Business Elevated: Recent Episodes
Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
The Business Elevated podcast discusses what it's like to live, work and play in the great state of Utah. The podcast is a production of the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity.
In this episode, Jason Christensen, co-founder of the Utah-based protein bar company Blue Unicorn, discusses his entrepreneurial journey, which began with a summer sales job. He and his partner, Dr. Luke Tolley, formed the company after creating a unique, plant-based protein bar that is also nut-free, gluten-free, and tastes like a treat. The company manufactures its bars in Springville, Utah, and sells them online and through local retailers like Good Earth Markets and, soon, Harmon's. Christensen believes that a sense of accountability and a "can-do" spirit are key to entrepreneurial success, and he credits Utah's supportive business community with fostering this environment.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Scott Cuthbertson, founder and CEO of Alpen Associates. Cuthbertson discusses his inspiration for the company, where he combined his 15 years of experience in management consulting with his recent work in economic development in Utah. He identified a need for companies that had been incentivized to come to the state to receive ongoing support to realize their vision fully. Alpen Associates offers a range of services to both companies and communities, including site selection, navigating the incentives process, and evaluating public financing tools. Cuthbertson highlights the company's use of artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, including creating a tool to help match companies with suitable communities. He emphasizes the importance of the "human in the loop," suggesting that while technology is a great tool, human judgment, relationships, and personal integrity will become even more valuable. As an example of the company's work, Cuthbertson details a partnership with High Tech Solutions to develop a small modular nuclear reactor ecosystem in Utah. This initiative addresses Utah's growing need for energy, creates jobs, and establishes Utah as a national hub for nuclear energy.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Scott Cuthbertson, founder and CEO of Alpen Associates. Cuthbertson discusses his inspiration for the company, where he combined his 15 years of experience in management consulting with his recent work in economic development in Utah. He identified a need for companies that had been incentivized to come to the state to receive ongoing support to realize their vision fully. Alpen Associates offers a range of services to both companies and communities, including site selection, navigating the incentives process, and evaluating public financing tools. Cuthbertson highlights the company's use of artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, including creating a tool to help match companies with suitable communities. He emphasizes the importance of the "human in the loop," suggesting that while technology is a great tool, human judgment, relationships, and personal integrity will become even more valuable. As an example of the company's work, Cuthbertson details a partnership with High Tech Solutions to develop a small modular nuclear reactor ecosystem in Utah. This initiative addresses Utah's growing need for energy, creates jobs, and establishes Utah as a national hub for nuclear energy.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Scott Cuthbertson, founder and CEO of Alpen Associates. Cuthbertson discusses his inspiration for the company, where he combined his 15 years of experience in management consulting with his recent work in economic development in Utah. He identified a need for companies that had been incentivized to come to the state to receive ongoing support to realize their vision fully. Alpen Associates offers a range of services to both companies and communities, including site selection, navigating the incentives process, and evaluating public financing tools. Cuthbertson highlights the company's use of artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, including creating a tool to help match companies with suitable communities. He emphasizes the importance of the "human in the loop," suggesting that while technology is a great tool, human judgment, relationships, and personal integrity will become even more valuable. As an example of the company's work, Cuthbertson details a partnership with High Tech Solutions to develop a small modular nuclear reactor ecosystem in Utah. This initiative addresses Utah's growing need for energy, creates jobs, and establishes Utah as a national hub for nuclear energy.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Brian Miller, founder and CEO of MoneyRight.
Miller's journey into personal finance began at age 11. Initially, a traditional financial advisor, he grew disillusioned with a system that benefits the wealthy. Miller focused on helping students and others develop basic financial skills, recognizing the link between money management and emotional and psychological health. He then created MoneyRight, a platform for employees to provide financial education and psychological insights for the company's benefit. Miller identified a significant need for this service, as financial stress impacts productivity, turnover, and absenteeism.
