Mining Minds

Overlooking iconic Hibbing Taconite Mining Operation in Minnesota, Mining Minds had the opportunity to speak with two remarkable women whose stories capture the history and heart of mining in the state. First, we’re joined by Talia Sandys, Communications and Engagement Director for Mining Minnesota, who has been our guide through the region’s rich mining heritage. Then, we dive deep into the incredible 30+ year career of Darleen Gargano, a retired miner who began her journey in 1976 when opportunities for women in the pit were almost unheard of. From her first day pulling cable and driving haul trucks to operating graders in subzero blizzards, Darleen shares candid stories about resilience, camaraderie, and the changing face of the industry. Along the way, we explore Hibbing’s fascinating history—including the relocation of an entire town for mining, the legendary Hibbing High School, and life growing up in a tight-knit rural community. With humor, honesty, and a lifetime of lessons, Darleen reflects on what it took to thrive in a male-dominated industry and why she wouldn’t trade her experiences for anything. Special thanks to Julie Lucas and Talia Sandys (Mining Minnesota) and Kristen Vake (Iron Mining Association of MN) for making this episode possible. Episode Sponsors: JSR Fleet Performance Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals RAM Enterprise Inc. Episode Chapters: 1:21 Growing Up in Hibbing, MN 9:32 First Jobs & Path to Mining 12:02 First Day in the Pit 16:59 Night Shifts & Northern Lights 22:37 Haul Trucks, Equipment Training & Early MSHA 26:21 Grader in the Ditch & Earning Respect 37:31 Paving a New Way 44:00 The Labor Bus 56:34 Advocacy, Education, Collaboration from Mining Minnesota

Get ready for one of our most unforgettable episodes yet—recorded on a pontoon boat floating on Fall Lake, at the edge of the iconic Boundary Waters in Minnesota! This isn’t just another podcast; it’s a full-circle conversation with Dean DeBeltz, a third-generation Iron Ranger, passionate outdoorsman, and Vice President of External Relations & Project Operations at Twin Metals Minnesota. From running towboats at 12 years old to shaping the mining culture of a next-generation copper-nickel project, Dean’s story is a tribute to the grit, heart, and pride that defines the Minnesota mining country. He dives deep into the sacrifices, the career pivots, and the love for land and legacy that have guided his path—and how responsible mining can help secure the future of entire communities. Join Mining Minds as we Welcome Dean DeBeltz to the Face! Special thanks to Julie Lucas and Talia Sandys (Mining Minnesota) and Kristen Vake (Iron Mining Association of MN) for making this episode possible. Episode Sponsors: Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Gold West Fire RAM Enterprise Inc. Episode Chapter: 0:00 Welcome Aboard the Pontoon Podcast 4:16 From frozen rinks to deer stands 6:03 Biochemistry to Building Homes 11:49 Mining Comes Calling 14:58 The Culture of Mining: Support, Camaraderie, and Growth 18:29 Safety is About People, Not Policing 22:48 Understanding the Boundary Waters 27:01 The metals we’ll mine, are the metals you’ll use 39:49 Diversity in mining 46:29 Regulations that haven’t been tested 52:33 Continuing the passion with a purpose

In this special on-location episode, Mining Minds travels to the heart of Minnesota’s Iron Range to sit down with Rory Oberhelman, Senior Project Coordinator, and Johnny Eloranta, Community Relations Advisor at New Range Copper Nickel. Broadcasting from the iconic nickel room, the conversation dives into the history, pride, and promise of mining in northern Minnesota. Rory shares his unconventional journey from cabin building in Alaska to environmental permitting and project leadership, highlighting how personal purpose and community impact led him deeper into mining. Johnny brings a generational perspective—combining his family's blasting legacy, a background in environmental science, and experience shaping federal mining policy. Together, they discuss the challenges of permitting, the value of responsible domestic mineral production, and the revitalization of a brownfield site with a century of potential ahead. With heartfelt insights on community, sustainability, and the next generation of miners, this episode shines a spotlight on what it truly means to mine with purpose.  Special thanks to Julie Lucas and Talia Sandys (Mining Minnesota) and Kristen Vake (Iron Mining Association of MN) for making this episode possible. Episode Sponsors: Liebherr Mining RAM Enterprise Inc. Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Episode Chapters: 0:00 Welcome to the Iron Range 3:07 From Cabins to Core 7:30 Permits, Patience, and Policy 13:03 Dual Perspectives 15:59 Identity & American Pride 19:21 Modern Mining, Real Impact 27:30 Opportunity to Build Generational Culture 34:11 If Not Here, Then Where?

