In this episode, we dive deep into the vibrant world of Craft Lake City, an organization dedicated to promoting local artisans through the integration of technology, science, and arts. Join us as we chat with a key member of the Craft Lake City team about their mission, the history of the organization, and the exciting events they host, including the annual Craft Lake City DIY Festival.

00:00 - Introduction
00:37 - Transition to Craft Lake City
00:50 - Guest's background in graphic design
01:18 - History of Craft Lake City and its connection with Slug Magazine
02:13 - The mission of Craft Lake City
03:58 - Focus on STEM and youth entrepreneurship programs
05:27 - The intersection of science and art
07:07 - Discussion on Utah's tech and entrepreneurial community
08:06 - Rocket launch events and community outreach
09:07 - Impact of AI on art and upcoming exhibits
11:45 - Clarifying the focus of Craft Lake City
12:23 - Importance of youth entrepreneurship
13:11 - The role of 3D printing in entrepreneurship
14:03 - A typical day at Craft Lake City
15:02 - Call to action for Utah County and contact information
 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://craftlakecity.com
 Social:
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https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram -
https://www.instagram.com/silic
onslopes/
LinkedIn -
https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube -
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode of the Silicon Slopes Podcast, we sit down with McKay and Natalie from Thanksgiving Point to discuss their groundbreaking new initiative: a Tech and Science Center for Kids. Discover how this center aims to bridge the gap in STEM education for children from all backgrounds, particularly those from low-income families.

Learn about the inspiration behind this project, the role of Thanksgiving Point in the community, and the incredible impact it aims to have on the future workforce of Utah. We also delve into the history of Thanksgiving Point, its mission, and the philanthropic spirit that drives its initiatives.

00:00 - Introductions and Greetings
00:25 - Current Events and Tech Center Introduction
01:02 - Overview of the Tech and Science Center for Kids
02:01 - Mission and Background of Thanksgiving Point
02:59 - STEM Job Statistics and Income Gap
04:44 - Access to Opportunity and Personal Motivation
05:52 - Free Access for Low-Income Families
07:07 - Community Involvement and Support
09:40 - Outreach to Rural Utah
11:06 - History of Thanksgiving Point
14:07 - Alan and Karen Ashton's Legacy
15:16 - Community-Led Organization
16:01 - Future Vision for Thanksgiving Point
17:08 - Curiosity Farms and Ag Tech Center
18:13 - Use of AI in Exhibit Design
19:30 - State Support and Partnerships
21:21 - Philanthropy in Utah
22:16 - Encouraging Silicon Slopes Participation
22:51 - Upcoming Projects: Sphere of Light
24:08 - Community Events and Corporate Partnerships
25:56 - Gratitude and Membership Impact

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://thanksgivingpoint.org

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

In this episode, we reconnect with an old high school friend who has built an incredibly successful business, Disruptive Advertising. Join us as we dive deep into his journey from high school days to becoming a prominent entrepreneur in Utah.
 00:00 - Introduction and Catching Up
00:16 - Family Life and Kids
00:42 - Entrepreneurial Journey
01:24 - Starting Disruptive Advertising
02:28 - Rebranding to Disruptive Advertising
03:05 - Going Full-Time with Disruptive Advertising
04:01 - Personal Growth and Marriage Challenges
05:32 - High School Memories and Marriage Counseling
07:09 - Realizing the Importance of Partnership
08:19 - Transforming Business and Personal Life
09:31 - Creating a Growth-Oriented Work Environment
10:26 - Investing in Personal Development
11:04 - Principles of Awareness, Honesty, and Responsibility
12:31 - Implementing Personal Growth in Business
13:41 - Detaching Identity from Business Success
15:00 - Empathy and Self-Compassion
16:14 - Learning from the Past
17:21 - Loving Your Past Self
18:05 - Launching Disruptive University Publicly
19:07 - Role of AI in Marketing and Business
20:23 - Adapting to AI in Marketing
21:10 - Industry-Specific Teams in Disruptive Advertising
22:38 - Challenges of Business Transformation
23:27 - Decision to Not Raise Capital
25:19 - Financial Independence and Business Risks
27:23 - Conservative Upbringing and Debt Aversion
28:04 - Influential Books and Philosophies
30:31 - Eastern vs. Western Philosophies
32:52 - Impact of AI on Life and Business
34:11 - Potential Risks of AI
35:10 - Writing and Publishing the Book
37:10 - Content of the Book "Authenticity Wins"
39:01 - Misconceptions About Authenticity
40:33 - Podcast "Authenticity Wins"
41:20 - Publishing Strategy for the Book
41:47 - Identifying Personal Values
 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://disruptiveadvertising.com
  Social:
Twitter -
https://twitter.com/siliconslopes
Instagram -
https://www.instagram.com/silic
onslopes/
LinkedIn -
https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/
YouTube -
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with the incredible founders behind Taft and Tuff Pops to discuss their entrepreneurial journey, the challenges they faced, and the lessons they learned along the way. From starting with men's no-show socks to transitioning into high-quality shoes, and now venturing into the world of protein popsicles, their story is nothing short of inspiring.
00:00 - Introduction
00:18 - Silicon Slopes COVID Town Halls
01:21 - Utah's Unique Community and Investment Appeal
02:00 - Challenges of Entering the Utah Market
02:34 - Starting Taft: From Socks to Shoes
03:27 - Lessons Learned from Taft
05:10 - Mental Health and Entrepreneurship
08:22 - Identity and Work-Life Balance
10:06 - Transition from Socks to Shoes
16:17 - Exiting Taft and Personal Challenges
19:34 - Starting Tuff Pops: The Idea and Development
25:09 - Branding and Market Positioning
28:57 - Distribution and Growth Strategy
35:47 - Utah's Consumer Product Ecosystem
38:58 - Community Support and Networking
40:04 - Entrepreneurial Fun and Challenges

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://tuffpops.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 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