Mining Minds

Mining Minds

Welcome to the face. In mining that is where the action is, where the individuals doing the work are, and where the business begins. Mining Minds is a podcast based out of one of the world's largest gold producing districts. From our experiences and experiences of those at the face (the dig face) we will walk through the life of miners, the communities that support them, and the life styles they choose to live. We will discuss the importance of mining to the world and the importance of responsible mining to the environment and our future.

  1. 1D AGO

    #222- AngloGold Ashanti: Joel Donalson

    In this episode of Mining Minds, we sit down with Joel Donalson, Vice President of Sustainability at AngloGold Ashanti, from their Las Vegas office overlooking the valley. Joel shares a powerful story that spans generations in mining, from growing up in a mining family to helping lead one of Nevada's most exciting new projects. We dive into Joel's journey—from working in an assay lab as a teenager to navigating roles in environmental management, risk, mine engineering, and even ranch operations. His career is a testament to embracing opportunity, adapting to changes, and building a well-rounded perspective across the mining industry. One of the most impactful moments in this conversation is Joel's global perspective on mining: "There was nothing here… people living subsistence lifestyles… and then a mine comes in — now there are roads, schools, infrastructure, opportunity." The North Bullfrog and Arthur projects near Beatty, Nevada, represent more than just potential mining operations—they offer an opportunity to shape an entire region and meaningfully connect one of the state's largest populations to the mining industry in a new and impactful way.   To follow this transformation as it unfolds and stay connected to the latest updates from AngloGold Ashanti's Nevada projects, join their e-newsletter using the link below. AngloGold Ashanti - Nevada Projects   We'd like to extend our appreciation to AngloGold Ashanti North America for welcoming us in and allowing us to highlight their team and the impactful work taking place on this project.   Episode Sponsors: Safety First Trianing & Consulting Motor Mission Machine & Radiator  Walsh Reclamation Inc.    Episode Chapters:    02:43 Joel Mining Roots 10:56 First Assay Lab Job 12:10 Assay Lab Grind 15:39 Back To Mining Boom 23:53 Environmental Closure Work 30:26 Risk Management Mindset 38:36 Short Range Planning Chaos 46:54 Why Environmental Fits 54:37 Mining Changes Communities 01:00:49 Winning Trust on the Ranch 01:05:04 Work Life Balance in Mining 01:10:15 Small Town Mining Stories 01:15:06 Building a New Nevada District

    1h 33m
  2. #221- Gus Sullivan

    3D AGO

    #221- Gus Sullivan

    This one is personal. Beatty, Nevada isn't just another mining town—it's our hometown. It's where we grew up, where we learned what community really means, and where mining first became real to us. Coming back and sitting down with Gus Sullivan, Beatty's Justice of the Peace, isn't just a conversation—it's a chance to reconnect with the people and stories that helped shape who we are. Gus has seen every version of this town. From working at his family's gas station to serving in law enforcement and eventually stepping into the role of Justice of the Peace, his story is woven into the fabric of Beatty. Through decades of change, one thing has remained constant—his commitment to the people who call this place home. This episode also gives a real look at what happens when mining shows up at your doorstep—the growth, the pressure, the uncertainty, and the opportunity. But this time feels different. With AngloGold Ashanti stepping in, there's a clear effort to do it the right way—working alongside the community, supporting local infrastructure, and building with a long-term mindset instead of a short-term boom. It's not just about what mining brings out of the ground—it's about the legacy it builds above it.   We'd like to thank AngloGold Ashanti for opening the doors and giving us the opportunity to showcase the people in our home town of Beatty Nevada.    Episode Sponsors:  Walsh Reclamation Inc. Safety First Training & Consulting Motor Mission Machine and Radiator    Episode Chapters:  02:05 Marine One Discovery 08:50 Deputy Ride Along Hook 12:25 High Speed Lesson 17:48 Mine Boom Shockwave 25:08 Community Policing Trust 28:26 Honoring Dad Legacy 29:41 Clinic Grants and Care 33:13 Town and Mine Partnership 38:25 Beatty Life and Family 40:02 Halloween and Cruising Days 43:25 Coaching and Community 45:25 Grandkids and Big Dreams

