Salt Lake Chamber

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since 1963, Ballet West has been an important part of Utah’s arts community, bringing world-class performances, timeless productions and opportunities for dancers and audiences to connect through ballet. Senior Director of External Affairs, Erika Stone, joins us with more.

Erika Stone:

At Ballet West, we believe the arts do more than entertain — they inspire creativity, bring people together and strengthen communities. As one of the nation’s leading ballet companies, we’ve seen firsthand how live performance can create lasting connections and meaningful experiences for people of all ages.

Productions like Willam Christensen’s The Nutcracker, America’s first and longest-running version of the ballet, continue to draw audiences from across the region each year, supporting downtown businesses and welcoming thousands of patrons through our doors.

Beyond performances, Ballet West reaches communities across Utah through school programs, scholarship opportunities and access initiatives for underserved families. For many children, it’s their first experience seeing live performance, opening the door to creativity, curiosity and confidence.

By investing in the arts, Ballet West is helping create a more connected, vibrant future for Utah — one that supports culture, community and economic growth for generations to come.

Derek Miller:

By bringing people together through the arts, Ballet West helps make Utah a more creative, connected and culturally vibrant place to live. To learn more about performances and programs, visit BalletWest.org. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 6/11/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The Other Side Village in Salt Lake City is redefining how communities respond to homelessness. Located at 1882 West Indiana Avenue, The Other Side Village pairs permanent housing with a powerful model of accountability, connection and self-reliance. CEO, Preston Cochrane, joins us with more.

Preston Cochrane:

At the Other Side Village residents are not passive recipients of services.

They actively rebuild their lives through joining a therapeutic community and learning vocational skills in social enterprises like The Other Side Donuts, The Other Side Foods, The Other Side Inn and The Other Side Events. These enterprises provide workforce development and create pathways back into self-reliance, stability and generate revenue to support the mission, reducing reliance on government funding and moving toward a self-sustainable model.

What sets the Village apart is its commitment to lasting transformation. Residents choose sobriety, adopt a values-centered way of living and are guided by coaches who have lived similar experiences. This is not a short-term fix. It is a community built for sustained change, where dignity and accountability work together.

The Other Side Village demonstrates a model that can be replicated in other cities looking for real, people-centered solutions to homelessness.

Derek Miller:

By helping people rebuild their lives, The Other Side Village is creating real, lasting change in our communities. To learn more about their services and impact, visit TheOtherSideVillage.com. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 6/10/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Rowland Hall is an independent school in Salt Lake City that blends rigorous academics with hands-on learning and community engagement, helping students grow into curious, creative and impactful leaders. Director of Belonging, Equity and Impact, Chandani Patel, joins us with more.

Chandani Patel:

At Rowland Hall, we believe that meaningful learning extends beyond the classroom and into our community. That belief is why we created the Center for Community Impact, a place where students, faculty and community partners come together to address real challenges.

Through action projects, outreach initiatives and collaborative research, our students develop not only skills, but empathy and a lifelong commitment to positive social change.

This Spring, we hosted our annual Impact Summit, where high school students, educators and community leaders came together to celebrate a year of meaningful work and to look ahead. We're actively looking for local organizations, businesses, nonprofits and community leaders navigating challenges who want to partner with Rowland Hall students to find impactful solutions.

If that sounds like something you'd want to be part of, we'd love to connect. You can learn more at rowlandhall.org.

Derek Miller:

By investing in student growth and education, Rowland Hall is helping shape Utah’s youth into future leaders of our communities. They are building a more engaged, thoughtful and capable generation that is making a difference throughout the state. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 6/8/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since 1976, SentryWest Insurance Services has worked closely with clients to create personalized coverage, backed up by a knowledgeable team that values building strong, one-on-one relationships. President Paul Borup, joins us with more.

Paul Borup:

At Sentry West Insurance Services, we believe great insurance starts with strong relationships, built on trust, personal service and partnerships our clients can truly rely on. Our insurance solutions are designed to protect you from the unexpected, with quality coverage tailored to your needs and budget.

