The Partnership Podcast

Why Advanced Placement Business Classes are GOOD for our businesses...with Chris Romer

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0700

Erik is joined by Vail Valley Partnership President and CEO Chris Romer for a timely conversation about Colorado’s new requirement that high schools offer Personal Finance courses. The new AP Business with Personal Finance class equips students with practical, real-world skills—how to build a career, manage money wisely, and gain momentum toward the most popular college major in the country.

Developed in partnership with college faculty and industry leaders, this rigorous yearlong course gives students the opportunity to earn college credit and an employer-endorsed credential before they even graduate. Chris shares why this isn’t just another mandate to check off—but a powerful opportunity. By leaning into this requirement, our community can better prepare students for their futures while also strengthening the pipeline of talent local businesses so desperately need. It’s about aligning education with opportunity—and making sure the next generation is ready to thrive.

Learn more about this important initiative HERE

Brand-On, Serving the world from Red Cliff

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0700

Erik heads to one of his favorite places on Earth—the stunning mountain town of Red Cliff—to sit down with Justin Carter, Founder and President of Brand-On. Justin shares his entrepreneurial journey, what it really takes to open a showroom in Red Cliff, and why building a business in a remote mountain town is both incredibly challenging and deeply rewarding.

This is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever dreamed of turning a side hustle into a sustainable business—one that supports a family, serves the valley and the region, and reaches the world through a strong online presence. And yes… Erik loves every minute of being there.

Learn more about Brand-On HERE

Vail Valley Theatre Comany's upcoming season and current impact!

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0700

Erik is joined by Beth Swearingen and John Tedstrom from the Vail Valley Theatre Company to preview their ambitious and joy-filled 2026 season. From big, bold productions to beloved community offerings like Valley Voices and improv—described by John as “really just games with friends”—this conversation captures the heart of what makes VVTC so special.

February 7th is a community Casting Call for all shows, including Rent, Murder on the Orient Express, Rocky Road Improv, and A Christmas Carol, and talk about how VVTC has grown into more than a theatre. It’s a safe space, a gathering place, and— for many— a second family. IF you cannot make Feb 7th, never fear, there are more than enough ways to get involved.

Find out more about the upcoming Casting Call HERE

Find out more about Vail Valley Theatre Company HERE

Residence Inn Vail, walking and talking!

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0700

Jake Voss, Assistant General Manager of the Residence Inn Vail, takes Erik on a “plodcast” (yes, that’s walking + podcasting and Erik is still very proud of it) through the property to explore the amenities and, more importantly, spotlight an often-overlooked community resource. With affordability and short-term housing options increasingly hard to find in the Valley, the Residence Inn offers a comfortable, flexible solution for local businesses needing temporary placements for employees and families. Jake leads the tour, Erik asks the questions, and together they unpack why this hotel is more than a place to stay — it’s a practical workforce tool for our community.

Learn more about the Residence Inn Vail HERE

Rocky Mountain Ski Fest 2025!

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0700

Erik has a conversation with Mollie Case to talk about the return of Rocky Mountain Ski Fest to Beaver Creek and the heart behind the mission. Rocky Mountain Ski Fest blends skiing, live music, and purpose into one unforgettable winter experience—raising funds and awareness for pediatric cancer research.

The multi-day event features a concert with Old Dominion and Edwin McCain, a fun-filled ski day with the artists, supporters, and pediatric cancer warriors, and The Lodge Sessions—a special songwriter round hosted by legendary broadcaster Storme Warren and featuring Chris DeStefano, Jon Nite, and Edwin McCain in an intimate lodge setting.

This event isn’t just about great music and mountain views- it’s about creating meaningful moments and making a real impact for families affected by pediatric cancer.

Find out more and get tickets HERE

HyFyve and the creation of They Did What?

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0700

Erik gets a chance to spend some time with Dennis McMahon, Brand Strategist and Founder of HyFyve. Dennis and his incredible team have been responsible for some of the most notable branding and marketing campaigns here in the valley and Erik picks his brain on his process, inspiration and some of those basic questions every business asks when it's time to revamp or rebrand.

Dennis and Erik discuss the recent They Did What? campaign, a no-nonsense travel guide that advocates for sustainable adventuring in Eagle County.

Businesses! They Did What? was built for you and this place, please visit TheyDidWhat.org for assets that you can share with your team and clients.

Learn more about HyFyve HERE

Hospitality in Action with Dollar and Thrifty Car Rentals

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0700

Erik heads down to the Eagle County Airport for a conversation with Rachel Yandle, the longtime General Manager of Dollar and Thrifty Car Rentals. Sure—they cover the essentials: the best vehicles for winter driving, the eternal all-wheel vs. four-wheel debate, and even a little roundabout etiquette. But at its core, this episode is about hospitality.

Dollar and Thrifty stand apart as the only locally owned car rental companies in Eagle County, and you can feel that difference in everything they do—from exceptional customer service to impressive employee retention. Case in point: Rachel has been with the company for 21 years, and now her son works alongside her.

So what’s the secret sauce? According to Rachel, it all comes back to genuine hospitality. Tune in for insights and practical takeaways that any business—big or small—can learn from.

Learn more and book with Dollar HERE

Learn more and book with Thrifty HERE

Common Mistakes we ALL make in Business...with Holly Johnson

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0700

Erik sits down with Holly Johnson—author, profit-acceleration coach, and seasoned business strategist—for an insightful conversation about the everyday mistakes that hold organizations back. Together they unpack practical, easy-to-apply strategies for overcoming procrastination, taming your inbox, and elevating genuine human connection in the workplace. With deep experience both here in the Valley and across the country, Holly brings a wealth of perspective that resonates with businesses of every size. This episode delivers lessons you can put to work immediately.

Learn more about Growth Solutions Coaching HERE

It's all about COMMUNITY! With Seth Ehrlich from SOS Outreach

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0700

Seth Ehrlich, CEO of SOS Outreach, joins Erik at VVP’s new office for a conversation about the organization’s 33-year journey, the thousands of young people it has supported, and the recent surge of community members stepping up as volunteer mentors.

Seth reflects on what this moment reveals about a broader shift across the nonprofit landscape. It is one fueled by love for this valley and a shared belief in what’s possible when we invest in one another. In a time when division feels loud, this discussion offers a grounded message of hope and a reminder of the power of community connection.

Tune in to hear how you can make a difference right here at home.

Learn more about SOS Outreach and how you can be a Mentor HERE

Core Transit: Beyond the Route

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0700

Erik visits the Core Transit Operations Center in Gypsum for an inside look at the heartbeat of Core—its people. Through compelling conversations with four dedicated team members—Dave, Cisco, Alex, and Al—you’ll gain a fresh perspective on what makes transit more than just transportation. Their stories reveal valuable insights for businesses of all kinds, from innovative employee retention strategies and building internal talent pipelines to fostering a genuine sense of belonging that fuels purpose and performance.

Learn more about Core Transit HERE

Caregiver Connections: Connecting Family Caregivers to the Resources They Need

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik sits down with Samantha Hodgkins, Executive Director of Caregiver Connections, for a thoughtful conversation about one of our valley’s fastest-growing populations—adults aged 65 and older—and the incredible people who care for them.

Caregiver Connections’ mission is to empower family caregivers of older adults by connecting them to vital resources, support, and moments of respite. Erik and Samantha discuss what that means for our local business community and the valley as a whole, while sharing simple, meaningful ways to get involved.

If you know a family member, friend, or neighbor who could benefit from this important conversation, please share the podcast with them—and learn more about Caregiver Connections HERE

Why we could all use a little project management...with Peak Management Solutions

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik welcomes Tia Bent to the podcast for an insightful conversation about the world of project management and its impact on businesses of every size and focus. Tia shares how effective project management weaves together marketing, communications, process improvement, and strategic planning to drive results. This episode is a must-listen for any business with big goals but not always enough time or structure to bring them to life.

Find more information about Peak Management Solutions HERE

Eagle River Water and Sanitation District 2025 ballot measure explained

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik heads to Eagle River Water and Sanitation District to talk about our most precious resource...and what's coming to protect our waters. ERWSD will be putting a ballot measure forward this coming election season and David Norris, Director of Business Operations joins Erik to talk about this regulatory-driven necessary upgrade and what a "yes" or "no" vote will mean in terms of your wastewater bill moving forward.

Find more information about this ballot measure HERE

Mountain Youth, great summer, great future!

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik heads over the Mountain Youth offices to chat with Executive Director Michelle Hartel and Marketing and Events Manager Nick Krishnan about the amazing work that Mountain Youth did over this past summer, their plans for this upcoming school year and what the future holds for this important organization. Their vision is that ALL youth in Eagle County thrive and hear how they are making that a reality.

Learn more about Mountain Youth HERE

Strategic Growth with The Cycle Effect

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik welcomes Brett Donelson, Founder and CEO of The Cycle Effect to the podcast. Brett discusses where the idea for TCE came from and how it's grown over the years through their strategic and thoughtful processes. Brett also the current state of affairs with non-profits and how we can all rise above the political turmoil of our world to focus on the mission. This podcast is a must for non-profits looking to grow and any business that sees big things in their future!

Learn more about The Cycle Effect HERE

Small Non Profit OTY 2025: Little Bird Creative Community

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik heads to Colorado Mountain College to chat with Anne and Scott Pasquale about their recent award from the Vail Valley Partnership Success Awards, Small Non-Profit of the Year, and why they are such a deserving non-profit (and business!) Learn about what a "food incubator" is, why they support the Community Market, how all of this came to be and what the future holds! You'll also hear Chef Scott's favorite dish and why...because Erik just had to ask!

Learn More about Little Bird Creative Community HERE.

Minturn Whisky Co. and why we could all use a Wee Dram!

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik heads to Minturn to spend some time with Spence and Stefanie Neubauer, owner/operators of Minturn Whisky Co. and The Wee Dram and honestly has a hard time leaving! They discuss business creation, strategies for growth, following your passion...and sip some fine whiskey in their unique "third space", a place for all, tourists, locals and even Erik to unwind and feel at home. Eagle River Whisky was recently named Small Business of the Year at the annual Success Awards by Vail Valley Partnership. Listen in and you'll be sure to know why!

Learn more about Minturn Whisky Co. HERE.

Living With Purpose: A Pathway to Health and Wellbeing

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik has the opportunity to speak to two amazing guests, both leaders in their respective mental health fields. Dr. Charles Raison is the Director of Vail Health Behavioral Health Innovation Center as well as a professor of Human Ecology and Psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin and Dr. Christine Whelan from Emory University, affectionalty known as "The Purpose Professor". Dr. Whelan gives a preview of her upcoming event, "Living With Purpose as a pathway to Health and Wellbeing" that will be held Thursday, July 10th from 12-2PM at the EagleVail Pavilion. Join them for this stimulating conversation about the idea of turning purpose from an innocuous noun into a powerful verb and the practical steps one can take to make this a reality.

Learn more about this and sign up for the event on July 10th HERE.

Learn more about Vail Health Behavioral Health Innovation Center HERE

Excellence in Innovation: Eagle County Paramedics

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik get's a chance to talk with Brandon Daruna, CEO of Eagle County Paramedics. They discuss both comprehensive Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and the community paramedic program, which provides health services in the home, increasing health and well-being by mobilizing care, addressing healthcare gaps and connecting people to necessary services.

Learn more about Eagle County Paramedics HERE

Young Professional of the Year: Julio Garcia

Wed, 28 May 2025 08:00:00 -0600

At the 2025 Annual VVP Success Awards, we were honored to highlight Julio Garcia as our Young Professional of the year and Erik had a chance to sit down with him recently.

