Silicon Slopes | Leaders Interviewing Leaders

In this episode, we sit down with a seasoned entrepreneur and current CEO of Entrata to discuss his journey through the tech industry, the importance of community, and the future of tech in Utah. From starting his first business in college to leading one of Utah's most promising tech companies, our guest shares invaluable insights and lessons learned along the way.
 00:00 - Reconnecting After Years
00:26 - Joining the Silicon Slopes Board
01:01 - Early Business Influences and Mentorship
02:01 - Building a Network in Utah
03:05 - Learning from Industry Leaders
03:47 - Personal and Professional Growth
04:19 - Community Response to COVID-19
05:09 - Challenges of Podcasting
05:51 - Documenting Utah's Tech History
06:51 - Importance of Mentorship and Community
07:28 - Balancing Mentorship and Business Focus
08:17 - Role of Silicon Slopes in the Tech Community
09:03 - Founding Silent Whistle
10:10 - Challenges and Successes of Silent Whistle
11:48 - Exiting Silent Whistle
12:25 - Founding Allegiance and Its Challenges
13:45 - Lessons Learned from Allegiance
14:48 - Joining Podium and Finding Product-Market Fit
15:59 - Rapid Growth at Podium
16:48 - Gaining Confidence and Raising Funds
17:47 - Identity and Success
18:40 - Detaching Identity from Business
20:04 - Authenticity and Personal Roles
22:02 - Public Perception and Criticism
24:12 - Navigating Public Scrutiny
25:33 - Taking a Year Off for Mental Health
26:57 - Importance of Human Connection
28:01 - Investing in Authentic Relationships
30:24 - Leading Entrata
32:00 - Entrata's Mission and Growth
33:55 - Potential for Going Public
36:32 - Implementing AI at Entrata
39:41 - Future of AI in Tech
40:51 - Maintaining Utah's Tech Magic
 If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. 
Our website:
https://www.siliconslopes.com
Show Links:
https://www.entrata.com
 Social:
Twitter -
https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram -
https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/
LinkedIn -
https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube -
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with the co-founder and CEO of Renew Biotechnologies to explore the groundbreaking work his company is doing in the field of early detection for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS. Discover how a passion for research at BYU led to the creation of a company that's on the verge of changing the world.
 00:00 - Introduction and guest welcome
00:19 - From med school to biotech: The origin story
00:51 - Early research and the birth of Renew Biotechnologies
01:33 - Discussing Neuralink and the potential to cure ALS
02:33 - How early detection can lead to cures
02:44 - Introduction to Renew Biotechnologies and their focus
03:54 - Success stories and the impact of their technology
06:59 - The timeline and process for bringing a biotech product to market
09:07 - The role of AI in diagnostics and healthcare
10:28 - Long-term impact of AI in healthcare
12:07 - Changes in administration and their impact on biotech
14:21 - A day in the life of a biotech CEO
15:57 - Company growth and future plans
17:21 - Building a biotech company in Utah
19:34 - Utah's biotech community and its growth
21:53 - The role of universities in biotech innovation
24:04 - Venture capital and funding challenges in biotech
25:44 - Reading recommendations for CEOs
26:30 - Balancing work with personal interests
28:39 - Future vision for Renew Biotechnologies
29:33 - Unique company structure and incentivizing innovation
31:40 - The importance of integrity in healthcare
33:10 - Acknowledging those who gave a chance
 If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. 
 Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.com
Show Links: https://www.renewbt.com
 Social:
Twitter -
https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram -
https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/
LinkedIn -
https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube -
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with Brian Beutler, the CEO and co-founder of Alianza, to discuss his incredible 21-year journey of building a global tech company. From the early days of winning the BYU business plan competition to navigating the challenges of the 2008 financial crisis, Brian shares invaluable insights and lessons learned along the way. 

