The Best Dam Podcast

Jill Lagan
  • 4.5 (6)
  • ARTS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

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. 

  1. Lady Lux Cleaning: Workforce Development, Second Chances, and Clean Spaces

    2D AGO

    Lady Lux Cleaning: Workforce Development, Second Chances, and Clean Spaces

    In this episode of The Best Dam Podcast, Jill sits down with Celeste Interrante, the founder of Lady Lux Cleaning, a woman-owned business in Nevada built on the pillars of sustainability, non-toxic standards, and a radical commitment to second-chance hiring. Celeste shares her journey from being a construction pro and landscape contractor to applying for 500 jobs and being rejected by nearly everyone—a challenge that fueled her to build her own empire. Celeste explores the heart of her mission, redefining her business as a "workforce development company that cleans spaces." From mentoring individuals through programs like "Hope for Prisoners" to navigating the complexities of government certifications (DBE), this episode highlights the importance of balancing high-end excellence with deep personal empathy and a commitment to seeing others succeed. DISCUSSION Workforce Development: Celeste views her company as a vehicle for personal growth, helping second-chance hires transition from the bus to owning vehicles and leading others.The"Enough" Realization: A deep dive into Celeste's philosophy that being comfortable in your own skin allows you to handle the judgments and opinions of the outside world.Non-Toxic Standards: Why providing an alternative to everyday cleaning products is essential for clients with allergies or adverse reactions.The Construction Connection: How Celeste’s background in framing, plumbing, and electrical work gives her a unique edge in managing post-construction cleanups.Cooperation Over Competition: An exploration of how Boulder City business owners support each other through masterminds and mutual referrals.Certification Advocacy: A look at the DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) program and the new requirements for personal narratives to ensure system integrity.LEARN MORE Lady Lux Cleaning Co: Offering refined, non-toxic residential, commercial, and construction cleaning services. https://www.ladyluxcleaningco.com/Second Chance Hiring: Learn about Celeste's work with programs like Hope for Prisoners to provide "a hand up" to those re-entering the workforce.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ladyluxcleaningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ladyluxcleaningLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ladyluxcleaningKEYWORDS Celeste Interrante, Lady Lux Cleaning, Second Chance Hiring, Non-Toxic Cleaning, DBE Certification, The Best Dam Podcast, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce Podcast Interview #CelesteInterrante #LadyLuxCleaning #SecondChanceHiring #WorkforceDevelopment #BoulderCity #WomenInBusiness #TheBestDamPodcast #PodcastInterview

    42 min
  2. The Man Behind the Machine: Fortune Tellers, Slot Machines, and Animatronics

    APR 21

    The Man Behind the Machine: Fortune Tellers, Slot Machines, and Animatronics

    In this episode of The Best Dam Podcast, Jill sits down with Olaf Stanton, the founder of Characters Unlimited, to discuss his 40-year journey as the creative force behind some of the world's most iconic animatronic figures. From his early days selling life-sized characters out of a van to trademarking the world-famous Zoltar, Olaf shares how his passion for making "dummies" evolved into an international business that turns local storefronts into major attractions. Olaf explores the evolution of his craft, from traditional wood-carved looks to complex talking and moving figures that have become staples in restaurants, museums, and casinos worldwide. With deep roots in Boulder City and a business that survived a devastating fire, this episode highlights the resilience of a family-run enterprise and the whimsical spirit required to bring characters like pirates, cowboys, and fortune tellers to life. DISCUSSION The"House That Dummies Built": Olaf reflects on his 1986 start in a duplex garage, where he and his wife Krishun built their first characters and traveled for weeks at a time to sell them across the country.The Zoltar Legacy: The story of how Olaf trademarked the "Zoltar" name in 2006—nearly 20 years after the movie Big made the character famous—securing his place as the official home of the legendary fortune teller.Attraction-Based Marketing: Olaf explains why life-sized, animated characters are a vital investment for small businesses, serving as memory makers and "crowd-pullers" for locations ranging from the Southwest Diner to international gift shops.The Casino Connection: A look into the expansion of the brand into the gaming world, including Zoltar-themed slot machines and scratch-off lottery tickets that bring the character's "whimsical future" to the casino floor.High-Stakes Deliveries: Olaf recounts hilarious and stressful moments on the road, including being pulled over by the Border Patrol under suspicion of hauling illegal aliens and a helicopter chase involving a "hostage situation" that was actually just a bubble-wrapped mannequin.Resilience After the Fire: A discussion on the 2022 shop fire that forced a total remodel and a "cleansing process" for the business, which Olaf credits as a reset that allowed his children to help take the company to the next level.Immortalized in Detail: A fascinating look at the craftsmanship behind the figures, including the fact that every talking character features a mold of Olaf’s own upper teeth.LEARN MORE Characters Unlimited: https://www.charactersunlimited.com/ The official home of Zoltar and a premier creator of life-sized animatronic characters for over three decades.The Home of Zoltar: Located in Boulder City, Nevada, the shop features a "swag room" with hats, t-shirts, and even Zoltar-branded wine, where the label peels off to reveal a fortune.Products & Customization: Specialized in custom likenesses (including deceased relatives), talking fortune tellers, love testers, and classic Western and pirate-themed animatronics.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoltarOfficial/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charactersunlimited/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/charactersunlimited1KEYWORDS Olaf Stanton, Zoltar, Characters Unlimited, Animatronics, The Best Dam Podcast, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce #OlafStanton #Zoltar #CharactersUnlimited #Animatronics #TheBestDamPodcast #BoulderCityChamberofCommerce