In 2024, Julio Garcia Jimenez produced 141 episodes of Conexión Latina, welcomed over 200 guests, and created 10 unique segments to better serve the Latino community in Eagle County. He also launched Conecta en Vivo, a 24/7 livestream of Spanish-language programming, expanding access and visibility. As both producer and host, Julio manages every aspect of the show while also contributing to Good Morning Vail as a bilingual host. While TV8 no longer exits in our valley, Julio's work continues in community connections, elevating underrepresented voices, and fostering a greater sense of belonging across cultures.

How Eagle County School District engages our community

Wed, 21 May 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik heads to the Eagle County School District office to talk Community Engagement with Superintendent Phil Qualman and Engagement Coordinator Tia Luck. They discuss a number of initiatives meant to bring students, families and businesses together with the common goal of supporting the next generation. In the words of Superintendent Qualman, "Our students are watching, and we will continue to lead by example, proving that education is the most powerful tool to combat hate and build a brighter future."

Learn more about the incredible work being done in student engagement HERE

State Farm Insurance, it's about relationships!

Tue, 13 May 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik heads to Eagle to chat with Ben Caton, State Farm Agent and Owner to talk about insurance...and so much more. Erik and Ben discuss retirement planning, the challenges of taking over a "legacy" business, and the changing state of insurance both locally and regionally. Ben isn't afraid to answer the hard questions such as, "why are premiums going up?" and "how should I prepare for natural disasters?" (fire or otherwise). Ben and his team are in the business of protecting people when they are at their most vulnerable and we're lucky to have people like him and his team in this valley.

Learn more about how State Farm can protect you HERE.

American Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electrical

Tue, 06 May 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik heads to Edwards to talk with American Plumbing Heating Cooling and Electrical CEO and Owner Brad Payne. Brad talks about his business journey from acquiring and refining into strategic growth and how that has lead to where they find themselves today. They also discuss some of the latest trends in heating and cooling and the homeowner in Erik really struggles not to come out! Listen in to hear a great business story, learn more about American Plumbing Heating Cooling and Electrical HERE

Coldwell Banker - Distinctive Properties

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik heads on down to Coldwell Banker to meet Amy Pates, a residential and commercial broker with a wealth of knowledge and experience in this Valley. They discuss the current Real Estate climate, housing trends and commercial trends. Erik asks Amy the question that many of us wonder,

"Is it still possible for a young professional to find housing and make this place their home?"

Listen in and I know you'll be intruiged by her answer. Find out more information about Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties HERE

Trio Therapy Partners

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik "heads on down" to the Eagle River Center to check out the action at Trio Therapy Partners this week. He's joined by Lauren Cremonese, Executive Director, Doctor of Physical Therapy and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning and Amanda Moody, Director of Operations and Occupational Therapist. Tom the Horse is standing nearby as well, although he keeps pretty quiet. Lauren and Amanda talk about the many facets of Trio including Occupational and Physical Therapy, Mental Health Counseling and Equine-Assisted Learning. Trio Therapy Partners is a 501(c)3 organization that believes in taking an individual's rehabilitation journey to the next level by utilizing multiple environments to create meaningful change. Learn more about Trio Therapy Partners HERE

Find information about the annual Mountain Hoedown out at 4 Eagle Ranch on May 31st, 2025 and register HERE

Peak Plumbing, Heating Cooling...and teaching!

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik gets a chance to spend some time with Peak Plumbing Heating and Cooling with owner Mike Goldberg. Mike talks about his business philosophy, hiring practices and the power of an education in the trades. In addition, Mike takes Erik on a tour of Peak PHC to show their new training area for the future plumbers of this valley.

To learn more about Peak Plumbing Heating and Cooling click HERE

Roundup River Ranch is amazing!

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Join Erik as he gets a tour of Roundup River Ranch from Mackenzie Koffenberger-Young, The Community Engagement and Recruitment Manager for this wonderful organization. RRR is part of the SeriousFun Children’s Network, a global community of medical specialty camps founded by Paul Newman. He believed that kids with serious illnesses needed a place to “kick back and raise a little hell.”

Mackenzie gives Erik the rundown of what a week at camp looks like for both campers and volunteers, and talks about the vision and future of the site. Join us on this podcast to see it through their eyes but, PLEASE, take the time to see if there might be any volunteer opportunities you or your organization can be a part of!

Find out more information HERE

SpeakUp ReachOut Workplace Wellbeing Summit 25

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik is joined by Erin Ivie, Executive Director of SpeakUp ReachOut, to talk about the history, current initiatives and future of the organization. Erin gives historical perspective and current insights into our valley's mental health as well as discusses the upcoming Workplace Wellbeing Summit on Friday, April 11th.

This immersive, workshop-style event is designed for teams of 5-10 members per organization. Through engaging & hands-on sessions, participants collaborate to create tailored roadmaps that align with their organization's unique needs and culture. The summit empowers teams with the tools and knowledge to foster a healthier, more supportive work environment, promoting overall employee well-being and contributing to a positive organizational impact.

Salvation Army, new location, ready to serve!

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Erik goes on location to the new Salvation Army headquarters and is joined by Monica Villalobos-Russell, Executive Director, to talk about their new location, new staff and the ways in which they serve the community. Monica shares why community partnerships and engagement with the Salvation Army is so important and how we can all be part of the solution.

Learn more about the Salvation Army HERE

How to protect what you love...with Cornerstone Insurance and Financial Group

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 14:00:00 -0700

"Insurance protects what we love." Join Erik this week as he welcomes a friend to the podcast, Tony Martinez, President and Principal Agent at Cornerstone Insurance and Financial Group. Tony frames insurance in the best possible way, explaining when we are protecting our businesses it's more than just "insurance", it's about the success of the entire community. In this episode, Tony shares lessons for all businesses and uses examples from property management and the restaurant industry. From his love of the community and being able to deliver those unicorns (you've got to listen), Tony is a trusted voice for business.

Learn more about Cornerstone Insurance and Financial Group HERE.

YP365 Addressing Youth Violence

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0700

This week Erik is joined by Kaitlyn Merriman, Senior Manager of Youth and Family Programs for YouthPower365 to talk about an important topic. The Vail Valley Foundation’s YouthPower365 is intensifying efforts to combat youth violence and promote student success through enhanced family-centered initiatives.

Kaitlyn talks about the $1 million federal grant from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, enabling the hiring of a full-time family engagement coordinator at YouthPower365 and a student support specialist at Eagle County Schools. Erik and Kaitlyn also discuss simple warning signs and techniques for violence reduction and awareness.
Find more resources for families HERE

Recent article from the Vail Daily HERE

Core Transit...and how it's already transforming the way we move.

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Erik is joined by Core Transit Deputy Director Scott Robinson for an enjoyable conversation about Core Transit. Scott shares that Core isn't just "ECO Transit with a new name" it's a completely new company with an expanded community vision. They discuss the company formation, the marketing vision and the fact that Core Transit was honored with the Large Community Transit Agency of the Year award at the fall Colorado Association of Transit Agencies (CASTA) conference. This award recognizes outstanding best practices or projects undertaken by transit agencies serving communities of over 15,000 people and Scott discusses how it's an honor to receive this for a new company and that they have much more in store for Eagle County.
And he talks about expanded winter routes!
Learn more about Core Transit HERE

Caregiver Connections: How you can be involved with our fastest growing population!

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Erik is joined in "the Bistro" (yes, that's what he calls his office) by Samantha Hodgkins, Executive Director of Caregiver Connections to talk about an extremely important, and often overlooked, demographic.

With older adults 65+ as the fastest growing population in Eagle County and 70% of people preferring to age in place, Caregiver Connections is expanding its reach to address the growing needs of caregivers and their family loved ones.

Samantha talks about resources that help family caregivers of older adults support their loved ones aging in place including care consultations, respite programs and additional resources that will empower them to be the best caregivers they can be.

Find more about Caregiver Connections HERE

Black Hills Energy, tips for Winter!

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Let's talk energy savings! With winter breathing down our necks we all are wondering the same thing, "Am I prepared?"
Black Hills Energy is ready for this question and happy to help. Erik is joined by Amy Fiala, Energy Efficiency Expert and Jason Auslander from Public Affairs to talk about simple steps we can all do to make our houses more efficient as well as long term solutions that make sense for both your family and the planet. They also dig into hiring in this field and some of the potential careers that exist in the energy field.
We wanted an experienced voice on this podcast and we sure found one! Black Hills Energy serves more that 1.34 million customers across 8 states. For more information on how to prepare for winter and other safety issues, courtesy of Black Hills, click HERE
Contact Jason
Contact Amy

The Eagle River Inn...and it's return to Minturn!

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Erik gets a chance to go on one of his "plodcasts" where he walks and talks with a local business and is so happy to tour the newly renovated Eagle River Inn in Minturn. Tierney Delude, General Manager at the Eagle River Inn provides the tour and information, guiding Erik through the idea, the renovation process and the reception the Inn has received. Spoiler alert, it's already a local's favorite! This is a true example of making a dream a reality and what it takes to do so in this place. Take this tour with Tierney and Erik and hear the story of bringing The Eagle River Inn back to Minturn.
Learn more and book your stay HERE

Ethical Leadership Forum '24

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Erik gets a chance to talk with someone he has long respected in this valley, Bob Bandoni, Executive Director of Students Shoulder to Shoulder. For years Bob and his team have shared ethical leadership practices with the youth of this valley and it's a better world because of it.
Bob explains how leadership influences every part of society, and its ethical quality determines whether it drives progress or exacerbates challenges. The Annual Ethical Leadership Forum, on October 18th at the Sebastian in Vail, hosted by Students Shoulder-to-Shoulder, aims to inspire leaders to adopt and implement principles of ethical leadership.

Featuring influential leaders and change-makers like Jennifer Simpson, Richard Lackey, and Dr. Karambu Ringera, the forum will explore innovative models of ethical leadership.
Register and learn more HERE

Hiring deep dive with Hot Jobs Staffing and Recruiting!

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 18:00:00 -0600

In this episode, VVP's Erik Williams welcomes Katie DiGiacomo, President and Owner of Hot Jobs Staffing & Recruiting, recent honoree of Coloradobiz’s Top 100 Woman-Owned Businesses. They talk about hiring in the high country vs the front range, retention strategies, trends in the workplace, and the future of hiring for jobs in places where housing and childcare costs have made relocation more difficult in recent years. Katie's expertise and experience hiring in the mountain communities make for a fascinating conversation about where our mountain communities are headed. If your business is experiencing any struggles in hiring and retaining the best, this podcast is for you.
Find more information HERE

2024 Community Impact Award - Brielle Kelley

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Erik has a chance to spend time with a truly extraordinary person, Brielle Kelley. Brielle is a school-based therapist at Homestake Peak School and Eagle Valley Elementary School as well as as working at Your Hope Center. Her passion is for her students to succeed and it comes through loud and clear with the strategies and techniques she employs including cultural and linguistic responsivity and her case study work within families. She has helped to foster support groups for childcare workers and teaches social and emotional learning to students through the mentoring program at SOS outreach. If it truly does take a village to raise our children, we should all be incredibly thankful that Brielle is a part of our village. Learn more about what's being done for our students and how you can help in your own way!