00:00 - Introduction
00:24 - Brian's background and early challenges
01:06 - The acquisition of Metaswitch
03:21 - What Alianza does
05:07 - The journey of building Alianza
07:18 - The importance of time in building a successful company
09:07 - Challenges with venture capital and funding
11:02 - The role of BYU in Alianza's early success
13:30 - The impact of the 2008 financial crisis
16:13 - Pivoting the business model
18:16 - Current scale and global reach of Alianza
20:01 - Leveraging AI in communication services
23:44 - Using AI internally at Alianza
25:00 - The future of AI and its impact
27:02 - Advice for founders and entrepreneurs
30:01 - The importance of not tying identity to professional success
32:22 - Brian's involvement in Utah County Search and Rescue
35:21 - Maintaining balance and mental health
41:05 - Creating a psychologically safe work environment
  If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. 

Our website:
https://www.siliconslopes.com
Show Links:
https://www.alianza.com
 Social:
Twitter -
https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram -
https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/
LinkedIn -
https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube -
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

Brandon Rodman is a serial entrepreneur and visionary leader recognized for his talent in establishing innovative companies from scratch. A native of Eugene, Oregon, Rodman earned a degree in Communications with a focus on Marketing and Advertising from Brigham Young University. His early career in sales, where he led large teams, sharpened his skills in leadership, recruitment, and strategy, laying the groundwork for his entrepreneurial journey.

In 2008, during the peak of the economic recession, Rodman co-founded Weave (originally called Recall Solutions) from the attic above his garage. What started as a call center evolved into a groundbreaking customer communication platform aimed at strengthening patient-doctor relationships through integrated software, telephony, and CRM tools. Under Rodman’s leadership, Weave became the first Utah-based company accepted into Y Combinator in 2014, a pivotal moment that propelled its growth. Rodman raised over $300 million in funding, expanded the company to nearly $100 million in annual recurring revenue, and guided it to a successful IPO on the NYSE in 2021. His employee-centric approach earned him widespread recognition, including a #4 CEO ranking in America by Glassdoor in 2019 with a 99% approval rating and the 2019 CEO of the Year award from Utah Business. Rodman stepped down as Weave’s CEO in 2020, transitioning to Chairman of the Board, but his legacy as a founder who emphasized culture and innovation endures.

After 18 months of exploring new ideas, Rodman launched Previ in January 2022, where he serves as CEO and co-founder alongside Gabe Gunderson. Previ aims to revolutionize consumer finance by offering a payment platform that provides 10-20% cash back on everyday expenses, paid directly from users’ paychecks. Rodman describes Previ as his “life’s work” from a business perspective, blending profitability with a mission to put more money back into consumers’ pockets. Based in Lehi, Utah, Rodman continues to drive Previ’s growth while drawing on lessons learned from Weave’s challenges and triumphs.

Rodman’s leadership philosophy emphasizes psychological safety, employee empowerment, and the creation of environments where teams can thrive. He is married to Lindsay Rodman, with whom he has four children, balancing his professional ambitions with a commitment to family. His story is one of resilience—having once liquidated personal assets to keep Weave afloat—and reflects a relentless drive to build businesses that make a meaningful impact.

Connect with Silicon Slopes: https://www.siliconslopes.com

Social:
X - https://x.com/siliconslopes
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this insightful episode, we reconnect with Michelle McCullough, a leadership development expert, to discuss the evolution of her career from Startup Princess to her current work in emotional intelligence and leadership training. Michelle shares her journey, the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace, and how it impacts productivity, employee engagement, and overall company culture.

00:00 - Introduction and catching up with Michelle McCullough
00:36 - The story behind Startup Princess
01:19 - Michelle's current work in leadership development
02:02 - The crisis in emotional intelligence post-COVID-19
03:19 - How to improve emotional intelligence
04:19 - The importance of positivity and joy
04:48 - The role of AI in emotional intelligence
05:23 - Leadership and emotional intelligence
06:29 - Common challenges faced by companies and leaders
07:57 - The impact of remote and hybrid work on productivity and culture
10:50 - The need for human connection beyond Zoom
12:13 - The importance of understanding and supporting employees
14:43 - The future of work and the end of "button pusher" jobs
16:00 - The value of communication and humanities degrees
18:51 - Leadership fatigue and the need for resilience
20:04 - The evolving role of business leaders in society
23:31 - Building trust in organizations
27:59 - The role of social media in emotional well-being
31:28 - The importance of owning your audience
33:23 - Key findings from Michelle's research on emotional intelligence

If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. 
Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.com
Show Links: speakmichelle.com

Social:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with John, the visionary founder behind Leland, a groundbreaking marketplace platform based in Utah. John shares his journey from interning at Uber and working at LinkedIn to launching Leland while at Stanford. Discover how Leland is revolutionizing the coaching and content marketplace, the challenges of building network effects, and the strategic decisions that have fueled its rapid growth.

