Salt Lake Chamber

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Sutherland Institute is a Utah-based, nonpartisan think tank that brings people together to explore practical policy ideas focused on strong families, individual freedom and responsible solutions that benefit communities across the state. Executive Director Derek Monson, joins us with more.

Derek Monson:

America's approaching 250th anniversary is both a celebration and a reminder that “freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.”

Sutherland Institute has worked for 30 years to keep Utah a place where the foundations of freedom remain broadly popular, where Utah’s model of strong families, vibrant faith communities, free enterprise and a deep respect for constitutional government can be an example to the nation.

In a time of polarizing political divides, Sutherland is using commonsense principles to bring diverse perspectives to the same table and build coalitions that enact and defend sound laws – helping families and individuals thrive, and promoting opportunity for all. The present moment demands that we rise above partisan considerations to nurture the ideas of freedom in Utah and help the American experiment to succeed for another 250 years.

At Sutherland Institute we build up the constitution and the institutions that make us free.

Derek Miller:

By bringing people together around shared values and practical solutions, Sutherland Institute plays a vital role in keeping Utah strong and resilient. Their work helps communities thrive while preserving freedom. Learn more about their impact at SutherlandInstitute.org. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 3/10/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. American Legion Utah Boys State gives high school juniors leadership, teamwork and civic skills, teaching government firsthand and building confidence to become engaged, informed citizens and future leaders in Utah and beyond. Department of Utah, Commander John Robertson, joins us with more.

John Robertson:

Utah Boys State is more than just a summer program — it’s a dynamic, hands-on civics immersion workshop that has been shaping future leaders for over 80 years. Students dive into a fast-paced, six-and-a-half-day program packed with real-world government simulations, debates and leadership challenges.

Students learn by doing — gaining firsthand experience in self-governance, public speaking and the legislative process. Through teamwork, debate and community engagement, students develop essential skills.

Graduates receive three transferable college credits, giving them a head start on their academic journey, and they enjoy first-in-line access to Weber State University scholarships, bonus points on service academy applications, and favorable consideration for internships and graduate programs.

Derek Miller:

By empowering young leaders, American Legion Utah Boys State strengthens communities across Utah. Graduates carry their skills, confidence and civic-minded values into schools, workplaces and neighborhoods. Discover how the program continues shaping futures at UtahBoysState.org. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 3/9/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Ascend Hospitality Group, known as AHG, is passionate about bringing people together through culinary experiences that raise the bar. Not only does their food inspire but they focus on creating an environment where people and communities feel valued. President and CEO, Elaina Morris, joins us with more.

Elaina Morris:

AHG was founded on a mission to deliver world-class hospitality while creating meaningful dining experiences and jobs in the communities we serve. We began in Washington State and Utah, with Oregon shortly after, and Utah remains central to our future. As the state grows, so does the need for welcoming, affordable places to gather.

That’s why we’re excited to expand in Utah with Mama Bird Southern Kitchen, now open at Jordan Landing in West Jordan. Mama Bird is a Southern-style restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and supper in a warm, family-friendly setting inspired by neighborly hospitality. Giving back is truly core to who we are.

Through AHG Cares, we support schools, provide backpacks, host community events and advance workforce development.

Looking ahead, we plan to grow Mama Bird and our other brands across the greater Wasatch Valley over the next five years and we look forward to a bright future in Utah.

Derek Miller:

Ascend Hospitality Group continues strengthening Utah communities through hospitality, job creation and meaningful giving. To learn more about their mission, brands and growing impact, visit AscendHG.com. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 3/6/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. For the past eight years, Wasatch Security Awareness has partnered with organizations across the Wasatch Front, helping them better understand cybersecurity risks and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. Owner, Matt Groves, joins us with more.

Matt Groves:

Most business risk today has very little to do with technology, and everything to do with people. At Wasatch Security Awareness, that’s exactly where we focus — because most problems don’t start with broken systems, they start with the everyday choices people make at work. That’s why we provide customized cybersecurity testing and live training. Real conversations with real people, not just another video everyone clicks through.

