Omaha Magazine Podcast

Omaha Magazine Podcast

Inside Omaha with Gil Cohen" invites listeners into exclusive, one-on-one conversations with the city's most influential leaders, innovators, and visionaries. Gil uses his decades of local connections to go beyond headlines — sharing personal stories, insider insights, and practical lessons that help residents better understand, connect with, and improve life in the Omaha metro. Veteran Omaha Magazine executive Gil Cohen takes you behind the scenes with the people shaping our city — from mayors to musicians, CEOs to community advocates. Each episode delivers more than just stories; it's a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and the art of building a thriving community. Whether you're a business owner, civic-minded resident, or simply curious about the heartbeat of Omaha, you'll leave each episode with new insights, deeper appreciation, and ways to get involved.

Episodes

November 17, 2025 36 mins

From the police force to city hall, Mayor John Ewing Jr. has spent his life serving Omaha. In this episode, host Gil Cohen sits down with Omaha's 52nd mayor to explore his journey from the Special Victims Unit to the mayor's office—and how his signature HAPPIER plan is driving Omaha's next chapter. Mayor Ewing shares his vision for economic growth, affordable housing, and smarter development that builds density and opp...

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Nebraska's real estate story is bigger than listings—it's people, policy, and long-term strategy. In this episode, we sit down with Andy Alloway, President/CEO/Owner of Nebraska Realty, to unpack how he scaled an independent brokerage from ~300 agents to 1,000+, why retention beats recruitment, and how a training-first culture (including Randall School) fuels that growth. You'll hear candid takes on interest rates (and...

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What does it take to lead not one, but two professional sports organizations while staying rooted in community impact? In this episode of The Inner Circle with Gil Cohen, we sit down with Martie Cordaro, president of the Omaha Storm Chasers and Union Omaha. With 27 years in minor league baseball, Martie shares his journey from humble beginnings in sales to running two thriving franchises. He talks about the unique chal...

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It's been a groundbreaking year for the Omaha Magazine Podcast, and in this special episode, host Gil reflects on the incredible journey. 

Discover the initial vision to showcase every facet of Omaha, from East to West, North to South, through candid conversations with the city's most impactful business and community leaders. 

Gil shares personal insights gained from guests like Mayor Jean Sto...

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Giving back is fundamental in creating growth. So how do you give back? In this episode, we're joined by Jeff Beals and Trenton Magid from Grow Omaha to share their journey on becoming one of Omaha's top radio shows and how giving back has not only helped them grow, but has helped business owners across the state find success. 

 

Discover the story behind their influential platform, spanning two decades of...

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What makes a sporting event an American institution? Celebrate 75 years of the College World Series in Omaha with special guests Jack Diesing Jr., Chairman, and Lisa Diesing, Vice President of College World Series, Inc. Discover the rich history of the tournament, its deep ties to the city, and the exciting plans for its future. 

 

In this episode you will learn about the economic impact of the College Wor...

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Is our healthcare system truly serving everyone? Joining us for a crucial discussion is Anthony Ashby, President of CHI Health Immanuel Hospital. In this episode we explore the challenges and opportunities in modern healthcare. 

 

Anthony shares his insights on addressing health disparities, the impact of social needs on patient outcomes, and CHI Health Immanuell's innovative approaches to providing care i...

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March 25, 2025 43 mins

It takes a lot of energy to keep our power grid going. How does OPPD keep the power going with an increasing demand for energy? Joining us for an enlightening conversation on how OPPD is powering Omaha's future is Javier Fernandez, President and CEO of Omaha Public Power District (OPPD). 

 

In this episode, we explore the inner workings of OPPD, from its unique public power structure to its ambitious plans...

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Can Nebraska become the next Hollywood? Actor, director, and producer Randy Goodwin joins us to discuss his mission to bring the film industry to his home state. Learn about the challenges and opportunities facing filmmakers in Nebraska, the recent passage of a film incentive bill, and Goodwin's vision for a thriving film scene that creates jobs and showcases Nebraska's unique landscapes and talent.

