Small Lake City

Spring in Salt Lake City brings its famous weather rollercoaster, and we're all along for the ride! After enjoying beautiful 60-degree weather, we woke up to six inches of fresh snow the next day. The city seems divided – half thrilled for extended ski seasons, half desperately waiting for consistent golf weather. Personally, I'm caught in the middle: eager to hit the greens but grateful for the much-needed moisture in our region.

St. Patrick's Day celebrations were in full swing last weekend! The Shane Gillis concert delivered big laughs, and the Edison House party afterward kept the festive spirit going strong. These community gatherings remind us why Salt Lake continues to develop such a vibrant social scene despite our modest size.

Have you caught our recent episode with Jeanette Padilla? She's doing remarkable work providing nutritionally dense meals to those who need them most in our community. Her perspective on Salt Lake's evolution offers thoughtful insights into where we're headed as a city.

Looking ahead to this Saturday's release, we're sitting down with Sheridan Mordu, founder of Hip and Humble. What started as a local Salt Lake business has expanded impressively to airports nationwide. Her entrepreneurial journey showcases the potential for local businesses to achieve national success while maintaining their unique vision. This recommendation from previous guest Missy Grice promises to deliver valuable insights for anyone interested in business growth and adaptation.

Subscribe now on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform to catch Sheridan's story this Saturday, and buckle up for more of spring's weather surprises – we're definitely not out of this seasonal transition yet!

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What happens when a personal crisis transforms into a community mission? Jeanette Padilla's journey from eating crackers three times daily as an immigrant child to founding the Food Justice Coalition exemplifies how our deepest wounds can become powerful catalysts for change.

When Jeanette found herself alone in Utah during Christmas 2020, rather than wallowing in isolation, she decided to channel her energy into serving others. What started as a single Christmas dinner for 200 homeless individuals – complete with tablecloths, decorations, and handwritten notes – unexpectedly blossomed into a thriving nonprofit that's changing how Salt Lake City approaches food insecurity.

The Food Justice Coalition provides nutrient-dense, plant-based meals to those experiencing food scarcity, recognizing that the issue extends beyond access to include time poverty and cooking skills. With remarkable candor, Jeanette explains how her initial "angry vegan" approach evolved into one of understanding and empathy – acknowledging that sustainable change comes through connection rather than confrontation.

Our conversation explores how authenticity attracts authenticity, evidenced by the remarkable community of volunteers, donors, and supporters who've rallied around Food Justice Coalition's mission. We discuss their exciting new café project offering healthy meals at just $3-4, and how the organization addresses the paradox of America being simultaneously the world's richest country while millions struggle with basic needs.

More than just a food service, Jeanette's organization embodies a philosophy of dignity, connection, and recognizing our shared humanity. Subscribe to learn how one woman's commitment to "just help one person" created ripples that continue to transform an entire community, and perhaps find inspiration for your own journey of authentic service.

Food Justice Coalition: https://www.foodjusticecoalition.org/

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Get your tickets to Strada Saturdays on Oct. 10th here

Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time 

Support the show

Join the Small Lake City Discord: https://discord.gg/TYNzMhCxeK

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Link to Submit Mailbag Questions

Link to Patreon

Ready for new ways to connect in Salt Lake City beyond the usual bar scene and dating apps? Your wishes have been heard! The Small Lake City Podcast is launching an official Patreon designed specifically to bring our community together through engaging events and gatherings that don't revolve around alcohol.

Host Eric Nilsson shares that after a year and a half of conversations with listeners, the most consistent feedback has been the desire for authentic connection opportunities in Salt Lake. The new Patreon addresses this directly with two months of already-planned community events. Members will also receive exclusive discounts to popular local establishments that will "pay for itself" while supporting Salt Lake businesses.

The latest episode featuring Cheryl Mignon of Cheryl's Bagels showcases another New Jersey transplant who fell in love with Salt Lake six years ago. Her authentic bagels have developed a cult following in the city and represent the kind of local gem this podcast loves to highlight. Additionally, this Saturday marks the return of the mailbag episode format where Eric will answer all your burning questions about Salt Lake City life. Submit yours through the link in the show notes, via email, or through social media DMs to participate.