The mining industry stands at a crossroads. With a rapidly aging workforce, persistent misconceptions, and the growing demand for innovation, the need to reshape how we attract, develop, and retain talent has never been more urgent. In this powerful panel edition of the Mining Minds Podcast, we bring together six influential leaders from across the industry to engage in an honest, forward-thinking discussion on the future of workforce development in mining. Featuring: Alexia Carver (University of Nevada Reno) – Metallurgical engineer student and student outreach advocate Liz Diaz (Hecla Nevada) – HR leader driving grassroots education and skilled trade pipelines Don Dwyer (Orla Mining Ltd.) – GM dedicated to leadership, development, and operational culture Nikita Grover (Kinross Nevada) – HR strategist redefining mining’s brand and workforce engagement Linda Honey (Protected at Work) – Training and policy expert specializing in workplace safety, compliance, and psychological well-being Victor Ortiz (i80 Gold Corp) – Safety director with firsthand knowledge of ground-up growth Together, the panel explores how to redefine mining careers for the next generation, what meaningful development truly look like on site, why the industry must embrace storytelling and digital presence, and how to build workplace cultures that grow people—not just fill roles. Episode Sponsors:  Liebherr Mining JSR Fleet Performance Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Episode Chapters:  0:00 Introduction & Panel Overview 9:06 Challenges from the HR Lens 11:48 Younger Perspectives 18:53 Messaging and Industry Branding 22:51 Measuring Success 27:43 Tech Adoption & Employee Buy-In 31:53 From Haul Trucks to Leadership 40:17 Sparking Youth Interest 43:36 Outbound Community Engagement 49:18 Reaching All Ages with the Right Message 53:03 Innovation & Speaking Up 55:31 Prioritizing Mental Wellness 1:02:49 Upskilling Through Experience 1:10:59 Open Questions – Barriers & Bold Moves

In this episode of the podcast Mining Minds sits down with two remarkable women reshaping the health and wellness landscape: Melissa Montalvo and Josie Cervantes of Elko Replenish Med Spa. Together, they reveal how their professional experiences—from ER trauma to urgent care frustrations—sparked a vision: to create a space that not only heals but empowers. That vision became Elko Replenish Med Spa, a modern facility focused on hormone therapy, IV nutrition, weight management, and overall wellness. The duo discusses how their clinic is bridging the gap between conventional medicine and preventative care, especially for miners and working professionals in Northern Nevada. From hormone optimization and detox treatments to addressing male and female health in the mining industry, Melissa and Josie are revolutionizing rural medicine with empathy, education, and science-backed solutions. Join Mining Minds as we welcome Elko Replenish Med Spa to the Face!  Episode Sponsors: GBC-NORCAT Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Motor Mission Machine and Radiator Episode Chapters: 2:23 South Texas Roots 9:27 Basson to Basketball 37:26 Medical Training Meets Bureaucracy 43:07 Leap of Faith 52:48 The Birth of Elko Replenish Med Spa 1:21:09 Hormones, Bro Science, and Real Health 1:41:31 The Vision

In this episode of the Mining Minds Podcast, we sit down with Trampus Cook, Regional Director for RAM Enterprise Inc., whose journey through the mining world is as rich and layered as the ore bodies he’s helped uncover. A fourth-generation miner and cowboy at heart, Trampus takes us through his early days jacklegging in narrow veins of California gold mines, running heavy equipment under Lake Erie, and eventually stepping into leadership with RAM. From growing up between the ropes of cowboy life and the rails of underground shafts, to being a single father raising four young kids while chasing production, Trampus shares raw and emotional insights that go far beyond muck and machines. He opens up about defining moments in fatherhood, building trust and culture in the mining community, and how being told “you’re not alone” by a five-year-old became a driving force in his life. Whether you’re a miner, a parent, or someone navigating life’s challenges, Trampus’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength found in grit, purpose, and personal growth. Join Mining Minds as we Welcome Trampus Cook to the Face! Episode Sponsors: Liebherr Mining GBC-NORCAT Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Chapters: 00:00 Truth or Consequences 35:05 Breaking Out in the Muck 38:25 Safety Culture and Bonus Systems in Mining 01:12:46 The Value of Experience in Mining 01:25:19 Challenges and Rewards of Being a Tramp Miner 01:49:03 Balancing Fatherhood and Work in the Mining Industry 01:52:41 Innovations and Challenges in Underground Mining 02:24:36 Safety Lessons 02:25:23 Leadership and Management Insights

