This morning, I had the pleasure of attending EDAWN’s Morning Business Buzz. Besides for the wonderful networking opportunity to catch those that usually get missed due to hectic schedules, I’m always amazed at the number of new faces that pop up at Reno events. This morning’s keynote speaker was Lt. Governor - and Horse Power podcast alum - Brian Krolicki.

Lt. Governor Krolicki discussed many items he’s excited about concerning Nevada including the possibility of getting the 2018 winter Olympics. Apparently, Northern Nevada has equal chances with Denver and the decision might be decided based off who gets the 2016 summer Olympics.

He also discussed Nevada’s opportunities to take advantage of clean energy initiatives and becoming the hub to the Pacific Rim. Nevada’s geographical position makes it ideal for businesses looking to break in to Western America. The crux of his presentation was around a public/private partnership that would see some state funds invested into private businesses with the goal of making money for the state in the long run. This money would not be from taxpayers, but I fear going to into detail as I don’t want to do injustice to the plan by getting facts wrong.

Technorati Tags: Brian Krolicki, EDAWN, Olympics

In this episode of Horse Power, we are joined by Connie Brennan, CEO and publisher of the Nevada Business Journal. We discuss NBJ’s history as the only state-wide business publication, some of the differences between Las Vegas and Reno businesses, as well as their strategy of providing all of their content online for free.

We also discuss Connie’s 10 kids, and how a girl from Arkansas came to adopt 4 girls from the Philippines.

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In this interview, we talk with Sam Shad of Sam Shad Productions about his move from London to the United States and his career evolution. Sam has gone from DJ and radio host to TV reporter and producer of his own shows including, "Nevada NewsMakers" and "The Dining Show." He is a member of the Nevada Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

Shad is a self-professed performer, businessman and salesman, and his cheerful manner and trademark attire of suit and white tennis shoes established him as one of the area’s most popular TV personalities.

“Nevada NewsMakers” airs in northern Nevada on NBC affiliate KRNV-TV Channel 4 and on Charter Communications Cable Channel 14, 15 and 18 (depending on the market). “Nevada NewsMakers airs in Las Vegas on NBC affiliate KVBC-TV Channel 3, and on Cox Cable Channel 123. “Nevada NewsMakers” also is carried by Reno radio station KOH-AM 780, and is available in streaming video on nevadanewsmakers.com, and also on audio and video Podcasts on iTunes.

The same Reno TV channels also carry “The Dining Show” (previously “Best of Reno”), which Sam launched in 2001 to showcase top restaurants in the region. “The Dining Show” is also available in streaming video on thediningshow.com.

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In this interview, we talk with John Wagnon, vice president of marketing and sales for Heavenly Mountain Resort. We discuss John’s career in the ski industry, the evolution of Heavenly and South Lake Tahoe, as well as his involvement with Ski Lake Tahoe, the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, and the California Travel and Tourism Commission.Vail Resorts purchased Heavenly in the Spring of 2002. Since that time, there have been many capital improvements including, better snowmaking, grooming, and lifts. Additionally, Heavenly became on of the largest consumers of renewable energy in the country.  You can learn more about their environmental awareness here.Heavenly competes internationally as a ski destination. This podcast covers some of their marketing strategies such as their new website, which features “Heavenly TV,” a blog, and a podcast series.Of note, last year marked Heavenly’s 50th anniversary.Listen Now (MP3, 29.3)