Tahoe TAP

Tahoe TAP hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway sit down with Trent Poole, the new Vice President and General Manager of Heavenly Mountain Resort, for a conversation about his arrival in Tahoe, his vision for the resort, and what’s ahead for one of the region’s most iconic mountains. Poole stepped into the role in May, just ahead of Heavenly’s summer operations, bringing nearly two decades of experience with Vail Resorts. He joined the company in 2005, beginning his career in finance before moving into leadership positions at Mad River Mountain, Jack Frost Big Boulder, and most recently Hunter Mountain in New York. At Hunter, Poole oversaw major lift upgrades, snowmaking investments, and guest-focused initiatives that resulted in the largest improvement in guest satisfaction in the resort’s history. His background in resort operations, infrastructure projects, and team development brings a wealth of experience to Heavenly as it looks toward the future. A graduate of Ohio University, Poole is making the move west with his wife, Lisa, and their two children. Outside of the resort, the family enjoys camping and exploring national parks. Now, he’s focused on building on Heavenly’s legacy while strengthening the mountain’s relationship with the South Shore community. The conversation also includes an exclusive announcement from Poole — a first look at news that hadn’t yet been shared through Heavenly’s official media channels. Tune in for a new episode of Tahoe TAP, where the hosts explore the people, stories, and adventures that make Tahoe such a great place to live, work, and play.

Tahoe TAP Podcast — Winter Is Coming: Northstar GM Tara Schoedinger on the Season Ahead As ski season approaches, Tahoe’s mountain communities are gearing up for another winter on the slopes. On Tahoe TAP, hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway return from a brief hiatus to catch up on the latest regional happenings and sit down with Tara Schoedinger, Vice President and General Manager of Northstar California Resort, to discuss the resort, its leadership, and the season ahead. Schoedinger brings a diverse background in technology, public service, and mountain resort operations to the role. After earning a degree in Business Information Systems from the University of Colorado Boulder, she spent the first two decades of her career in IT, including time with Vail Resorts. In 2010, she was elected mayor of Jamestown, Colorado, where she helped lead the community’s recovery following the devastating 2013 floods. She returned to Vail Resorts in 2016 as chief of staff before becoming Vice President and General Manager of Crested Butte Mountain Resort in 2021. During her time in Colorado, she also served on the boards of the Crested Butte Land Trust and Crested Butte Center for the Arts, supporting conservation, public access, and community culture. Appointed to lead Northstar in 2024, Schoedinger now helps oversee one of Tahoe’s major winter destinations while serving on the Ski California executive committee. Outside of work, she and her husband enjoy skiing, biking, camping, and spending time on the lake. In this episode, Tahoe TAP explores Schoedinger’s path to resort leadership, what goes into preparing a mountain for winter, and the role ski resorts play in Tahoe’s economy and community. With opening days nearing, the conversation offers a timely look at the people and planning behind another season in the Sierra. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes conversation with Northstar’s leader as Tahoe gets ready to turn up the dial on winter.