00:00 - Introduction and the Kiln building
00:41 - The idea behind Leland and its inception
01:08 - John's background in marketplaces
02:00 - Challenges and rewards of building a marketplace
02:36 - Creating network effects
03:54 - Recruiting coaches for Leland
04:43 - Benefits for coaches on the platform
05:43 - Revenue potential for coaches
06:26 - The role of AI in Leland's future
08:22 - Human connection vs. AI in coaching
09:01 - Using AI within the company and product
10:11 - AI tools for coaches and customers
10:37 - Competition and market positioning
11:15 - Lessons learned from LinkedIn
13:10 - Fundraising journey and investor insights
14:32 - Building a company in Utah vs. the Bay Area
15:56 - The future of SaaS and AI
17:22 - Leland's revenue model
18:00 - Potential for job boards and internships
18:11 - Advice for raising money and bootstrapping
19:39 - Choosing the right investors
20:51 - The story behind the name "Leland"
21:47 - Decision to build in Utah
22:42 - In-office vs. remote work
23:35 - The future of Utah's startup ecosystem
26:22 - Areas for improvement in Utah's tech community
27:28 - The importance of funding diverse ideas
28:15 - Thoughts on accelerators and YC
30:26 - The value of early supporters and mentors

If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. 
Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.com
Show Links: https://www.joinleland.com/

Social:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with three of the most influential figures in Utah's tech community: Diogo, John, and Sid from Album VC. Join us as we dive deep into the journey of Album VC, from its inception in 2013 to becoming a powerhouse with nearly a billion dollars under management.
We discuss the evolution of the Utah tech scene, the importance of building generational companies, and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with being a venture capitalist. Learn about the significance of staying humble, the value of founders, and the impact of AI on startups and venture capital.

00:00 - Introduction to the guests and their journey
00:40 - The creation of Silicon Slopes
01:11 - Reflections on a decade of venture capital
02:09 - The partnership dynamics at Album VC
03:08 - The importance of staying humble and founder-centric
04:50 - Diogo's journey to American citizenship
05:19 - Reflections on VC and investing
07:27 - The evolution of Utah's tech scene
09:12 - The role of universities in fostering entrepreneurship
10:04 - The impact of AI on startups and venture capital
12:27 - The importance of efficiency in startups
14:35 - The changing landscape of venture capital
18:27 - The need for more product talent in Utah
20:24 - The future of Utah's tech ecosystem
23:43 - The importance of building generational companies
30:06 - The role of venture capital in supporting founders
33:17 - The unique dynamics of Album VC's partnership
36:40 - What it takes to be a successful VC

If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. 
Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.com
Show Links: https://www.album.vc

Social:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with Scott, the founder of Teton Gear, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of running a product-based business, and the lessons he's learned along the way. From the early days of starting Teton Gear in 2005 to navigating complex relationships with major retailers like Amazon, Scott shares invaluable insights into the world of outdoor gear manufacturing.