In today’s changing world, risks evolve quickly, and your business insurance should too. That’s why we take the time to understand your community association, business or nonprofit, and deliver creative, cost-effective solutions built for your specific needs.

Our goal is simple: the right balance of price, protection and service, so you can move forward with confidence no matter what life brings. With six locations in Utah and Idaho and a team committed to personal service, SentryWest Insurance Services goes beyond policies to build lasting relationships.

Whether you’re protecting your home, business or family, SentryWest delivers coverage tailored to your unique needs. Learn more at SentryWest.com.

Derek Miller:

Companies like SentryWest Insurance Services help keep Utah moving forward by giving people peace of mind, supporting local businesses and being a dependable presence communities can turn to through every stage of life. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 6/5/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The Utah Department of Transportation is recognized as a national leader — not just for its roads or innovation, but for how its people come together as one team to serve Utah. Communications Director, Elizabeth McMillan, joins us with more.

Elizabeth McMillan:

Transportation is about freedom. That’s why UDOT has a bold vision to give people choices to go where they want, when they want, in the way they want – safely. You know us for orange barrels and road construction. But you should know: we’re about more than highways.

We’re building a complete system that includes trails, buses, trains and even new technologies for transportation in the sky. We know that how we do things matters. Our mission is to enhance quality of life through transportation, and our efforts are guided by a framework to deliver better mobility, good health, connected communities and a strong economy.

The 1,800 employees of UDOT not only serve the people of Utah: we are Utahns. Yes, we plan, build, maintain and operate the roads – but more important than that, we drive them right along with you.

Learn more at connect dot UDOT.Utah.gov.

Derek Miller:

Every day, UDOT’s work helps Utah move forward. From supporting growing communities to improving the way people travel across the state, their efforts create a stronger, more connected Utah for families, businesses, and future generations alike. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 6/4/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since 2001, Equality Utah has worked to make Utah a place where every person belongs and can thrive. Through its programs, the organization helps ensure people receive the support and respect they deserve. Executive Director, Essie Gonzsen, joins us with more.

Essie Gonzsen:

Equality Utah is a statewide organization working to ensure that every Utahn is treated fairly and with dignity — under the law and in their daily lives. For the past 25 years, we’ve focused on advancing thoughtful, effective policy at the state legislature, building relationships across differences and supporting leaders who are committed to fairness.

A big part of our work is helping people navigate complex and often polarized issues in a way that leads to real progress. That means working alongside community members, business leaders and elected officials to find common ground and move solutions forward.

We also invest in the next generation through our College Ambassador Program, equipping students across Utah with the skills to engage thoughtfully and lead in their communities. At the end of the day, our work is about strengthening Utah — making it a place where people feel respected, heard and able to contribute.

Derek Miller:

By advocating for equality, education and inclusive policies, Equality Utah helps Utahns feel supported, respected and included. To learn more about their mission and to get involved, visit EqualityUtah.org. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 6/3/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre brings opera, musicals, concerts and arts education to northern Utah each summer. Their work supports students, performers, tourism and the local community through meaningful artistic experiences. Associate Artistic Director and Education Director, Vanessa Ballam, joins us with more.

Vanessa Ballam:

Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre celebrates over three decades of extraordinary storytelling with our vibrant 2026 summer season, running in June and July in Logan, Utah. Founded by Michael Ballam, the festival presents thrilling productions and unforgettable performances.

Highlights at the Ellen Eccles Theatre include 1776, featuring Michael Ballam, and The Pirates of Penzance. At the Utah Theatre, don’t miss The Last 5 Years, alongside Scalia/Ginsburg & Trial by Jury — sharp, witty and musically dazzling.

From grand operatic moments to intimate musical theatre, our stages offer world-class voices, lush orchestration and striking design. Perfect for families, art lovers and community groups, season tickets and flexible packages make attendance easy. Join us for classes, free concerts and unforgettable summer evenings in beautiful Cache Valley.

