Salt Lake Chamber

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since its debut in 2017, Ghost Boards has been catching the attention of people all over the world with their unique, clear-designed skateboards that blend style, performance, and innovation seamlessly. CEO and Owner, Russ Warner, joins us with more.

Russ Warner:

Ghost Boards started with one simple idea — make a board so cool, it turns heads before it even moves. We build clear acrylic longboards that ride like a dream and look like nothing else on the street. Think of them as part skateboard, part rolling art.

What began in my garage has become a fast-growing brand with riders all over the world from Japan to Australia. From LED wheels to custom graphics, we’re all about creating gear that stands out and gets people talking. Whether you're a beginner, a collector, or just want something different, we’ve got a board for you.

But Ghost Boards isn’t just about the ride — it’s about expression, community, and fun. We’re proud to build our boards right here in Utah, no tariffs, and we’ve got big dreams of lighting up every sidewalk, boardwalk, and skate park across the globe.

So hop on a Ghost Board, roll different, and ride the vibe.

Derek Miller:

Businesses like Ghost Boards embody Utah’s spirit of innovation, creativity, and determination. By transforming bold ideas into thriving businesses, they strengthen the economy, uplift communities, and show that entrepreneurship remains central to Utah’s continued prosperity and success. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 9/29/25

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Miller Sports and Entertainment, a platform of the Larry H. Miller Company, is driving growth in Utah’s sports and entertainment industry. President Michelle Smith shares highlights from a transformative year and how they are creating gathering places that strengthen and connect our community.

Michelle Smith:

2025 has been a landmark year for Miller Sports and Entertainment, highlighted by:

-Announcing the acquisition of Real Salt Lake, Utah Royals FC, Real Monarchs and the RSL Academy with a group of local investors.

-Opening The Ballpark at America First Square, the new home of the Salt Lake Bees, in the heart of Downtown Daybreak.

-Launching a brand refresh for the Salt Lake Bees with new logos, marks, jerseys and caps for the 2025 season.

-Ushering in a new era with a brand refresh for Megaplex since opening over twenty five years ago.

-And, opening Megaplex’s first cinema entertainment center in Downtown Daybreak, with dining, interactive bowling, games and an A-list movie-going experience.

Sports and entertainment at their best unite a community. We are honored to invest in places and experiences that build connections, inspire memories, and shape the future of Utah for generations to come.

Derek Miller:

As we look ahead, Utah businesses like Miller Sports and Entertainment show us the power of vision and investment. Together, we’re creating a more vibrant, connected, and thriving state. Learn more at MillerSE.com. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 9/26/25

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since 1931, the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art has been a gathering place for artists and creatives in the region, fostering inspiration, collaboration, and innovation. Here to share some exciting updates, Development Strategist, Kaitlin Mills, joins us with more.

Kaitlin Mills:

We’re thrilled to share two exciting updates from the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art.

First, UMOCA recently launched the Assemblage Art Fund, providing targeted support for visual artists and collectives in Salt Lake County.

Through Assemblage, 6 to 12 artists will receive grants for their project. This initiative is made possible by the Andy Warhol Foundation and inaugural recipients will be announced on October 24 at our annual Halloween Bash.

On September 26, UMOCA celebrates the opening of Elizabeth Malaska’s solo exhibition, awarded through the 2025 Catherine Doctorow Prize for Contemporary Painting, a biennial award supported by the Jarvis and Constance Doctorow Family Foundation.

That same evening, Oscar Tuazon’s Salt Lake Water School closes with experimental projections on its structure, emphasizing the work’s urgent reflection on the Great Salt Lake’s environmental future.

Derek Miller:

The Utah Museum of Contemporary Art continues to play a vital role in Utah’s arts community, inspiring creativity, supporting local artists, and bringing innovative projects to life. Discover more about their programs, exhibitions, and ways to get involved at UtahMOCA.org. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 9/24/25

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Utah Support Advocates for Recovery Awareness, has been providing Utah with a variety of direct services, including peer coaching, to support those overcoming addiction. Community Impact Director, Tiffany Naccarato, joins us with more.

Tiffany Naccarato:

At USARA, our mission is to connect and inspire communities to advocate for addiction recovery. We believe that recovery is rooted in connection, and that everyone deserves support, compassion, and a chance to heal.