    33 min
  3. Neighbors Helping Neighbors: The 60-Year Legacy of Emergency Aid of Boulder City

    APR 14

    Neighbors Helping Neighbors: The 60-Year Legacy of Emergency Aid of Boulder City

    In this episode of The Best Dam Podcast, Jill sits down with Kathleen Morris and Mary Ralph, the current and past presidents of Emergency Aid of Boulder City (EABC). They explore the 60-year history of this vital volunteer-led organization and its mission to provide a safety net for residents facing food insecurity and financial crises. From its humble beginnings during the construction of the Hoover Dam to its modern-day role as a cornerstone of community support, Kathleen and Mary share the heart and logistics behind "neighbors helping neighbors". DISCUSSION The Dam Era Origins: The organization traces its roots back to the construction of the Hoover Dam, when workers shared food during a brief strike; this eventually morphed into a formal charity incorporated in March 1966.Preventing Crisis: The EABC mission focuses on providing emergency rent and utility assistance to prevent residents from becoming unhoused and on intervening before a situation escalates into a full-blown crisis.The Client-Choice Pantry: Unlike many regional food banks, EABC operates a "client-choice" pantry, allowing residents to pick their own groceries weekly rather than receiving a pre-packed monthly box.Economic Pressures: Kathleen discusses the recent challenges of lower grant funding and rising food costs, noting that the organization has had to begin purchasing meat and staples that were previously provided by government programs.The Growing Senior Need: While general assistance numbers have fluctuated, the organization is seeing a significant increase in seniors on fixed incomes who rely on the pantry for easy-to-prepare meals.High-Impact Volunteering: Operating with nearly 150 volunteers during peak seasons and only one part-time paid employee, the organization ensures that donations stay in Boulder City to support local programs.Fundraising Innovation: The 2023 Gala featured a "cash call" that raised over $58,000, specifically funding new industrial freezers and refrigerators to handle massive food donations.LEARN MORE Emergency Aid of Boulder City: Located at 600 Nevada Way in the Department of Water and Power building.Pantry Hours: Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM.Assistance Services: The intake office for rent and utility help is open Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.Community Events: EABC organizes "Boulder City Angels" at Christmas to provide gifts for children and seniors, as well as annual back-to-school drives.Donation Opportunities: Local residents can support the mission through the annual Postal Food Drive, Albertsons gift card donations, or by dropping off food at the back gate during operating hours.Website: https://www.eabcnv.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BCNVEmergencyAidInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/eabcnv/KEYWORDS Emergency Aid of Boulder City, The Best Dam Podcast, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce Podcast Interview  #EmergencyAidofBoulderCity #TheBestDamPodcast #BoulderCityChamberofCommerce #PodcastInterview

    37 min
  4. Las Vegas Wedding Connection: The Wedding Industry's Role in the Las Vegas Economy

    MAR 31

    Las Vegas Wedding Connection: The Wedding Industry's Role in the Las Vegas Economy

