Connect.Vegas

In this episode of the Connect Vegas Podcast, host Ben Laifsky interviews Andrew Woods, director of the Center for Business and Economic Research at University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The conversation explores how applied economic research shapes decision-making across Southern Nevada, from population forecasting to long-term infrastructure planning. Woods explains the center’s role as a bridge between academic economics and real-world application, supporting government, business, and community stakeholders with data-driven insights.

The discussion covers Las Vegas’s growth trajectory, including demographic shifts, housing and land constraints, and the increasing importance of international migration. Woods emphasizes the need for long-term thinking, economic diversification, and a cohesive regional vision to sustain quality of life. He also discusses how emerging forces like AI, economic shocks, and policy changes impact forecasting and planning. The episode blends technical economic analysis with a human-centered perspective on how policy, data, and community intersect.

Key Highlights

• The Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) acts as an applied economics “consultant for the public,” translating academic research into actionable insights.
• Las Vegas has grown from ~330,000 residents in 1975 to ~2.4 million today, with long-term forecasting playing a central role in planning.
• Population growth is increasingly driven by international migration, particularly from Asia, rather than domestic migration alone.
• Southern Nevada is projected to add roughly 340,000 residents over the next 20 years, though this is subject to policy and migration trends.
• Key constraints facing the region include land availability, infrastructure capacity, and maintaining quality of life amid growth.
• Economic diversification remains a critical challenge, with healthcare, manufacturing, and tech identified as potential growth sectors.
• Las Vegas is particularly vulnerable to economic shocks due to reliance on consumer spending and tourism.
• The “Brews and Economic Views” series fosters dialogue between academics, business leaders, and the public in an informal setting.
• AI is expected to increase productivity and demand for skilled labor rather than simply replace jobs, especially in knowledge industries.
• A major gap identified is the lack of a unified long-term vision for the region’s economic future.

Notable Quotes

• “Think of us like consultants, but on behalf of the taxpayer.”
• “We’re really susceptible in terms of our growth to who is moving here and what is that demographic.”
• “It’s like adding another city of Henderson in the next ten, fifteen, twenty years.”
• “We shouldn’t be the poster child for the highest unemployment rate every time something like this happens.”
• “I think one of our deficits is we don’t think long term enough.”
• “If the challenges are created by humans, then the solutions are going to be man-made as well.”
• “It’s better to fail conventionally than succeed unconventionally.” (referencing John Maynard Keynes)
• “We’re preparing to do more, not less, with AI.”

Ben Laifsky interviews Sean Gigremosa, CEO of Claritiv, about how Claritiv helps trade show and conference exhibitors capture conversation context at scale. Sean explains the pivot from a product-management tool to a white-glove, hardware-plus-platform solution that records booth conversations, extracts intent and pain points, and produces prioritized, personalized follow-ups and performance insights. They also cover Claritiv’s multi-model AI architecture, Sean’s background and move to Las Vegas during COVID, the company’s branding journey, and the realities of fundraising and defining an MVP.

Topics Covered

• Claritiv solves a trade show exhibitor pain: lots of conversations, but little usable context for follow-up beyond business cards.
• The product includes a lanyard-style capture device that auto-records conversations in noisy environments, plus a platform that analyzes them.
• Claritiv delivers white-glove onsite operations (device handling, uploads) and daily/end-of-show reporting.
• Outputs include prospect summaries, questions/pain points, sentiment/engagement signals, and prioritized follow-up guidance.
• Claritiv can evaluate exhibitor staff performance and recommend improvements to increase ROI from shows.
• The tech stack is modular (LLMs/NLP + sentiment/tonality + theme detection + aggregation/synthesis) and designed to stay model-agnostic.
• Sean describes “extreme hospitality” as a differentiator versus app-only tools.
• Fundraising/valuation at early stage is framed as uncertain; Sean emphasizes traction via signed contracts and seeking investor-partners, not just capital.

Key Quotes

• “The main problem that they have is context from conversations.”
• “At the end of the day I get like a stack of business cards with little to no context.”
• “As long as you’re good at talking… and asking the right questions… everything else is handled by the platform.”
• “The important thing for us… is that aggregation… that synthesis.”
• “Extreme hospitality… you go not just above and beyond, but you go even past that.”
• “The best feedback is real feedback… regardless if it’s perfect or not.”

Ben sits down with longtime Las Vegas mortgage professional David Yurkovchak to talk about his 20+ year journey in the industry, his passion for financial literacy, the realities of qualifying for a home in a unique market like Las Vegas, and how the city itself has evolved from a transient casino town into a true community and sports hub. 