2024 Emerging Business OTY Gracie's Coffee

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Erik get's a chance to spend time with Gracie Rounds, which is always time well spent! Gracie's Coffee was named Best Emerging Business of the Year at this year's Success Awards and Erik and Gracie go through her timeline of seeing a need, starting a business, growing that business and...spoiler alert...selling the business to another up and coming entrepreneur!
Learn more about Gracie's Coffee HERE

All things business and recreation with AVA Rafting and Zipline

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Erik has a chance to sit with Ryan Santilli, Director of Sales with AVA Rafting and Zipline, for a wide-ranging discussion of trends in outdoor recreation. They discuss the COVID "bubble" of outdoor tourism, where it stands now, and the challenges of hiring and retention in a highly seasonal business. Ryan also teaches Erik what Via Ferrata is and why everyone wants to do it!
Learn more about all the amazing outdoor opportunities that AVA offers HERE

Human Capital Management with isolved!

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0600

In this podcast Erik gets a chance to chat about HR trends, challenges and solutions on a national scale with Yutaka Takagi, Principal Product Evangelist with isolved and how that transfers to our mountain communities with local isolved Business Coach Scott Trainer. They discuss what national trends are happening around employee engagement and retention as well as break down bridging the gap between the employee experience and the customer experience...and why that's so vital in today's business culture.
Learn more about isolved HERE
Contact Scott directly: STrainer@isolvedhcm.com
Contact Yutaka directly: www.linkedin.com/in/yutakatakagi/

Let's talk Insurance! With Cornerstone Insurance and Financial Group

Tue, 07 May 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Erik is joined by Tony Martinez, Founder and President of Cornerstone Insurance and Financial Group to discuss the vital role that proper insurance coverage plays in owning and operating a business of any size. Tony talks about some potential pitfalls that may occur but focuses more on the idea that working with an insurance broker is relational rather than transactional and can have so many benefits for both your long-term and short-term business goals. Tony shares some real life examples, including a recent relationship he's working on with a group that just purchased a town! Yes, you heard me, you've got to listen to this story...

Learn more about Cornerstone Insurance and Financial Group HERE

VVMTA Spring Trails Preview!

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0600

It's a real "plodcast" this time with Vail Valley Mountain Trail Alliance as we hike and talk! Erik is joined by Ernest Saeger, Executive Director with VVMTA and Nicky Asselin, Development and Engagement Manager. Join this trio as they head up Boneyard in Eagle on a cold Spring morning to talk about spring trails, hiking, protecting our resources (including wildlife!) best hiking shoes (randomly) and their second favorite trails. C'mon, nobody shares their favorite!

The VVMTA advocates for soft surface trails, manages trail stewardship programs, maintains and builds trails, coordinates and trains volunteers, educates outdoor recreational users, and creates opportunities to access the outdoors. They provide expertise, resources, and the experience to support local land managers in various soft surface trail initiatives.

Learn more about their incredible work and see how you can get involved HERE

Apres IV, Aesthetics and Dental Haus

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Erik gets a tour of the new medical spa in town, Apres IV, Aesthetics and Dental Haus from Dr. Hillery Oliver. Dr. Oliver talks with Erik about their multifaceted business, from skincare to dental and more while trying not to look too closely at how Erik himself is aging. Yes, he was invited back for a free consultation and you are too!

Dr. Oliver talks about the business community in Avon, what she sees as her target demographic and what has been the best advertising for her (spoiler: it's not what you think!) Join us for an insightful look at a growing business and hear what's fueling that success.

Learn more about the good work being done at Apres IV, Aesthetics and Dental Haus HERE.

Skivenger Hunt 2024!

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Erik has a chance to visit an actual podcast room in the Slifer House, Slifer Smith and Frampton's shared workspace, with guests Jay Peterson and Kim Fritzler.
They discuss the Slifer Foundation, why community involvement is so important and the upcoming Skivenger event to benfit the Community Market.

The 4th annual Skivenger Hunt is a fun-filled day on Vail Mountain to give back to the place we call home. The SSF Foundation was established in 2015 focusing on supporting local community organizations that do an amazing job making our area the best place to live. All proceeds this year will go to the Community Market, learn more about their good work HERE.

The Story of Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Erik has a chance to chat with Nancy Heard, GM of Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park and it's such an enlightening conversation! From the history of the Caverns, to the creation of the first attraction, to the addition of Iron Mountain Hot Springs, this longtime local business has been growing strategically and with community in mind. Nancy shares stories from the Caverns as well as some great business insights.
Learn more about their incredible story HERE.

Alliance Moving Systems...and so much more!

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Erik had a chance to take his mic on the road for another "plodcast" and couldn't be happier to visit the fabled Alliance Moving Systems warehouse. Owner/Operator Andy Clark takes Erik on a tour of the facility that includes residential moving, document storage and shredding, what you might expect from this type of business.
Then things get a little different. T
There's also a professional recording studio, a weight room, a bbq deck and "The Attic" which you have to see to believe. Erik gets a chance to talk with Andy about small business strategy in this valley, employee retention and somehow ends the podcast sitting on Gerald and Betty Ford's favorite couch!
Like Andy Clark himself, this was an eclectic conversation that you won't soon forget.
Learn more about Alliance and what they do HERE

Senate Bill 33 and it's effect on Mtn Communities

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Erik is joined by Vail Valley Partnership President and CEO Chris Romer to discuss Senate Bill 24-033 that has recently been introduced in the Colorado Senate.

Vail Valley Partnership’s board has expressed opposition to this legislation due to the negative impacts on our economy. We believe it will essentially destroy spring, summer, and fall tourism and lead to a sizable decrease in our transient visitor bed base with no benefit to the creation of long-term rental inventory.

This issue has implications for our entire state, thank you for listening and should you want to get involved you can reach out to your State Senators and State Representatives to express opposition.

Read Chris' article HERE

Project Management with PEAK

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0700

In this episode Erik gets a chance to sit with Barb Waters, owner and founder of Peak Business Management, to talk about the world of project management. There is a good chance you are actively involved in project management right now (even if it may be called something else!) and Barb talks about ways to not only maximize your results but perform in an agile way.
Peak Business Management guides and inspires individuals, leaders, and organizations with quality learning experiences through an engaging and supportive customer journey. They are a one-stop shop that provides all the resources a student needs to complete their project management exam prep and obtain their PMI certification. Peak instructors take students’ training personally and measure their own success by the success of our students.
Learn more about Peak Business Management HERE
Learn about Disciplined Agile Scrum Master Training course HERE
Find the Project Management software mentioned in the podcast HERE

SpotSurfer - mountain parking made easy!

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Erik gets a chance to sit down with SpotSurfer Founder and President James Hohenlohe and Marketing Director Marissa Selvy to talk about this incredible idea and how it came to fruition. Not only are travelers taking aware of this new option but both businesses and homeowners are finding a simple passive income stream.
The location-based app provides ski drivers a hassle-free way to locate and secure advance parking reservations, while property owners can utilize unused parking spaces.
Through AI-enabled marketing programs, Spotsurfer drives parking demand and delivers skier-driver data to simplify skier parking experiences, ease traffic congestion, and reduce the number of cars on the road.
Spotsurfer is doing its part to reduce carbon emissions and aid in the economic development of local ski area communities.
For more information click HERE

Healthy Kids Colorado 2024...and beyond!

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Erik has a chance to sit with Cam and Marcus from Mountain Youth to talk about the Healthy Kids Colorado Survey and why it's important to our students, families and businesses.

The Healthy Kids Colorado Survey is an important tool for educators, nonprofit leaders, policymakers and community program providers to truly know what issues young people are facing and how we can work together to help them learn and thrive.

2024 Administration
Mountain Youth is working with local schools to prepare for our next administration in January of 2024.
• Learn more about the project through our Frequently Asked Questions HERE
• Explore the Middle School survey instrument HERE
Puedes encontrar el instrumento de encuesta para intermedia en español aquí.
• Explore the High School survey instrument HERE
Puedes encontrar el instrumento de encuesta para secundaria en español aquí.
• Sign up to volunteer as a classroom proctor HERE

Please contact your specific school for a current copy of the survey instrument they plan to use in 2024.

Land and Rivers Fund...because we love our mother!

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0700

Erik is happy to be joined by Sue Nikolai, the Program Director for the Land and Rivers Fund to talk about an important way to give back for businesses and consumers.
Protecting healthy rivers and open spaces in our community is simply good business. It is an investment in the future of our economy and community. We are fortunate to live in an area where the natural beauty attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year.

Eagle Valley Land Trust (EVLT) and Eagle River Watershed Council (ERWC) together are Eagle County’s only non-profits exclusively focused on conserving and protecting rivers and open spaces for the benefit of the community. Together, we have launched the Land & Rivers Fund. EVLT and ERWC help local businesses to establish and promote the program to their customers & clients who voluntarily participate by making a 1% donation with their purchase. Customers and clients have the opportunity to opt-out of the program. The 1% donation is clearly outlined on the sales receipts.

Funds collected help promote and restore healthy rivers, clean water, conscientious development, preservation of open space, wildlife and fish habitat, agriculture, water rights and economic diversity throughout the Valley.

Learn more about how your business can sign up HERE

Break Through Your Hiring and Retention Barrier with Holly Johnson

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0700

One of Erik's favorite guests is back! Author, speaker, coach athlete and more Holly Johnson returns with a new message and a new book!

If you’re a chief executive officer (CEO) or business owner struggling to attract and keep the employees that matter, Holly understands your frustration. Prompted by three decades of her own experiences managing two public relations (PR) and marketing firms and working with businesses—from small hotels and restaurants to a large national health insurance company—Holly has personally witnessed how having a great team makes a great company.

In Break Through Hiring and Retention Barriers, Holly shares the key strategies used by successful leaders to attract and keep the right employees. Learn how to effectively address these hiring and retention challenges and build your team, and your business, so that they want to work with your company—and stay.

Learn more about Holly and her work HERE

One Valley Healthcare Program

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0700

Erik is joined by VVP's Anna Robinson to talk about the One Valley Healthcare Program, in partnership with the Small Association Leadership Alliance (SALA) Healthcare Program, is a comprehensive and cost-effective alternative to traditional plans. While not a replacement for traditional health insurance, this new program offers affordable, accessible, and effective healthcare options for Vail Valley Partnership members – both businesses and individuals alike. The One Valley Healthcare Program provides a high-quality, affordable healthcare solution for employers, employees and sole-proprietors. While not health insurance, the program provides preventative care, options for co-payment features for additional services, and addresses unforeseen medical expenses, such as illness and injury.

A live webinar was held on November 21, 2023 – click here to view the recording.

Learn more at www.onevalleyhealthcareprogram.com

Eagle County Gives 2023!

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0700

It's time to talk about how we can serve others! Brooke Skjonsby, Executive Director of Vail Valley Charitable Fund and Eagle County Gives expert talks to Erik about this important day in our community.

Founded in 2010, Eagle County Gives is a coalition of over 50 Vail Valley nonprofits dedicated to strengthening the collaboration, fundraising capacity and awareness of the non-profit sector that enhances the quality of life in Eagle County. Together, we strive to increase the awareness of our collective impact and have banded together to increase total local donations on Colorado Gives Day and year-round. Support for Eagle County Gives provides local organizations the means to provide basic human needs, protect the mountains you explore, and develop and protect the next generation.

Colorado Gives Day is Tuesday, December 5, 2023, and features a $1.4 million Incentive Fund. Every nonprofit receiving a donation on Colorado Gives Day will receive a portion of the fund, increasing the value of every dollar donated. Colorado Gives Day has grown to be the state’s largest one-day online giving event, raising more than $500 million since it began nearly two decades ago.