    In this episode of The Best Dam Podcast, Jill sits down with Joni Moss Graham, the owner of Las Vegas Wedding Connection, to discuss her 35-year journey as a leader in the world-renowned Las Vegas wedding industry. From her early days as a florist in Houston to building a "tourism-first" wedding powerhouse, Joni shares how her career evolved from traditional floral design into managing a high-volume, multi-faceted events company. Joni explores the vital role of the wedding industry in the Nevada economy, managing a significant portion of the 70,000 to 100,000 weddings that take place in Las Vegas annually. With a focus on unique "themed" experiences and deep community roots, this episode highlights the heart behind the "I Do" and the logistical expertise required to help couples navigate one of the most important days of their lives. DISCUSSION The Tourism-First Strategy: Joni explains her unique business model, where she views herself as part of the tourism industry first, allowing her to integrate major attractions like the High Roller and Meow Wolf into wedding packages. The $2 Billion Impact: A look at the massive economic scale of the Las Vegas wedding market, which generates billions in revenue and includes a growing "vow renewal" segment that accounts for roughly 20% of the business.High-Stakes Logistics: Joni discusses the critical importance of time management in a city with mega-events like F1 and NASCAR, where a 10-minute drive can easily turn into an hour-long delay.The"Duck on Water" Philosophy: Reflecting on the chaos of the wedding day—from dresses stuck in escalators to brides needing to be sewn into their gowns—Joni shares how maintaining outward calmness is essential for a professional planner.Mentorship & Education: Joni recounts her "full circle" moment creating the wedding planning curriculum for CSN (College of Southern Nevada), where she spent 12 years teaching the next generation of industry professionals.Emotional Resilience: A touching look at the "vulnerability" of weddings, where Joni often finds herself acting as a counselor, psychologist, and even a surrogate family member for couples eloping alone.LEARN MORE Las Vegas Wedding Connection: https://www.lvweddingconnection.com/ Providing comprehensive wedding, proposal, and vow renewal services in Las Vegas for over three decades.Services Offered: Specialized in unique themed weddings (including the Cadillac and Meow Wolf), traditional ceremonies, professional photography, floral design, and luxury transportation.Community Leadership: Joni is a heavily involved member of the Las Vegas Wedding Chamber and a Commissioner for the Nevada Commission on Tourism.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LvWeddingConnectionInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lvweddingconnectionKEYWORDS Joni Moss Graham, Las Vegas Wedding Connection, The Best Dam Podcast, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, Las Vegas Wedding Chamber, Nevada Commission on Tourism. #JoniMossGraham #LasVegasWeddings #WeddingPlanning #VegasTourism #TheBestDamPodcast #BoulderCityChamberofCommerce

    33 min
  5. Business Kung Fu: Mastery of Mind, Body, and Bottom Line

    MAR 24

    Business Kung Fu: Mastery of Mind, Body, and Bottom Line

    In this episode of The Best Dam Podcast, Jill sits down with Craig Cooke, the founder of C-Squared Professional Consulting and author of Business Kung Fu, to discuss his transition from a 26-year career as a digital marketing CEO to a mentor and Doctor of Chinese Energetic Medicine. From his early days as a 10-year-old dishwasher in his mother’s restaurant to leading an agency to the Inc. 5000 list five years in a row, Craig shares how he found his "divine potential" through the intersection of high-level business strategy and ancient wellness practices. Craig explores the vital role of "energetic hygiene" for leaders, explaining how maintaining a calm, centered presence allows an entire team to perform better during the "unpleasant surprises" of the professional world. With a focus on balancing intense ambition with personal well-being, this episode highlights the importance of being a "disciple of yourself" and the dedication required to lead with clarity and purpose. DISCUSSION The"Disciple" in Discipline: Craig redefines discipline as being a "disciple in yourself"—a dedicated and devoted student of your own evolution and God-given potential.Energetic Hygiene for Leaders: An exploration of how Chinese Energetic Medicine (Qigong) helps leaders stay calm amidst chaos, providing a sense of security and confidence for their teams.From SWOT to SCOT: Craig explains his "SCOT" framework, where internal "weaknesses" are reframed as "challenges" to be met and overcome through a growth mindset.The Price of Success: Reflecting on his 2014 "aha moment," Craig describes how rapid business growth led to a "foggy brain" and a diabetes diagnosis, prompting a total lifestyle shift to prioritize self-care.Service to Self: A deep dive into the philosophy that one must be of service to themselves—through proper sleep, nutrition, and energy work—to effectively be of service to others for a lifetime.The Physics of Business: Craig discusses how everything is "information expressed as energy" and how principles of quantum mechanics, like entanglement, apply to both healing and professional leadership.LEARN MORE C -Squared Professional Consulting: Offering business mentorship, advisory, and executive coaching services focused on empowering others to reach their potential. https://www.csquaredpro.com/ Business Kung Fu: Craig’s book and mindset training program designed to help entrepreneurs find balance and peak performance.Energetic Practices: Online courses and live 12-week programs exploring Medical Qigong and energetic cultivation for professionals.KEYWORDS Craig Cooke, Business Kung Fu, C-Squared Professional Consulting, Qigong, Energetic Medicine, The Best Dam Podcast, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce Podcast Interview #CraigCooke #C-Squared #BusinessKungFu #Qigong #Leadership #Mindset #TheBestDamPodcast #BoulderCityChamberofCommerce #Podcast interview