Highlighted Topics

• David’s background in mortgages and 20+ years of industry experience
• Truth-first approach and setting realistic expectations with clients
• How buyers misunderstand income, credit, and affordability
• Unique financial and employment landscape in Las Vegas
• David’s early life, work ethic, and quirky first jobs
• Transition from broadcast journalism aspirations to mortgage banking
• The importance of financial literacy and credit education
• Problems with online mortgage misinformation
• Market cycles, interest rates, and why 2008–style crashes are unlikely
• Buyer psychology, competition, and emotional home shopping
• David’s partnerships with CPAs, estate planners, and credit coaches
• Community involvement, networking groups, and nonprofits in Las Vegas
• Personal recommendations for food, views, and Las Vegas life

Welcome to Connect Vegas, the podcast that interviews the leaders and creators who build our community—the people who make Las Vegas into the best place to live, work, and visit.

I’m your host, Ben Laifsky, and in this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with my friend Gina Yager, CEO and founder of GYC Vegas. Gina is one of the most respected PR professionals in town, with over 25 years of experience helping businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs tell their stories and gain visibility.

In our conversation, Gina shares insights into the art of public relations, her personal journey from Southern California to building a successful agency in Las Vegas, and how she continues to give back to the community through nonprofits and mentorship.

Key Comments from the Conversation

• Gina describes her agency’s ideal clients: innovative businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits of all sizes.
• She explains the value of PR in today’s fast-moving world, helping brands control narratives, build trust, and stay relevant.
• She shares her personal background, from wanting to be a fashion designer as a child to unexpectedly finding her path in PR.
• Gina recounts the challenge and fear of starting her own firm, and how networking through the Chamber of Commerce gave her early momentum.
• She highlights misunderstandings about PR—many think it’s just parties, red carpets, or press releases—while in reality it’s a strategic and creative process.
• Gina emphasizes the importance of integrated marketing, noting that PR works best alongside advertising, social media, and other efforts.
• She talks about Vegas as a community, how it feels like a small town where connections are vital and everyone is willing to help.

Notable Quotes

• “Every business has a compelling story to tell, but they often struggle to effectively communicate it. That’s where PR becomes invaluable.”
• “Perception can shift in an instant. PR helps you control that narrative, stay relevant, and build trust.”
• “I always say we just love telling really cool stories.”
• “I was terrified when I started my own agency. But walking into that Chamber expo gave me my first client—and they’re still with me today.”
• “People trust what others say about you more than what you say about yourself. PR helps you earn that trust.”
• “If I was down to my last dollar, I’d spend it on PR.” – quoting Bill Gates
• “Vegas is still a small town. Everyone is one degree away from knowing the right person to connect you with.”

In this episode of Connect Vegas, host Ben Laifsky sits down with Pete Radd, a multi-talented Las Vegas musician, jingle producer, and recording artist. Pete shares his journey from performing piano at the Bellagio to producing iconic jingles heard across the nation. He dives into the lasting power of a great jingle in a modern media landscape, the art of collaborating with clients, and the exciting evolution of his career into recording relaxing piano music now available on all major platforms. Along the way, Pete offers thoughtful insights into marketing, branding, and the magic of combining audio and strategy to create lasting impressions.

Highlights

• Pete’s career journey: From live pianist to studio producer and recording artist
• The strategic role jingles play in modern marketing campaigns
• Why mid-sized markets are driving jingle demand today
• How Pete collaborates with clients to craft the perfect jingle
• Examples of jingles Pete created for UNLV Tickets, Glenn Lerner Injury Attorneys, and Findlay Chevrolet
• The art of embedding phone numbers and websites into jingles
• Why visual presentation is crucial even for audio branding
• Pete’s views on how Las Vegas has evolved since the 1980s
• Favorite Las Vegas organizations and networking groups
• Advice on personal branding and social media posting
• Pete’s recommendation of Linchpin by Seth Godin as a must-read for creating career value

In this episode of the Connect Vegas Podcast, host Ben Laifsky sits down with James Richey, founder of JouleFit, a revolutionary fitness technology company based in Las Vegas. James shares his journey from mechanical engineering to entrepreneurship, and how he combined his lifelong passion for fitness, robotics, and data science to create a smarter, faster, and safer way to work out. Together, they discuss JouleFit's mission to transform fitness through AI-driven, robotic equipment — and how their ambitious plan could influence health outcomes on a global scale.