Schedule your donations and learn more HERE

Community Conversations: Employee Retention/Satisfaction

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 14:00:00 -0600

Join the Vail Valley Partnership staff and trusted guests for Community Conversations, where we’re able to share thoughts, challenges and ideas around a specific topic in a relaxed and welcoming setting. VVP will invite subject matter experts on the topic and let the conversation go from there. As business leaders, we are stronger when we’re able to collaborate with like-minded professionals and look forward to robust and spirited discussions on how to improve our community – together.

Community Conversations: Employee Retention and Satisfaction November 7th at Color Coffee, Eagle CO. 9-10:30AM.
No registration needed, just show up!

Learn more about Community Conversations HERE

Elevar 2023!

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 13:00:00 -0600

Erik Williams from VVP welcomes Erin Janklow, the Entrepreneur-in-Residence for Elevar, an ecosystem building program to prepare and support Black, Indigenous, and People of Color to launch businesses in Eagle Valley. Erin is the Founder of Entrada ESL, a workforce program to teach immigrants English in 100 days. She currently splits her time consulting in European cities and also developing programming for Elevar. Are you considering launching a business here in Eagle Valley? Listen to learn more about the program!

Elevar is an emergent leadership development program and social impact fund that provides community investments through grantmaking and program-related investments to emerging Latinx leaders and people of color. Through existing programs and partnerships with local nonprofit organizations, EVCF’s Elevar fund will create the connection point between existing education and leadership training programs, to the resources needed for emerging leaders to make their dreams a reality, while building economic power, and creating a more empowered and socially just community.

Find a link to the Community Grant application HERE
Learn more about Elevar HERE

Students Shoulder to Shoulder and the Ethical Leadership Forum 2023

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Erik gets a chance to sit with Bob Bandoni, Executive Director of Students Shoulder to Shoulder,to talk about the unique lens through which they teach ethical leadership by case studies and living examples.
Shoulder-to-Shoulder is an organization of four partner groups: schools, nonprofits, businesses, and philanthropists. Together, we create a broad range of programming for all members in our mission to inspire and support ethical leadership. We continue to push forward, having seen time and again that collaboration across sectors creates a sustainable strategy to advance our mission and scale its impact.

Learn more about Students Shoulder to Shoulder HERE

Coming October 26-27!
Open to the Public on October 27th
The Ethical Leadership Forum is a collaborative event that brings together emerging and experienced leaders across sectors—education, non-profit, business, government, philanthropy, media, and more—to learn, share and grow their unique and interconnected ways of advancing ethical leadership.

This year, the Forum will interactively explore our theme, “Fostering Generations of Ethical Leaders,” featuring session formats to inspire, inform, and interconnect ideas beyond the conventional conference setting. Join us in the natural beauty of Vail, Colorado, to connect and collaborate towards a more ethical & thriving world.
Find more info and register HERE

SpeakUp ReachOut Fall '23

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0600

One of our favorite quotes at VVP is "Be brave enough to have conversations that matter." SpeakUp ReachOut lives by this tenet every day...and teaches us how we can be brave as well. Erik is honored to be joined by Leslie Robertson, the Awareness and Brand Manager for SpeakUp ReachOut and she shares her views on the state of our valley, what resources are available now and education opportunities coming this fall.

From SpeakUp ReachOut:

We reduce instances of suicide in Eagle County and help those affected by it address their pain. Through educational programs, events, peer groups, and partnerships, we bring community members together to learn and share their unique experiences.

If you’re struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call Colorado Crisis Services, (844) 493-8255 or text "TALK" to 38255

Or visit SpeakUp ReachOut HERE

Business Lessons from Coach Prime

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik is joined by Vail Valley Partnership President and CEO (and University of Colorado Alum!) Chris Romer to talk about the player-centric coaching style of new head football coach "Neon" Deion Sanders. Coach Prime's innovative and immersive style is taking the college football world by storm and Chris breaks down for us how that parallels our business here in the Vail Valley and what we can apply locally.

Learn more about how you can connect to your community HERE

Local Radio and the Business Community

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik gets a chance to sit at the feet of the master, local legend Steve Leigh, when it comes to on-air presence, local radio strategies and the future of radio (spoiler...it's not going away...hyper-local content works!) Let Steve's rich baritone voice wash over you while both entertaining and educating on what the local radio landscape looks like...and will the robots take over? Listen and find out!

Check out all three of the local stations in the family here:
104.7 The Mile
977.7 KZYR
102.1 The Outlaw

CareerWise and CareerX 2023!

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership's Christy Beidel and Erik Williams discuss the Modern Youth Apprenticeship Program CareerWise as well as CareerX, the career exploration services from Eagle County School District. Learn how your business can take advantage of our growing workforce pipelines that are putting our students into positions that are serving both them and the companies they work for.
Christy and Erik also discuss the upcoming workforce luncheon, details below:

Workforce Luncheon, September 12, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Learn how your business can access our youth workforce pipeline! We will discuss job shadowing and internships through Eagle County School District, as well as the CareerWise modern youth apprenticeships that are training our next generation of valley professionals

RSVP for the Workforce Luncheon HERE

Board Service Basics is Back!

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0600

This podcast was originally recorded in 2021, but this amazing course is offered annually. For upcoming course dates, visit www.vailvalleyworks.org.

We at Vail Valley Partnership are really excited about these guests. We've been following the work of Dr. Jill McCrory and Dr. Steve Swafford with Leadership Outfitters. These are two nationally recognized educators and they join us for a conversation about a one-day program they will be leading called Board Service Basics. This is coming directly from our interaction with businesses asking for more community diversity on their boards, as well as the community wanting to serve.

Topic Outline:

The “Nuts & Bolts” (organizational structure, governance, tax status, financial documents, Robert’s Rules of Order, etc)
Roles & expectations of a board member
Questions to ask when you’re approached to sit on a board of directors
Finding your passion & strengths as they relate to board service
Understanding communication styles, emotional intelligence and motivating factors
Individual & organizational values
Managing healthy conflict
Working in and with teams
Elements of powerful, healthy, and successful partnerships
Implementing steps for effective collaboration
Local Eagle County case studies

Vail iV Wellness and Recovery LIVE!

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0600

VVP's Erik Williams steps just a bit out of his comfort zone to receive a wellness IV live on the podcast. If you've always wondered what it feels like? What are the medical benefits? Why is taking vitamins in this manner so much more effective? If I'm not an extreme athlete, does this make sense for me? Well...Erik asks all of the above and more while having the process done. Listen to learn about this incredible newer service industry that's growing both here and around the country.
Or just listen in to see if Erik can handle the whole treatment!
Learn more about Vail iV Wellness and Recovery HERE

Orisek Brothers Accounting

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik heads down the road here in Riverwalk to the Diamond Building to visit Orisek Brothers Accounting. Joe and Chris Orisek join him to talk about the importance of professional bookkeeping services in the valley and what are some of the most often asked questions by small business?
They also discuss how Joe and Chris came to be in this place, what it's like working with family (spoiler: more perks than pitfalls!) and what their vision for the future.
Join the Partnership Podcast for this look at an emerging business in our valley.
Find more information about Orisek Brothers Accounting HERE

Vail Jazz Summer 2023!

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik thoroughly enjoys this conversation with Vail Jazz Artistic Director Drew Zaremba about his history, vision and all things jazz. Like an improvised piece of music, they both let this conversation unfold and carry them in it's wake:) Drew talks about the importance of legacy, the incredible work that is being done in the local schools and of course previews what he's looking forward to most for the Labor Day Party this year!
Learn more about Vail Jazz and get tickets to upcoming performances HERE

Town of Avon Sustainability

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik get a chance to sit with Charlotte Lin, Sustainability Coordinator with the Town of Avon to talk about everything they are doing around sustainability and hold on because Avon is quickly moving in some very positive directions! Charlotte shares some stories from her past life as a climate scientist studying tundra ecosystems in the Canadian Artic and how she's taking those lessons and applying them to her work here. She also speaks directly to the impact that business can have as well as individuals in this work.

"As a mountain and recreation-based community, Avon has a close connection with the environment and understands that nature’s health and well-being is one of the town’s most valuable assets. Therefore, reducing Avon’s carbon footprint is one of the town’s priorities." Town of Avon Sustainability

Learn more about Avon's plans and goals HERE.

2023 Success Award Winner Your Hope Center Best Non-Profit

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik has the honor of sitting down with two of the amazing staff at Your Hope Center, Executive Director Carrie Benway and Clinical Director Dr Teresa Haynes, PsyD. to both celebrate being named the 2023 Vail Valley Partnership Best Non-Profit by their peers in the business community but more importantly to talk about their ongoing and vital work. Both are quick to point out what a difference an excellent staff makes and how important it is that we as a community care for those who care for us! Don't worry, they explain it nice and slow for Erik and have fun along the way:)

Please take the time to listen as they discuss what services are available, when to call for yourself or a loved one and other essential needs. This is information we all need to have and we're thankful for the work they do.

Find more information about Your Hope Center HERE

Your 24/7 Support Line:
(970) 306-4673
If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call your 24/7 support line now. Your Hope Center’s team of professionally trained clinicians are available 24/7 to support Eagle County residents during difficult times.

Tu Línea De Apoyo 24/7:
(970) 306-4673
Si usted o alguien que conoce está luchando o teniendo pensamientos suicidas, llame a la Línea De Apoyo 24/7 ahora. El equipo de médicos certificados de Your Hope Center está disponible 24/7 para apoyar a los residentes del Condado de Eagle durante tiempos difíciles.

2023 Success Award Winner Colorado Mountain College Best Place to Work

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik gets a chance to sit with Marc Brennan, Ph.D. Vice President and Campus Dean of CMC Vail Valley to discuss their latest win in the 2023 Success Awards, Best Place to Work. Marc discusses not only the reason for the best place to work (hint: it's the people!) but also what CMC means to the people of this valley and how our local community college is meeting our needs in extraordinary ways.

Learn more about Colorado Mountain College HERE

Learn more about Vail Valley Partnership's Annual Success Awards and watch the awards show HERE

2023 Success Award Winner Dwight Henninger

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik gets a chance to chat with former Vail Police Chief and this year's Vail Valley Partnership Chairman's Award recipient Dwight Henninger. Dwight reflects on his years in the valley, the importance of a strong team and community partnership and also advocates for more resources dedicated to first responders.

Vail Valley Partnership (and the community!) thank Dwight for his service.

Learn more about Vail Valley Partnership's Annual Success Awards and watch the awards show HERE

Foresight Adventure Guides for the Blind

Tue, 30 May 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik gets a chance to sit with Christine Holmberg, Executive Director and have an awesome conversation about where Foresight has come from, where it's going and how you can get involved, particularly in the upcoming summer programs. Learn more about all of that below!

SUMMER CAMP FOR BLIND YOUTH
JUNE 19-21 AND JULY 10-12, 2023

Foresight Adventure Guides for the Blind is thrilled to offer another opportunity for blind and low vision youth to push through barriers, build confidence and increase self-esteem. Foresight's Summer Camp for Blind Youth is for any blind or low vision child between the ages of 8-21. Follow this link to register.

Campers meet in the Vail Valley for three days of fun and outdoor adventure which may include paddle boarding or canoeing on an alpine lake, rock climbing at historic Camp Hale, hiking, horseback riding and more. Meet new friends or reconnect with old ones. Foresight's summer camp is a safe place for youth who are blind or experiencing low vision to get outside and empower themselves through goal-oriented adaptive recreation.

