Omaha Magazine Podcast

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...

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...

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, d...

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 touris...

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,...

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 hilariou...

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...

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....

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 gr...

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 s...

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, h...

Welcome to the "Omaha Magazine Podcast - It's About All of Us," where we peel back the pages to reveal the heart and soul of a community institution. Hosted by Gil Cohen, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Omaha Magazine. In this episode Gil is joined by Omaha Magazine Publisher Todd Lemke to unveil the rich legacy of Omaha Magazine, challenging the notion that print media is dead....