulder City Chamber of Commerce.Click here to find The Best Dam Podcast on our website. You can also find us on your favorite Podcast Directory by searching for The Best Dam Podcast.Young Entrepreneurs Market, Boulder City, Spring Jamboree, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast#YoungEntrepreneursMarket #SpringJamboree #BoulderCityChamberofCommerce #TheBestDamPodcastCREDITSThe Best Dam Podcast is a Boulder City Chamber of Commerce podcast production.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by ZakharValaha from Pixabay.

2025 Spring Jam - Interview with The Honorable Joe Hardy, Mayor of Boulder CityWe hope you enjoyed the 2025 Spring Jamboree in beautiful Boulder City, Nevada.Spring Jam has been held since 1977,  and is considered by many to be Boulder City's first major public festival of the year. We had the pleasure of interviewing a cross-section of civic leaders, artisans, and vendors that help to make this public festival the success that it is.This segment of The Best Dam Podcast features the Honorable Joe Hardy, Mayor of Boulder City. Mayor Hardy is the first guest in the Chamber's new Mobile Podcast Studio. In this episode, you'll hear stories about how the Spring Jam has brought the city together for decades, the importance of community involvement, and some charming glimpses into the mayor's personal life—including the comfort of the back porch at their house, the occassional rainy day stroll with his wife (Jill) and the joys of living in a small town. Mayor Hardy also shares insider tips for visitors, how Boulder City has maintained its small-town feel, and why the Chamber of Commerce is a go-to resource for locals and newcomers alike. Whether you're a Boulder City resident, planning a visit, or just love hearing about thriving small-town America, this episode is bursting with local flavor, heartfelt stories, and the spirit of Spring Jam. Tune in and get ready to fall in love with Boulder City all over again! LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about the Boulder City Chamber of Commerce.Click here to find The Best Dam Podcast on our website. You can also find us on your favorite Podcast Directory by searching for The Best Dam Podcast.Mayor Joe Hardy, Boulder City, Spring Jamboree, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Mobile Podcast Studio #MayorJoeHardy #BoulderCity #SpringJamboree #BoulderCityChamberofCommerce #TheBestDamPodcast #MobilePodcastStudioCREDITSThe Best Dam Podcast is a Boulder City Chamber of Commerce podcast production.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by ZakharValaha from Pixabay.

Denise Ashurst, a Boulder City Council Member and Air Force veteran, passionately shares her transformative journey in community service. She delves into her initiatives with Pride and Purity, empowering women to make positive choices. Denise recounts humorous military anecdotes and reflects on her diverse experiences in the Netherlands and as a cheerleader. They discuss the vital role of creativity, kindness, and open-mindedness in bridging political divides, and highlight impactful outreach programs that foster community connections in Boulder City.

49th Spring Jamboree: Boulder City 's Family Fun and Community Celebration.Welcome to another exciting episode of The Best Dam Podcast! Today, we're showcasing Boulder City's annual Spring Jamboree family event. In this episode, our reporters delve into the heart of this long-standing event that first began in 1977, and hosted annually by the Boulder City Chamber of Commerce. From its humble beginnings as a small sidewalk sale, the Spring Jamboree has blossomed into a dynamic multi-day festival, attracting thousands of visitors with its eclectic mix of arts and crafts, classic hot rod car shows, food stalls offering global flavors, live entertainment, and so much more. It's a true celebration of community that not only offers fun for everyone but also serves as a major economic driver for Boulder City.Join us as we explore how this vibrant jamboree has evolved through the years, the many attractions it offers, and why it remains a cornerstone of Boulder City’s annual events. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, this episode is your ultimate guide to one of Nevada’s hidden gems. Let's dive in!DISCUSSIONIntroduction to Boulder City and the EventOverview of Boulder City, NevadaIntroduction to the Spring Jamboree as a major eventHistory and Evolution of the Spring JamboreeInception of the Jamboree in 1977Transition from a simple community gathering to a large festivalActivities and AttractionsBest Dam Classic Car ShowVariety of arts and crafts available for purchaseDiverse food optionsLive entertainment from local bandsRock, gem, and mineral showFamily-friendly events like the Little Miss and Mister pageant and children's performancesCommunity Involvement and Economic ImpactEmphasis on community spirit and volunteerismRole as the main fundraising event for the Boulder City Chamber of CommerceEconomic boost for local businesses through tourismEvent Details for 2025Dates and timings for the event: May 2025, Saturday (3rd), and Sunday (4th)Locations within Boulder City: Bicentennial Park, Wilbur Square, North and South Escalante ParksAdditional HighlightsOutdoor expoBark in the Park for dog loversLaunch of the Boulder City Chamber's Mobile Podcast StudioLEARN MOREClick here to learn more about the Srping Jamboree  on their website at https://www.chamberorganizer.com/bouldercity/mem_SpringJamboree or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/springjambcKEYWORDSSpring Jamboree, Boulder City Cruisin Association, Southern Nevada Gem & Mineral Society, Boulder City, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#SpringJamboree #SNGMS #BouldeCityCruisinAssociation #BoulderCity #JillLagan #BCNVChamber2025 #TheBestDamPodcast #PodcastInterviewCREDITSThe Best Dam Podcast is a Boulder City Chamber of Commerce podcast production.This episode is sponsored by the i & i Podcast & Music Studio. Be Heard.

Local Pet Care Excellence: Boulder City Critter Sitter.In today's episode of The Best Dam Podcast, Jill has the pleasure of chatting with Michelle Carroll, the owner of Boulder City Critter Sitter. Michelle shares her journey of turning a lifelong love for animals into a thriving business. From pet sitting to professional training, Michelle offers invaluable insights into the world of animal care and how her dedicated critter crew is enhancing the lives of both pets and their owners in Boulder City.DISCUSSION TOPICSMichelle Carroll's BackgroundPassion for animalsOwnership of Boulder City Critter SitterPet Sitting Business in Boulder CityNeed for pet sitting services in Boulder CityImportance of providing assurance for pet owners when awayProfessionalism and CertificationsVarious certifications and training Michelle has acquiredImportance of being insured and bondedHiring and training of independent contractorsFormation of the "critter crew"Training and EducationContinuing education and additional certificationsApprenticeship with Sabrina SmilerFuture training workshops in Boulder CityPet Behavior and Owner EducationFocus on positive reinforcement training methodsExplanation of animal behavior understandingImportance of educating the pet ownersPersonal Stories and ExperiencesPersonal anecdotes, such as a cat stealing personal itemsConnection and trust-building with animalsCommunity Involvement and Future PlansDesire to work with local animal sheltersPlans for a ribbon-cutting and community event to promote animal adoptionPartnerships with local businessesPassion for Animals and the CommunityMichelle's personal journey and satisfaction working with animalsIntegration of technology skills into the businessEnthusiasm for community collaboration and eventsMEDIAhttps://www.bouldercity.com/new-business-critter-sitter-and-dog-walking/LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about Michelle and Boulder City Critter Sitter, visit their website at https://bouldercitycrittersitter.com or on Facebook at  https://www.facebook.com/bouldercitycrittersitterKEYWORDSMichelle Carroll, Boulder City Critter Sitter, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#MichelleCarroll #BoulderCityCritterSitter #BoulderCity #JillLagan #BCNVChamber2025 #TheBestDamPodcast #PodcastInterviewCREDITSThe Best Dam Podcast is a Boulder City Chamber of Commerce podcast production.This episode is sponsored by the i & i Podcast & Music Studio. Be Heard.

Celebrating a Life of Service: Education, Tourism, and Mary Kay.In today's episode of The Best Dam Podcast, Jill has the pleasure of chatting with Denise Senko, affectionately known as "Dee Dee" A former dean and teacher at Boulder City High School, Dee Dee has a wealth of experience both in education and as a dedicated member of the Boulder City Chamber of Commerce. Currently thriving as an independent Sales Director for Mary Kay , she empowers individuals by enhancing their confidence and entrepreneurial spirit through her beauty business.Listen as Jill and Dee Dee share humorous anecdotes from Dee Dee's days as a tour guide at the Hoover Dam and the invaluable insights gained from her experiences in education. Discover the joys of Chamber Life and the fulfillment found in helping visitors explore the wonders of Nevada. Plus, peek into Dee Dee's personal journey, from her family farm roots to her passion for travel and how these have influenced her vibrant career and community involvement.DISCUSSION TOPICSDenise's Career in EducationFormer dean and teacher at Boulder City High SchoolRole as assistant principal at Courtney Junior High SchoolInvolvement with Boulder City Chamber of CommerceVolunteer and past board member rolesContributions to Chamber Life and community involvementExperiences as a Hoover Dam Tour GuideUnique challenges and memorable moments while guiding toursHumorous interactions with tour groupsStories from Work at the ChamberFunny and unusual questions from touristsEnjoyment derived from helping visitors and community membersDenise's Mary Kay BusinessTransition from education to becoming a Sales Director for Mary KayThe mission to help people feel better about themselvesThe empowerment and entrepreneurship opportunities provided by Mary KayExperiences as an EducatorMemorable moments and impacts on studentsRewarding aspects of teaching and student success storiesPersonal Life and BackgroundDenise's upbringing on a farm in MichiganValues and lessons learned from her parentsCurrent Activities and HobbiesLove for reading, particularly nonfiction booksInterest in behind-the-scenes aspects of historical and famous placesTravel ExperiencesExtensive travel history across the United States and internationallyInsights gained from visiting various countries and statesLEARN MOREClick here to learn more about Dee Dee and her work, visit her website at https://www.marykay.com/dsenko.KEYWORDSDenise "Dee Dee" Senko, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#DeniseSenko #MaryKayCosmetics #BoulderCity #JillLagan #BCNVChamber2025 #TheBestDamPodcast #PodcastInterviewCREDITSThe Best Dam Podcast is a Boulder City Chamber of Commerce podcast production.This episode is sponsored by the i & i Podcast & Music Studio. Be Heard.

Supporting Boulder City's Law Enforcement: Behind the Scenes with Protective Force InternationalWelcome to "The Best Dam Podcast." In today's episode, Jill chats with Jonathan Alvarez, CCTP, the CEO/Chief of Security for Protective Force International.Jonathan shares the vital role his organization plays in ensuring the safety and security of Boulder City, highlighting his and his team's passion for serving both urban and rural communities. Together, they explore how Protective Force International complements local law enforcement, providing security for special events and residential areas, and the unique contributions of their canine units. DISCUSSIONHow Protective Force International collaborates with local law enforcement in Boulder City to enhance community safety during special events.The importance of bridging gaps between residents and public safety. The role that the military and law enforcement experience of P team members play in their approach to security in Boulder City.The significance of canine units in security operations, and how do these units contribute to both safety and community engagementJonathan's dedication to community improvement as a legacy for his daughter.The importance of continuing education and advanced training for security officers, and how this contributes to setting a national standard in the security industry.The challenges and benefits of having a private security firm work alongside traditional law enforcement.Using "golden tickets" for offering support to the unhoused, and how this initiative reflects a broader approach to community safety and welfare.The changing perception of security and law enforcement in society.Jonathan shares a personal hobby of painting miniatures as a way to relax, and the importance for individuals in high-stress professions to have hobbies that provide a mental break.LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about the Protective Force International, visit their website at https://www.protectiveforceintl.com or on these social sites:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ProtectiveForceInternational/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/protective_force_international/X: https://twitter.com/ForcePfiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/19113253KEYWORDSJonathan Alvarez, Protective Force International, Community Security, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#JonathanAlvarez #ProtectiveForceInternational #CommunitySecurity #BoulderCity #JillLagan #BCNVChamber2024 #TheBestDamPodcast #PodcastInterviewCREDITSThe Best Dam Podcast is a Boulder City Chamber of Commerce podcast production.This episode is sponsored by the i & i Podcast & Music Studio. Be Heard.

Boulder City's Hidden Gem: Fashion and Community at Mohave Gold Boutique.Welcome to "The Best Dam Podcast." In today's episode, our host, Jill Lagan, chats with Amber Graham, the owner of Mohave Gold Boutique.Join us as Amber shares her journey of turning a long-standing dream into reality with her charming boutique that offers women's lifestyle clothing, unique accessories, and exciting gifts right in Boulder City. Discover how Amber and her husband decided to plant their roots in this vibrant community and how they strive to support local women by offering exclusive and high-quality items.DiscussionSupporting Women in the Community in Style — [00:02:37 → 00:02:47]Local Focus Inspires Tourist Appeal — [00:03:11 → 00:03:22]Affordable High-Quality Fashion — [00:05:00 → 00:05:05]Embracing Local Needs in Retail — [00:06:39 → 00:06:44]Navigating the Clothing Size Maze — [00:09:15 → 00:09:30]Embracing the Boutique Experience —  [00:10:28 → 00:10:33]Connecting with Local Roots — [00:13:29 → 00:13:35]LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about the Mohave Gold Boutique, visit their Instagram Page at https://www.instagram.com/mojavegoldboutique/KEYWORDSAmber Graham, Mohave Gold Boutique, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#AmberGraham #MohaveGoldBoutique #BoulderCity #LasVegas #BoulderCity #JillLagan #BCNVChamber2024 #TheBestDamPodcast #PodcastInterviewCREDITSThe Best Dam Podcast is a Boulder City Chamber of Commerce podcast production.This episode is sponsored by the i & i Podcast & Music Studio. Be Heard.

Celebrating Boulder City: Rich History and Community Spirit.Welcome to "The Best Dam Podcast." In today's episode, our host, Jill Lagan, chats with Long-time Community Leader and Local Business Owner, Bret Runion.Bret is a cherished figure in the Boulder City community, having grown up amidst its unique history and charm. His deep connection to the area is matched by his expertise in the real estate market as a key member of Desert Sun Realty and a long-time member and leader with the Boulder City Sunrise Rotary Club, Bret shares his insights and experiences about living and working in Boulder City.DiscussionEffective Community Engagement — [00:01:59 → 00:02:09]Preserving History Through Digitization — [00:02:33 → 00:02:39]"Memories on Wheels" — [00:04:26 → 00:04:51]The Challenge of Preserving Historic Sites — [00:06:53 → 00:06:58]"The Power of Community Support" — [00:07:53 → 00:08:07]Discovering the Charm of Boulder City — [00:11:27 → 00:11:40]Boulder City's All-Night Party Tradition — [00:19:27 → 00:19:41]"From Undergraduate to Real Estate at 20" — [00:30:37 → 00:30:44]Support Local Businesses for a Better Quality of Life — [01:09:33 → 01:09:39]LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about Bret and his work, visit the Desert Sun Realty website at https://www.DesertSunRealty.com.KEYWORDSBret Runion, Desert Sun Realty, Boulder City Sunrise Rotary Club, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#BretRunion #DesertSunRealty #BoulderCitySunriseRotaryClub #BoulderCity #LasVegas#BoulderCity #JillLagan #BCNVChamber2024 #TheBestDamPodcast #PodcastInterviewCREDITSThe Best Dam Podcast is a Boulder City Chamber of Commerce podcast production.This episode is sponsored by the i & i Podcast & Music Studio. Be Heard.