All activities, lodging, lunches and around town transportation are provided by Foresight, at no cost to program participants. Donations are requested to help offset the cost of camp at whatever level is comfortable for families. Please consider making a donation so programs like this can continue and thrive for years to come.

For more information or if interested in sponsoring a camp please email Christine or call 303-506-3859.

Venture Sports Spring Bike Preview

Thu, 18 May 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik gets a tour of the Venture Sports warehouse from Owner/Operator Mike Brumbaugh, meets some of the team and learns about all things spring biking in the valley. From what you need to get the machine up and running again, to some of the newer technology coming out, best trails, hero dirt, favorite road rides and more, they cover it all. While Erik struggles to keep up with Mike's wit and and wisdom, all will benefit from the good advice here.
Learn more about Venture Sports HERE

*AUDIO NOTE* Around minute 6 and again at minute 11 there is some slight audio feedback that is on OUR end, not yours. Thanks!

Eagle Valley Community Foundation REcover food program

Tue, 16 May 2023 18:00:00 -0600

Feed neighbors in need and get tax credit and marketing benefits? It’s a win-win!

More than 38 million Americans lack reliable access to nutritious meals. In Eagle County alone, over 8,700 community members are food insecure. Meanwhile, 108 billion pounds of food go uneaten in the U.S. — the equivalent of 40% of the country’s food supply.

REcover, a program of Eagle Valley Community Foundation’s The Community Market, exists to bridge the gap between perfectly good food that goes to waste and the demand for meals that many of our food-insecure neighbors face. We aim to create better connections in our food system by partnering with restaurants, food purveyors, and companies to collect and utilize their excess food to provide meals to the community.

Volunteers and staff from EVCF will pick up your excess food and bring it to the nearest market location while your business receives tax credit and marketing benefits. To get involved and learn more click here.

LEAD Eagle Certification

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik is joined by Vail Valley Partnership's own Anna Robinson to talk about the LEAD Eagle Certification. They discuss who this is for, what the programs entail and why the certification came about in the first place.

New in 2023, Vail Valley Works is pleased to introduce the LEAD Eagle Certification (Leadership Education And Development). This certification is awarded to individuals in Eagle County who show a commitment to their leadership journey by completing the four courses on the LEAD Eagle Pathway.

For the local workforce, the LEAD Eagle Certification is an opportunity to understand the stages of leadership from tactical to strategic. Each course features a specific “Leadership Pillar” and every course in the pathway includes content focused on communication, emotional intelligence, and values-based leadership, to establish a common language for leaders across Eagle County. Participants will also make quality connections across industries and agencies to establish a solid professional network. This network will be a crucial support as participants grow and take the next steps in their leadership journeys.

For local employers, the LEAD Eagle Certification is a strong indicator that an employee or candidate has invested in themselves and put down roots in the local community. You can expect someone with emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and the tools to lead, who comes with a robust professional network. The LEAD Eagle certification is a tool to move current employees to the next level of leadership or integrate new employees into the community.

While most Eagle County employers strive to hire locally, we know it’s not always possible. A key challenge of recruiting outside talent is ensuring they stay in Eagle County. Establishing a network and community connections are vital components to workforce retention – the LEAD Eagle Certification programs are designed to do just that!

Sign up and learn more HERE

Belonging with SOS Outreach and My Future Pathways

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0600

What does it take to make it long term in this valley? What does it take to put down roots in this place and see them grow? Erik is joined by Bratzo Horruitiner, Executive Director of My Future Pathways and Seth Ehrlich, Executive Director of SOS Outreach to talk about the idea of BELONGING in this community. Through the lens of their individual organizations as well as a greater community lens, these gentlemen share experiences, lessons and tangible ideas we can all do to increase the sense of belonging in this community.

Learn more about SOS Outreach HERE
Learn more about My Future Pathways HERE

Climate Action Week 2023!

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik heads over to Walking Mountains Science Center to learn more about this year's Climate Action Week...or 10 days...c'mon it should be everyday!

He's joined by Elizabeth Baer, Sustainability Fellow and Will Barror, Climate Action Coordinator and they discuss highlights from the upcoming week and how this initiative only works with COMMUNITY behind it.

Find out how you can get involved HERE.

Climate Action Week is an extended week of events to inspire climate action and highlight local climate action partners! Throughout the week, events will be held that encourage increased awareness and action on community-based climate solutions in Eagle County. Climate Action Week is organized by Walking Mountains Science Center and the Climate Action Collaborative. Each event highlights a different sector of the collaborative and emphasizes how partnership and community action is crucial to progress.

Join us as we engage the Eagle County community around climate action and help us meet our Climate Action Plan goals of 50% greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction by 2030 and 80% GHG emission reduction by 2050.

Cooley Mesa Detailing and the future of rental cars

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik heads to Cooley Mesa Detailing for a tour and conversation with owner Chris Baddick. They discuss a number of different business issues including the joys and challenges of taking over a family legacy business. Chris also discusses how a former professional cyclist came to work in the auto business and how he and his team can work towards positive social and environmental outcomes. As Chris shares, the rental car experience is often someone's first "handshake" with the valley and wouldn't you like that handshake to be competent and CLEAN?!

Founded in 1988 and locally owned ever since, Cooley Mesa Detailing has established itself as the Vail Valley’s primary high touch auto detailing specialist. Located at the Eagle County Regional Airport, Cooley Mesa Detailing built it’s reputation by providing exemplary service to passengers flying in and out of the Vail Valley Jet Center.

Learn more about Cooley Mesa Detailing HERE

Talking Small Biz with Slalom Fox Cocktails

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0600

Erik is joined this week by John Burns, owner/operator/co-founder of Slalom Fox cocktails. Based in the Front Range but with a strong mountain presence, John recounts the story of how this company came to be, what challenges they faced building their dream and how it is moving into the future. They talk candidly about challenges around brand awareness, local market share and running a small business with a regional and statewide focus.
Join us as we look at small business through the lens of a craft cocktail company and I imagine you'll be surprised at what can apply to business of any size.
Learn more about Slalom Fox cocktails HERE

It's not Shark Week, it's Work Week! Summer Hiring Expo in March.

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Erik is joined by Shannon Grant, Director of Post Secondary Learning and Career Readiness for Eagle County School District and Carolyn Tucker, Regional Business Services Coordinator for the Colorado Workforce Center to discuss WORK WEEK!

It's not Shark Week, it's Work Week.

Work Week 2023 March 28 – March 30

Join us for the new, week long spring hiring event! Over 100 business positions available. Explore what business is right for you. There are options to participate both in-person and virtually. Resumes are required.

Join us at one of the following locations to chat with businesses in-person.

Tuesday, March 28th
2:00-4:00 Eagle County School District Students Only
4:00-6:00 Anyone and everyone welcome
At Edwards Field House
450 Miller Ranch Road, Edwards, COThursday, March 30th
2:00-4:00 Eagle County School District Students Only
4:00-6:00 Anyone and everyone welcome
At Gypsum Recreation Center
52 Lundgren Blvd., Gypsum, CO

*View businesses participating in-person.

Virtual Participation

Click here to visit the virtual work week portal. You will need to first register for the event, then you can explore employer booths where you can ask questions, have discussions, and secure interview spots. Through the online portal you can also submit your resume.

*View businesses participating virtually.

Is your business interested in participating in work week? Click here to fill out the business registration form. If you have already signed up and wish to participate in virtual interviews, click here to register.

Talking taxes (and more!) with Brush Creek Financial Advisors

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0700

In this podcast Erik steps WAY out of his comfort zone to talk taxes...and finds out it's not really that uncomfortable after all! Brush Creek Financial Advisors' Matt Welsh joins Erik to talk about new additions to the tax code, things we should be aware of in the coming year and some simple strategies that make sense for people of all income levels.

There's also an impromptu Mettalica "quote-off" and perhaps the best answer you've ever heard when a financial planner is asked "tell me the future". Join Matt and Erik for this fun and informative conversation and learn more about Brush Creek Financial Advisors HERE.

Talking Childcare with The Family Learning Center

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0700

Childcare.
Early Childhood Education.

It's a topic frequently in the news, it's a strategic priority for Eagle County but what does it look like from a local childcare provider perspective?

Whitney Young, Executive Director of The Family Learning Center (FLC) and Cristina Betancourt Santos, Site Director at FLC invite Erik into the school (during naptime...you'll hear how that went!) to talk about what Early Childhood Education looks like from the ground level. They discuss the push for more educators in this field and the steps being made to fill those positions. Both Whitney and Cristina stress the need for greater community awareness and knowledge around the issue of childcare so...thanks in advance for listening and sharing!

Learn more about the Family Learning Center HERE

History and wonder at The Museum at Dinosaur Junction...in Eagle County!

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0700

This is the podcast where host Erik Williams says "Really?" and "No way!" far too many times, however we dare you to listen and not feel the same!

Local archeologist, founder and curator of The Museum at Dinosaur Junction, Billy Doran takes the listener on a private tour of the museum, sharing stories of Eagle County's incredibly rich dinosaur history, how he came to find some of these pieces, and who he calls first when he makes a big discovery (spoiler, it's mom...and then the scientists!)

The Museum at Dinosaur Junction is dedicated to inspiring, educating and enriching life in Eagle County and Colorado as a whole by deepening the understanding and appreciation of history and science through the research, preservation and exhibition of paleontological discoveries.
Exhibits cover a comprehensive 200 million year history of the region, from fossil dinosaurs beginning in the Triassic, through the Jurassic, and into the Cretaceous including fossils from the Western Interior Seaway that covered the land millions of years ago.

Learn more about the Museum at Dinosaur Junction HERE:

Also, on Feb 8th Vail Valley Partnership will be hosting their monthly mixer at the Museum, learn more and register HERE:

Life, Business and Team Coaching with Kim Smith

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0700

VVP's Erik Williams learns about the world of professional coaching, not sports however, you'd be surprised at some of the parallels. Kim Smith talks about her personal journey to becoming a coach, working with teams and maximizing potential that exists in both us and the system around us.
Learn more about Kim Smith and Professional Coaching HERE

They also discuss Vail Valley Works Industry Groups new offering "Women in Business" The Women in Business Series will be focused on challenges and opportunities that women face in business and their careers. There will be a focus on leadership and what that can look like for any stage of your career. The group will meet for eight 90 minute sessions, starting in March 2023 and going through October 2023. Each session will go over a topic designed to build a foundation of leadership, awareness, insight and skills for success.
Find more information and register HERE

All Ships Rise with the Tide! Non-Profit Networks and Professional Fundraising

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 14:00:00 -0700

President John F. Kennedy once said in a speech “No American is ever made better off by pulling a fellow American down, and every American is made better off whenever any one of us is made better off. A rising tide raises all boats.”

The non-profit collaboration and coordination in this valley is a testament to those words, however it hasn't always been the case. Learn a little about the history of non-profit collaboration in the valley as well as updates on current programming.

Erik Williams is joined by Vail Valley Partnership's Maren Cerimele and local Non-profit expert Robin Thompson to talk about the non-profit learning series and Professional Fundraising Certificate program and how you can get involved.

Learn more on Jan 25th with The Key to Charting your Course in 2023
Register HERE
The Nonprofit Learning Series is kicking off 2023 with a new program on January 25th featuring inspirational Ted Talk style presentations on topics that are vital to your nonprofit work. Then, the presenters will be part of a panel discussion where you can ask the experts questions culminating in an interactive roundtable session with the speakers and topics. Sign up today so that you don’t miss this in-person program to help chart the course for a great 2023!

Learn more about the Non-Profit Network HERE.