If you’ve ever wished you could get a full-body workout in just 15 minutes (without even breaking a sweat), this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

• What JouleFit Offers: 
  • A spa-like fitness studio with facial recognition
  • Robotic machines that automatically adjust to each user's body
  • 15-minute, data-driven workouts requiring only two sessions a week
• The Science Behind It: 
  • Real-time force matching with robotic actuators (no weights)
  • 50,000+ data points collected during each workout
  • Gamified experience tracking your personal best performance
• James’s Background: 
  • Grew up in Indiana without TV, focused on outdoor activities and reading
  • Mechanical engineering career combined with lifelong love of sports
  • Inspiration from Body by Science by Dr. Doug McGuff
• Vision for JouleFit: 
  • Opening flagship locations in Las Vegas
  • Building 10,000 locations over the next 10 years
  • Collecting massive health and wellness data sets to optimize personal fitness and health outcomes
• JouleFit's Unique Approach: 
  • Suitable for busy professionals, older adults, and athletes
  • Eliminates intimidation of traditional gyms
  • Focus on safe, injury-free training even for seniors
• Las Vegas Insights: 
  • Growth of the tech and biotech community in Las Vegas
  • Favorite local spots like Red Rock Canyon and top networking groups like Fusion 42 and Tech Alley

In this episode of the Connect Vegas Podcast, host Ben Laifsky sits down with Adam Lopez, an experienced IT professional and the President of CMIT Solutions of Las Vegas. Adam shares insights into cybersecurity, small business tech needs, and his mission to make IT approachable for everyone—from large enterprises to everyday users. With a background in casino IT and a passion for community education, Adam is working to shape the future of cybersecurity and IT training in Las Vegas.

Listeners will walk away with a better understanding of modern cybersecurity threats, actionable ways to protect their business, and an appreciation for how local IT providers like CMIT Solutions are supporting Southern Nevada’s business landscape.

Key Topics Covered:

• CMIT Solutions Overview: Local managed service provider offering IT helpdesk, cybersecurity, and endpoint monitoring for SMBs and larger clients.
• Cybersecurity Challenges: Common threats like phishing, smishing, and QR scams; why people are the weakest link in security.
• Affordable Protection: Preventative tools like EDR and multi-factor authentication—even basic plans for as low as $19.99/month.
• Security Operations Center (SOC) Vision: Adam’s plan to build a nonprofit SOC/SIEM in Las Vegas focused on training and youth development.
• Background in Casino IT: 20+ years in major gaming companies like Caesars, Hard Rock, and Golden Entertainment.
• Education and Community Impact: Collaborations with Tech Impact, LVEP, and veterans’ organizations to train and place new IT talent.
• Proactive IT Philosophy: Moving from break/fix to preventative care, with a strong focus on local customer service.
• Business Ownership Journey: Transition from corporate roles to building his own CMIT franchise and lessons learned from entrepreneurship.
• Favorite Local Recommendations: Meals at Viva Zapatas and North Italia, city views from Foundation Room and Sunset Road, and appreciation for Las Vegas’s fast-paced growth.

Key Quotes:

• “Unfortunately, we’re always the pound of cure. People often call us after something has already gone wrong.”
• “Phishing is still the number one threat—but smishing and QR phishing are growing fast.”
• “Vegas is still a small town. We all know someone in every industry. It makes this city special.”
• “Customer service is number one. We’re not here for a dollar—we’re here to be your partner.”
• “Opportunities don’t just happen. You create them through hard work, perseverance, and lifting others as you rise.”
• “Training and education are the cheapest—and best—ways to prevent cyber attacks.”
• “It’s okay to ask questions. IT shouldn’t be intimidating. Questions are free.”
• “We’re trying to stop these SOCs from going offshore by building talent here in Las Vegas.”

This episode of the Connect.Vegas Podcast, hosted by Ben Laifsky, features a conversation with Jay Vickers, Chief Operating Officer of the UNLV Sports Innovation Institute. The discussion highlights the pivotal role of the Institute in Las Vegas’ growth as a global sports and entertainment capital.