He explains that MoneyRight aims to become an employee's financial operating system. The program begins with a confidential financial stress assessment to identify a company's most significant issues. It then provides employees with a free portal, paid for by the employer, featuring monthly topics, videos, and tools tailored to their needs. The software teaches key financial concepts, like debt repayment strategies, and the importance of investing, while emphasizing a compassionate, non-judgmental approach.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO), talks with Jefferson Moss, the organization's new executive director.
Moss discusses his background and priorities, emphasizing how he will lead GOEO as a coordinator, convener, and collaborator among various organizations and initiatives in the state. He believes that uniting these groups will help Utah tackle key challenges — workforce development, housing, and rural economic growth — more quickly and effectively. Moss highlights the importance of partnerships and proactive communication to ensure a stable and business-friendly environment.
He highlights the importance of economic diversity, noting Utah’s strategic focus on both established and emerging industries. Moss explains how GOEO is reassessing its targeted industry clusters to include new sectors like energy and artificial intelligence, and how it's leveraging resources like the Utah Innovation Fund to help commercialize cutting-edge research from universities. He points to his experiences as an entrepreneur and former legislator to illustrate how government can support the business community by providing resources, fostering connections, and creating a stable, pro-business regulatory framework. Moss expresses confidence in Utah's future and praises the GOEO team's dedication to keeping the state a great place to live and work.
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This episode features a partner conversation with Jonathan Freedman, president and CEO, and Rich Israelsen, chief revenue officer at World Trade Center Utah (WTC Utah).
WTC Utah is actively working to help local businesses thrive in the global market despite constantly changing international trade policies. The organization offers key resources like a tariff dashboard, weekly webinars, and the Foreign Trade Zone, which helps companies defer or reduce duties and tariffs. They also organize governor-led trade missions to countries like Canada, Mexico, South Korea, and Japan, which open doors and create valuable business connections. Additionally, WTC Utah administers the Small Business Administration's STEP Grant, providing financial assistance for travel and marketing to help Utah companies increase their exports.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with David Gray, director of human resources at Lagoon Amusement Park (Lagoon), Rob Coursey, attorney and owner at Modern Age Employment Law, and Nancy Sylvester, a labor and employment attorney at the Ogletree Deakins law firm.
Gray and Coursey discuss their professional journeys and experiences with Utah's business community, focusing on Lagoon's workplace culture. Gray talks about Lagoon's commitment to hiring and mentoring young employees. Coursey highlights Lagoon's proactive approach to creating a safe and respectful environment for its employees — particularly its seasonal and youth workforce. The duo expresses a deep passion for their work and emphasizes the rewarding nature of building strong, positive workplace cultures and preparing young people for future careers.
Sylvester shares her positive experiences as a parent of a teenager who worked at Lagoon. She highlights how her daughter's first job helped her develop crucial life skills such as responsibility, time management, and financial literacy. As a legal expert, Sylvester advises other parents to encourage their teens to get their first job, be vigilant for potential red flags, and maintain open communication about their work experiences with their children.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Tanner Thompson, CEO and owner of The Shirt Stop.
Thompson discusses how he stumbled into entrepreneurship by purchasing an existing screen printing business in his hometown of Richfield, Utah. He explains that this decision was key to his success because the business already had an established team of seven employees. This strategic focus and its commitment to building long-term customer relationships have been instrumental in the company's growth. Since then, The Shirt Shop has expanded from seven to nearly 80 employees and from a small 1,500-square-foot shop to 45,000 square feet between two locations in Richfield and Lehi, Utah.
Thompson highlights the significance of being based in rural Richfield, noting that it fosters a strong sense of community and integrity with customers. This long-game approach ensures that the company produces quality products and has a good reputation. The Shirt Shop has adapted to industry changes, shifting from a primarily word-of-mouth model to one that leverages social media and influencer marketing, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift allowed the company to expand its services beyond corporate swag to include branded apparel for social media influencers. Thompson plans to continue growing the company by taking on more textile manufacturing services and expanding into international markets.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Ben Hart, executive director of the Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA).