When people can ask questions and see how threats show up in their day-to-day work, the lessons stick and behavior starts to change.

We also help organizations make sense of artificial intelligence. Our AI literacy training helps teams safely implement AI into the workflows they already use — saving time, improving efficiency and supporting better decisions.

For Utah businesses, awareness isn’t just about reducing risk — it’s about building stronger, more resilient teams. The organizations that thrive tomorrow will be the ones who prepare their people today.

Derek Miller:

Wasatch Security Awareness continues helping Utah businesses navigate cybersecurity challenges, stay informed on emerging technologies, and reduce risk through education and awareness. Learn more about their work and resources at WasatchSecurityAwareness.com. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 3/5/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Process Curiosity is a team of artful designers and skilled fabricator-sculptors who craft immersive experiences using a human-centered design approach. Based in Salt Lake City, they’ve been making waves in the design and fabrication industry. CEO Blake Wigdahl, joins us with more.

Blake Wigdahl:

We are Process Curiosity, a planning, design and fabrication firm dedicated to creating spaces that inspire, engage and resonate with communities for generations to come. Our team of artful designers and skilled fabricator-sculptors works closely with clients to transform ideas into immersive, interactive environments that spark imagination and lifelong learning.

We’ve partnered with world-class institutions across the nation, crafting custom exhibits, installations and experiences that do more than encourage curiosity — they unleash it. Every project is rooted in a human-centered approach, ensuring visitors feel connected, inspired and deeply engaged.

Utah is growing at an exceptional rate and gaining global recognition, and we’re proud to contribute to this momentum. We help organizations design meaningful, newsworthy and authentic experiences that connect with audiences of all ages.

By blending creativity, craft and strategic planning, Process Curiosity brings visions to life in ways that leave lasting impressions.

Derek Miller:

Process Curiosity continues to shape Utah’s creative landscape, crafting engaging, human-centered experiences that inspire and connect communities. Learn more at ProcessCuriosity.com. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 3/4/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Westminster University recently celebrated 150 years of educating students and preparing them to excel as skilled professionals, civic leaders, passionate educators and exemplary health care providers. Joining us today is President Bethami Dobkin, to share more about this milestone and the University’s ongoing impact.

Bethami Dobkin:

Westminster University has enhanced our efforts to increase financial aid, with first-year students paying an average of about $8,400 a year. The Westminster Commitment goes further, covering all four years of tuition for qualified Utah students.

Westminster undergraduates are also more likely to complete their degree in four years - faster than anywhere else in the state — a real advantage in time and cost.

And we know what students need to thrive during college and beyond. In small classes, clinics, communities and offices, they develop skills in critical thinking, collaboration, deliberation and leadership. Partnerships with local businesses and hospitals provide on-the-job learning and research opportunities from day one.

By graduation, over 90 percent of our students are employed within three months, and nearly all report their education helped them achieve their professional goals. We’re proud of our students and the impact they continue to make in Salt Lake City, Utah and across the country.

Derek Miller:

At Westminster University, students graduate ready to make a real difference — in their careers, communities and beyond. From hands-on learning to leadership opportunities, they’re prepared for what’s next. Learn more about their programs at WestminsterU.edu. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 3/3/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. A strong public library helps build a strong, prosperous city. As one of Utah’s oldest cultural institutions, the Salt Lake City Public Library is essential to a vibrant, thriving Salt Lake. City Library CEO Noah Baskett, joins us with more.

Noah Baskett:

Salt Lake City loves its public libraries. Nearly three-quarters of residents are

cardholders — which is a remarkable sign of trust and civic pride. At our core, we are about books and literacy: connecting people to stories,

ideas and information through books, movies, music, graphic novels,

magazines and free digital eBooks and audiobooks — all fine-free for

every single Salt Laker.

But today, the Library is more than a place to borrow things. We are a

connector across our city. We connect people to resources, to opportunities and to one another — whether through a résumé workshop, a small business class, homework help after school or simply a welcoming space to gather and belong.

