Episodes

  • #27-Jaron Jacobs
    Jun 12 2026

    In this episode of CHATA Podcast, host Chuy Herrera sits down with Jaron Jacobs for a candid and wide-ranging conversation that explores life, work, and the pursuit of something more meaningful. Jaron reflects on his upbringing in small-town Nevada, sharing stories from Round Mountain to Spring Creek and the influence of growing up in a household shaped by education, athletics, and strong values. As the son of a respected coach and teacher, he offers insight into the discipline, expectations, and life lessons that helped shape his path. The conversation dives deep into Jaron's journey through the mining industry, where he spent nearly a decade working underground. He opens up about the realities of the job from the brotherhood and humor that define the culture, to the risks, personal growth, and pivotal moments that shift perspective. His firsthand experience highlights both the opportunities and challenges of mining, as well as the mental resilience it demands. Beyond his career, Jaron shares an honest look at reaching a turning point in life, recognizing burnout, reevaluating priorities, and making the difficult decision to step away in search of a new direction. With plans to explore opportunities outside of mining, he speaks on the importance of self-awareness, taking risks, and having the courage to start over. So grab a drink and a snack we sit down and CHATA!

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    1 hr and 23 mins
  • #26-Lyndsee Jimenez
    May 29 2026

    In this episode of CHATA Podcast, host Chuy Herrera sits down with entrepreneur, fitness advocate, and community leader Lyndsee Jimenez for an in-depth and inspiring conversation about business, family, and the realities of building a life rooted in passion and purpose. Lyndsee shares her journey from growing up between Idaho and Winnemucca to becoming a successful business owner, co-founding a Salon and Battle Born Fitness alongside her husband, Tony. She offers an honest look into the evolution of their businesses from humble beginnings to creating a thriving, community-centered space and the challenges, risks, and rewards that come with entrepreneurship. Beyond business, Lyndsee opens up about her role as a mother of three, navigating blended family dynamics, and the importance of strong relationships, support systems, and community involvement. She reflects on the fast pace of life, the lessons learned through parenting, and the value of being present through every stage. The conversation also dives into her work in local government as a city councilwoman, where she discusses growth in Winnemucca, the impact of mining and development, and the importance of community engagement in shaping the town's future. Her perspective highlights the balance between preserving small-town values and embracing necessary progress. So grab a drink and a snack while we sit down and CHATA!

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    1 hr and 40 mins
  • #26-Tattoo Convention day 3
    May 15 2026

    In this CHATA episode we are at day 3 of the Twisted Gold Tattoo Convention, the hosts close out the weekend with an engaging mix of artist interviews, local business highlights, and reflections on a surprisingly dynamic event. This episode features in-depth conversations with talented tattoo artists, including Star of Tidal Wave Tattoo, who shares insights into her artistic style, industry evolution, and the growing influence of digital tools and AI in modern tattooing. The discussion highlights the balance between creativity, technical skill, and client expectations in an increasingly competitive field. The podcast also spotlights local entrepreneurs, including the team behind Luna & Co., who discuss launching a teeth-whitening and cosmetic business in a small-town market. Their story offers a candid look at the challenges of starting a business from licensing hurdles to overcoming skepticism and the rewards of building something independently. A standout moment of the episode includes a conversation with Tony, a champion tattoo artist, who reflects on his unconventional path into the industry, the discipline required to succeed, and the mindset needed to sustain long-term growth. His perspective emphasizes consistency, adaptability, and confidence in one's craft. The episode concludes with the hosts reflecting on the convention as a whole highlighting the diverse talent, strong community engagement, and unexpected scale of the event. From tattoo artists and vendors to live entertainment and local businesses, Day 3 captures the full scope of an event that brought creativity, entrepreneurship, and culture together in one place. So grab a drink and a snack while we sit down to CHATA!

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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • #25-Tatto Convention Day 2
    May 15 2026

    In this Chata episode we are at the day 2 of the Twisted Gold Tattoo Convention, hosts Chuy Herrera and Timo Duran continue capturing the energy, creativity, and community behind one of the region's fastest-growing events. This episode offers a deeper look into the convention experience, featuring conversations with tattoo artists, vendors, and entertainers who bring the event to life. From lighthearted moments with attendees and families to in-depth discussions with artists from shops like Tidal Wave Tattoo and Speakeasy Tattoo, the episode explores the personal journeys, artistic philosophies, and evolving culture of tattooing. Guests share stories about how they entered the industry, the challenges of building a career, and the importance of adapting to a rapidly changing creative landscape.The episode also highlights the broader entertainment surrounding the convention, including live wrestling promotions and community-driven attractions that transform the event into a full-scale experience. Through candid dialogue and humor, the hosts emphasize the strong sense of camaraderie within the tattoo community, where collaboration, mentorship, and shared passion play a central role. So grab a snack and a drink while we sit down and CHATA!