Hart discusses his career detour from banking to public service, driven by a desire to give back to the community and make a tangible difference. He highlights the rewarding experience of seeing companies his office helped bring to the state employ friends and family, and emphasizes the importance of collaboration between government and the private sector for Utah's continued success.
Hart highlights UIPA’s mission to expand rail service and boost local economies. Since its creation in 2018, the authority has grown from a single port project to overseeing 14 development areas statewide. He explains the port's role in attracting future-facing industries and high-wage jobs by working with the governor's office to offer a "stackable" corporate recruitment tool. Hart also addresses sustainability efforts, such as directing funds towards conservation and partnering with the Department of Air Quality to secure a $112 million environmental grant. He further emphasizes the shift toward more balanced transportation — reducing reliance on trucks while expanding rail and air cargo use.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Sharlene Wells, senior vice president of public relations and organizational communications at Mountain America Credit Union. Wells shares her career path, which includes being Miss America, working at ESPN, and serving with the Department of Defense. She delves into the evolution of Mountain America Credit Union, noting that while the core principle of providing fair loans and building savings remains, it now offers a more holistic support system — from free financial guides to a strong emphasis on financial education. She highlights the credit union's strong commitment to supporting small businesses, citing its long-standing status as a top SBA credit union lender and sharing a successful client story. Wells emphasizes the importance of building relationships with members to provide support during economic challenges. She also discusses the credit union's approach to local engagement, which includes partnerships with organizations like the Hale Center Theater and active involvement with various Chambers of Commerce. Wells explains that the credit union's growth strategy is driven by listening to its members' needs, leading to initiatives like translating documents into Spanish and creating a director of multicultural engagement position to better serve diverse communities.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Corissa Webster, founder of Executives Cup. Webster founded the Executives Cup after realizing the need for a more meaningful and dynamic networking experience. Drawing from her background in venture capital, she reimagined the traditional networking event by combining it with the energy of a golf tournament. The result is a curated experience where business leaders are intentionally grouped to foster connections and open doors to future business opportunities. Webster highlights the Executives Cup's multiple tournaments held each year across Utah, including events in both the northern and southern parts of the state. She shares her experience with Utah's supportive business community, which features a "win-win" approach that encourages entrepreneurs to help each other succeed.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Bryan Phelps, CEO of Big Leap.
Phelps discusses his digital marketing career, highlighting his journey through prominent Utah-based digital marketing companies like OrangeSoda and SEO.com before founding Big Leap in 2008. He emphasizes Big Leap's focus on foundational marketing principles, understanding customer journeys, and the importance of a strong brand in an evolving digital landscape.
Phelps also touches on the company's culture, which prioritizes high-quality work over flashy tactics, and its commitment to employee well-being — especially for working mothers — through flexible remote work policies. He shares his insights on the impact of artificial intelligence on digital marketing, seeing it as a tool for efficiency and enhancement rather than replacement. Phelps believes Utah has a unique advantage in the digital sphere due to its history in the industry, talented workforce, and a supportive entrepreneurial community eager to mentor the next generation of business leaders.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Anil Singh, founder and president of Saras AI Institute.
Singh shares his journey, from growing up in a small village in India to becoming a successful entrepreneur, highlighting how education transformed his life and inspired him to establish Saras AI Institute. The institute offers fully online AI education, including certificate, associate, and bachelor's degree programs, with a unique project-based learning approach that eliminates traditional exams.
Singh discusses the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Saras AI Institute and the Indian Institute of Technology to advance AI education in India. He emphasizes that AI is not here to replace humans but to augment them, creating millions of new jobs and solving humanity's greatest challenges. Singh encourages anyone interested in AI to embrace it as a tool and offers advice on how to get started, recommending readily available tools like ChatGPT. He also highlights Saras AI Institute's beginner-friendly "Powers of AI" course, designed to help individuals confidently enter the AI field, regardless of their background.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Emily Ashby, program manager for Utah's Own.