Don't forget to subscribe to the newsletter for upcoming St. Patrick's Day recommendations and make the most of Utah's remaining ski season! Join our growing Small Lake City community today through the Patreon link below and start connecting with fellow Salt Lakers who share your interests.

50% Off Minky Couture Blankets: softminkyblankets.com/SMALLLAKECITY

Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time 

Support the show

Join the Small Lake City Discord: https://discord.gg/TYNzMhCxeK

Subscribe to the Newsletter! https://substack.com/@smalllakepod

Instagram: @smalllakepod
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallLakeCityPodcast
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Who would have thought that a New Jersey native's quest for authentic bagels would lead to one of Utah's most beloved local businesses? After relocating to Utah with no plans to become an entrepreneur, Cheryl found herself missing the distinctive chew and flavor of East Coast bagels. Her solution at first was both practical and slightly comical – flying back to New Jersey and stuffing her carry-on with six dozen bagels at a time.

When COVID hit and travel became impossible, Cheryl faced a bagel crisis. Rather than settling for what was available locally, she rolled up her sleeves and embarked on a six-month scientific experiment to recreate the perfect bagel at high altitude. This wasn't just about satisfying a craving; it became a passion project that involved meticulous testing, family taste-tests (sometimes literally throwing sample bagels at her kids), and countless adjustments for Utah's unique climate challenges.

What began as neighbors asking to buy her bagels quickly evolved into an "accidental business," as Cheryl describes it. Despite initially resisting the idea – "I don't want a business... I just left corporate America" – she found herself drawn to the joy of creating something meaningful from scratch. From producing 25 dozen bagels in her home kitchen to signing a lease and transforming an office space into a proper bagel shop, each step was driven by necessity and a growing community of devoted customers.

Today, Cheryl's Bagels stands for more than just authentic East Coast-style bagels in Utah. It represents a philosophy about food as connection, community building, and creating experiences beyond transactions. Cheryl notices when regulars haven't visited, remembers their preferences, and creates a space where meaningful interactions happen naturally. As she puts it, "If we did all the business we did and it was all online and never saw people, I would probably be folding this business because it's not about that. I need the human interaction."

Whether you're an East Coast transplant missing a taste of home, a food enthusiast curious about what makes a truly great bagel, or someone inspired by stories of unexpected entrepreneurship, Cheryl's journey from bagel smuggler to beloved local business owner demonstrates how addressing a simple need with passion and authenticity can evolve into something truly special. Stop by Cheryl's Bagels and taste the difference that dedication makes – no toaster needed for these fresh, perfect bagels.

50% Off Minky Couture Blankets: softminkyblankets.com/SMALLLAKECITY

Get your tickets to Strada Saturdays on Oct. 10th here

Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time 

Support the show

Join the Small Lake City Discord: https://discord.gg/TYNzMhCxeK

Subscribe to the Newsletter! https://substack.com/@smalllakepod

Instagram: @smalllakepod
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallLakeCityPodcast
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Get ready to uncover the mouthwatering secrets behind the perfect bagel in our latest episode featuring Cheryl Mignon, founder of Cheryl's Bagels. Hailing from New Jersey, Cheryl has brought her passion for bagels to Salt Lake City, creating a culinary experience that has captured the hearts of many. We dive deep into her story, exploring how her love for food and unwavering commitment to quality have transformed her passion into a thriving business.

From discussing the nuances of East Coast versus West Coast bagel styles to sharing the intimate process behind her unique recipes, Cheryl paints a vivid picture of what it takes to craft a bagel that resonates with the soul. Listeners will learn about the challenges she's faced, the community she has built, and the joy that comes from connecting through food. Cheryl’s bagel shop isn't just about selling a product; it's about creating a culture of love and appreciation for authentic flavors.

Join us for this delicious journey, and be inspired to chase your own culinary dreams! Tune in, and don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review if you enjoyed the episode. Your feedback means the world to us!

