Mining Minds

Hector Denogean, a third-generation miner, travels all the way from Arizona to join Mining Minds in studio to share his journey in the mining industry. Hector takes us back to his first job, fresh out of school, where he learned the ropes of working with people—managing personalities, building bonds, and understanding the importance of teamwork in the mine. He sought to earn the respect of his peers, prove his worth, and overcome the challenges of the job.

We discuss the boom-and-bust cycles that have shaped his career. Hector recalls the gut-wrenching moment when he was pulled out of the mine mid-shift because the company was closing its doors. He reflects on overcoming the challenges of sinking shafts in the hot, wet mines of Arizona, where both brute strength and engineering were required to complete the task.

He also shares the darkest part of his journey—the loss of co-workers. In this candid conversation, Hector reveals how that tragedy became a turning point in his career, inspiring him to partner with management to foster a culture of safety. He emphasizes the importance of humility, the value of listening to experienced miners, and the power of working together. Hector believes mining is, at its core, a people industry—where the miners, not just the ore, define the company.

This episode is a raw and inspiring tribute to the resilience of miners, the deep connections forged underground, and the human side of an industry often known for its tough exterior. Tune in after the podcast to hear one of Hectors own songs--Miners Nightmare! Join Mining Minds as we Welcome Hector Denogean to the Face!

Liebherr Mining

FAST2 Mine

Mining Minds DiSC

Get ready for a special episode of Mining Minds as we hit the greens at the White Pine County Golf Course for the Eastern Nevada SME’s annual scholarship fundraiser! This event is all about bringing the community and region together to support the future of mining. We had the unique privilege of sitting down with some bright young minds to discuss how the mining industry can improve and what steps we need to take to prepare the next generation of miners. @Tayorbrunson, @Tanner Brunson, @Kason Ernest

We also caught up with Nick Tallerico, the talented artist who kept the event buzzing! From his first performance in a small-town bar at a young age to handling those tricky song requests, Nick’s music journey is one you don’t want to miss. His album is set to drop soon, and he’ll be joining us in the studio to dive deeper into his musical and mining journey. In the meantime, check him out at @hollowwoodsounds.

Mining Minds is proud to be part of this incredible event and to support the positive impact the Eastern Nevada SME is making on future miners. Join the conversation! 

Liebherr Mining

Motor Mission Machine and Radiator

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Ill Zakiel - 775

Mining Minds dives deep into the transformative power of AI in the mining industry, led by the visionary CTO and Co-founder of Razor Labs, Michael Zolotov. From his roots in Ukraine to his successful immigration to Israel, Michael shares his unique journey—growing up in a family of doctors, leveraging his military background, and ultimately pioneering cutting-edge AI technology in the mining sector.

Michael discusses the revolutionary impact of Razor Labs’ AI-driven fusion technology, explaining how it’s poised to change the face of mining operations. We explore how this technology is enhancing operational efficiencies, prolonging component life cycles, reducing maintenance costs, and significantly improving safety by enabling more planned work.

But with any new technology comes the challenge of trust. Michael sheds light on how Razor Labs has tackled this challenge head-on, building strong relationships with mining operations around the world and proving the reliability and value of their solutions. Join Mining Minds as we Welcome Michael Zolotov to the Face!

Meet Razor Labs in Las Vegas at the Mine Expo

Liebherr Mining

Motor Mission Machine and Radiator

FAST2 Mine

Ill Zakiel – Feeling Good

Join us in the studio as we chat with John Simpson, Southwest Regional Manager for Arnold Machinery, who shares his incredible journey from a young boy greasing equipment in Colorado to a seasoned leader in the mining industry. Growing up working for his dad, John was introduced to hard work early on, but his passion for rodeo led him to meet world-class individuals and eventually become a rodeo judge.

John opens up about his transition into the mining industry, drawn by the regular schedule, steady pay, and the benefits that come with the job. Over the years, he’s climbed the ranks, holding multiple leadership roles where he learned the critical importance of supporting and engaging with his teams.

In this episode, we dive deep into the strategies behind planning, reliability, and production—key drivers in the mining sector. John also shares his thoughts on the value of family, the importance of feeling valued at work, and his hopes for the next generation of miners. Join Mining Minds as we Welcome John Simpson to the Face! 