Professional Fundraising Certificate dates:
Thursdays, Weekly (11am – 1pm, lunch provided)

February 16 & 23
One week off for Eagle County Schools’ Winter Break
March 9, 16, 23 & 30
April 6 & 13

Learn more about the Professional Fundraising Certificate program HERE:

Community Impact award winner (and important voice!) Ariana Gonzalez

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0700

Host Erik Williams at VVP is honored to be joined by this year's Vail Valley Partnership Success Awards Community Impact award winner Ariana Gonzalez. Ariana is a true success story from this community with as much as she has already accomplished. She has worked with United Way, Community Consciousness and TEDX Youth Vail. She has also served on the District Accountability Advisory Council, the Youth Equity Stewardship team and more. She's now using her skills at Battle Mountain High School through the AmeriCorps program. She's quite simply...awesome.

Ariana graduated in 2021 and shares her unique perspective on growing up in this valley. They also get discuss opportunities for students of color and what we as a community can do to build stronger relationships.

Little Bird Commissary Kitchen and Market

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0700

Join Vail Valley Partnership and host Erik Williams as we take a walk (Plodcast?) through Little Bird Commissary Kitchen and Gourmet Market.

Owners/operators Anne and Scotty lead the conversation around many relevant business topics including effectively listening to your customers and changing business plans and adapting to current conditions.

Learn about what a commissary kitchen is (think "shared space" in the personal chef/food truck world) and how Little Bird is accepting new partners and seeking to build community.

Oh, and the market! You're just going to have to listen...

Learn more about Little Bird Commissary Kitchen HERE.

Legacy and Change at The Sitzmark

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 15:00:00 -0700

VVP's Erik Williams is welcomed into the lobby of the classic Sitzmark Hotel in Vail Village to talk transitions!

How do you let go of something after 49 years?
In this case with grace and confidence in those you are handing it to.

Erik is joined by Jeanne Fritch, whose family has owned and operated the property for 49 years and Steve Kisielica, who's family takes over the reigns. Jeanne talks about the importance of finding an "heir" to The Sitzmark who will maintain the legacy while still embracing changes in the industry. Steve shares his vision for the future while talking about employees and business in Vail Village.

Erik mostly keeps quiet in this one, it's a fascinating discussion:)
Learn more about The Sitzmark HERE.

Eagle County Gives 2022 is almost here!

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 12:00:00 -0700

Brooke Skjonsby, Executive Director of Vail Valley Charitable Fund breaks down Eagle County Gives day with Erik Williams from VVP. Learn about some of the participating organizations, the mission and goals and how you can maximize your donations before December 6th.
Learn more about the 67 participating non-profits HERE.

Winter Business Preview

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 12:00:00 -0700

Erik Williams is joined Chris Romer, President and CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, for a look ahead at the 2022-23 Winter Season. Chris breaks down current economic data as well as giving us a historical perspective on guest occupancy, sales tax, community collaboration PLUS the "secret sauce" for a successful year.
Find more information and resources HERE.

Seagull's Cycles...the bike shop our valley needs.

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 21:00:00 -0700

Kyle Foster, owner/operator and more of Seagull's Cycles invites Erik from VVP (and you!) behind the counter on location in Eagle. They discuss what it takes to start a small business in this community through the lens of Kyle's story and why Seagull's Cycles is more than just a bike shop. Kyle believes that through building community and relationships this is exactly the bike shop our valley needs.

In his own words:
Committed to passing on knowledge, Seagull’s Cycles offers education, repair and consignment. Our desire to guide clients through the world of bike nuances is built on transparency, which results in a sense of ease and trust.

Learn more about Seagull's Cycles HERE.

Salvation Army needs you...and appreciates you!

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 14:00:00 -0700

Erik Williams from VVP heads to the Salvation Army to spend time with Tsu Wolin Brown, site coordinator and all around valley saint! (She was a volunteer for 21 years before working at SA!)
More than just a food pantry, learn about the different services that Salvation Army provides for the community including rent assistance, social services, disaster relief services, Adopt-a-Family, volunteer opportunities and more.
Learn about services provided and how you can give back to your community through the Salvation Army HERE.

Diving into Inclusivity with Mountain Pride

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0600

Lauren Mendez, Marketing Manager for Vail Valley Partnership sits down with Madison Partridge, Executive Director of Mountain Pride to chat about inclusivity for our LBGTQ+ community in the Vail Valley. Learn what steps you and your business can take to be more inclusive today.

Mountain Pride is an organization inspired and driven to serve the needs of our LGBTQIA+ communities. Mountain Pride is devoted to strengthening its foundation and expanding its reach as an organization by establishing supportive, safe spaces, enhancing family acceptance and understanding, and offering access to education, resources, and programs. You can learn more about the work Mountain Pride is doing at www.mountainpride.org

Regional Transportation Authority ballot issue conversation

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0600

Join VVP's Erik Williams and Chris Romer as they dig into the pros and cons of establishing a Regional Transportation Authority.

Employers and community leaders in the Eagle Valley began discussions on creating a regional transportation authority (RTA) prior to the pandemic. An RTA allows local communities to work together to address the transportation and transit needs of the area.

Representatives of eight local governments—Eagle County; the towns of Avon, Eagle, Gypsum, Minturn, Red Cliff and Vail; and Beaver Creek Metro District—along with business, nonprofit and community leaders have collaborated for the past year on a proposal to create the Eagle Valley Regional Transportation Authority.

After months of research and work, we can make it a reality. Improved transit and transportation helps our local citizens, helps our businesses, and improves the guest experience. Voters in these eight communities this November will be asked to approve the creation of the Eagle Valley RTA and funding to improve transit and other transportation services.

The goal of the Eagle Valley RTA is to support the workforce, economic and environmental goals of our region and our individual communities.

A YES vote in November accomplishes this for the price of a half-cent sales tax (that’s $0.50 on a $100 purchase). That’s a small price to pay for an improved community.

Find more information HERE.

Brian Brandl Eagle County Commissioner candidate conversation

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership CEO Chris Romer is joined by Brian Brandl, candidate for Eagle County Board of County Commissioners. They discuss a variety of community issues including transit, housing, health insurance, early childhood, workforce, and more.

Find more information on Brian's campaign HERE.

Jeanne McQueeney Eagle County Commissioner candidate conversation

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership CEO Chris Romer is joined by Jeanne McQueeney, candidate for Eagle County Board of County Commissioners. They discuss a variety of community issues including transit, housing, health insurance, early childhood, workforce, and more.

Find more information on Jeanne's campaign HERE.

Savannah Wolfson Colorado House District 26 candidate conversation

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership CEO Chris Romer is joined by Savannah Wolfson, candidate for Colorado House District 26. They discuss a variety of community issues including transit, housing, health insurance, early childhood, workforce, and more.

Find more information on Savannah's campaign HERE.

Meghan Lukens Colorado House District 26 candidate conversation

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership CEO Chris Romer is joined by Meghan Lukens, candidate for Colorado House District 26. They discuss a variety of community issues including transit, housing, health insurance, early childhood, workforce, and more.

Find more information on Meghan's campaign HERE.

Matt Solomon, Colorado State Senate District 8 candidate conversation

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 16:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership CEO Chris Romer is joined by Matt Solomon, candidate for Colorado State Senate. They discuss a variety of community issues including transit, housing, health insurance, early childhood, workforce, and more.

Find more information on Matt's campaign HERE.

Dylan Roberts, Colorado State Senate District 8 candidate conversation

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 16:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership CEO Chris Romer is joined by Rep. Dylan Roberts, candidate for Colorado State Senate. They discuss a variety of community issues including transit, housing, health insurance, early childhood, workforce, and more.

Find more information on Dylan's campaign HERE.

State of the Valley - Real Estate Edition 9.22

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 10:00:00 -0600

Chris Romer joins valley experts in Real Estate and Development for a look at the State of the Valley Real Estate. They discuss all things Real Estate, from current trends, post COVID sales figures, future development options and more. A huge thanks to our experts:

Alex Griffin, Vice President & Managing Broker from LIV Sotheby's, Vail Valley
Michael Slevin, President from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Colorado Properties
Matt Fitzgerald, President & Employing Broker from Slifer Smith and Frampton, Vail Valley
Trevor Theelke Sales from Land Title Guarantee Company
Graham Frank, Managing Member from BGV Avon, LLC & Frontgate | Avon

Colorado Mountain Medical Patient Care Technician Program

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0600

In this episode Erik is joined by Ada Sapp, Colorado Mountain Medical COO and Shannatay Bergeron, Director of Specialty Care Services to talk about an opportunity for those interested in the medical field. They made sure to remind Erik that this career path is open to ANY who might be interested, whether it's your first or twentieth career!

Patient Care Techs are responsible for assisting with patient care, completing vital signs, preparing and stocking rooms, maintaining patient records and completing administrative duties that assist in the management of patient care. We are looking for motivated individuals who are interested in getting into the medical field.

In this position you will learn basic clinical support staff skills. Upon successful completion specific certification/ licensure you will be promoted to a Clinical Assistant and receive a compensation adjustment. We reimburse for course and test fees associated with obtaining MA, EMT, CNA, or LPN certification/ licenses.

This is a full time position and will be located in our clinics in Eagle County Colorado.

Find the hiring page for Patient Care Technicians HERE

Apprentices, Interns and Shadowing...oh my! A Workforce Luncheon (8/25) Preview

Sat, 06 Aug 2022 10:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership's Christy Beidel and Erik Williams discuss the upcoming Workforce Luncheon on August 25th as well as how ANY business can access youth labor through job shadowing, internships and the modern youth apprenticeship program, CareerWise.

Vail Valley Partnership & Eagle County Schools Workforce Luncheon . We would like to invite you to lunch on August 25th at Colorado Mountain College in Edwards to share with you how your business can access our youth workforce pipeline. We will discuss job shadowing and internships through Eagle County School District, as well as the CareerWise modern youth apprenticeships that are training our next generation of valley professionals.

Please RSVP HERE for the Workforce Luncheon, we will see you there!

Vail iV Wellness and Recovery

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 00:00:00 -0600

Erik from VVP sits down with husband and wife team Andrew and Kristin Pilecki from Vail iV Wellness and Recovery to get the skinnny on IV therapy for visitors, athletes or just someone that needs a boost!

Intravenous therapy is a safe and efficient way to deliver essential fluids, nutrients, and minerals directly into the bloodstream. By bypassing the digestive system, a full therapeutic dose is immediately active in your bloodstream. Because of this, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients are better absorbed resulting in faster and more effective results. IV therapy has long existed in hospital settings but its use in an at-home setting has recently become more well known through its regular usage by business professionals, professional athletes, and celebrities. You may have heard of IV therapy referred to as vitamin infusion therapy, a hydration drip, or IV bar.

Learn more here!

Legislative Update 6.22 with Senator Donovan and Representative Roberts

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 11:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership president & CEO Chris Romer is joined by State Senator Kerry Donovan and State Representative Dylan Roberts to discuss the recent legislative session in Denver. Discussion includes legislation and funding for key priority areas including housing and mental health as well as the use of American Rescue Fund dollars in Colorado.

Castle Peak Senior Life

Tue, 24 May 2022 16:00:00 -0600

"old people are just people...who are older."

You'll have to listen to the podcast to understand both the joke and why this Senior Life and Care center is SO important to our valley. VVP has a chance to sit down with Shelly Cornish, ED of Castle Peak Senior Life and Rehabilitation Center and Tilman Adair, Philanthropy Director. They discuss the incredible resource that this is for the community, the changing demographics of our population and the growing number of older residents as well as pathways to careers in both Senior Care and Nursing for local job seekers. Castle Peak is committed to training and funding positions in QMAP (aide for assisted living) CNA (certified nursing assistant) and TMA (trained medication assistant).