    1h 1m
  3. #220- AngloGold Ashanti: Nick Fouché

    6D AGO

    #220- AngloGold Ashanti: Nick Fouché

    In this episode, Mining Minds had the opportunity to get back to our roots in a small mining town that's seeing new life through projects like North Bullfrog and Arthur with AngloGold Ashanti. While on site, we sat down with Nick Fouché, Senior Vice President of Nevada Projects for AngloGold Ashanti—an individual who cares just as much about production and the success of the town as he does about the people and the environmental impact. From growing up on the coast of South Africa to leading world-class mining projects across the globe, Nick shares a journey shaped by hard work, curiosity, and a willingness to step into the unknown. This episode goes far beyond a traditional career story. It dives into the evolution of mining through the lens of environmental responsibility, community engagement, and leadership. Nick walks us through his unconventional path—from environmental science and military service to building world class operations—and how those experiences shaped his approach to modern mining. We explore the importance of onboarding, culture, and collaboration, why understanding people is just as critical as understanding geology, and how global experience creates better leaders. Nick also gives us insight into AngloGold Ashanti's Nevada projects, a true tier-one opportunity, and how balancing production, environmental stewardship, and community trust is at the core of their vision. We'd like to thank AngloGold Ashanti for opening the door and giving us the opportunity to showcase their people and the work happening on this project. To learn more and stay up to date on AngloGold Ashanti's Nevada projects, sign up for their e-newsletter by clicking here.   Episode Sponsors: Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Safety First Training & Consulting Walsh Reclamation Inc.    Episode Chapters: 02:10 Growing Up South African 05:27 Choosing Environmental Science 10:06 Why Travel Builds Leaders 15:00 Environmental Values and Mining 20:27 Military Service 31:45 Trust With Communities 40:48 Learning Uranium Mining 47:17 Onboarding Done Right 51:05 Mine Improvement Program 53:27 Global Career Snapshot 57:29 Nevada Project Today

    1h 11m
  4. #219- BIOBY: Mike Foley, Ashley Burke & Dean DeBeltz

    APR 28

    #219- BIOBY: Mike Foley, Ashley Burke & Dean DeBeltz

    What happens when you bring together project leaders, national advocates, and boots-on-the-ground operators—all in one room—to talk about the future of mining in America? Recorded in Duluth, Minnesota at the Better In Our Backyard Winter Dinner, this episode delivers a high-impact series of conversations with some of the most influential voices shaping today's mining landscape. From copper development in Michigan to national policy in Washington, D.C., to the front lines of permitting battles in Minnesota—this episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to move mining projects forward in the United States.  We sit down with Mike Foley of Highland Copper to break down what it takes to bring a fully permitted underground copper project to life—and why infrastructure like smelting and refining remains one of the industry's biggest bottlenecks. Then, Ashley Burke of the National Mining Association joins us to unpack the policy shifts happening at the federal level, the global competition for critical minerals, and why storytelling and public understanding are more important now than ever. Finally, we reconnect with Dean DeBeltz of Twin Metals, diving into the realities of permitting challenges, shifting goalposts, and the long fight to responsibly develop domestic resources—all while preserving the communities and environments that make these regions special. This episode is about momentum, advocacy, and the people pushing mining forward—from the local level to the national stage. If you want to understand where the industry is headed and what's at stake, this is a conversation you don't want to miss. Check out - Minerals Make Life   Episode Sponsors: Walsh Reclamation Inc.  Safety First Training & Consulting Heavy Metals Equipment & Rentals    Chapters:    01:39 Meet Mike Foley 06:58 Smelting Bottleneck Talk 13:08 Community Mining Heritage 19:37 Meet Ashley Burke NMA 21:20 Policy Shift and Strategy 25:24 Permitting Reform Messaging 31:12 Advocacy and Storytelling 39:45 Workforce Development Ideas 42:38 NMA Resources and Mine Expo 44:48 Dean Debeltz & Twin Metals Update in Duluth 50:46 Fair Permitting and Public Trust 55:39 Community Impact and Jobs Multiplier