In our final episode from the 2025 Women in Mining Conference, we’re joined by the passionate, bold, and trailblazing Jessica Scanlan—geological engineer, social media influencer, and founder of Mine Life Media. Jessica shares her unique path from a small-town girl in handmade dresses to becoming a respected voice in the mining industry. We dive into her early aspirations, challenges in mining, the power of mentorship, and how she turned burnout into a bold new business rooted in storytelling and education. From internships at Stillwater Mine to building a media company that highlights the beauty and grit of mining life, Jessica’s authenticity and drive are contagious. We talk Dwayne the Rock (yes, really), core logging confessions, college mining competitions, mental health, the power of social media, and what the future of mining communication might look like. A massive thank you to the Women in Mining USA for inviting us to San Antonio and giving us the platform to highlight such impactful voices. We’ve been truly honored to capture and share these conversations. Brass in and Join Mining Minds as We Welcome Jessica Scanlan to the Face!  Mine Life Media:  Linkedin / Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X junojones work boots Event Sponsors: Arnold Machinery Gold West Fire and Safety Services   Episode Sponsors: GBC-NORCAT Liebherr Mining Gold West Fire and Safety Services   Chapters: 00:00 A Mining Dream Starts at Stillwater 11:14 Knowing early she wanted to be a geologist 15:55 Facing Fears to find what you love 29:20 Leveraging Communication Early 46:52 Support in Mining ( 1:15:32 Meeting Dwayne 1:41:03 Future Miner

Recorded on-site at the 2025 Women in Mining National Conference in San Antonio, this episode brings authentic, unfiltered stories from two rising voices in the mining world—Margaret Hinton and Paige Courtney. With backgrounds as diverse as cotton farming and competitive athletics to engineering and financial investigations, Margaret and Paige dive into how they found purpose and passion in the mining industry. Together, they share how mining became more than a career—it's a community. From their first experiences in tunnels and copper pits to working on a new Women in Mining chapter in the Midwest, they highlight the importance of visibility, storytelling, and educating the next generation. Whether it’s correcting outdated perceptions about the industry or advocating for reclamation and sustainability, their mission is clear: mining has a human face, and it's changing fast. This episode is packed with humor, heart, and hard truths—plus, a few ghost stories, underground adventures, and a growing obsession with mining history (and a certain Leadville legend, Baby Doe Tabor). And if you’re wondering what these women are up to after-hours? Head north to Area 31, a unique UTV park in Minocqua, Wisconsin, where the off-road spirit runs just as deep as their passion for mining. Mining Minds Conference Sponsors: Arnold Machinery Gold west Fire Episode Sponsors: GBC-NORCAT MST Liebherr Mining Gold West Fire Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:42 Meet Margaret Hinton 06:28 Choosing a Geotech Firm over Selling Tacos 12:00 Meet Paige Courtney 18:17 Miners Figure it out 23:46 Meeting at the Association of Abandon Mine Land Programs 29:55 Ambitions of a Women in Mining Midwest Chapter 34:40 Uniquely positioned to tell Mining’s story 42:29 What the future miner looks like 48:36 Mining Book Club

Mining Minds is recording again from San Antionio for the Annual Women in Mining Conference—and in this powerful episode, we sit down with Jennie (Rice) Davis, a trailblazer whose mining journey redefines perseverance, grit, and growth. Starting as a janitor at just 18, Jennie carved her way through the industry—hauling rock in 777s, navigating early-career adversity, and ultimately rising to become a respected Business Manager and Vice President of the Idaho Chapter of Women in Mining. Her story is proof that showing up, staying persistent, and saying “yes” to opportunity can transform not just a career, but a life. Whether you're operating equipment or running numbers, Jennie’s story reminds us that the mining world is built on more than minerals—it’s built on people who never stop driving forward. Join Mining Minds as we Welcome Jennie Davis to the Face! Sponsors: Norcat-GBC MST Liebherr Mining  Gold West Fire & Safety Services Chapters: 00:00 Introducing Jennie Davis 06:39 The Beginning of Persistency   13:15 Saying yes when the moment finds you 23:54 Keep showing up & Being Authentic 30:10 Building the next generation miner 37:22 Empowering mining with finical insight 41:23 Proud career moments and event highlights 45:50 This isn’t your grandpa’s mining company anymore