50% Off Minky Couture Blankets: softminkyblankets.com/SMALLLAKECITY

Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time 

Support the show

Join the Small Lake City Discord: https://discord.gg/TYNzMhCxeK

Subscribe to the Newsletter! https://substack.com/@smalllakepod

Instagram: @smalllakepod
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallLakeCityPodcast
TikTok: @smalllakepod

Step into the culinary world of Salt Lake City with Executive Chef Nick Zocco of Urban Hill. In this engaging episode, Chef Nick shares his journey from the rich food culture of New Mexico to leading one of Salt Lake’s most innovative restaurants. Discover the flavors, experiences, and challenges that shaped his path as he reflects on how food brings people together.

Learn about the transformative power of the local food scene, where urban dining is distinguished by a commitment to high-quality ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Chef Nick explains how his extensive background in prestigious Las Vegas kitchens taught him the art of consistency, teamwork, and creativity. With a passionate focus on sustainable practices, Chef Nick also discusses his collaborative approach that encourages input from his kitchen staff and strives to create a strong community connection.

Whether you're a foodie, a chef in training, or simply curious about the culinary arts, this episode offers valuable insights. Join us as we explore the evolution of Salt Lake's dining landscape and gain deep knowledge of what it takes to create not just meals, but unforgettable experiences for diners. Don't forget to subscribe to stay updated and become part of the Urban Hill experience!

50% Off Minky Couture Blankets: softminkyblankets.com/SMALLLAKECITY

Get your tickets to Strada Saturdays on Oct. 10th here

Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time 

Support the show

Join the Small Lake City Discord: https://discord.gg/TYNzMhCxeK

Subscribe to the Newsletter! https://substack.com/@smalllakepod

Instagram: @smalllakepod
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallLakeCityPodcast
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Salt Lake City is a place of transformation, and this episode captures its essence. We open with urgent news of a recent Amber Alert that ignited discussions around child safety in our communities. As we explore the unfolding story that leads to crucial arrests, we reflect on the heart-wrenching complexities of custody disputes and the urgent need for community vigilance. 

Transitioning to topics of urban development, we dive into an innovative funding strategy for revitalizing downtown, specifically regarding the billion-dollar renovation of the Salt Palace Convention Center. Local officials aim to create a vibrant cultural district, and this ambitious plan positions Salt Lake City as a potential model for urban redevelopment.

The heart of our episode is an inspiring conversation with Nick Zocco, the executive chef from Urban Hill. As Salt Lake's food scene steadily evolves, Nick shares his journey, offering insights into culinary creativity and local flavors. With excitement about what’s next for both his restaurant and the wider dining landscape, he embodies the spirit of growth in the community.

As the episode unfolds, we make the connections between these stories—highlighting how they weave together to define the character of Salt Lake City. With calls for engagement and dialogue throughout, we invite listeners to consider their roles within the community as we navigate these complex yet thrilling times. Join us for this insightful discussion, and feel free to subscribe or leave a review!

50% Off Minky Couture Blankets: softminkyblankets.com/SMALLLAKECITY

Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time 

Support the show

Join the Small Lake City Discord: https://discord.gg/TYNzMhCxeK

Subscribe to the Newsletter! https://substack.com/@smalllakepod

Instagram: @smalllakepod
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallLakeCityPodcast
TikTok: @smalllakepod

What if the streets you pass daily hold secrets waiting to be uncovered? Join us as we chat with Bryant Heath, the man behind the Instagram account SLSees, who took on the extraordinary challenge of running every street in Salt Lake City. Bryant's journey through the city's nooks and crannies isn't just about fitness; it's an exploration of hidden murals, industrial parks, and even the surprising farmland north of the airport. Along the way, Bryant discovered that there's more to Salt Lake City than meets the eye, and he's here to share those stories with us.

As we lace up for this urban exploration, Bryant reveals how his passion for running and discovery led to unexpected projects like the Crown Burger and Library Challenges. His adventures extend beyond the pavement, playing a significant role in the point-in-time count of the homeless population in Utah. This initiative underscores the complexities of homelessness and the need for compassionate, data-driven solutions. Bryant's involvement offers a unique perspective on urban challenges and the efforts to foster positive change in the community.