From fighting food insecurity and improving childhood literacy to creating new opportunities for Tahoe’s next generation of entrepreneurs, the Marcella Foundation is tackling some big community needs with an ambitious local approach. On this episode of Tahoe TAP, hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway sit down with Melissa Uppendahl, founding Executive Director of the Marcella Foundation, to talk about the organization’s growing impact across the region and the projects it has on the horizon. Since helping launch the Foundation, Uppendahl has been instrumental in developing programs centered on food security, literacy, mentorship and youth opportunity. That includes FeedTahoe, which works to address hunger in the community; the countywide expansion of the Imagination Library, providing books to young children; and the Fannan Fellowship, designed to support and inspire emerging leaders and entrepreneurs. Now, another major project is taking shape: The Atrium, an innovative makerspace being developed to give community members a place to create, collaborate, learn new skills and turn ideas into reality. Uppendahl’s path to nonprofit leadership includes founding Lift Literature and working in the financial management of environmental restoration projects throughout the Lake Tahoe Basin. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from St. Mary’s College and a Master of Public Administration from CSU Chico. A mother of three boys, Uppendahl has built her work around a belief in big ideas — and, more importantly, creating the partnerships and infrastructure needed to make them happen. In this episode, Tahoe TAP explores the Marcella Foundation’s expanding role in the community, the challenges of addressing hunger and literacy at the local level, and the vision behind The Atrium as it prepares to become a new hub for creativity, education and entrepreneurship. Tune in for a conversation about turning ambitious ideas into tangible community impact — and what the Marcella Foundation has planned next for Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe is one of the most studied lakes in the world, and understanding what’s happening beneath its famously clear surface is critical to protecting its future. On this episode of Tahoe TAP, hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway sit down with Dr. Stephanie Hampton, Director of the UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center and a professor of environmental science and policy, for a conversation about the science behind Lake Tahoe and the challenges facing freshwater ecosystems. A freshwater ecologist by training, Hampton has spent more than two decades studying lakes and the forces that shape their health and resilience. Her research has taken her from Lake Tahoe to Lake Baikal in Siberia, one of the world's oldest and deepest freshwater lakes, giving her a global perspective on the factors that keep aquatic ecosystems healthy — and the growing pressures they face from climate change and human activity. Hampton's work places her at the intersection of science, environmental policy and public understanding. In addition to leading the Tahoe Environmental Research Center, she currently serves as President of the Ecological Society of America and has held leadership positions with the National Science Foundation and Washington State University. For a region where the health of the lake is closely tied to its environment, economy and quality of life, Hampton's work offers an important look at what researchers are learning about Tahoe — and what those discoveries could mean for the lake in the decades ahead. In this episode, Tahoe TAP explores the science behind Tahoe's clarity, how changing environmental conditions are affecting freshwater ecosystems, what researchers are watching most closely, and how scientific research can help guide the decisions needed to protect the lake. Tune in for a fascinating conversation with one of the country's leading freshwater ecologists and get a deeper look at the science helping us understand — and protect — Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe has no shortage of complicated issues — housing, transportation, wildfire resilience, infrastructure and growth among them — and when it comes to understanding how those decisions are made at the county level, few people have a better perspective than Brooke Laine. On this episode of Tahoe TAP, hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway sit down with Laine, the El Dorado County District 5 Supervisor, for a wide-ranging conversation about the issues affecting South Lake Tahoe and the surrounding communities. Laine is a Tahoe local through and through. A graduate of South Tahoe High School and UC Santa Cruz, she has spent much of her career serving the community in one form or another — from owning a small business and working in banking to volunteering extensively and serving on the South Lake Tahoe City Council, including a stint as mayor. Today, she represents one of the largest and most geographically diverse districts in El Dorado County, stretching from the Tahoe Basin and communities including Tahoma, Meeks Bay, Meyers and South Lake Tahoe all the way to Pollock Pines. Her regional involvement extends well beyond county government. Laine has served on numerous organizations and boards dealing with some of Tahoe's biggest challenges, including the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, Tahoe Transportation District and California Tahoe Conservancy. That experience gives her a unique view of how decisions made outside the basin can have a very real impact on the people who live here — and how local priorities can make their way into the larger regional conversation. In this episode, Tahoe TAP takes listeners behind the scenes of county government and explores what's happening across South Lake Tahoe from El Dorado County's perspective. The conversation covers the region's biggest challenges, the relationship between Tahoe and Placerville, and where Laine believes the community is headed next. Tune in for an inside look at the county-level decisions shaping South Lake Tahoe — and a conversation with one of Tahoe's longtime local leaders who has spent much of her life trying to make this mountain community work.

Few organizations have a greater influence on the future of Lake Tahoe than the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA). From environmental restoration and transportation planning to housing, redevelopment, and shoreline policy, the agency sits at the center of many of the basin's most important conversations. On this episode of Tahoe TAP, hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway sit down with Julie Regan, Executive Director of TRPA, for an inside look at the opportunities and challenges facing one of America's most iconic alpine environments. Regan has spent more than two decades helping shape the future of the Tahoe Basin. In 2022, she was selected by TRPA's 15-member Governing Board to lead the nation's first bi-state environmental planning agency, an organization created in 1969 to protect Lake Tahoe while balancing the needs of the communities and the region's multi-billion-dollar outdoor recreation and tourism economy. Having served in leadership roles at TRPA since 2003, Regan has helped guide landmark initiatives involving environmental restoration, transportation, climate resilience, and sustainable growth. Her career has been defined by bringing together science, public policy, and community collaboration to address the complex issues facing the basin. A former journalist with a master's degree from Temple University, Regan is also pursuing a doctorate in environmental science at the University of Nevada, Reno, where her research examines the relationship between science and public policy. Her leadership extends beyond Tahoe as a former Co-Chair of the Network for Landscape Conservation and a contributor to national discussions on destination stewardship and managing tourism in environmentally sensitive communities. Now celebrating nearly 30 years in the Tahoe Basin, Regan remains deeply invested in the community she calls home. Beyond her professional work, she has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including as Chair of the Barton Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees, and enjoys skiing, mountain biking, hiking, and exploring the outdoors with her family. In this episode, the conversation explores how TRPA balances environmental protection with responsible growth, the evolving challenges of climate change and recreation, and the collaborative efforts shaping the future of Lake Tahoe.  

The Tahoe TAP podcast returns with another conversation focused on the people, places, and issues shaping life around Lake Tahoe. Hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway are back behind the mic, exploring the latest stories and community conversations from across the basin. This episode features Cindy Gustafson, Placer County Supervisor for District 5 — the county's largest district geographically, stretching from Newcastle through North Lake Tahoe and into the High Sierra. The conversation also explores the unique political and geographic boundaries of the region, including how the Truckee and Donner communities are divided between Placer and Nevada counties. Gustafson brings more than four decades of experience in public service, environmental stewardship, and regional leadership. Before joining the Placer County Board of Supervisors in 2019, she spent 26 years with the Tahoe City Public Utility District, including eight years as general manager. During her tenure, the district secured more than $30 million in grant funding for projects involving parks, bike trails, water infrastructure, and environmental restoration. After retiring from TCPUD, Gustafson served as CEO of the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association and North Tahoe Chamber before entering public office. Her career has also included service on the California Fish and Game Commission and the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District Board, as well as helping establish the Tahoe Fund. Today, she continues to play a significant role in regional decision-making through organizations including the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, California Tahoe Conservancy, and Tahoe Transportation District. On this episode of Tahoe TAP, Gustafson discusses the issues that continue to shape the Tahoe region — from housing and transportation to wildfire resilience, tourism, regional governance, and the ongoing effort to protect the lake and communities that make the area home.  