    1h 10m
  5. #218- BIOBY: Shari McGregor-Overbye

    APR 24

    #218- BIOBY: Shari McGregor-Overbye

    Recorded in Duluth, Minnesota at the Better in Our Backyard Winter Dinner, this episode of Mining Minds brings you a raw, unfiltered conversation with Shari McGregor-Overbye—millwright, industry advocate, and host of the Iron Lady Podcast. From growing up learning the trades beside her father to becoming an onsite mechanic, Shari's story challenges outdated perceptions and highlights the real opportunity within mining and skilled trades. She breaks down the myth that blue-collar careers are a "fallback," sharing how hands-on skills, work ethic, and determination can outperform traditional paths both financially and professionally. This episode dives deep into the realities of working in mining—from shutdown chaos and plant operations to leadership, innovation, and the future of maintenance with AI. Shari also shares how she carved her own path through the industry, earning respect, leading teams, and ultimately stepping into a role where she now works with industry leaders to drive performance and change. Please help us welcome Shari McGregor-Overbye to the Face. Check out the Iron Lady Podcast!   Episode Sponsors: Safety First Training & Consulting Walsh Reclimation Inc. Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals   Chapters:   02:49 Roots and House Moving 04:51 Dad's Influence Early 07:23 Advocating the Trades 12:03 Making Mining Authentic 16:26 Hands On Learning Style 20:37 Earning Respect on Site 26:04 AI in Maintenance 30:52 Plant Shutdown Chaos 35:36 Planner to Supervisor 39:11 Crusher Planning Lessons 42:50 Leading the Shops 44:01 Joining AMCAST Team

    1 hr
  6. #217- 2026 Elko Mining Expo: Kimberlee Longley & Selina Morales

    APR 22

    #217- 2026 Elko Mining Expo: Kimberlee Longley & Selina Morales

    In this episode of Mining Minds, we go behind the scenes of the Elko Mining Expo — a 40-year legacy event that transforms a tight-knit mining community into a global hub of innovation, networking, and opportunity. Sitting down with the powerhouse team at the Elko Convention Center & Visitors Authority, this conversation uncovers the hardwork, coordination, and passion required to bring over 6,000+ attendees, hundreds of vendors, and massive equipment displays together—year after year. From humble beginnings and small-town roots to managing one of the most anticipated mining events in the industry, Selina Morales and Kimberly Longley share their personal journeys, the evolution of the expo, and what it truly takes to execute an event of this magnitude with a team of just ten people. But this episode goes deeper than logistics. It explores the heart of mining communities — the families, the kids, the traditions, and the future workforce. With new ideas like live podcasting, technical sessions, and even a first-ever Miner's Poetry Contest, this year's expo is pushing boundaries and redefining what connection and storytelling in mining looks like. Join us at the 2026 Elko Mine Expo on June 4th at 10:00 AM for a compelling look at the past, present, and future of our industry. We'll be kicking off the event with a live opening session panel podcast featuring some of the most influential voices in mining. And for the first time, Mining Minds will be hosting the Miner's Poetry Contest on June 5th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. From elementary-aged kids to teenagers, to miners and their spouses, we want to hear the voices that truly tell the story of who we are, the experiences we've lived, and what makes this industry so special. Submit your entry by "brassing in" at MiningMindsLLC.com.   Episode Sponsors: Safety First Training & Consulting Motor Mission Machine & Radiator  Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals    Chapters:  02:50 Selena Background 05:28 Planning the Expo 07:13 Kimberly Background 09:18 Convention Center Events 14:54 Expo Growth Upgrades 20:57 Layout and Expansion 26:52 Expo Week Breakdown 31:57 Networking and Engagement 33:15 Booths Networking Value 37:42 Miners Poetry Contest 52:59 40th Anniversary Plans 56:07 Live Podcast Announcement