Mining Minds -DiSC

Motor Mission Machine and Radiator

FAST2 Mine 

Ill Zakiel - Drive

In this episode, Mining Minds welcomes Amanda Christensen, Regional Manager for Komatsu in Elko and President of the Nevada Chapter Women in Mining. Amanda shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Montana, where she was heavily involved in sports, to becoming a second-generation miner. Starting as a driller helper, Amanda has worked in various roles, including environmental, maintenance, and material handling, while also running her own business, Thin Air Powersports. Amanda offers valuable insights on the importance of simplicity, the power of asking questions, and learning from failure. Join Mining Minds as we welcome Amanda Christensen to the Face! 

Komatsu - Careers

Rubicon Mechanical

Motor Mission Machine and Radiator

Fast2 Mine

On this episode of the Mining Minds podcast, we sit down for a quick chat about the 2024 Elko Mining Expo, Breaking Rock with Mining Minds, and what we've been up to this summer.

Tune in as we detail some studio highlights, talk about upcoming guests, and walk through some exciting new opportunities for the second half of 2024!

Don't miss out on all the latest updates and insights from Mining Minds and don’t forget to Brass in with your comments, opinions and ideas for future episodes.  

Liebherr Mining

FAST2 Mine

Motor Mission Machine and Radiator

Ill Zakiel

On this episode of the Mining Minds podcast, we sit down with surveyor extraordinaire Leatha Reeves to explore her remarkable mining journey! Raised in small-town Nevada, Leatha chose to stay home instead of accepting a full-ride volleyball scholarship. Her journey began while waitressing at a local restaurant, where she was recruited to work at the mines as a surveyor, and she hasn’t looked back since.

Leatha shares her experiences of early underground mining in southern Nevada, the impactful relationships she has built over her 35-year career, and how she gained her vast knowledge and stellar reputation through sweat equity. She also discusses the exciting future of mining, influenced by gamers and technology, and how she inspired her daughter to join the industry. Leatha highlights why surveying is the best job, humorously noting that you get to tell people where to go and what to do! Join Mining Minds as we welcome Leatha Reeves to the podcast!

Liebherr Mining

FAST2 Mine

Motor Mission Machine and Radiator

Ill Zakiel – Gold Country

Happy Mother's Day to all the incredible mothers out there! On this episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with a true matriarch, Grandma Sally Trujillo. Her warmth, wisdom, and boundless love have shaped us in ways we can never repay. As we sipped coffee in her living room, we soaked in her life's remarkable journey and cherished her unforgettable tales. Grandma Sally epitomizes seizing every moment, giving selflessly, and loving unconditionally. She's a beacon of inspiration, reminding us to embrace life's beauty and spread love wherever we go. Join Mining Minds as we wish a Happy Mother’s Day to our, Grandma Sally, and to all the extraordinary mothers who enrich our lives every day.

Motor Mission Machine and Radiator

Liebherr Mining

FAST2 Mine

In the latest episode of our podcast, Mining Minds, had the honor of sitting down with the incredible Sam Faga, External Affairs Superintendent for Kinross Nevada. Sam's journey is nothing short of inspiring - from overcoming challenges as a young parent to navigating through tough economic times, her resilience shines through.

Starting as a medical assistant, Sam discovered her passion for mining and hasn't looked back since. Her positivity is contagious, and her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance. Through her career, she's found not only professional success but also lifelong friendships and a deep sense of fulfillment.

With her heart set on shaping the future of mining, she's now dedicating herself to mentoring and empowering the next generation of workforce. Join Mining Minds as we welcome Sam Faga to the Face!

Motor Mission Machine and Radiator 

Liebherr

Fast2 Mine

Ill Zakiel

Join us in welcoming Aaron Witt, the self-proclaimed "Chief Dirt Nerd" and CEO of BuildWitt, as he sits down with Mining Minds and Joseph Kemp, VP and GM of Kinross Gold Corporation - Nevada, for an industry chat you won't want to miss!

Aaron's journey from a kid with no exposure to the dirt world to a passionate advocate for the mining industry is truly amazing. He's turning his childhood passion into a thriving career, and he's here to share his insights with us.

Aaron discusses the value of learning from failure, the courage it takes to enter a new industry, and the importance of exposure and experience. We'll also dive into the potential for young talent in mining, the significance of recognizing development at all levels, and the power of collaboration as we embrace the next generation of mining. Join Mining Minds as we welcome Aaron Witt to the Face! 

Click Here to watch Aaron's Trip to Nevada

BuildWitt

Kinross Gold Corporation

Motor Mission Machine and Radiator

Liebherr Mining

Fast2 Mine

Ill Zakiel