And at a time when fewer than half of Utah’s young readers are reading at

grade level, our work to build literacy for all ages — especially in our most

vulnerable communities — is more urgent and more essential than ever.

Derek Miller:

By connecting people to knowledge, opportunity, and each other, the Salt Lake City Public Library strengthens our city and every neighborhood it serves. Visit SLCPL.org to explore their resources and learn how you can help advance their mission. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 2/27/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Founded in 2014, Saprea is leading the charge in confronting child sexual abuse through proven, trauma-informed methods. By empowering survivors and educating communities worldwide, they are making a meaningful difference in the communities they serve. Chief Relationship Officer, Cynthia Gambill, joins us with more.

Cynthia Gambill:

Saprea is a nonprofit dedicated to liberating individuals and society from child

sexual abuse and its lasting impacts. In the United States, one in five children will experience sexual abuse, and Utah is no exception.

Our services and resources are focused on healing adult survivors who were sexually abused as children through retreats, support groups and online resources. We educate and engage parents and caregivers to prevent children from sexual abuse offering community resources.

By using our healing and preventive resources we drive awareness to motivate individuals to take action against sexual abuse. These resources are free thanks to the generosity of our donors and partners.

We invite you to join the fight against this silent epidemic. At Saprea, we imagine a world where all children grow up feeling loved, safe and protected. Learn more at Saprea.org.

Derek Miller:

Saprea’s work is making a real difference in Utah and beyond. By supporting survivors, educating communities and inspiring action, they’re helping create safer, stronger places where children can grow up feeling loved and protected. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 2/26/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. As Utah continues to grow, MidFirst Bank brings the strength of the nation’s largest privately owned bank, with 41.4 billion dollars in assets, while staying focused on building real, long-term relationships with clients. Senior Vice President Chris Tillack, joins us with more.

Chris Tillack:

At MidFirst Bank, our team is made up of experienced bankers who have spent most of their careers serving Utah customers and understand the needs of local businesses. While MidFirst is headquartered in Oklahoma City, our presence in Utah continues to grow, led by a team that lives and works here.

We focus on Small Business, Commercial and Private Banking, offering a full range of lending, deposit and treasury management solutions. With a 19.1 percent risk-based capital ratio, ranking in the 92nd percentile among mid-size banks, MidFirst is a strong, stable and safe place for deposits.

Utah’s market is thriving, and so are we. We’re off to a strong start, with $30 million in new loan commitments and dozens of new commercial deposit accounts already closed in January.

We take a common-sense, relationship-driven approach to banking, thinking creatively to deliver smart solutions with personalized, person-to-person service.

Derek Miller:

MidFirst Bank continues to support Utah by backing local businesses, and giving back to the communities they serve. To learn more about MidFirst Bank and their services, visit MidFirst.com. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 2/25/26

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The Utah Film Center connects people, stories and ideas through film exhibitions, artist support and media arts education, proudly hosting the premier film-focused creative hub here in Utah. Executive Director Mariah Mellus, joins us with more.

Mariah Mellus:

Thank you Derek, and the Salt Lake Chamber. We are honored to be a part of Utah’s creative community. And after 23 years of bringing award-winning film programming to Utah and beyond, we’re thrilled to embrace our new role as Utah’s premier film-focused creative hub.

Nestled in the vibrant Marmalade District of Salt Lake City, the Utah Film Center is a place for anyone who believes film is the most powerful medium for storytelling. Our center is a home for a comprehensive filmmaking and film appreciation ecosystem.

Young Utah students build media literacy and storytelling skills, local and national filmmakers find the support they need to bring their visions to life, and communities come together to experience world-class cinema in our 180-seat screening room.

From workshops and mentorship to screenings and special events, we celebrate the art of film while fostering creativity, connection and learning. Join us and be part of a community where stories come to life on the big screen. Learn more at UtahFilmCenter.org.

Derek Miller:

The Utah Film Center keeps Utah’s arts alive, inspiring creativity and connection while showcasing world-class films. By supporting local filmmakers and drawing audiences from near and far, it strengthens Utah’s reputation as a vibrant hub for the arts. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 2/24/26