Ashby shares insights into her passion for local industries with Utah's Own, a state-branded program promoting Utah's agriculture and food business. She discusses the vital function of Utah's Own in bridging the gap between consumers and local producers, highlighting the program's efforts to support and uplift the state's food and farming sector.
Utah's Own, which became membership-based five years ago, offers benefits like online directory presence, using Utah's Own logo for product differentiation, and promotional opportunities through social media and newsletters. Ashby emphasizes the economic impact of supporting local businesses, noting that increasing local spending by just 10% could retain an additional $1.3 billion annually within Utah's economy. Ashby also addresses challenges facing Utah's agriculture, such as land development, water issues, and the need for succession planning in family farms, while also noting the positive trend of agritourism as a way for farmers to diversify their income and keep their farms viable.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Chris Baird, CEO of OptConnect.
Baird discusses his journey from sales and operations before becoming CEO of OptConnect. The company began by providing temporary cellular connectivity for ATMs at an outdoor festival and has since evolved into a full-service provider of managed wireless solutions for a wide range of unattended machines like kiosks and digital signage — meeting growing demand as major retailers began requiring vendors to bring their internet solutions.
Baird explains that OptConnect’s solutions involve purpose-built hardware, extensive software development by 50 engineers, and redundant cellular connectivity across major carriers. The company has grown to nearly 200 direct employees, with additional contractors, and has expanded globally with offices in Europe and Latin America, serving over 1.1 million devices. Baird discusses OptConnect's consistent growth and recognition on lists like Utah Business's Fast 50 and Inc. 5000, attributing it to a relentless focus on customer satisfaction, which stems from prioritizing employee well-being and fostering a strong company culture, including a dedicated annual day of service for all employees.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Stephanie Frohman, associate director of the Janet Quinney Lawson Institute for Land, Water, and Air at Utah State University.
Frohman shares her career journey and the critical work the institute is doing in Utah. With 27 years of experience as an engineer in medical devices, she transitioned into economic development, spending two decades at the Economic Development Corporation of Utah. Her passion for mission-based work led her to focus on natural resources, leading her to her current role, where she is pursuing a master's degree in natural resources to better understand Utah's unique environmental challenges and opportunities.
Frohman highlights the institute's mission to connect decision-makers with high-quality research, providing evidence-based support for environmental and economic solutions. It produces an annual report for the governor and Legislature, translating complex research into accessible insights and serving as a resource for policymakers on land, water, and air issues. Frohman highlights the institute's proactive and reactive approaches, including its work with the Great Salt Lake Strike Team to baseline scientific understanding and its Bear Lake needs assessment to prevent future problems. It also engages students, offering professional development opportunities and involving them in policy discussions.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Thomas Laakso, senior vice president of DPS Skis.
Laakso highlights Utah's unique advantage of outdoor access, which allows him to combine his career in skiing with living in the mountains. His material science and composite engineering background led him to work for brands like The North Face before joining Black Diamond and eventually co-founding an avalanche safety company. He oversees product and operations at DPS Skis, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary and is the largest ski producer in the United States.
Laakso emphasizes DPS Skis' commitment to using 90% domestic materials, which proved beneficial during supply chain disruptions. He details the company's 18-month design, manufacturing, and testing process, highlighting the strategic advantage of its Salt Lake City location for rapid iteration and testing on nearby mountains. DPS Skis, known for its carbon fiber construction and focus on freeride, recently launched a new Pisteworks line for hard snow carving. Laakso also discusses its Revive program, which refurbishes and resells used skis, including those from other brands, promoting sustainability by extending product lifespan.
Season 7 Episode 22: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Brian Cassil, principal director of communications, and Jeffrey Tuft, principal partner at Architectural Nexus.
Cassil discusses his 28-year career with Architectural Nexus, bringing a unique film and media arts background to his role, focusing on storytelling in design. Tuft shares his 20-year career with the firm and his role as a principal partner and LEED-certified professional, emphasizing sustainable building practices. They highlight the company's transition to a 100% employee-owned company with offices in Salt Lake City, Sacramento, and remote locations, primarily serving the Western United States.