    1h 7m
  7. #216- BIOBY: Brian Goldner

    APR 17

    #216- BIOBY: Brian Goldner

    What does it feel like to hit one of the highest-grade nickel drill holes on the planet… and not even be on the drill pad when it happens? In this long overdue episode, we sit down with Brian Goldner, Chief Exploration and Operations Officer at Talon Metals, for a front-row look at modern-day exploration, discovery, and the relentless pursuit of what's hidden beneath the surface. Recorded in Duluth, Minnesota at the Better In Our Backyards Winter Dinner, this conversation dives deep into the science, the risk, and the reward of chasing critical minerals in today's world. Brian takes us from a kid in Minneapolis obsessed with rocks to leading one of the most exciting nickel discoveries in North America. We unpack the realities of exploration — a career built on being wrong, challenging assumptions daily, and pushing forward until something clicks. From helicopter-supported fieldwork in remote areas to building an in-house drilling operation during COVID, Brian shares how innovation, teamwork, and timing all play a role in success. At the center of it all is Talon's recent discovery — a drill hole so significant it ranks among the best globally across multiple metals. But this episode isn't just about the win. It's about the process, the failures that lead to breakthroughs, and the responsibility of developing resources the right way — for communities, for the environment, and for the future of domestic mining.   Episode Sponsors: Safety First Training and Consulting Motor Mission Machine and Radiator Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals    Chapters:  01:00 Welcome to Better In Our Back Yards & Talon Metals 04:12 From Physics to Geology 08:45 Discovering Economic Geology 12:00 How Nickel Deposits Actually Form 18:05 Helicopters, Remote Exploration & Field Life 24:00 Mentorship & Learning Under a Legend 28:00 Prospecting, Core & First Discoveries 35:10 Building an In-House Drilling Operation During COVID 44:10 Critical Minerals, Nickel & Global Demand 52:30 The Vault Discovery: A Career-Defining Moment 01:07:30 The Future of Mining, Technology & Exploration

    1h 22m
  8. #215- Matt Coffin

    MAR 18

    #215- Matt Coffin

    In this episode, we discuss what it takes to build something that actually lasts in the mining industry — not just in business, but in people, culture, and legacy. Join us in the studio with Matt Coffin, Vice President of Mining for N.A. Degerstrom, for a grounded, real-world conversation on leadership, entrepreneurship, and the long game of building in mining. From early career lessons and taking calculated risks to navigating growth, setbacks, and responsibility, Matt shares what it means to evolve alongside the industry rather than chase it. This episode dives into the realities behind building and scaling, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, and why trust, accountability, and consistency matter more than quick wins. Matt opens up about lessons learned through experience — both the wins and the hard moments — and how those have shaped his approach to leadership and decision-making. Please help us welcome Matt Coffin to The Face. Episode Sponsors: Safety First Training and Consulting JSR Fleet Performance Motor Mission Machine and Radiator  Chapters: 00:00 Building Something That Lasts 08:45 Early Career Lessons & Getting Started 16:20 Taking Risks & Betting on Yourself 24:05 Learning Through Failure & Setbacks 32:10 Leadership Through Experience, Not Title 40:25 Building the Right Team Around You 48:40 Culture, Accountability & Trust 57:15 Scaling Challenges & Growing Pains 01:05:30 Workforce Realities in Mining Today 01:13:10 Balancing Business, Life & Responsibility 01:21:45 Staying Grounded While Pushing Forward 01:30:20 Long-Term Vision & Industry Impact

    2h 29m
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4.9
out of 5
95 Ratings

About

Welcome to the face. In mining that is where the action is, where the individuals doing the work are, and where the business begins. Mining Minds is a podcast based out of one of the world's largest gold producing districts. From our experiences and experiences of those at the face (the dig face) we will walk through the life of miners, the communities that support them, and the life styles they choose to live. We will discuss the importance of mining to the world and the importance of responsible mining to the environment and our future.

Information

  • Creator
    Mining Minds
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    223
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © MiningMindsllc 2019
  • Show Website
    Mining Minds

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