September is National Recovery Month, a time to celebrate the power of recovery and the incredible individuals and families on that journey. It’s also a chance to recognize the friends, professionals, and community members who stand beside them, offering hope and encouragement every step of the way.

Throughout the month, events across Utah will highlight what recovery truly means: health, home, purpose, and community. These gatherings help raise awareness, break down stigma, and show that recovery is not only possible, it’s happening every day.

Whether you're in recovery, supporting someone who is, or simply want to make a difference, there are meaningful ways to get involved. Visit UtahRecovers.org to learn more.

Derek Miller:

USARA is making a powerful impact across Utah by offering support, connection, and hope to individuals and families affected by addiction. Visit their website to learn how they can help you or someone you know who is struggling. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 9/19/25

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Neumont College of Computer Science has been a key part of downtown Salt Lake City for over two decades, offering innovative industry‑influenced degrees that focus on cutting‑edge technology. Vice President, Mo Reeder, joins us with more.

Mo Reeder:

At Neumont College, we focus on preparing students for careers in technology. Our accredited programs allow students to earn bachelor’s degrees in Software Engineering, Game Development, Applied AI, Data Engineering, and Cybersecurity in just three years.

We also offer a Master’s in Artificial Intelligence and a 21-week Cybersecurity Certificate.

What makes Neumont unique is how closely we work with industry. Through externships, senior students contribute part-time to real-world projects, giving employers fresh talent and innovative ideas.

The results speak for themselves. A Georgetown University study ranked Neumont as the nation’s best return on investment in Computer Science. Graduates launch their careers with confidence, earning an average starting salary of around 77,000 dollars.

We welcome you to come visit us on campus and see how Neumont is shaping Utah’s tech future. Come take a tour at 143 South Main Street in Salt Lake City or visit our website today at Neumont.edu.

Derek Miller:

Neumont College of Computer Science is helping shape Utah’s future by preparing skilled tech professionals. Through accelerated programs and industry partnerships, graduates enter the workforce ready to meet the state’s growing technology needs and strengthen its economy. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 9/23/25

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since 2003, the Clark Planetarium has sparked curiosity and a love of learning about space and science. Through immersive theaters, a variety of exhibits, and engaging programs, it invites visitors of all ages to explore and better understand the universe. Director, Duke Johnson, joins us with more.

Duke Johnson:

At Clark Planetarium, we believe the universe belongs to everyone. That’s why we open our doors wide with free exhibits, affordable dome and IMAX shows, and hands-on experiences that welcome every curious mind.

We’ve seen the magic that happens when a child holds a moon rock or watches Saturn’s rings appear through a telescope for the first time — it’s the moment learning becomes a passion. Memberships help make moments like that possible. Our work stretches far beyond our walls, partnering with schools, community groups, and neighborhoods to bring science into daily life.

Because science isn’t just about stars and planets — it’s about problem-solving, creativity, and understanding the world around us. The Planetarium is a gathering place for inspiration and connection. When you become a member, you help to keep science accessible for everyone — while enjoying special opportunities to explore even more of the universe with us.

Derek Miller:

To check out current exhibits and upcoming events visit SaltLakeCounty.gov/Clark-Planetarium. Explore membership options to enjoy exclusive perks while helping inspire curiosity and lifelong learning about space and science in our community. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 9/22/25

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The Downtown Farmers Market’s mission is to support local agriculture, foster community, improve access to fresh food, and promote shopping locally. Joining us to share more is Carly Gillespie, Deputy Director at the Urban Food Connections of Utah.

Carly Gillespie:

Thirty-four years ago, Salt Lake’s Downtown Alliance launched the Downtown Farmers Market at Pioneer Park. Today, it’s Utah’s largest free community event, drawing more than 250,000 shoppers every summer Saturday from June through October, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Market is a powerful economic driver — generating over 11 million dollars in annual direct-to-consumer sales. It’s home to over 300 vendors from 16 Utah counties, 65 percent of them women-owned. More than a third of these businesses got their start right here at the Market.

Here you’ll find farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, locally made food and beverages, and a vibrant arts and crafts market.