00:00 - Introduction and Summit Experience
00:52 - Startup Alley and Son's Startup
01:41 - Entrepreneurial Traits and Family
02:04 - Founding of Teton Gear
02:50 - The To-Don't List
03:34 - Early Challenges and Relationships
05:01 - The Power of Triadic Relationships
06:09 - Initial Business Model and No Domestic Inventory
06:43 - Naming Teton Gear
07:39 - Challenges of Direct Import Business
09:25 - Transition to Domestic Inventory
11:01 - Third-Party Logistics (3PL)
13:02 - Amazon as a Major Customer
17:02 - Amazon's Pricing Policies
18:09 - Relocating to Puerto Rico
19:35 - Governance and Politics of Puerto Rico
20:24 - Hiring a CEO and Amazon Challenges
23:09 - Transitioning Back to 1P Relationship with Amazon
25:11 - Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) Strategy
27:05 - Shopify as a Competitor to Amazon
29:19 - Tariffs and Trade Policies
30:02 - ABC Initiative: Anywhere But China
31:31 - Exploring Manufacturing Outside China
34:02 - Potential Geopolitical Issues with China and Taiwan
36:12 - Challenges of Manufacturing in America
37:01 - Maintaining Quality Control
39:08 - Overseas Travel and Other Ventures
39:30 - Mina Group: Middle East, North Africa
41:46 - Launching New Products
44:00 - Marketing Strategies
45:10 - Competitors and Business Philosophy

If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. 
Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.com
Show Links: https://tetongear.com

Apple Podcasts
 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/silicon-slopes-the-entrepreneur-capital-of-the-world/id1698150372
Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/2ZdYnWYKPXOqH2fgJ2UJ2N?si=5890c63a145a4a3e

Social:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with Thurl Bailey, former NBA player and current color analyst for the Utah Jazz. Thurl shares his incredible journey from playing in the NBA to becoming a motivational speaker. He opens up about his experiences with the Utah Jazz, his unexpected move to Utah, and why he chose to stay post-career.
Thurl also delves into his relationships with legendary leaders like Jimmy Valvano and Jerry Sloan, offering unique insights into their leadership styles and the impact they had on his life. From practicing cutting down nets with Jimmy V to experiencing Jerry Sloan's intense coaching methods, Thurl's stories are both inspiring and enlightening.
We also discuss the current state of the NBA, including the recent trade moves, the young talent in the league, and the challenges teams face today. Thurl gives his take on the best teams in the league right now and shares his thoughts on the ongoing debate between Michael Jordan and LeBron James.
Whether you're a basketball fan or someone interested in leadership and personal growth, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and fascinating anecdotes.

00:00 - Introduction
00:05 - Thurl's current role with the Utah Jazz
00:40 - Inspirational speaking and its impact
01:02 - Thurl's first impressions of Utah
02:13 - Why Thurl stayed in Utah post-career
04:19 - Current NBA discussions: Trades and team dynamics
07:04 - The rise of Cleveland and Oklahoma City
11:33 - Remembering Larry H. Miller
17:04 - Leadership lessons from Jimmy Valvano
27:00 - Thurl's NBA career and playing under Jerry Sloan
42:00 - Reflections on the NBA Finals and Michael Jordan
48:10 - The state of the NBA today

If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. 
Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.com
Show Links: https://edge2lead.com

Social:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this compelling episode, we sit down with a remarkable guest who shares his journey from Ukraine to Utah, managing the largest innovation park in Eastern Europe, Unit City. Discover how he and his team have navigated the challenges of war, continued to innovate, and built strong connections with the global tech community, including a special bond with Utah.

00:00 - Introduction and Guest Background
00:14 - Managing Unit City During the War
00:47 - U.S. Delegation Visit to Unit City
01:30 - Stand-Up Comedy During the War
02:59 - Building Friendships and Connections
05:06 - Current Situation in Ukraine
07:02 - Adapting to War Conditions
08:18 - Hope for the Future and Rebuilding
10:05 - War's Impact on Business and Society
11:33 - Daily Life and Work at Unit City
12:50 - Composition of Companies at Unit City
13:35 - Personal Routine and Resilience
14:50 - Renewable Energy Projects
15:04 - Becoming an EV Advocate
17:02 - Promoting Electric Vehicles in Ukraine
19:00 - Impact of EV Legislation
20:24 - Elon Musk's Controversial Role
23:33 - Connection Between Utah and Ukraine
24:01 - Importance of Tech Conferences
25:40 - Building Trust with American Companies
26:59 - Closing Remarks and Gratitude

If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. 
Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.com
Show Links: https://unit.city/en/

Social:
Twitter - https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw