
The Best Dam Podcast
The Best Dam Podcast is your resource for discovering business, adventure tourism, and Boulder City living. As the home of the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, we want to invite all who will listen to come Discover, Explore, and Unwind.
Latest episodes

Jan 28, 2025 • 32min
2024 The Best of Boulder City - Sheila Kinsey - doTERRA
2024 The Best of Boulder City - Best Home Business / Direct SalesSheila Kinsey, Wellness Advocate, representing doTERRA essential oils, joins Jill Lagan in today's episode of "The Best Dam Podcast."Sheila was nominated for and received the 2024 Best of Boulder City Award for "Best Home Business / Direct Sales".Sheila shares her personal journey of transitioning from teaching to becoming a successful doTERRA business owner, highlighting how the products have transformed her life, including helping her quit smoking. We also delve into Sheila's passion for pet health, her beloved Yorkie's own wellness adventures, and the community's enthusiastic support for her endeavors.Additionally, Sheila talks about how she integrates her love for education into teaching others about the benefits of natural wellness. From hosting classes and one-on-one sessions to discussing the emotional and physical impacts of essential oils, Sheila provides insightful advice on living a cleaner, healthier life.DISCUSSION HIGHLIGHTSCommunity Involvement — [00:02:35 → 00:02:46]Quitting Smoking — [00:04:30 → 00:04:36]Journey to Wellness — [00:05:26 → 00:05:59]The Power of Scents — [00:06:20 → 00:06:34]The Healing Power of Pets — [00:10:53 → 00:11:04]Holistic Pet Wellness — [00:11:05 → 00:11:15]Natural Immune Boosters — [00:13:55 → 00:13:58]Women's Empowerment — [00:16:29 → 00:16:34]Favorite Authors Turned Blockbuster Hits — [00:24:46 → 00:24:51]Spiritual Wisdom in Business — [00:25:44 → 00:25:50]LEARN MORETo learn more about Sheila and her work, including her passion for pet health, visit her Linktree site here: https://linktr.ee/sheilakinsey.You can also find Sheila on these social sites:FacebookInstagramKEYWORDSSheila Kinsey, Wellness, Essential Oils Educator, doTERRA Essential Oils, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#Wellness #EssentialOilsEducator #doTERRA #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.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by ZakharValaha from Pixabay.

Jan 21, 2025 • 45min
Behind the Mic: The Passion and Purpose of The Renaissance Brothers
Behind the Mic: The Passion and Purpose of The Renaissance BrothersWelcome to "The Best Dam Podcast." In today's episode, our host, Jill Lagan, is thrilled to introduce two fascinating guests, Mike Bindrup and Russ Beutler, hosts of the Renaissance Brothers Podcast. Longtime friends with a passion for diverse pursuits, Mike and Russ share their journey of starting their podcast during the pandemic. From living in different states to moving to Boulder City, their story is filled with creativity, humor, and a profound message of hope.In this episode, we delve into the origins of the Renaissance Brothers Podcast, discussing their unique blend of education and entertainment. Mike and Russ reveal their favorite aspects of podcasting, the challenges of remote recording, and the fun of planning each episode. DISCUSSIONRenaissance Brothers Podcast Origin and ProductionThemes and Focus of the PodcastRuss Beutler’s Move to Boulder CityRuss' Anecdotes and ExperiencesImportance and Impact of Podcast GuestsMike Bindrup's Professional BackgroundRuss Beutler' Professional BackgroundInsights, Reflections, and Life lessons from parents and their ongoing influenceAdvice to their 18-year-old selvesFun and Personal StoriesLEARN MOREClick here to listen to episodes of the The Renaissance Brothers: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/renbros. You can also learn more about Mike and Russ on the Facebook pages.Mike's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mbindrup/ Russ' Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/russ.beutler/KEYWORDSMike Bindrup, Russ Beutler, Renaissance Brothers, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#MikeBindrup #RussBeutler #RenaissanceBrothers #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.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by ZakharValaha from Pixabay.

Jan 14, 2025 • 22min
2024 The Best of Boulder City: Hangar 502
2024 The Best of Boulder City - Best New Business of Year -1 yr. or less.James and Becky Hughes, owners of Hangar 502 in Historic Downtown Boulder City, join Jill Lagan in today's episode of "The Best Dam Podcast."Hangar 502 was nominated for: "Best Restaurant" and "Best New Business of Year - 1 yr. or less". They received the 2024 Best of Boulder City Award for Best New Business of Year - 1 yr. or less.Join us as we dive into their inspiring story of transforming a corner of Boulder City's Historic Downtown into a thriving hub for delicious, healthy sandwiches and unique cocktails. James and Becky share it all, from their Air Force-inspired name to their innovative outdoor patio to the challenges and triumphs of starting a business.DISCUSSION HIGHLIGHTSThe Story Behind Hangar 502 — James Hughes [00:02:16 → 00:02:47]Viral Home Renovation Hacks — James Hughes [00:03:20 → 00:03:38]The Art of Sandwich Making — Becky Hughes [00:05:26 → 00:05:35]The Versatile Sandwich — Becky Hughes [00:05:40 → 00:05:45]Keeping It Real with Leftovers — Becky Hughes [00:05:51 → 00:06:12]Inclusive Nightlife — Becky Hughes [00:06:31 → 00:06:37]The Art of Cocktail Presentation — James Hughes [00:06:55 → 00:07:00]Business Adjustments for Seasonal Changes — James Hughes [00:07:49 → 00:07:59]Community Request Sparks Change — James Hughes [00:08:17 → 00:08:20]Connecting With the Community — James Hughes [00:09:33 → 00:09:41]Local First, Community First — James Hughes [00:10:09 → 00:10:15]Numbers and the Thrill of Retail Success — Becky Hughes [00:11:14 → 00:11:19]Building a Strong Team — Becky Hughes [00:12:16 → 00:12:19]"From the Garage to the Air Force — James Hughes [00:14:01 → 00:14:17]Timeliness Lessons from Dad — James Hughes [00:17:10 → 00:17:11]The Secret Life of a Nerd — James Hughes [00:18:17 → 00:18:26]Lifelong Learning in the Kitchen — Becky Hughes [00:18:44 → 00:18:49]Passion for Food — Becky Hughes [00:19:31 → 00:19:37]Chasing the Dream of Food Entrepreneurship — Becky Hughes [00:19:40 → 00:19:55]LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about Hangar 502 on their website at https://hangar502.com/ or these social sites:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553763844850Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hangar502/KEYWORDSJames Hughes, Becky Hughes, Hangar 502, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#JamesHughes #BeckyHughes #Hangar502 #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.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by ZakharValaha from Pixabay.

Dec 24, 2024 • 51min
2024 The Best of Boulder City - Best Restaurant: Huevos Avenue
2024 The Best of Boulder City - Best Restaurant: Huevos Avenue Alex and Jenny Villasenor, owners of Huevos Avenue in Boulder City, join Jill Lagan in today's episode of "The Best Dam Podcast."Huevos Avenue was nominated in: "Best Restaurant" and "Best New Business of Year - 1 yr. or less". They received the 2024 Best of Boulder City Award for Best Restaurant. Today, we learn the heartwarming and inspiring story from Alex and Jenny, behind Boulder City’s newest restaurant, Huevos Avenue. In this episode we dive deep into the Villasenors' remarkable journey—one that blends love, persistence, and business acumen, and about their creative processes, staff dynamics, and the amusing anecdotes that make their relationship and business thrive. DISCUSSION HIGHLIGHTSBrainstorming the Restaurant's name — Alex Villasenor [00:02:28 → 00:02:33]Staying Ahead in the Restaurant Industry — Alex Villasenor [00:05:56 → 00:06:06]Viral Hospitality — Jenny Villasenor [00:06:59 → 00:07:07]Public recognition — Jenny Villasenor [00:07:12 → 00:07:18]"Lessons from the Top 10 Restaurants" — Alex Villasenor [00:10:05 → 00:10:16]"Effective Communication in Relationships" — Jenny Villasenor [00:14:59 → 00:15:02]"Opening for dinner" — Alex Villasenor [00:18:23 → 00:18:28]The Importance of Persistence in Business — Alex Villasenor [00:28:00 → 00:28:05]"Attention to Detail" — Alex Villasenor [00:32:39 → 00:33:01]Understanding and Tackling Clutter — Alex Villasenor [00:44:04 → 00:44:16]Cultural Language Differences — Alex Villasenor [00:46:29 → 00:46:34]LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about the Huevos Avenue on these social sites:FacebookInstagramTrip AdvisorYelpKEYWORDSAlex Villasenor, Jenny Villasenor, Huevos Avenue, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#AlexVillasenor #Jenny Villasenor #HuevosAvenue #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.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by ZakharValaha from Pixabay.

Dec 19, 2024 • 34min
Building Bridges: Music, Magic, and Community Development in Boulder City
Building Bridges: Music, Magic, and Community Development in Boulder CityWelcome to "The Best Dam Podcast." In today's episode, our host, Jill Lagan, ventures into the dynamic world of business and entertainment with our special guest, Mike McHugh. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit and diverse ventures, Mike has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry—from leading a band called Modern Science to running multiple companies like Memorial and With Feeling. We'll explore Mike's fascinating journey, his passion for music, and his innovative efforts in promoting Boulder City and Las Vegas tourism. DISCUSSION POINTSThe Birth of a Music Lifestyle Brand**: "It stands for Music is My Only Reason to Live, and it's, you know, kind of the way I've always kinda thought of it." — [00:02:30 → 00:02:31]Untapped Market of the South Strip: "There's literally a 1000000 people on South Las Vegas Boulevard staying at properties that don't have casinos." — [00:06:42 → 00:06:49]Overpriced Las Vegas Exposed: I like to work with these local small businesses that need the business — [00:07:28 → 00:07:41]Explore Boulder City Discounts: The best prices on all the show tickets." — [00:11:16 → 00:11:23]The Future of Marketing: "When you see a logo, there there should be a sound associated behind it." — [00:13:23 → 00:13:27]The Future of Sonic Branding: "Creating a sonic identity for brands is really going to be an important thing in the future." — [00:13:50 → 00:13:55]The Future of Festivities: "These drone shows are so wild now. Yeah. They're so awesome that, I really think that that is the future." — [00:16:12 → 00:16:21]Boulder City is the Best Town for Families with Special Needs: "This town was just the best awesome little town. Everyone welcomed him with the open arms." — [00:19:43 → 00:19:56]Behind the Scenes of Rock Legends: "I've been a fly on the wall for, you know, going on 20 years." — [00:28:28 → 00:28:41]The Importance of Sonic Identity in Music Production: "with their production style, you know, that being consistent from album to album is a huge deal. Because as soon as that changes, that's when people start, wow." — [00:30:18 → 00:30:28]LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about Mike and his work, visit his website at https://NVExplore.com.KEYWORDSEntrepreneurship, Community, Music Industry, Tourism, Innovation, Sonic Branding, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#Entrepreneurship #Community #MusicIndustry #Tourism #Innovation #SonicBranding #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.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by ZakharValaha from Pixabay.

Dec 17, 2024 • 52min
Main Street Boulder City: Historic Preservation and Community Development
Revitalizing Main Street: Boulder City's Historic Preservation and Community Development.Welcome to "The Best Dam Podcast," In today's episode, our host, Jill Lagan, dives into the heart of Boulder City's historic downtown with the Main Street Boulder City program, now in its exciting second year. This initiative, part of the national Main Street America network, emphasizes historic preservation, community development, and economic growth.Joining us are three remarkable consultants driving this program forward: Michelle Caven, Amber Cunningham, and Danielle Stemmer. Michelle, a 20-year resident of Boulder City, brings a wealth of historical knowledge and passion for the city's legacy. Amber, with her rich background in economics and public administration, is enhancing our community's economic landscape, organizing fantastic events like the New Year's Eve block party. Danielle, whose varied career spans sociology, healthcare, and event management, focuses on understanding community needs and enhancing quality of life.DISCUSSION POINTSDiscovering Local History — Michelle [00:03:22 → 00:03:28]The Hidden Charm of Boulder City — Michelle [00:03:58 → 00:04:09]Passion for Helping People — Danielle [00:07:35 → 00:07:37]Revitalizing Boulder City — Danielle [00:07:47 → 00:08:01]Discover the Hidden Gems Near the Hoover Dam — Danielle [00:08:23 → 00:08:31]Finding Fulfillment in Helping Others — Danielle [00:09:23 → 00:09:26]Excitement for the Future — Michelle [00:13:17 → 00:13:41]Promoting Community and Business Growth — Amber [00:04:41 → 00:04:55]Creating Special Memories — Amber [00:10:42 → 00:11:28]"Connecting Communities through Volunteer Fairs — Amber [00:12:12 → 00:12:25]Exciting Developments in Boulder City — Michelle [00:16:47 → 00:17:03]Community Cleanup Initiative — Amber [00:18:53 → 00:19:04]Great Gatsby-Themed New Year's Eve Block Party — Amber [00:22:05 → 00:22:17]Family-Friendly New Year's Eve Celebration — Danielle [00:23:23 → 00:23:48]Engaging Youth in Historic Preservation — Michelle [00:27:27 → 00:27:34]Viral Topic - The Importance of Dams in Boulder City — Amber [00:37:20 → 00:37:24]Community Impact through Car Shows — Michelle [00:39:09 → 00:39:30]Growing Events Through Community Partnerships — Michelle [00:39:55 → 00:39:59]The Power of AI in Marketing — Amber [00:47:09 → 00:47:14]LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about Main Street Boulder City on their website, or visit their Facebook page.KEYWORDSMain Street Boulder City, Main Street America, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#MainStreetBoulderCity #MainStreetAmerica #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.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by

Dec 10, 2024 • 35min
Senior Services and Community Engagement with Lend A Hand of Boulder City
Senior Services and Community Engagement with Lend A Hand of Boulder City.Welcome to "The Best Dam Podcast," In today's episode, our host, Jill Lagan, explores enhancing the lives of seniors through transportation, social services, and more, with Kevin Abbott, Executive Director of Lend A Hand of Boulder CityIn this episode, we'll explore:Kevin's work with Lend A Hand.Kevin's personal anecdotes about his early career, growing up as an "army brat," and his passion for music. How a recent health scare has deepened Kevin's commitment to serving others.Kevin's innovative collaborations, and his plans for the future.DISCUSSION POINTSFinding Purpose in Service — [00:02:00 → 00:02:05]Heart of Boulder City — [00:02:49 → 00:02:51]Generosity in Action — [00:04:54 → 00:05:16]The Power of a Dedicated Board — [00:08:06 → 00:08:12]Nonprofit Leadership in Action — [00:11:22 → 00:11:25]Innovative Scheduling Solutions — [00:15:41 → 00:15:52]Leveraging Technology for Aging Populations — [00:16:37 → 00:16:58]The Importance of Listening in Leadership — [00:18:26 → 00:18:41]Inspiring Inclusion Through Performance — [00:23:12 → 00:23:17]Expanding Community Services — [00:25:10 → 00:25:18]LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about Lend A Hand of Boulder City on their website, or visit their Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/LAHandBoulderCity/.KEYWORDSKevin Abbott, Lend A Hand, Community Service, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#LendAHand #CommunityService #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.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by ZakharValaha from Pixabay.

