Omaha Magazine Podcast

Omaha Magazine Podcast

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Episodes

March 11, 2025 30 mins

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.

 

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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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September 24, 2024 28 mins

Ever wonder how Omaha keeps attracting millions of visitors, and how it impacts the local economy? Deb Ward and Jasmyn Goodwin from the Omaha Convention and Visitors Bureau join us in this episode to highlight the changes in tourism over the years and the importance of tourism for the city's economy. 

 

They also discuss the role of the Convention and Visitors Bureau in promoting Omaha as a tourism destina...

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The economic landscape in Omaha is rapidly changing, and it's more important than ever to understand the challenges faced by our diverse communities post pandemic. Itzel Lopez, CEO and Co-founder of the Latino Economic Development Council, joins Gil in the studio to uncover how this organization is making a difference for Latino entrepreneurs facing economic challenges. In this insightful episode, Itzel shares her insp...

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August 27, 2024 31 mins

When you think of top sports cities, Omaha may not be the first to come to mind. Omaha's sports legacy is filled with surprising stories, and Coach Sandy Buda joins us to tell them in this episode. From his time coaching at UNO and the Omaha Beef, to his encounters with legends like Marlin Briscoe and Bob Gibson, Coach Buda offers a unique perspective on the city's sports scene. He shares hilarious anecdotes, reflects ...

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Omaha is booming! But how did we get here? In this episode, Mayor Jean Stothert shares the inside scoop on the city's transformation. In this video, Mayor Stothert shares her insights on the transformation of downtown Omaha, including the redevelopment of the iconic Gene Leahy Mall and the addition of new riverfront parks and entertainment venues. 

 

She also dives into the funding and benefits of the stre...

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Struggling to attract and retain top talent in Omaha? Heath Mello, President of the Greater Omaha Chamber, reveals the city's booming economic growth and why Forbes ranked it the #1 city to move to in 2024. Discover how the Chamber is tackling the talent challenge head-on with initiatives like Intern Nebraska, while highlighting Omaha's vibrant culture, affordable living, and thriving job market. Mello's 11-month tenur...

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What does the future look like for Nebraska’s oldest news station in the age of AI? Joining us in this episode is Jim McKernan, Vice President and General Manager of 6 News WOWT to share with us the 75-year history of WOWT. From its early days under Woodmen of the World ownership to iconic figures like Johnny Carson launching their careers there, McKernan shares fascinating insights into WOWT's groundbreaking innovatio...

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Are you ready to be inspired and learn from one of Omaha's most successful entrepreneurs? In this episode, Gil is joined by Van Deeb, one of the most driven and accomplished entrepreneurs in Omaha. Van is a business and community leader having led numerous thriving companies. From his 40 years of commission sales experience to his impressive real estate ventures, Van shares valuable insights and success tips for aspiri...

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How does a radio station stay relevant to continue playing the music you like? In this episode, Gil Cohen sits down with Patrick Combs, CEO of Walnut Media, as he shares his unique path from politics to media and how his distinctive voice led him to success in the industry. With a focus on community connection and local content, Walnut Media is changing the game in Omaha's media landscape. Plus, hear about Patrick's tr...

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