In this heartfelt and humor-filled episode, Mining Minds sits down with the unforgettable Patti Haye — mother, grandmother, storyteller, and true pioneer of family life. At 87 years young, Patti takes us on a powerful journey through her life growing up post World War II, navigating early motherhood, and supporting a family through decades of cross-country moves, strikes, and the Alaskan wilderness. With stories that span barefoot days in the Yakima Valley to raising children in harsh winters and small mining towns, Patti reminds us of what resilience looks like. She talks about building homes from scratch (literally and metaphorically), the challenges of living frugally, and the joys of doing it all with love. From all of us at Mining Minds — Happy Mother’s Day! To the women holding it down in work boots, office chairs, at home, or in the classrooms — this episode is for you. Thank you for the strength, love, and lessons you pass on every day. Pour a cup of coffee (or scotch) and tune in for one of our most touching conversations yet.   Sponsors:  Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals GBC-NORCAT Liebherr Mining Chapters:  12:10 Young Love  21:29 Courtship, wedding bells, and a $5 dress 34:33 Haul Trucks and Maintaining  48:32 North to Alaska 1:05:32 Earthquakes and Endurance 1:17:11 Lower 48 1:26:39 Metaphysics  1:34:21 Early Childhood Development 1:39:11 Telling stories in the middle of it  

Join Mining Minds on location at the Women in Mining 2025 National Conference in San Antonio, Texas, as we sit down with two dynamic women shaping the future of mining—Kimberly Myhre and Alexia Carver. Sponsoring the trip were Arnold Machinery and Gold West Fire and Safety, this special episode dives deep into the real-world experiences of women at different stages in their mining careers. Kimberly, a chemical engineer with WSP and a passionate advocate for environmental responsibility in mining, shares how a catastrophic mine spill in her hometown sparked her career. She opens up about the cultural challenges she's faced on mine sites and why she remains committed to driving positive changes within the industry. Alexia, a bright up-and-coming metallurgist and UNR student, brings the perspective of the next generation of miners. She talks candidly about breaking into the industry, the realities of being a woman in mining, and what it will take for companies to retain young, diverse talent. From discussions on psychological safety and site culture, to tips for navigating mining as a young professional, this episode captures the passion, grit, and vision driving women in mining. Join Mining Minds as we sit down with Kimberly Myhre and Alexia Carver at the Women in Mining 2025 National Conference.  Sponsors:  Gold West Fire & Safety Services Arnold Machinery  Liebherr Mining GBC-NORCAT MST Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals  Chapters:  00:00 Introductions and special thanks 3:30 Kimberly Myhre 9:03 Mining with Purpose 10:45 Alexia Carver 16:11 The Culture for Young Women 28:04 Building Better Mining Cultures 40:49 Advice to Young Professionals 51:58 The Future of Mining

In this episode of Mining Minds, we sit down with JD Sundseth—owner of Mountain States Mine Development and Reclamation LLC. JD takes us on a candid journey through his life: from a small-town kid in Spring Creek, Nevada, to a tire-slinging high schooler at Les Schwab, to operating heavy equipment in remote mountain terrain. He opens up about starting a family young, learning the ropes the hard way, and navigating the mining industry—from exploration and greenfield development to full-scale operations. JD shares stories from his wild first day at the mine site, why he never had to run a scraper, and what it really means to be a hands-on leader. Join Mining Minds as we Welcome JD Sundseth to the Face! Sponsors: Liebherr Mining GBC-NORCAT MST Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Chapters: 9:08 Sweeping Floors to Service Trucks 19:19 Finding a path in mining 31:53 New Hire Week 42:11 Skipping Pay Grades 52:56 Advancing too fast 01:05:20 Gering up to run his own business 01:14:39 Skills learned in trades 01:20:09 Testing equipment operators’ skills 01:27:47 Waiting for opportunity 01:33:04 Growing the right way

