The Partnership Podcast

Erik is joined by Vail Valley Partnership President and CEO Chris Romer for a timely conversation about Colorado’s new requirement that high schools offer Personal Finance courses. The new AP Business with Personal Finance class equips students with practical, real-world skills—how to build a career, manage money wisely, and gain momentum toward the most popular college major in the country. Developed in partnership with college faculty and industry leaders, this rigorous yearlong course gives students the opportunity to earn college credit and an employer-endorsed credential before they even graduate. Chris shares why this isn’t just another mandate to check off—but a powerful opportunity. By leaning into this requirement, our community can better prepare students for their futures while also strengthening the pipeline of talent local businesses so desperately need. It’s about aligning education with opportunity—and making sure the next generation is ready to thrive. Learn more about this important initiative HERE

Erik heads to one of his favorite places on Earth—the stunning mountain town of Red Cliff—to sit down with Justin Carter, Founder and President of Brand-On. Justin shares his entrepreneurial journey, what it really takes to open a showroom in Red Cliff, and why building a business in a remote mountain town is both incredibly challenging and deeply rewarding. This is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever dreamed of turning a side hustle into a sustainable business—one that supports a family, serves the valley and the region, and reaches the world through a strong online presence. And yes… Erik loves every minute of being there. Learn more about Brand-On HERE

Erik is joined by Beth Swearingen and John Tedstrom from the Vail Valley Theatre Company to preview their ambitious and joy-filled 2026 season. From big, bold productions to beloved community offerings like Valley Voices and improv—described by John as “really just games with friends”—this conversation captures the heart of what makes VVTC so special. February 7th is a community Casting Call for all shows, including Rent, Murder on the Orient Express, Rocky Road Improv, and A Christmas Carol, and talk about how VVTC has grown into more than a theatre. It’s a safe space, a gathering place, and— for many— a second family. IF you cannot make Feb 7th, never fear, there are more than enough ways to get involved. Find out more about the upcoming Casting Call HERE Find out more about Vail Valley Theatre Company HERE

Jake Voss, Assistant General Manager of the Residence Inn Vail, takes Erik on a “plodcast” (yes, that’s walking + podcasting and Erik is still very proud of it) through the property to explore the amenities and, more importantly, spotlight an often-overlooked community resource. With affordability and short-term housing options increasingly hard to find in the Valley, the Residence Inn offers a comfortable, flexible solution for local businesses needing temporary placements for employees and families. Jake leads the tour, Erik asks the questions, and together they unpack why this hotel is more than a place to stay — it’s a practical workforce tool for our community. Learn more about the Residence Inn Vail HERE

Erik has a conversation with Mollie Case about return of Rocky Mountain Ski Fest to Beaver Creek. The Rocky Mountain Ski Fest Foundation and the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation are uniting to find answers that SAVE CHILDREN'S LIVES. Every year sEVENTeen Management brings the Rocky Mountain Ski Fest to Colorado to raise money and awareness for pediatric cancer research. The multi-day event includes an intimate and exclusive concert by Old Dominion and Edwin McCain and a fun ski day with the celebrities and kids. Watch musicians shred on stage and on the mountain to help find more effective and less toxic treatments for these pediatric cancer warriors! Find out more and get tickets HERE

Erik gets a chance to spend some time with Dennis McMahon, Brand Strategist and Founder of HyFyve. Dennis and his incredible team have been responsible for some of the most notable branding and marketing campaigns here in the valley and Erik picks his brain on his process, inspiration and some of those basic questions every business asks when it's time to revamp or rebrand. Dennis and Erik discuss the recent They Did What? campaign, a no-nonsense travel guide that advocates for sustainable adventuring in Eagle County. Businesses! They Did What? was built for you and this place, please visit TheyDidWhat.org for assets that you can share with your team and clients. Learn more about HyFyve HERE

Erik heads down to the Eagle County Airport for a conversation with Rachel Yandle, the longtime General Manager of Dollar and Thrifty Car Rentals. Sure—they cover the essentials: the best vehicles for winter driving, the eternal all-wheel vs. four-wheel debate, and even a little roundabout etiquette. But at its core, this episode is about hospitality. Dollar and Thrifty stand apart as the only locally owned car rental companies in Eagle County, and you can feel that difference in everything they do—from exceptional customer service to impressive employee retention. Case in point: Rachel has been with the company for 21 years, and now her son works alongside her. So what’s the secret sauce? According to Rachel, it all comes back to genuine hospitality. Tune in for insights and practical takeaways that any business—big or small—can learn from. Learn more and book with Dollar HERE Learn more and book with Thrifty HERE

Erik sits down with Holly Johnson—author, profit-acceleration coach, and seasoned business strategist—for an insightful conversation about the everyday mistakes that hold organizations back. Together they unpack practical, easy-to-apply strategies for overcoming procrastination, taming your inbox, and elevating genuine human connection in the workplace. With deep experience both here in the Valley and across the country, Holly brings a wealth of perspective that resonates with businesses of every size. This episode delivers lessons you can put to work immediately. Learn more about Growth Solutions Coaching HERE

Seth Ehrlich, CEO of SOS Outreach, joins Erik at VVP’s new office for a conversation about the organization’s 33-year journey, the thousands of young people it has supported, and the recent surge of community members stepping up as volunteer mentors. Seth reflects on what this moment reveals about a broader shift across the nonprofit landscape. It is one fueled by love for this valley and a shared belief in what’s possible when we invest in one another. In a time when division feels loud, this discussion offers a grounded message of hope and a reminder of the power of community connection. Tune in to hear how you can make a difference right here at home. Learn more about SOS Outreach and how you can be a Mentor HERE

