Business Nation - September 2007

"COAL COUNTRY"

With six miners presumed dead after last month's Crandall Canyon mine disaster in Utah, and three of their would-be rescuers killed, we are reminded that we are still a nation heavily dependent on coal, and that mining it remains a very dangerous business. Business Nation examines the coal industry and its inherent dangers with a first-hand look at a West Virginia mining operation, conversations with miners and the widows of those killed on the job, and interviews with mining officials and coal company CEO’s.

CNBC'S Melissa Lee is the correspondent.

"THE SHARK"

He was once the top golfer in the world.  Today, the Aussie known famously as the “Great White Shark” is devouring the business world instead of fairways.  Greg Norman has done more than simply cash in on his name -- he’s established himself as a bona fide business mogul overseeing a diversified group of apparel, wine and real estate ventures with sales in excess of $300 million.

Business Nation correspondent David Faber profiles a sports giant who’s mastered a whole new game.

"CASH CROP"

The federal farm subsidy program, created during the Great Depression, was intended to sustain the small, struggling, family farmer.  Today, however, this taxpayer funded, 16 billion dollar-a-year program is being abused, with most of the money going to the biggest and wealthiest, many of them farmers in name only. Microsoft billionaire Paul Allen, tycoon Ted Turner, investment pioneer Charles Schwab, and even the Crown Prince of Lichtenstein are among those who’ve received U.S. government farm subsidies – and it's all perfectly legal. 

Business Nation and NBC News correspondent Bob Faw investigate the program that critics are calling a boondoggle for the rich.

"HOW I MADE MY MILLIONS"

"Life is Good!"  Two brothers, blessed with entrepreneurial spirit, artistic talent and optimism, have turned their simple message into a $100 million a year business.