The Tahoe TAP podcast returns with another conversation exploring the people, places, and ideas shaping life around Lake Tahoe. Hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway are back behind the mic with the latest stories from the basin before sitting down with one of the region's most influential leaders. This episode features Carol Chaplin, President and CEO of the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority (Visit Lake Tahoe), whose leadership has helped shape South Shore's tourism industry for nearly two decades. From the launch of destination marketing initiatives like the "Awe and Then Some" campaign to navigating wildfire recovery, the COVID-19 pandemic, and changing travel trends, Chaplin has played a central role in positioning Lake Tahoe as one of the world's premier outdoor recreation destinations. With more than 35 years in the Tahoe tourism industry, Chaplin's influence extends well beyond destination marketing. She has served in leadership roles with numerous regional organizations, including the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, Tahoe Chamber, Tahoe Prosperity Center, the Western Nevada Development District, the Regional Air Service Corporation, and the South Shore Transportation Management Association. She also serves on the Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Council, working alongside public agencies, nonprofits, and private industry to strengthen the region's economy while protecting the lake's natural resources and quality of life. Chaplin was also a driving force behind the development of the Tahoe Blue Event Center, a transformative project that has expanded South Lake Tahoe's ability to attract year-round events, entertainment, and sports tourism while creating new economic opportunities for the community. On this episode of Tahoe TAP, the conversation explores the evolution of Tahoe's visitor economy, the importance of destination stewardship, the impact of the Tahoe Blue Event Center, and what's next for tourism in one of America's most iconic mountain destinations. Tune in for an insightful conversation with one of the visionary leaders who has helped shape Tahoe's past, present, and future.

Tahoe TAP Podcast — Joe Pavelski: From NHL Greatness to ACC Champion The Tahoe TAP podcast returns with another conversation highlighting the people, stories, and moments that make Lake Tahoe such a special place. Hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway sit down with one of the most accomplished athletes to ever compete in the American Century Championship — and one of the most respected figures in professional sports. This episode features Joe Pavelski, the reigning American Century Championship winner, whose dramatic victory at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course instantly became one of the tournament's most memorable moments. After several close calls, including a runner-up finish in 2024, Pavelski captured the 2025 title in spectacular fashion, sinking a walk-off eagle putt on the 18th hole to secure the championship. While Tahoe fans have come to know him for his elite golf game, Pavelski's legacy was built on the ice. Over an 18-year NHL career with the San Jose Sharks and Dallas Stars, he played more than 1,300 games, scored nearly 500 goals, and established himself as one of the greatest American-born players in hockey history. Nicknamed "Captain America," he served as captain of both the Sharks and Team USA, earned four NHL All-Star selections, and holds the NHL record for the most playoff goals scored by an American-born player with 74. In this episode, Pavelski reflects on his remarkable hockey career, the transition from professional athlete to championship golfer, and his growing connection to Lake Tahoe through one of the region's most celebrated sporting events. Listeners will also get to know the person behind the accolades — a fierce competitor, respected leader, and all-around great ambassador for the game.

The Tahoe TAP podcast returns with another conversation spotlighting the Things, Adventures, and People that make life around Lake Tahoe so special. Hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway are back behind the mic, sharing fresh stories and local voices from around the basin before diving into a conversation with one of Tahoe’s most recognizable environmental leaders. In this episode, Tahoe TAP welcomes Darcie Goodman Collins, PhD, CEO of Keep Tahoe Blue, the nonprofit organization at the forefront of protecting and restoring the clarity, beauty, and environmental health of Lake Tahoe. Born and raised in South Lake Tahoe, Goodman Collins brings a rare blend of scientific expertise, local roots, and policy experience to one of the region’s most important missions: preserving the lake for future generations. She earned her doctorate in environmental science from UC Santa Barbara and has become one of Tahoe’s strongest and most visible advocates for conservation, representing the region from neighborhood initiatives to policy discussions in Washington, D.C. Her connection to Keep Tahoe Blue runs deep. Goodman Collins first joined the organization as a summer intern in 1996 and, just a year later, represented Tahoe youth at the inaugural Tahoe Presidential Summit. After years of environmental leadership and advocacy, she officially joined the organization’s staff in 2012 and has since helped guide major efforts focused on lake clarity, sustainable recreation, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. Beyond her work in conservation, Goodman Collins is also an avid outdoor enthusiast who embraces the Tahoe lifestyle year-round — running marathons, ski touring, and even swimming in Lake Tahoe during the colder months. In this episode, the conversation explores the challenges facing the lake today, what progress is being made to protect Tahoe’s future, and how residents and visitors alike can play a role in keeping Tahoe blue. Tune in for an insightful conversation with one of the strongest voices working to protect the place we all love.