It’s a gathering space where Utah farmers, food entrepreneurs, and neighbors come together — strengthening our local economy and our community. The Downtown Farmers Market at Pioneer Park is open every Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn more at slcfarmersmarket.org.

Derek Miller:

By shopping at the Downtown Farmers Market, you are directly supporting small businesses and local entrepreneurs. Your purchases help them grow, keep your dollars in the community, and give you access to fresh, unique products you can’t find anywhere else. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 9/25/25

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since opening in 1968, Columbus Community Center has fostered development, independence, and inclusion for individuals with disabilities. Their robust services include day activity programs, residential services, and more to come. Chief Executive Officer, Kristy Chambers, joins us with more.

Kristy Chambers:

At Columbus, we believe everyone deserves the chance to contribute their talents to meaningful work. The Utah Uniquely Abled Machinist Program is our next bold step, training adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder to become skilled CNC machinist technicians.

In partnership with the Utah Manufacturers Association, Salt Lake Community College, and the Utah MEP Alliance, we’re addressing two urgent needs: the 60 to 90 percent unemployment rate among adults with autism and the shortage of CNC machinists in Utah.

This 12-week program combines 300 hours of technical CNC instruction with 180 hours of job- readiness training. We go beyond training by providing personal job coaching, employer engagement, and ongoing workplace support.

With an 85 percent placement rate in similar programs nationwide, we know it works. Together, we are creating careers, changing lives, and strengthening Utah’s workforce. Visit Columbusserves.org for information on UUAMP and many more programs.

Derek Miller:

Programs like the Utah Uniquely Abled Machinist Program are transforming lives and Utah’s workforce. Columbus Community Center is addressing skill shortages while strengthening our local economy and community. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 9/18/25

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Idaho National Laboratory has spent over 75 years advancing scientific research in nuclear technology. Its pioneering work has served as the foundation for more than 300 commercial nuclear power reactors operating worldwide. Regional Engagement Lead, Laura Nelson, joins us with more.

Laura Nelson:

As one of 17 national laboratories in the U.S. Department of Energy complex, we’re proud to call Idaho National Laboratory home to more than 6,400 researchers and support staff. Every day, we work to advance innovations in nuclear research, integrated energy systems, and security solutions that are transforming the world.

From groundbreaking discoveries in advanced nuclear energy to developing reliable, sustainable energy options and protecting the nation’s most critical infrastructure, our talented team is constantly pushing boundaries to redefine what’s possible. Through strong partnerships with organizations, universities, and industry leaders, we help drive research and development across Utah’s diverse energy ecosystem.

These collaborations foster innovation, create economic opportunities, and strengthen the region’s leadership in clean, secure, and resilient energy systems.

Learn more about Idaho National Laboratory's work and partnerships by visiting INL.gov.

Derek Miller:

Idaho National Laboratory turns innovation into real-world results, helping the state lead in energy, support local industries, and create lasting benefits for residents and the economy. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 9/17/25

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since coming to The Depot District in 2024, Asher Adams has become a distinctive part of downtown’s hospitality scene, blending historic charm with modern design and thoughtful comfort. Director of Marketing, Katie Van Riper, joins us with more.

Katie Van Riper:

Salt Lake City’s historic Union Pacific Depot has been beautifully reimagined as Asher Adams, the city’s newest boutique hotel and hospitality destination. Built in 1909, this architectural landmark now features 225 thoughtfully designed guest rooms and suites, blending the building’s timeless architecture with modern comfort.

Located directly across from the Delta Center, Asher Adams is perfectly situated for both business and leisure travelers, offering easy access to the best of downtown Salt Lake City.

Guests and locals alike can enjoy inventive dining at our signature restaurant, sip creative cocktails in the welcoming lobby bar, or host unforgettable gatherings in curated private event spaces that highlight the building’s rich history.

At Asher Adams, hospitality is at the heart of everything we do. Whether you’re planning a celebration, meeting with clients, or seeking an inspiring place to stay, we deliver experiences that truly connect people to the story of Salt Lake City.

Derek Miller:

Asher Adams offers a one-of-a-kind stay in the heart of Salt Lake City. With style, comfort, and attention to detail, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the city. Learn more at AsherAdamsHotel.com. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business.

Originally aired: 9/16/25