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    3 hrs and 8 mins
  • #24-Tattoo Convention Day 1
    May 8 2026

    In this episode of CHATA Podcast, hosts Chuy Herrera and Timo Duran bring listeners straight into the energy of the Twisted Gold Tattoo Convention. Surrounded by artists, vendors, and enthusiasts, the episode captures authentic conversations that highlight the culture, creativity, and personal stories behind tattooing. From candid discussions with Lydia of Gold Leaf Dispensary about meaningful ink and tattoo experiences, to in-depth interviews with event organizers on building a growing, community-driven convention, the episode showcases the passion fueling this unique event. Listeners also hear from tattoo artists across the region, including rising professionals and seasoned shop owners, who share their journeys, artistic styles, and the realities of breaking into the industry. Blending humor, raw storytelling, and behind-the-scenes insight, this episode explores tattoo culture as both personal expression and professional craft. It also highlights the importance of community support, small-town events, and the evolving landscape of art and entrepreneurship in places like Winnemucca. So grab a snack and a drink as we sit down and CHATA!

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    1 hr and 35 mins
  • #23-Jason Mayne
    Apr 24 2026

    In this powerful and deeply personal episode of the CHATA Podcast, host Chuy Herrera sits down with longtime friend Jason Mayne for an unfiltered conversation about faith, failure, redemption, and unimaginable loss. Born in Napa Valley and raised in small-town Nevada, Jason shares stories of growing up on a hobby ranch, navigating identity struggles as a teenager, and searching for acceptance through sports, partying, and performance. What began as a small-town rebellion escalated into substance abuse, destructive choices, and a lifestyle that nearly cost him everything. Jason speaks candidly about failed military pursuits, life in the mining industry, divorce, steroid abuse, infidelity, and the moment he hit rock bottom, a turning point that led him to surrender his life to faith and begin the long process of rebuilding. But the most heartbreaking chapter of his story came in 2018, when Jason and his family lost his son, Denali to suicide. In this episode, he vulnerably shares the weight of that loss, the questions that follow tragedy, and how faith, community, and purpose have carried his family forward through grief. His testimony brings awareness to the realities of depression, the importance of suicide prevention, and the urgent need for open conversations around mental health especially in rural communities. This conversation is not just about redemption; it is about resilience. It is about choosing hope when everything feels shattered. The episode closes with Wrecked by Imagine Dragons, a song that held deep meaning for Denali and serves as a powerful tribute to his memory. So grab a drink and a snack while we sit down and CHATA!

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    1 hr and 42 mins
  • #22-Derek Hinkey
    Apr 10 2026

    In this episode of the CHATA Podcast, host Chuy Herrera sat down with Derek Hinkey, an actor, proud Native American, and native of McDermitt, Nevada for a powerful and authentic conversation about identity, resilience, and the pursuit of purpose. Raised in a hardworking rural community, Derek shares how early responsibility and accountability shaped his mindset long before he entered the workforce. He reflects on the lessons learned from starting at the ground level, earning respect through action, and navigating the pressures of demanding blue-collar environments. From long shifts to high-stakes decision-making, Derek offers an honest look at what it takes to grow, adapt, and lead. Derek also opens up about his Native American heritage, speaking candidly about the culture that grounds him and the challenges that come with it. He discusses the importance of preserving traditions, representing his community with pride, and overcoming the unique struggles faced by Indigenous people in both professional spaces and the entertainment industry.Beyond his work ethic, Derek shares his journey into acting, what inspired him to step into a creative field, the risks involved in chasing that path, and how the same grit that drives success in labor-intensive industries fuels his performance career. So grab a drink and a snack while we sit down and CHATA!

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    1 hr and 40 mins
  • #21-Jesus Mendoza
    Mar 27 2026

    In this episode of the CHATA Podcast, host Chuy Herrera sits down with Jesus Mendoza for a powerful conversation about resilience, identity, personal growth, and the lessons forged through life's hardest seasons. Jesus opens up about his upbringing, the values that shaped him, and the defining moments that tested his character. From navigating challenges in his early years to confronting adversity head-on as an adult, he shares how discipline, accountability, and faith became foundational pillars in rebuilding his life and strengthening his purpose. Jesus reflects on the realities of manhood, responsibility, and the importance of community. He speaks about overcoming obstacles, learning from failure, and embracing the process of growth even when it requires humility and hard self-reflection. This conversation is both honest and inspiring, offering listeners a reminder that setbacks do not determine your future. With grit and intention, transformation is always possible. If you're striving to become better as a father, a husband, a leader, or simply as a man this episode delivers meaningful insight and practical perspective that will challenge and encourage you. So grab a drink and a snack while we sit down and CHATA!

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    1 hr and 27 mins