Erik visits the Core Transit Operations Center in Gypsum for an inside look at the heartbeat of Core—its people. Through compelling conversations with four dedicated team members—Dave, Cisco, Alex, and Al—you’ll gain a fresh perspective on what makes transit more than just transportation. Their stories reveal valuable insights for businesses of all kinds, from innovative employee retention strategies and building internal talent pipelines to fostering a genuine sense of belonging that fuels purpose and performance. Learn more about Core Transit HERE

Erik sits down with Samantha Hodgkins, Executive Director of Caregiver Connections, for a thoughtful conversation about one of our valley’s fastest-growing populations—adults aged 65 and older—and the incredible people who care for them. Caregiver Connections’ mission is to empower family caregivers of older adults by connecting them to vital resources, support, and moments of respite. Erik and Samantha discuss what that means for our local business community and the valley as a whole, while sharing simple, meaningful ways to get involved. If you know a family member, friend, or neighbor who could benefit from this important conversation, please share the podcast with them—and learn more about Caregiver Connections HERE

Erik welcomes Tia Bent to the podcast for an insightful conversation about the world of project management and its impact on businesses of every size and focus. Tia shares how effective project management weaves together marketing, communications, process improvement, and strategic planning to drive results. This episode is a must-listen for any business with big goals but not always enough time or structure to bring them to life. Find more information about Peak Management Solutions HERE

Erik heads to Eagle River Water and Sanitation District to talk about our most precious resource...and what's coming to protect our waters. ERWSD will be putting a ballot measure forward this coming election season and David Norris, Director of Business Operations joins Erik to talk about this regulatory-driven necessary upgrade and what a "yes" or "no" vote will mean in terms of your water bill moving forward. Find more information about this ballot measure HERE

Erik heads over the Mountain Youth offices to chat with Executive Director Michelle Hartel and Marketing and Events Manager Nick Krishnan about the amazing work that Mountain Youth did over this past summer, their plans for this upcoming school year and what the future holds for this important organization. Their vision is that ALL youth in Eagle County thrive and hear how they are making that a reality. Learn more about Mountain Youth HERE

Erik welcomes Brett Donelson, Founder and CEO of The Cycle Effect to the podcast. Brett discusses where the idea for TCE came from and how it's grown over the years through their strategic and thoughtful processes. Brett also the current state of affairs with non-profits and how we can all rise above the political turmoil of our world to focus on the mission. This podcast is a must for non-profits looking to grow and any business that sees big things in their future! Learn more about The Cycle Effect HERE

Erik heads to Colorado Mountain College to chat with Anne and Scott Pasquale about their recent award from the Vail Valley Partnership Success Awards, Small Non-Profit of the Year, and why they are such a deserving non-profit (and business!) Learn about what a "food incubator" is, why they support the Community Market, how all of this came to be and what the future holds! You'll also hear Chef Scott's favorite dish and why...because Erik just had to ask! Learn More about Little Bird Creative Community HERE.

Erik heads to Minturn to spend some time with Spence and Stefanie Neubauer, owner/operators of Minturn Whisky Co. and The Wee Dram and honestly has a hard time leaving! They discuss business creation, strategies for growth, following your passion...and sip some fine whiskey in their unique "third space", a place for all, tourists, locals and even Erik to unwind and feel at home. Eagle River Whisky was recently named Small Business of the Year at the annual Success Awards by Vail Valley Partnership. Listen in and you'll be sure to know why! Learn more about Minturn Whisky Co. HERE.

Erik has the opportunity to speak to two amazing guests, both leaders in their respective mental health fields. Dr. Charles Raison is the Director of Vail Health Behavioral Health Innovation Center as well as a professor of Human Ecology and Psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin and Dr. Christine Whelan from Emory University, affectionalty known as "The Purpose Professor". Dr. Whelan gives a preview of her upcoming event, "Living With Purpose as a pathway to Health and Wellbeing" that will be held Thursday, July 10th from 12-2PM at the EagleVail Pavilion. Join them for this stimulating conversation about the idea of turning purpose from an innocuous noun into a powerful verb and the practical steps one can take to make this a reality. Learn more about this and sign up for the event on July 10th HERE. Learn more about Vail Health Behavioral Health Innovation Center HERE

Erik get's a chance to talk with Brandon Daruna, CEO of Eagle County Paramedics. They discuss both comprehensive Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and the community paramedic program, which provides health services in the home, increasing health and well-being by mobilizing care, addressing healthcare gaps and connecting people to necessary services. Brandon discusses their collaboration with many organizations across the valley to educate community members of all ages on what to do in an emergency. Learn more about Eagle County Paramedics HERE

At the 2025 Annual VVP Success Awards, we were honored to highlight Julio Garcia as our Young Professional of the year and Erik had a chance to sit down with him recently. In 2024, Julio Garcia Jimenez produced 141 episodes of Conexión Latina, welcomed over 200 guests, and created 10 unique segments to better serve the Latino community in Eagle County. He also launched Conecta en Vivo, a 24/7 livestream of Spanish-language programming, expanding access and visibility. As both producer and host, Julio manages every aspect of the show while also contributing to Good Morning Vail as a bilingual host. While TV8 no longer exits in our valley, Julio's work continues in community connections, elevating underrepresented voices, and fostering a greater sense of belonging across cultures.