The conversation delves into pressing issues like housing affordability in Utah. Tuft discusses the need for more condominiums to address the challenges faced by first-time homebuyers and how liability concerns deter developers from building them. The duo shares their pride in working on impactful projects such as the Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah and the National Ability Center in Park City, which underscores the firm's commitment to community and philanthropy. They also expressed optimism about Utah's continued growth, partially driven by events like the 2034 Winter Olympics, which they believe will further fuel the state's prosperity and attract diverse opportunities.
Season 7 Episode 21: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Mark Dietlein, president, CEO, and co-founder, and Sally Dietlein, artistic director, executive producer, and co-founder of Hale Centre Theatre.
Mark and Sally Dietlein share their journey of building a thriving theater company in Utah. They discuss how their shared background in performing arts at BYU led them to join forces with Mark's grandparents, Ruth and Nathan Hale, to establish the theater in 1985. Over nearly 40 years, Hale Centre Theatre has experienced significant growth, expanding from its initial small venue to its current world-class facility in Sandy, Utah, which boasts unique and advanced stage technology.
They emphasize Utah's strong work ethic and community support for the arts as key factors in their success. The duo highlights their commitment to providing high-quality theatrical experiences, including an extensive education program and outreach initiatives like "Story Weavers" that bring theater to underserved communities. They explain their meticulous show production process, the significant investment in each production, and their focus on delivering "emotional baths" to their audiences.
Season 7 Episode 20: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Natalie Kaddas, CEO of Kaddas Enterprises.
Kaddas discusses her journey from hospitality to leading a second-generation family business. She highlights the company's evolution from making aviation components to its innovative BirdguarD™ product, which prevents animal-caused power outages and mitigates wildfires. Kaddas emphasizes the importance of domestic sourcing, the company's global reach in 15 countries, and its strategic use of automation, which streamlined operations and elevated workforce skills.
Kaddas also shares her perspective as a woman CEO in manufacturing, noting the increasing presence of women in the industry and the unique perspectives they bring to leadership. She discusses the company's commitment to employee well-being, including a four-day work week and financial literacy classes that significantly reduce turnover and increase retirement program participation. Kaddas praises Utah's supportive business environment, highlighting partnerships with the governor's office for workforce training and the community's collaborative spirit.
Season 7 Episode 19: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Ryan Wedig, CEO and co-founder of Vasion, opens in a new tab.
Wedig shares his journey of co-founding PrinterLogic — now Vasion — in St. George in 2012. He recounts meeting the founder and recognizing the potential of his print server elimination technology as the IT landscape shifted towards private clouds. Wedig, with a background in systems engineering and an MBA, partnered to build the business, initially focusing on eliminating print servers before expanding the company’s vision. He highlights the unexpected impact of its technology during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to Vasion’s broader mission: to make digital transformation attainable for everyone.
Wedig discusses the company’s vision of bridging the gap between humans and AI by offering affordable and accessible solutions, contrasting this with expensive and often antiquated systems of existing workflow providers. He emphasizes Vasion’s commitment to security and its architectural focus on building native security features rather than relying on complex integrations. Wedig details Vasion’s role in fostering a tech community in St. George, culminating in the development of Tech Ridge. He shares the company’s global reach, its recognition as a top workplace, and its ambitious goal to lead the market in AI automation over the next three years.
Season 7 Episode 18: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Scott Holmes, founder and CEO of Teton.
Holmes discusses his career path, which unexpectedly pivoted from biology and medical school after being mentored by an entrepreneur in the import business. This experience ignited his entrepreneurial spirit and laid the foundation for his future. He recounts the genesis of Teton, born from a "to-don't" list of business practices he observed and wanted to avoid.