Bryant's creativity doesn't stop with running; it extends to managing an Instagram account dedicated to Salt Lake City's quirky charms. His posts resonate with fellow explorers who share a curiosity for unusual topics, from local landmarks to evolving cityscapes. Throughout our conversation, we explore the transformative power of social media in uncovering untold stories and celebrate the vibrant, ever-changing tapestry of Salt Lake City. Whether you're a local or an outsider, Bryant's enthusiasm for urban exploration and creative endeavors is sure to inspire your own adventures.

50% Off Minky Couture Blankets: softminkyblankets.com/SMALLLAKECITY

Get your tickets to Strada Saturdays on Oct. 10th here

Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time 

Support the show

Join the Small Lake City Discord: https://discord.gg/TYNzMhCxeK

Subscribe to the Newsletter! https://substack.com/@smalllakepod

Instagram: @smalllakepod
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallLakeCityPodcast
TikTok: @smalllakepod

Valentine's Day and fresh snow at Snowbird set the scene for a delightful week in Salt Lake City. While I celebrated with Joy Pops and quality time with my dogs, there's something truly captivating about running through every street of Salt Lake during a pandemic. This week, our guest, Brian Heath, did just that and more. Known for his Instagram account SLCS S-L-S-E-E-S, Brian captures the essence of Salt Lake City in the quirkiest ways possible. His dedication to the community is unmatched, from exploring every nook and cranny to participating in the annual homeless count. Brian's love story with the city is nothing short of inspiring.

Join us for a riveting conversation with Brian as he unravels his unique journey and deep connection to Salt Lake City. Whether you're a local or a curious traveler, Brian’s adventures and insights promise to illuminate unfamiliar corners of this vibrant city. Don't miss out on a chance to see Salt Lake through Brian's eyes this Saturday on YouTube and your preferred listening platforms. Meanwhile, I'll be taking a quick respite in the peaceful landscapes of Torrey, Utah. Catch you on Saturday for this unforgettable episode!

50% Off Minky Couture Blankets: softminkyblankets.com/SMALLLAKECITY

Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time 

Support the show

Join the Small Lake City Discord: https://discord.gg/TYNzMhCxeK

Subscribe to the Newsletter! https://substack.com/@smalllakepod

Instagram: @smalllakepod
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallLakeCityPodcast
TikTok: @smalllakepod

What if you could turn a passion into a thriving business while balancing the demands of family life? Join me, Erik Nilsson, on this enlightening episode of the Small Lake City Podcast as I sit down with Jonny Johnson, a dynamic entrepreneur who transitioned from a stable career in solar sales to launching Lift Threadz, his own clothing company. Jonny’s journey is a testament to the power of persistence and passion in creating a fulfilling career path, even when faced with challenges. We'll unravel his story of overcoming obstacles in entrepreneurship and explore how a passion for textiles became an unexpected solution to my own podcast merchandise woes.

Our conversation takes a heartfelt turn, revealing the essence of community and collaboration in fostering personal and professional growth. Jonny candidly shares the ups and downs of starting a merchandise business in Utah, highlighting the importance of building trustworthy relationships and support systems. We'll reflect on the evolving nature of friendships and family ties, and how life changes like starting a family or picking up new hobbies can open up new business opportunities. It's a journey through the phases of life that many of us can relate to, with insights that remind us of the importance of connection and support.

Finally, we navigate the intricate dance of balancing our personal passions with professional endeavors. Johnny shares lessons from his own entrepreneurial path, including the transformative power of perseverance and passion over mere monetary motivation. Our discussion delves into the importance of asking for help and building a strong support network, underscored by the inspiring stories of entrepreneurs who have achieved success while staying grounded. We'll also announce an exciting giveaway of Lift Threadz apparel and tease potential future guests who embody the spirit of entrepreneurial innovation and mentorship.

50% Off Minky Couture Blankets: softminkyblankets.com/SMALLLAKECITY

Get your tickets to Strada Saturdays on Oct. 10th here

Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time 

Support the show

Join the Small Lake City Discord: https://discord.gg/TYNzMhCxeK

Subscribe to the Newsletter! https://substack.com/@smalllakepod

Instagram: @smalllakepod
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallLakeCityPodcast
TikTok: @smalllakepod