 

Take...

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Ever wonder what it takes to build a world-class entertainment and convention destination? Joining us for an inside look at Omaha's thriving scene is Roger Dixon, President and CEO of MECA (Metropolitan Entertainment and Convention Authority). Explore the exciting expansion of the CHI Health Center Convention Center, designed to attract over $1 billion in new revenue to the Omaha area. Roger shares his insights on the ...

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Discover the exciting revitalization happening in North Omaha! LaVonya Goodwin, Executive Director of the North 24th Street Business Improvement District, joins us to discuss the area's rich history, the challenges it faces, and the innovative projects underway. 

 

Learn about the $200 million investment transforming the district and how the community is coming together to create a vibrant future.

 

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Ever wonder how a university thrives in a changing educational landscape? Dr. Joanne Li, Chancellor of the University of Nebraska Omaha, joins us to share UNO's innovative strategies for attracting top talent and navigating the challenges of modern higher education. 

 

In this episode discover how UNO is embracing AI, fostering workforce development, and building a vibrant campus community.

 

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Want to know the secrets behind Omaha's dramatic drop in crime rates? Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer joins us to share the inside story of how the police department has achieved this remarkable success. Learn about the importance of community relationships, the role of the Citizen's Academy, and how Chief Schmaderer's leadership has shaped modern policing in Omaha.

 

Takeaways

 

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Higher education is changing fast. Joining us on this episode is Father Daniel Hendrickson, President of Creighton University, to share how Creighton is not just surviving, but thriving. Learn how they're attracting students, building a strong community, and preparing the next generation for a world powered by AI.

Takeaways

  • Creighton has a...

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December 17, 2024 27 mins

Ever feel like education is facing more hurdles than ever? Omaha Public Schools' new superintendent, Matthew Ray, shares his plan to tackle staffing shortages, AI's impact, and the surprising literacy challenges facing students today. Discover how OPS is aiming for a 'moonshot' to get every student reading at grade level by 2030.

Takeaways

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Ever wondered what it takes to be a firefighter in the 21st century? Go behind the scenes of the Omaha Fire Department with Fire Chief Kathy Bossman, a trailblazing leader who is redefining the role. In this episode, Chief Bossman shares her experiences rising through the ranks, the importance of diversity and community engagement, and the innovative programs shaping the future of the OFD. 

 

Learn about t...

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November 19, 2024 24 mins

Ever wondered how Omaha's arts scene became so vibrant? Joan Squires, President of Omaha Performing Arts, reveals the secrets behind their 22-year journey. Discover the economic impact of O-pa, their passion for community engagement, and the inspiring Nebraska Theatre Academy. From Broadway hits to local jazz, find out how OPA is making the arts accessible to everyone.

Takeaways

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November 5, 2024 27 mins

Are you struggling to attract businesses and top talent to your area? Look no further than Nebraska for inspiration. In this episode, K.C. Belitz, Director of Nebraska Department of Economic Development, shares the state's winning strategy for economic growth and talent attraction. From leveraging their booming bio-economy to addressing challenges like housing affordability, Nebraska is a shining example of strategic p...

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Worried about the safety of your family and community in Omaha?  Douglas County's explosive growth has brought new challenges, including a surge in crime.  In this episode, Sheriff Aaron Hanson pulls back the curtain on the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, revealing the strategies they're using to combat construction site theft, dismantle drug cartels, and address the rising need for mental health services.

 

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Ever felt the pressure of going head-to-head with the biggest player in your industry? From the gridiron to the showroom, Rod Kush's journey is one of resilience and reinvention. Witness the former UNO and NFL star share candid stories of facing giants, first in the NFL against legends like Joe Montana, and later in business against Nebraska Furniture Mart.  In this episode, Rod shares his grit, determination, and less...

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