    47 min
  6. Immaculate Restoration: Navigating the Toughest Moments in Business and Home Ownership

    MAR 17

    Immaculate Restoration: Navigating the Toughest Moments in Business and Home Ownership

    In this episode of The Best Dam Podcast, our Jill sits down with Steve Pieri, the owner of Immaculate Restoration & Carpet Care, to discuss his 28-year journey as a business leader in the Las Vegas valley. From his early days as a college student running a carpet-cleaning business with a carpet scrubber to leading a specialized disaster recovery team, Steve shares how his company has evolved from a niche carpet-cleaning business into a full-scale restoration powerhouse. Steve explores the vital role of "second responders" in the community, providing everything from preventive maintenance, such as air duct and dryer vent cleaning, to high-stakes emergency services involving fire, water, and biohazard recovery. With a focus on compassion and cutting-edge technology, this episode highlights the heart behind the "dirty jobs" and the dedication required to help families navigate their most difficult moments. DISCUSSION The"Dry in Place" Advantage: Steve explains the technology behind clean-water restoration, which enables his team to dry homes in 3–4 days using heated drying and evaporation rather than destructive demolition.Preventative Safety: A look at the growing necessity of professional dryer vent and air duct cleaning to prevent residential fires, particularly in communities with high populations of seniors.The Second Responder Role: Steve discusses the emotional weight of trauma and biohazard scene cleanup, emphasizing the importance of providing counseling and support for his staff.A Legacy of Efficiency: Reflecting on his mother’s "clean as you go" and "touch it once" philosophy, Steve shares how these simple life lessons drive the efficiency and professionalism of his current team.Disaster Relief & Giving Back: Steve recounts his "aha moment" during a 100-year flood in Las Vegas that ignited his passion for traveling across the country to volunteer for hurricane and flood recovery efforts.Entrepreneurial Growing Pains: A humorous look back at Steve’s early career, including a carpet scrubber mishap that sent him through a wall and the "candy cane" nightmare of trying to dye carpets in the dark.LEARN MORE Immaculate Restoration & Carpet Care: Serving Las Vegas, Henderson, and Boulder City since 1998. https://immaculaterestoration.com/Services Offered: Specialized in carpet and tile care, air duct cleaning, mold remediation, and emergency water/fire restoration.Community Initiatives: Inquire about their "Community Service Days," where the team offers scheduled maintenance blocks for local neighborhoods.KEYWORDS Steve Pieri, Immaculate Restoration & Carpet Care, The Best Dam Podcast, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce #StevePieri #ImmaculateRestoration #Restoration #DisasterRelief #TheBestDamPodcast #BoulderCityChamberofCommerce

    23 min
  7. Silver State Stitch Shop: Keeping Traditional Crafts Alive in Boulder City