Nov 26, 2024 • 23min
2024 The Best of Boulder City - Boutique / Gift / Art: Cards o' Glee
Nicole Twardzik, owner of Cards o' Glee Boutique and Gift Shop in Boulder City's Historic Downtown, joins Jill Lagan in today's episode of the "The Best Dam Podcast."Cards o' Glee received the 2024 Best of Boulder City Award for Best Boutique / Gift / Art Shop. Nicole shares her journey from making handmade cards in high school to opening her brick-and-mortar store, embracing her passion for creativity and community. Join us as we explore Nicole's innovative offerings, including her famed "cussing closet," fun crafting workshops, and collaborations with local artisans. We'll also uncover some heartwarming and humorous stories from her entrepreneurial adventure. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to discover what makes Cards With Glee a true gem in Boulder City! DISCUSSION HIGHLIGHTSFrom High School Hobby to Business EntrpreneurshipThe Real Star of the Gift Shop Support Your Local ArtisansCommunity CollaborationThoughtful Gift-Givers and Their CardsThe Power of Relationships in BusinessCultivating Global Business ConnectionsA Heartwarming Community ExperienceLEARN MOREClick here to learn more about the Cards o' Glee Shop and on these social sites:FacebookInstagramKEYWORDSNicole Twardzik, Cards o' Glee, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#NicoleTwardzik #CardsoGlee #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.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by ZakharValaha from Pixabay.

Nov 21, 2024 • 35min
2024 The Best of Boulder City - Coffee Shop: Dam Roast House & Browder Bookstore
Misty Magruder & Amber Stephens, co-owners of the Dam Roast House & Browder Bookstore in Boulder City's Historic Downtown, join Jill Lagan in today's episode of the "The Best Dam Podcast."The Dam Roast House & Browder Bookstore received the 2024 Best of Boulder City Award for the best coffee shop. Misty, Amber, along with their partner, Travis, contribute their unique insights into creating a vibrant community space that celebrates local flavors and creativity. DISCUSSION HIGHLIGHTSEvent Planning and Unique OfferingsAchievements and RecognitionPersonal Connections and Community BuildingBook Discussions and Reading HabitsFamily Involvement and SupportNew Business Ventures and Market TrendsBusiness Origin Stories and Career BackgroundsAddressing Misconceptions and Market RealitiesCommunity Initiatives and SupportRetail and Product Offering EvolutionInteraction with Customers and Community EngagementPersonal and Humorous MomentsFood and Beverage OfferingsBusiness Operation and DynamicsLEARN MOREClick here to learn more about the Dam Roast House & Browder Bookstore, and on these social sites:FacebookInstagramYelpKEYWORDSMisty Magruder, Amber Stephens, Dam Roast House & Browder Bookstore, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#Misty Magruder #AmberStephens #Dam Roast House #BrowderBookstore #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.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by ZakharValaha from Pixabay.

Nov 14, 2024 • 45min
Boulder City Bears: James Cracolici Shares Secrets to Success in Youth Sports and Community Engagement
James Cracolici, the president and co-founder of the Boulder City Bears Youth Football and Cheerleading organization, joins Jill Lagan in today's episode of the "The Best Dam Podcast." The Boulder City Bears Youth Football and Cheerleading organization is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to fostering youth sports in our community. Jill and James dive into the resurgence of your football and cheerleading for Boulder City youth, and discuss the ways James and his team are making sports more affordable for families, and celebrate the ups and downs of building a successful youth sports program. DISCUSSION POINTSMaking Sports Accessible — [00:03:31 → 00:03:38]Safety in Youth Tackle Football — [00:11:23 → 00:11:27]Parents' Concerns About Tackle Football — [00:13:20 → 00:13:26]The Evolution of Football Safety — [00:14:15 → 00:14:26]Preparing the Next Generation for Success — [00:18:25 → 00:18:31]The True Goal of Coaching — [00:22:52 → 00:23:24]The Impact of Coaching — [00:24:22 → 00:24:26]How to Build a Successful Organization — [00:25:04 → 00:25:09]Cherish and Protect Our Town — [00:35:33 → 00:35:59]Generational Goals — [00:37:31 → 00:38:16]LEARN MOREClick here to learn more about the Boulder City Bears Youth Football & Cheerleading, and on these social sites: FacebookInstagramKEYWORDSJames Cracolici, Boulder City Bears, Youth Football & Cheerleading, Jill Lagan, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, The Best Dam Podcast, Podcast Interview#JamesCracolici #BoulderCityBears #YouthFootball&Cheerleading #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.Music for the Best Dam Podcast was created by ZakharValaha from Pixabay.