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
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
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