Key Highlights:

1. Overview of UNLV Sports Innovation Institute: 
   • Serves as a hub for research, collaboration, and education in the sports industry.
   • Facilitates internships and partnerships with major sports organizations like the Raiders, UFC, and Golden Knights.
   • Hosts events like SEIcon to foster innovation, collaboration, and deal-making in sports.
   • Initiatives like the SPEED Lab (Sports Performance Education Economic Development) bring mobile education and resources to underserved communities.
2. Notable Achievements: 
   • Collaboration with Syracuse University and other entities for impactful research.
   • Hosting a groundbreaking fully paid internship program for the Super Bowl Host Committee, enabling students to gain invaluable hands-on experience.
   • Catalyst Grant Program, reinvesting nearly $1M in research and innovation at UNLV.
3. Las Vegas as a Philanthropic and Sports Hub: 
   • Celebrates Las Vegas’ transformation into the sports and entertainment capital of the world.
   • Emphasizes the city’s small-town values and strong philanthropic community.
4. Jay’s Personal Journey: 
   • From growing up in Thomasville, GA, and Tallahassee, FL, to earning a scholarship at Notre Dame.
   • Transitioned from corporate roles to higher education and sports innovation.
   • Advocates for broadening awareness of diverse career opportunities in sports beyond playing and coaching.
5. Leadership Insights: 
   • Stresses the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and empathy.
   • Incorporates core values—Heart: Hardworking, Excellence with Integrity, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork—into his leadership style.
6. Future Goals: 
   • Plans to impact healthcare through athletic care initiatives.
   • Committed to furthering student and community opportunities in sports and innovation.

In this episode, host Ben Laifsky interviews Leah Martin, a prominent business attorney and principal of Leah Martin Law. Leah shares her professional journey, insights into business law, her love for networking, and her personal interests. With offices in Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Reno, Leah’s firm specializes in supporting businesses at all stages, from formation to growth and litigation. She also highlights her passion for helping businesses succeed through tailored legal strategies.

The conversation dives into Leah’s upbringing, career development, and love for hiking and reading, as well as her involvement in community organizations and networking groups. The episode balances professional advice with personal anecdotes, making it a valuable listen for business owners and professionals alike.

Highlights

Professional Insights

• Business Law Services: Leah’s firm handles business formation, licensing, contracts, trademarks, estate planning, and litigation.
• Client Relationships: The firm values collaboration, working closely with clients to tailor solutions to their unique needs.
• Contracts Matter: Leah emphasizes the importance of well-drafted contracts to avoid costly litigation.
• Common Misconceptions: Business attorneys aren’t just for bad news—they are crucial for growth and strategic planning.

Personal Background

• Early Life: Leah grew up in small towns in Indiana and Nevada, fostering creativity and independence.
• Career Path: Inspired by books like those by John Grisham, Leah pursued law but shifted from environmental law to business law after exploring various legal fields.
• Hiking Enthusiast: Leah enjoys hikes in the Las Vegas area, citing Lone Mountain and River Mountain Trail as favorites.
• Avid Reader: Leah recommends books like The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod and Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell to inspire productivity and balance.

Networking and Community

• Active Networker: Leah is involved in chambers of commerce, including Leadership Henderson, which she credits for deep professional and personal connections.
• Nonprofit Support: She praises organizations like Project Marilyn and the CARE Complex for their impactful community work.

Personal Philosophy

• Leah encourages taking action toward goals, advocating for incremental steps to achieve success.

Highlights:

• Introduction to Blackfire Innovation: Nicole describes Blackfire as a laboratory and showroom for cutting-edge technology in hospitality, gaming, and entertainment. Established through a partnership between UNLV and Caesars Entertainment, it showcases innovations from both major companies like LG and T-Mobile and UNLV students.
• Key Facilities and Programs: 
  • SBDC: Nevada Small Business Development Center offers free confidential advising for small businesses.
  • Rebel Forge: A startup incubator for UNLV students, helping them launch their own businesses.
  • Makerspace: Supports small businesses preparing for trade shows and provides tools for prototyping.
• Profile of Blackfire’s Tenants: Focus on businesses innovating in hospitality, gaming, or entertainment, with examples like robotic cleaning solutions and immersive gaming tables.
• Unique Events and Partnerships: 
  • Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association Expo: Annual event at Blackfire featuring innovations in hotel and lodging technology.
  • Demo Days: Events focused on showcasing a specific technology, with Brylon’s immersive display and robotics panel featuring LG and other companies.
  • Pitch Mayhem and Speed Networking: Regular events at Blackfire for startups, including pitch competitions and networking with industry professionals.
  • Capital Equity Symposium: Upcoming event dedicated to startup funding, addressing Nevada's need for more capital investment opportunities.
• Nicole’s Background: Born and raised in Henderson, Nicole shares her journey from aspiring child actor to her role in UNLV's Office of Economic Development.
• Personal Insights and Advice: 
  • Favorite Books: Tuesdays with Morrie and Oh, the Places You’ll Go as reminders of life’s journey and balance.
  • Philosophy on Life: “Life is about choices”—advice from her father that guides her career and personal growth.