Find more information at www.castlepeak.org

Spring Biz Preview 2022 with Chris Romer

Tue, 03 May 2022 14:00:00 -0600

Erik Williams sits down with Vail Valley Partnership President and CEO Chris Romer (on his Birthday!) to discuss the winter that was and the summer we should expect. As all destination metrics continue to point upwards Chris discusses what successful businesses are doing in this climate and give us an actual silver bullet for employee attraction and retention!

Climate Action Week 4/21-30

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Well...it's really like week and a half...but it should be every week!

Erik is joined by Will Barror, a Sustainability Fellow with Walking Mountains Science Center to talk about the upcoming event and some off the cuff questions about the green state of our valley.

Climate Action Week is an extended week of events to inspire climate action and highlight local climate action partners! Throughout the week, events will be held that correspond with each Climate Action Collaborative (CAC) sector, as well as events highlighting local food systems, our community’s youth, advocating for the environment, community programs, and more!

Join us as we engage the Eagle County community around climate action and help us meet our Climate Action Plan goals of 50% greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction by 2030 and 80% GHG emission reduction by 2050.

See the full schedule and registrations HERE

EngageVail

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 17:00:00 -0700

Join host Erik Williams as he sits with Town of Vail Economic Development Manager Mia Vlaar and Founder and CEO of Better Destinations Cathy Ritter to discuss the upcoming Vail Destination Stewardship Plan.

Over the next nine months, The Town of Vail will be creating a Destination Stewardship Plan, with the goals of:

Managing the growth of our tourism economy, protecting our way of life and the natural environment that we all love, and maintaining a world-class experience for our visitors and residents.

The Destination Stewardship Plan will be developed through a community-driven process. Hundreds of regional stakeholders will be actively included in the process through a variety of engagements including interviews, town hall meetings, surveys, and focus groups.

Learn more at www.EngageVail.com

Better Brands with Callosum

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0700

VVP gets a chance to sit down with Clare Hefferren, Founder/CEO of Callosum to talk personal and professional brands, flow state, life and so much more! Clare is a sophisticated tomboy and passionate people’s champion. No longer an aggressive Chicago bull in a china shop, she cultivates community by advocating for access to nature & building outdoor industry brands. Through Callosum’s purpose to Make Better Brands for a Better Planet, Clare works with growth-stage companies and nonprofits, with a staff of 3-25, anchored in purpose (or desire to be) who are looking to build awareness and revenue with principles of purpose.

Callosum is a strategic firm that guides purpose-driven outdoor brands through the growth-stage of critical strategic thinking, visual elements, disruptive story creation, and brand marketing resulting in measurable cultivated relationships. https://gocallosum.com/

Clare Hefferren is the Founder/CEO of Callosum. She’s a sophisticated tomboy and passionate people’s champion, whose focus audience is outdoors brands who have a staff of 3-25 who are looking to build awareness and revenue with the principles of purpose. Her strategic firm guides purpose-driven outdoor brands through critical strategic thinking, visual elements, disruptive story creation, and brand marketing resulting in measurable cultivated relationships. Committed to doing business for good - people, planet, profit - the Comprehensive Brand Build and Brand Boost are signature services. She is based in Vail, CO, and works with clients nationwide.

Legislative Preview 2022

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 18:00:00 -0700

Erik Williams gets a chance to pick the brain of Vail Valley Partnership President and CEO Chris Romer about the upcoming legislative session at a state, federal and local level. What does advocacy look like for our valley and how do we speak the needs of this valley primarily at the state level? Chris highlights some important upcoming legislation including the unemployment insurance trust fund, housing, paid family leave and other bills we will be watching/advocating for that have direct impacts on the business community in Eagle County.

Medequip - "roll in and walk out"

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 15:00:00 -0700

Join VVP on our first ever "Plodcast" (it's a thing) where we tour the facility at Medequip in EagleVail learning about all that they do. Drew Meyer, MSPO, CPO, Managing Orthotist/Prosthetist talks about his journey and unique role in this valley. See through our eyes as we look at where actual miracles are crafted, allowing people motion or support where they thought they wouldn't have it again.

For more than twenty-five years, medical professionals across the nation have come to Medequip as the ideal source for supporting their orthopedic practices, including patient care, insurance billing and DME services. Medequip is an accredited provider and contracted with most major insurance companies and workman’s compensation payers in order to provide high-quality solutions for patients’ orthotic needs, including: orthopedic bracing services, cryo-therapy treatments, ambulatory aid, and other post-operative equipment.

Learn more at Medequiportho.com

Three Thank Yous

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 10:00:00 -0700

The data is showing that we will see more guests this winter than we've ever experienced. We're also experiencing a shortfall of skilled workers in almost every industry. How do we maintain the standards of this place that we're all so proud of? How do we insure that our guests, the economic lifeblood of our community, remember this place for the good experiences and want to return? Vail Valley Partnership President and CEO Chris Romer discusses a simple strategy that we can all adopt in the spirit of Margaret Mead.

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it's the only thing that ever has."

Movie Wisdom for Business!

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 13:00:00 -0600

Join Chris Romer and Erik Williams from Vail Valley Partnership as they discuss their favorite movie quotes and how they apply to business. From Ferris Bueller to Alien to Rocky to Harry Potter, join these two self-proclaimed "movie nerds" as they compete to find the best quote that speaks to the business needs of the Vail Valley.

And, as promised in the episode, here's a link to the podcast that inspired us to take our shot at this.
https://podbay.fm/p/waces-chamber-leadership-podcast/e/1634050800

9Health:365

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership sits down with Amy Friel from 9Health:365 to share the "good news" about health care!

Building on its 40+ years of preventive health fairs in every corner of Colorado, nonprofit 9Health:365 now offers a new service that makes it easier to stay healthy every day. 365: Comprehensive is the affordable solution that makes preventive health care outrageously accessible for small businesses and their teams. It combines text-based telehealth with unlimited medical guidance and advice for only $80 per person per year.

Vail Valley-based individuals and small businesses can learn more at: https://9health365.org/comprehensive/ and sign up using the code 21VVPmember12

You can also reach out to Amy at amy.friel@9Health365.org

Interested in bringing a 9Health:365 health fair to the community in Spring 2022? Amy will happily connect you to the team that can help make that happen.

Public Adjusters with Adjusters International-MBC

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0600

VVP was honored to learn from Dan and Michael from Adjusters International about what exactly is a public adjuster, when should you use their services and what are those services. Listen and learn with us.

In their own words:

Public Adjusters – advocates on behalf of the insured, not the insurance company after a catastrophic loss: frozen pipes, fire, wind and storm, etc.

We interpret the details of your policy, determine coverage, and properly file a full and accurate claim for a fair settlement

We help both Commercial and Residential clients with property insurance claims

We work with your trusted advisors: contractors, realtors, attorneys, engineers, appraisers, etc.

Be sure to review your policy to make sure you are property insured – we’ll be happy to review with you.

www.ai-mbc.com

Dan Jewell – dan@ai-mbc.com / 303-298-2948

Michael Stoycheff – michael@ai-mbc.com / 970-390-1727

SpeakUp ReachOut

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership sat down with Erin Ivie and Carol Johnson from SpeakUp ReachOut to talk National Suicide Prevention Month, real stats in Eagle County and what you can do to help someone in need.

More information and resources available HERE.

SpeakUp ReachOut is a group of individuals who are dedicated to providing suicide prevention, intervention and loss support services to those in need. Services offered include: suicide prevention and awareness education, community connection events, and suicide loss support services.

Colorado Crisis Services:
1 (844) 493-8255.

The Hope Line:
(970) 306-HOPE.

Board Service Basics

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 16:00:00 -0600

UPDATE: Our October 6th date is currently full, we are working another session on Oct 7th.

Presented in partnership with the Town of Vail

We at Vail Valley Partnership are REALLY excited about these guests. We've been following the work of Dr Jill McCrory and Dr Steve Swafford with Leadership Outfitters. These are two nationally recognized educators and they join us for a conversation about a one day program they will be leading called Board Service Basics. This is coming directly from our interaction with business asking for more community diversity on their boards as well as Community wanting to serve. We're so excited to have Jill and Steve and their expertise.

I’ve added some information below but I’m particularly excited about the 2:30 portion when we dive into local examples. You know it’s a unique place and previous valley examples help.

What we’re planning covering:

The “Nuts & Bolts” (organizational structure, governance, tax status, financial documents, Robert’s Rules of Order, etc)

Roles & expectations of a board member

Questions to ask when you’re approached to sit on a board of directors

Finding your passion & strengths as they relate to board service

Understanding communication styles, emotional intelligence and motivating factors

Individual & organizational values

Managing healthy conflict

Working in and with teams

October 6th (FULL, waitlist in process with possibility of additional session October 7th)

Schedule

9:30 – 11:30am: Module 1 – Shaping Your Community Serving on a Board or Committee: A good board candidate understands how their passion and strengths can combine with an organizational mission to provide a good board experience. This segment includes basic information on organizational structure, tax-status, governance plus roles of board members and expectations of being on a board.
11:30am – 12:30pm: Lunch (included in registration fee)
12:30pm – 2:30pm: Module 2 – Developing & Refining Strategic Board Communication & Teamwork: Skilled Boards are made up of individuals who each communicate in different ways. Understanding how one’s own communication influences both harmony and conflict is important for a healthy board. It is also vital to understand the diverse thinking, process, and learning styles of those “around the table” in order to maximize strategic strengths and the human capacity of those serving on the board. You will also gain understanding of the various stages of teams and roles of leadership within those stages, working together as a team, and needs of the team.
2:30pm – 4:30pm: Eagle County Case Studies: Hear from local board veterans who have navigated challenging situations during their tenure on a board of directors. These discussions will be interactive and informative.

Feel Good Solutions with Holly Johnson

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0600

Author, Coach, Marathoner, CEO and more; Holly Johnson joins Vail Valley Partnership for a discussion of her new book and shares some tangible ways in which business owners, community members and YOU can start feeling better...about everything.

Do think feeling good is out of reach? Feeling good is really quite simple. It comes down to choices. When you think about it, a bad day is really just a series of moments. If you make the shift from a day to a moment, it’s a lot easier to let go and move on. This is when you make the conscious shift to say, how can I feel better? You inherently believe it’s possible or you wouldn’t be here. So, let’s get started and have some fun. Learn more about How to Make Feeling Good Your Priority at work, home, training and life in general.

An evolution of founder and director Holly Rouillard Johnson’s 27-time marathon career and 30+ years running two successful PR and marketing firms and serving as a running coach, a COVID calling spurred a desire to expand her feel-good mindset training to a broader audience and help people around the world feel better – about themselves, their work, their relationships and their value.

Start your feel-good journey today!

Vail Beaver Creek Resort Properties Career Development and Employment

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 11:00:00 -0600

Alicia Gresley, Business Development Manager with Vail and Beaver Creek Resort properties joins us to talk about how the lodging community has fared since COVID and what we can expect in the near future. We also spend time talking about professional development, career pathways and part time options through Vail Resorts.

More information about employment can be found at https://jobs.vailresortscareers.com/, however, in the words of Alicia, it’s always best to stop by and talk to someone. Feel free to stop by any of the lodging properties to ask about employment options!

Sports Psychology with Dr. Harlan Austin

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 15:00:00 -0600

VVP is honored to be joined by Dr. Harlan Austin, a Sport Psychologist with Howard Head Sports Medicine.

Dr. Austin discusses what is Sports Psychology, how does it come into play at the highest level of athlete as well as...the rest of us! From visualization and mindfulness to easing the anxiety of youngsters in their sports Dr. Austin gives us some tangible and actionable ideas that we can all benefit from.

Learn more about Howard Head Sports Medicine HERE
Learn more about the service from Eagle Valley Behavioral Health HERE

Vista Eagle County

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 11:00:00 -0600

Join Colton Berck, Community Engagement Coordinator and Angleo Fernandez, Chief Culture Officer as they discuss Eagle County's Vista initiative.

Learn more and get involved at www.vistaeagleco.com

Vista is a bold reimagining of how community members and decision makers can work together to produce realistic, effective outcomes. It invites residents and leaders to come together more frequently and conversationally to create solutions.

Eagle County will act as the primary convener for Vista in partnership with towns, municipalities, nonprofits, businesses, local organizations, and community members to help facilitate a regional feedback-driven process. While Vista will continue to evolve to meet future needs as they arise, its initial focus is to develop the county’s Comprehensive Plan, promote participation in community development, rebuild the economy in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, and improve equitable access.

Connecting to Peer Support with Eagle Valley Behavioral Health

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0600

VVP gets a chance to sit down with a panel of amazing mental health professionals to talk about peer support programs, sports psychology and overall mental health.

Learn more at www.Eaglevalleybh.org

GET SUPPORT: PEER SUPPORT GROUPS
Our Peer Support Group program offers ongoing group oriented care with a qualified and vetted group leader. A peer group is a gathering of 2-10 people with shared experience, to allow for healing through story telling. This is hosted by a trained peer leader to hold a respectful space for all to grow in their recovery. Peer groups can be held in agreed upon spaces generously provided by Vail Resorts, as well as cafes, libraries, or outdoors

What is peer support? Peer Support is when two or more people with similar experiences get together in person or electronically to share their experiences, to learn together how to move past the difficulties this has created in their lives, to give each other hope, and to support each other as they do the things they want to do and make their lives the way they want them to be.
Why is it helpful? Peer Support is another way in the Eagle River Valley to find a listening ear and a friendly face. It is an opportunity to talk with others who are experiencing similar things in their life. It can be a freeing experience as individuals realize “I am not alone”.
Who is it for? Peer Support can be used by anyone with any kind of life experience.

Language Justice with the Community Language Cooperative

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 12:00:00 -0600

Rosa Guzman Snyder and Indira Guzman from the Community Language Cooperative join Lauren Emenaker from the VVP to talk about how local businesses can take steps towards language justice. Language justice when it comes to racial justice aims to remove the language barrier and provide full acceptance and recognition of the “whole self” for people of color, allowing for full and unapologetic leadership. In other words, language justice is about giving everyone the opportunity to participate in the language of her/his heart.

Learn more about the Community Language Cooperative at www.communitylanguagecoop.com.

Dave and Matt Vans

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 12:00:00 -0600

Erik Williams from VVP interviews the actual Dave and Matt from Dave and Matt Vans! Hear how these two entrepreneurs followed their passion in creating this business, navigated the challenges of COVID and manufacturing in the mountains and ultimately found a level of success that they never anticipated...or did they? Find more info at www.dmvans.com.

Valley Dreamers

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 11:00:00 -0600

Host Erik Williams interviews Eagle Valley Senior Zaira Najera about the new club Valley Dreamers, the impact they are already making and hears about one of their first events, Destigmatizing Labels. More info at www.youthpower365.org.

The Hive

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 14:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley President & CEO Chris Romer visits with Makenzie Mueller from Remonov and Co to discuss workforce housing in the Eagle River Valley, including a new concept proposed for Edwards titled the Mtn Hive. This unique and extraordinary concept is a co-living space that meets community needs. Learn more at https://mtnhive.com/

Community Issues Bootcamp 2021 Preview!

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 14:00:00 -0600

Erik Williams is joined by Vail Valley Partnership President and CEO Chris Romer as they discuss some of our major community issues through the lens of the upcoming Community Issues Bootcamp. Learn more about this program through www.vailvalleyworks.com.

Effectv - Lisa Cheek

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 09:00:00 -0700

Join Regional sales guru Lisa Cheek as she explains how Effectv (formerly Comcast Spotlight) puts your ads in front of the people you want. From marketing, inventory and impressions, Lisa goes through a behind the scenes look as to how a company like this can spread your digital message. www.effectv.com.

VVP Connect - a new way to network

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 16:00:00 -0700

Ben Dodd and Anna Robinson from Vail Valley Partnership join Erik to talk about a new networking platform designed to lead to stronger valley collaboration around issues we all care about. Go to vvpconnect.com to sign up. VVP...we're not done.

Trends with Benefits - Making Remote Work

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0700

Join Kim Schlaepfer and Mackenzie Koffenberger from Walking Mountains as they discuss the benefits and strategies of working remotely.
The trend of working remotely has gone mainstream, and local teams are reaping the benefits of increased productivity, reduced operating costs, and rebalanced priorities. Whether you’re running the show or kicking off your career, everybody wins. If you’re someone who cares about safety, the environment, and boosting the bottom line, then it’s time to make remote work for you. Check out our library of free content and create a flexible work policy today.

Avail Soft Tissue and Spine

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0700

Join Dr. Adam Holen joins VVP to talk about how we can experience less pain in our daily lives and more adventure!
Dr. Holen specializes in finding and fixing muscle adhesion, which acts like glue, making muscles weak & less flexible. Adhesion is the most common and misdiagnosed condition in the human body. With expert care, adhesion is entirely fixable, providing sustainable relief for chronic pain.

AMH Advisory Services

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0700

Join AMH Advisory Principal Amy Moser Harrison as she discusses the business climate here in the Vail Valley and gives sage advice for both successful businesses and those feeling the pinch. Learn more at amhadvisoryservices.com

Annual Meeting Message 2020

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 13:00:00 -0700

Vail Valley Partnership president & CEO Chris Romer provides an overview of the Chamber’s 2020 efforts and a preview of 2021 programming on behalf of the Eagle County business community.

GNAR with Danya Remore

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 12:00:00 -0700

Danya Remore from the GNAR Initiative joins Partnership president & CEO Chris Romer to discuss The GNAR Initiative, including what it is, what it’s trying to do, and the opportunities and challenges presented by amenity migration and remote workers (and generally by growth and development) in gateway and natural amenity regions, aka “Zoom Towns”. Listen to hear about Gateway and Natural Amenity Regions such as ski resorts and national park gateway towns and the impacts on community and housing including the “spillover” effect - how housing prices tend to lead to workers having to live outside of the community and thus commute in, and the implications of that, as well as the role of businesses and industry in planning and development issues in GNARs.

Eagle County Gives

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 16:00:00 -0700

Join Lauren Emenaker from Vail Valley Partnership and Brooke Skjonsby from Vail Valley Charitable Fund as they discuss the upcoming Eagle County Gives Day on December 8th. Remember, you can schedule a donation now at eaglecogives.org!

Be the Reason for the Season - An Update on COVID Trends in Eagle County

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 10:00:00 -0700

Partnership CEO Chris Romer is joined by Eagle County Public Health Director Health Harmon to discuss COVID trends in Eagle County and what is happening with the virus on a local and state level. As our ski season quickly approaches, it is important for Eagle County community members to change behaviors and “be the reason for the season”, keep our kids in school, and support local businesses.

Taking your Business to the Next Level: Defining Your #1 Goal and Challenge

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 08:00:00 -0700

Many small business owners struggle with running their business while also finding the time and resources to market it. Holly Johnson, President of Imagica, joins us to share a simple tactic that is key to overcoming some of the most common business hurdles. Learn how you can stay focused and define the key ingredient to your success in the short and long term. Holly has 30+ years’ experience in PR and marketing in the travel, tourism, hospitality, special events, health care, real estate, and retail industries.

An In-Depth Look at Colorado's 2020 Ballot

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 16:00:00 -0600

Lauren Masias, executive director of the Colorado Competitive Council, joins Vail Valley Partnership President & CEO Chris Romer for an in-depth review of Colorado’s 2020 ballot with a focus on the impacts to our local and statewide business community from various proposed initiatives and amendments.

Community Consciousness: Diving into DEI Series

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 11:00:00 -0600

Alexandra Fuller and Jackie Huffman from High Country Human Resource Association join us to share information on a new Eagle County panel series around Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

Rural Workforce Region Update with Colorado Workforce Center

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 11:00:00 -0600

Mark Hoblitzell from the Colorado Workforce Center joins us to discuss labor market trends and economic conditions in the Rural Workforce Region and in Eagle County. This episode is accompanied by a slideshow that can be viewed here: https://vimeo.com/465934949.

Unpacking the Gallagher Amendment

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 12:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership President & CEO Chris Romer is joined by Reeves Brown from the nonpartisan group “Building a Better Colorado”. Reeves explains – as only he can – the Gallagher Amendment and how it impacts Coloradans, our communities, and our businesses due to the constitutional requirement to balance non-residential and residential property at a 55%/45% balance. This informative session helps voters understand Amendment B, which the Vail Valley Partnership board of governors supports.

Candidate Interview - Tom Cristofulli

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 17:00:00 -0600

Tom Cristofulli, candidate for Eagle County Commissioner District 2, sits down with Vail Valley Partnership president & CEO Chris Romer to discuss his candidacy.

Candidate Interview - Kathy Chandler-Henry

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 17:00:00 -0600

Kathy Chandler-Henry, candidate for Eagle County Commissioner District 2, sits down with Vail Valley Partnership president & CEO Chris Romer to discuss her candidacy.

Candidate Interview - Matt Scherr

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 17:00:00 -0600

Matt Scherr, candidate for Eagle County Commissioner District 1, sits down with Vail Valley Partnership president & CEO Chris Romer to discuss his candidacy.

Candidate Interview - Jennifer Woolley

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 16:00:00 -0600

Jennifer Woolley, candidate for Eagle County Commissioner District 1, sits down with Vail Valley Partnership president & CEO Chris Romer to discuss her candidacy.

Candidate Interview - Dylan Roberts

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 16:00:00 -0600

Dylan Roberts, candidate for Colorado House of Representatives District 26, sits down with Vail Valley Partnership president & CEO Chris Romer to discuss his candidacy.

Candidate Interview - Mayling Simpson

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 16:00:00 -0600

Mayling Simpson, candidate for State Board of Education Congressional District 3, sits down with Vail Valley Partnership president & CEO Chris Romer to discuss her candidacy.

Candidate Interview - Callie Rennison

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 16:00:00 -0600

Callie Rennison, candidate for CU Regent, sits down with Vail Valley Partnership president & CEO Chris Romer to discuss her candidacy.

Compromise in Congress

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 14:00:00 -0600

Vail Valley Partnership President & CEO Chris Romer makes the case for Congressional action to help save small businesses impacted by COVID-19.

Some of the best laws passed by Congress in the past decades, on issues like Social Security, taxes, and welfare, were the result of input from and compromise between the two parties. Now is time to put partisan politics aside and find a compromise to help our small businesses.

As a founding member of the Save Small Business Coalition, Vail Valley Partnership has been feverishly working behind the scenes to align our objectives to truly have an impact on what happens in Congress to support our business community.

Key focus areas include Payroll Protection Program reform, workforce development, business liability protection, and local aid for state & local municipalities.