Visit UFOMT.org or call the box office to reserve your seats and be a part of this Logan tradition.

Derek Miller:

Utah Festival Opera & Musical Theatre helps make Utah a more vibrant place to live by bringing powerful performances and arts education across the state. Their work continues to strengthen Utah’s appreciation for the arts. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 6/2/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. In Utah, locally owned businesses play a big role in supporting communities — creating jobs, helping families, and investing back into the state through service, education, and charity. McDonald’s Owner and Operator, Christina Sparrer-Baer, joins us with more.

Christina Sparrer-Baer:

As a McDonald’s franchisee here in Utah, I’m proud to serve our community through locally owned and operated restaurants. Being local means creating a welcoming, community-focused experience that goes beyond the meals we serve.

Whether you’re starting your first job or building a career, you’ll gain valuable skills at McDonald’s. Through our Archways to Opportunity program, team members receive tuition assistance and support for continued education and career development. When you visit us you can also support our favorite charity Ronald McDonald House. We donate a penny for every Happy Meal and pound of fries sold.

You can also round up your order to the nearest dollar to help provide life-changing support for families when they need it most. And of course, we’re still the spot for the food you love.

With our app, you can access exclusive deals, earn rewards, and try new menu items, including specialty drinks. See you at McDonald’s.

Derek Miller:

From first jobs to community support, businesses like McDonald’s play a big role in Utah, helping people grow, stay connected, and feel supported in their day-to-day lives. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 6/1/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Celebrating their 100th anniversary as a firm, RSM US helps middle-market companies grow through audit, tax and consulting services. They expanded into the Salt Lake City market in 2024, bringing trusted expertise to Utah businesses. Tax Partner, Derek Welling, joins us with more.

Derek Welling:

Running a business means navigating risk, opportunity and constant change. That’s why leaders partner with advisors who understand the whole picture — across tax, assurance, and consulting.

At RSM, we’re dedicated to supporting middle market companies like yours — right here in Salt Lake City. We listen and learn about your unique needs, and deliver tailored, actionable advice to help you make confident decisions. Whether you’re growing locally or expanding internationally, our team brings industry expertise and a worldwide perspective to help you find new opportunities and overcome challenges.

For 100 years, organizations have turned to us not only for technical expertise, but for strategic guidance that helps them move forward with confidence. Discover how RSM can help your business grow and succeed.

Start a conversation with us and explore where your ambitions can take you. Learn more at RSMUS.com today.

Derek Miller:

RSM US continues to be supportive and dedicated to Utah businesses. By providing tailored advice for each company, they help middle-market businesses grow, navigate challenges and strengthen the state’s economy for long-term success. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 5/29/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Fetch Daycare and Overnight is a women-owned dog care facility in Salt Lake City that offers daycare, boarding and grooming services in a safe, supervised environment. Owner, Allison Brown, joins us with more.

Allison Brown:

Every dog owner knows the feeling. You leave for work and head out of town and wonder, is my dog okay? That worry is exactly why I started FETCH Daycare and Overnight over ten years ago in South Salt Lake. Our philosophy is simple: we treat every dog as if they are a guest in our very own home.

Our facility is inclusive with a 3,500 square foot play area and covered outdoor access with built-in K9 turf, because dogs need real space to run, play and just be dogs. Every team member is K9 CPR certified, and several are certified dog trainers.

We do temperament evaluations for every new dog and run structured playgroups based on size, energy and personality. Your dog’s first day is completely free — a trial day where they can get comfortable while you receive a full report card on how they did.

Call us today to schedule your trial day.

Derek Miller:

More than 6,100 families trust Fetch Daycare and Overnight to care for their dogs with safe, reliable and attentive service. To learn more about their daycare, boarding and grooming options, visit FetchUtah.com. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 5/26/26