Holmes explains how Teton initially operated with a lean, home-based model, shipping directly to retailers before establishing domestic warehousing to address inventory fluctuations. He highlights Teton's early entry and success on Amazon, attributing it to a strategy of overbuilding quality products that exceed customer expectations, leading to overwhelmingly positive reviews. Holmes also shares Teton's philosophy of giving back by donating gear to underserved communities to promote healthy living and outdoor experiences, stemming from his own initial negative experiences with poor-quality camping gear as a child. He offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the power of "no," the importance of focusing on mastery before diversification, and the critical step of discovering one's core values.
Season 7 Episode 17: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO), talks with Ryan Starks, GOEO's executive director.
Starks shares his deep appreciation for the innovative spirit and strong work ethic of Utah's diverse communities. Reflecting on his recent visits to all 24 rural counties, he emphasizes the heart of GOEO's mission to create economic opportunities for all Utahns. He highlights the prevalent family and caring culture throughout the state.
He reflects on key accomplishments during his tenure, emphasizing the importance of nimbleness and strategic focus. Starks proudly points to the successful corporate recruitment of Texas Instruments, a historic capital investment for the state, and the impactful Rural Economic Development Incentive Fund (REDTIF), which has dramatically increased economic opportunities in rural Utah. He underscores GOEO's collaborative approach with local communities, regional associations, and the World Trade Center Utah to drive economic growth, expand global reach for Utah companies, and attract foreign investment.
Looking ahead, Starks expresses optimism about Utah’s economic future, which is driven by its collaborative spirit, pro-growth environment, and strong preparation for major milestones like the 2034 Winter Olympics.
Thank you, Ryan Starks!
Season 7 Episode 16: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Preston Cochrane, CEO of The Other Side Village.
Cochrane discusses his journey into social impact work, driven by a desire to contribute to something larger than himself. He highlights his previous roles in organizations focused on homelessness, mental health, and financial education, emphasizing the importance of believing in people's capacity for change, even when their circumstances seem overwhelming.
Cochrane delves into the mission of The Other Side Village and its sister organization, The Other Side Academy. The Academy is a 2.5-year residential program for individuals with histories of incarceration, addiction, and homelessness, where residents operate social enterprises to fund the program. Inspired by the Academy's success, the Village provides permanent, supportive housing for chronically homeless individuals with mental health diagnoses. A key component of the Village is its democratic, therapeutic environment where residents are peer-led and must complete a "village prep school" before moving in. Cochrane highlights that both organizations share a core belief: people can change when supported by accountability, love, and a sense of purpose.
Season 7 Episode 15: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Matt Sanders, founder and CEO, and Eric Mikkelsen, vice president of product, at Longitude.
Sanders and Mikkelsen delve into their professional backgrounds, which both involve building new enterprises alongside existing organizations, including their time together at Western Governors University. They discuss the genesis and operation of Longitude, a company focused on managing luxury short-term vacation rentals, second homes, and full-time residences primarily in the Wasatch Back region of Utah.
Sanders explains the company's unique model, which blends employees with licensed service partners, empowering individuals, particularly Latin American immigrant women, through training and entrepreneurial opportunities. Mikkelsen emphasizes Longitude's commitment to investing in its people, fostering a high level of service, and attracting talent in a competitive hospitality market. They also discuss their marketing strategies, the importance of guest reviews, and their positive experiences within Utah's collaborative and entrepreneurial business community, expressing optimism for future growth while prioritizing their local base.
Season 7 Episode 14: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of Business Services, talks with Jeremy Barker, CEO of Murphy Door.
Barker shares his deep Utah roots and diverse career path, which began with several entrepreneurial ventures after a brief time at the University of Utah — including construction and a shed-building business that led to a major partnership with Home Depot. He later became a paramedic and firefighter. Barker shares anecdotes about his early business challenges, including financial difficulties and learning the ropes of large-scale retail.
He delves into his current successful venture, Murphy Door, a company specializing in hidden doors disguised as bookshelves and cabinets. Barker details the invention of his patented door hardware and the unexpected growth of the company, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlights the company's commitment to manufacturing in the U.S. using domestic materials and its expansion with plants in Utah, Kentucky, and Texas. Barker also touches upon Murphy Door's unique presence in the home improvement market and its collaborations with Hollywood productions, among other notable recognitions.