    MAR 10

    Silver State Stitch Shop: Keeping Traditional Crafts Alive in Boulder City

    In this episode of The Best Dam Podcast, Jill sits down with Jessica Whittaker, the creative force behind Silver State Stitch Shop, to discuss her journey as a homegrown entrepreneur in Boulder City. A lifelong resident with deep community roots, Jessica shares her evolution from a young quilter to the owner of a vibrant, social-centered business in the city's historic district. Jessica discusses her vision for fostering community through the heritage arts of quilting and cross-stitch, emphasizing that her shop is more than a retail space—it’s a sanctuary for connection, social support, and creative inspiration. From stories of her mother’s influence on her craft to the joy of watching her own daughter begin her creative journey, this episode explores the dedication required to keep traditional handcrafts alive while building a modern, thriving business. DISCUSSION The Social Stitch: Jessica explains how her shop serves as a hub for community connection, offering classes where people can make friends, share life experiences, and even solve problems while working on their projects.The Longarm Process: A deep dive into the "longarm" quilting technique—the process of using a specialized, computerized machine to finish large quilts that are difficult to handle on domestic sewing machines.A Legacy of Craft: Jessica reflects on being raised by a quilting mother and the importance of teaching heritage skills to younger generations to ensure these traditions aren't lost to modern technology.Wrapped in Gratitude: Details on Jessica’s heart-led initiative to coordinate with local guilds and the community to gift handmade quilts to veterans visiting Boulder City during the annual "Salute to the Troops" weekend.Stitches in the Sanctuary: Jessica introduces an upcoming quilt show at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, aimed at displaying 60+ quilts to change the public perception of quilting from a "museum hobby" to a vibrant, contemporary art form.Entrepreneurial Lessons: From a funny "aha moment" involving a home address accidentally appearing in a point-of-sale system to her philosophy on maintaining a work-life balance for her family, Jessica shares the realities of opening a shop in May 2024.LEARN MORE Silver State Stitch Shop: 1229 Arizona Street, Boulder City, NV.Class Schedule: Reach out to the shop to inquire about their vintage Singer Featherweight rentals, bag-making bootcamps, and upcoming class offerings.KEYWORDS Jessica Whittaker, Silver State Stitch Shop, Boulder City, Quilting, Cross-Stitch, Heritage Arts, The Best Dam Podcast, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce #JessicaWhittaker #SilverStateStitchShop #BoulderCity #Quilting #CrossStitch #HeritageArts  #TheBestDamPodcast #BoulderCityChamberofCommerce

    37 min
  8. Strengthening the Chamber’s Collective Voice by Empowering Boulder City’s Business Community

    FEB 24

    Strengthening the Chamber’s Collective Voice by Empowering Boulder City’s Business Community

    In this episode of The Best Dam Podcast, Jill sits down with John Barlow, the newly appointed Investor Relations Director for the Boulder City Chamber of Commerce. A lifelong resident with a deep community legacy, John brings a unique blend of experience from the worlds of education and business to his new role. John discusses his vision for strengthening the partnership between the Chamber and local businesses, emphasizing the importance of a collective voice in advocacy. From sharing stories of his father’s legendary work ethic as a local mailman to his own transition from high school principal to Chamber leader, this episode explores the dedication required to help Boulder City’s business community thrive. DISCUSSION Defining Investor Relations: John explains his role as a protector and promoter of local businesses, ensuring the Chamber supports their capacity to succeed.The Power of a Collective Voice: How the Chamber provides a unified platform for businesses to be heard at the local, county, state, and federal levels.A Legacy of Hard Work: John reflects on the work ethic instilled by his parents—his father, a 35-year veteran mailman who never called in sick, and his mother, who emphasized early employment.The"Face of the Chamber": John’s goal is to be an approachable resource for veteran and new businesses alike, providing follow-up and ensuring deliverables are met.From Principal to Partner: How John’s extensive background in educational leadership and school administration translates to guiding people toward shared goals.Personal Passions: A look at John’s creative side, including his meticulous yard projects and his habit of reading multiple books at once to "feed his soul".LEARN MORE Boulder City Chamber of Commerce: https://www.bouldercitychamber.com/Contact the Chamber: Reach out to discuss investor benefits, business resources, or to welcome John to his new role.KEYWORDS John Barlow, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, Investor Relations, Business Advocacy, Boulder City, Leadership, Community Growth, The Best Dam Podcast #JohnBarlow #BoulderCityChamber #InvestorRelations #BusinessGrowth #BoulderCity #TheBestDamPodcast #CommunityLeadership

    18 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

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. 

Information

  • Creator
    Jill Lagan
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    130
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Best Dam Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Best Dam Podcast