Mining Minds is excited to announce our strategic partnership with Jerry Rynearson and JSR Fleet Performance. In this episode we discuss what the influence of mining looks like, we explore the critical importance of understanding operational material management and how past lessons can serve to educate the future of the mining industry. We discuss the concept of viewing production as an ecosystem, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all aspects of operations. Throughout the episode, we delve into the value of this partnership, particularly in evaluating operations and maintenance functions, with a focus on cultivating the right culture and prioritizing the most important elements for success. We highlight the importance of consistency and how the right solutions can be found through a hands-on approach, with answers available at the face of operations. Join Mining Minds and JSR Fleet Performance as we explore how this partnership is working to provide meaningful solutions to the industry, ensuring future success through a deeper understanding of operations and a commitment to positively being The Influence inside the Industry. Sponsors: Liebherr Mining Motor Misson Machine and Radiator Heavy Metal Equipment and Rentals Chapters: 00:00 Into 4:33 Third Party Benefits 13:47 Production as an Eco System 20:14 Levels of Detail 26:20 Focusing on the right things 34:41 Industry Solutions 47:23 Consistency 53:48 Service Offerings 57:26 Answers at the Face!

Tony Morfin, Partner and CEO of Gold West Fire and Safety, sits down with Mining Minds to share his personal journey of hard work and resilience. A third-generation miner and proud Nevadan, Tony grew up surrounded by the mining industry, offering a firsthand perspective on what it’s like to grow up in a mining town. From the age of 13, when he started his first job, Tony’s work ethic was shaped by a commitment to hard work. As a young adult, Tony reflects on his early mining experiences, the challenges he faced, and his competitive nature. His career path took him from construction in Las Vegas to eventually becoming a father, but the pressures of overworking and overindulging led to a heart attack at just 37 years old. Tony opens up about his battle with alcohol dependency and the turning point that set him on a healthier, more focused path. Now, with a renewed focus on life’s priorities, Tony has embraced both mental and physical well-being, and these achievements have translated into his professional life. Armed with the wisdom gained from overcoming adversity and coupled with his work ethic, he leverages the resources available to him and stays committed to his forward-focused journey as he grows Gold West Fire and Safety. Join Mining Minds as we Welcome Tony Morfin to the Face! Sponsors: Liebherr Mining Motor Mission Machine and Radiator Heavy Metal Equipment & Rentals Chapters: 00:00 Proud Nevada 11:34 Working at 13 years old 23:27 Early Mining Experience 33:33 Construction in Las Vegas 50:14 Overworking & Overindulging 1:07:44 The Breaking Point 1:22:45 New Business, New Path 1:37:36 Self Focus and Business Development

In this episode, Mining Minds sits down with Merlyn McGraw, a man whose life journey has been shaped by the hard work and values he learned growing up on a ranch in Wyoming. Merlyn shares stories from his early years working alongside his family, where he first understood the importance of hard work, respect, and dedication. From his humble beginnings at a local gas station to riding a Kawasaki 125 into Arizona to be closer to his brother, Merlyn’s path took him to the world of water well drilling. It was here that he truly began learning the ropes, taking the time to master his craft and ensure that everything was done correctly. Merlyn’s journey also led him into both surface and underground mining, where he gained invaluable experience operating heavy equipment in some of the most challenging environments. He talks about the importance of listening and empowering those around you, building trust within teams, and what "doing things right" truly looks like when it comes to operating equipment in mining. We explore the heavy responsibility that each miner carries in ensuring safety and efficiency in their work. Join Mining Minds for an insightful conversation about hard work, leadership, and what it takes to thrive as an equipment operator in the mining industry. Sponsors: GBC-NORCAT Heavy Metal Equipment Rentals Liebherr Mining Chapters: 00:00 Growing up Wyoming 06:18 Typical day on the ranch 17:77 What it takes to be a good worker 23:02 Riding into Arizona on a Kawasaki 125 33:51 Drill Rigs and water wells 57:44 Listening and empowering people 58:38 Getting into mining 1:09:21 Equipment operations, trust, and knowing what good looks like 1:24:28 Training and responsibility 1:35:14 Going Underground 1:53:33 Advice for the young miner