Season 7 Episode 13: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Tyson Andrus, co-founder of ATMOS Fragrance.
Andrus shares his experiences living and working in Utah since 2008, highlighting his love for the state's outdoor activities and the work-life balance. He details his career path, from his time at Skullcandy to his involvement with Kickstart Seed Fund and ultimately co-founding ATMOS Fragrance.
The discussion explores ATMOS Fragrance, an innovative, tech-driven home fragrance system featuring a multi-slot diffuser and a connected app for a fully customizable scent experience. Andrus explains the challenges and innovations involved in developing the product, emphasizing the importance of user experience and the unique capabilities of their system, such as fragrance mixing and scheduling. He also discusses the company's marketing strategy, its focus on creating memorable sensory experiences, and future plans, including expanding into the automotive fragrance market. Andrus highlights the supportive business community in Utah and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of thorough market research and building a strong team.
Season 7 Episode 12: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Jacob Baadsgaard, founder and CEO of Disruptive Advertising.
Baadsgaard discusses his journey from working at Omniture to founding his data-driven marketing agency. He highlights the importance of connecting marketing data with business data and how his agency helps small to medium-sized businesses act on that data. Baadsgaard emphasizes the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, stressing the need for authenticity and a willingness to learn from successes and failures.
He also discusses Disruptive University, an initiative he founded to help marketers and entrepreneurs find clarity and authenticity in their work and personal lives. He explains how the program addresses the challenges of balancing business success with personal fulfillment. The university offers online courses and in-person summits, focusing on aligning personal values with professional goals. Baadsgaard praises Utah's supportive environment for entrepreneurs, citing the state's driven population, strong university connections, and pro-business government. He expresses enthusiasm for the future of his ventures — particularly his goal of encouraging widespread authenticity — and his thoughts on how AI will impact the advertising industry.
Season 7 Episode 11: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Jonathan Freedman, president and CEO of World Trade Center Utah (WTC Utah).
Freedman highlights the numerous trade missions and foreign dignitary visits WTC Utah facilitates, emphasizing the state's commitment to global engagement. He also addresses the impact of tariffs on Utah's economy, explaining their potential benefits, such as boosting domestic manufacturing and generating federal revenue, while acknowledging the risks of increased costs for businesses and consumers.
Freedman elaborates on the importance of the Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) and WTC Utah's role as its grantee, highlighting how the organization is making the FTZ more accessible to Utah businesses by providing cost-benefit analyses and guidance. He also discusses Utah's unique position regarding critical minerals and the challenges and opportunities associated with their extraction. Freedman highlights Utah’s commitment to subnational diplomacy and proactive international trade efforts, particularly with Canada and Mexico, amid shifting federal trade policies.
Season 7 Episode 10: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Lorena Riffo-Jenson, director of the Salt Lake City Department of Economic Development.
Riffo-Jenson discusses her extensive career in public service and economic development. She highlights her work with various state and city organizations, including her time with Governor Levitt and her current role with Salt Lake City, where she emphasizes a human-centered economic development approach. Riffo-Jenson stresses the importance of community engagement, strategic planning, and fostering a diverse and resilient economy, noting the city's focus on industries like life sciences and fintech.
She also addresses Salt Lake City's growth challenges, particularly housing affordability and the city's efforts to balance development with community needs. Riffo-Jenson discusses major projects like the Main Street promenade study, the revitalization of the Gateway area, and the upcoming 2034 Winter Olympics, emphasizing the city's role as a hub for national and international events. She underscores the importance of collaboration, listening to stakeholders, and maintaining Utah's "secret sauce" of working together to find solutions. Riffo-Jenson also notes the economic impact of major sports teams, such as the Utah Jazz and the new National Hockey League team, estimating they contribute around $600 million to the local economy.
Season 7 Episode 9: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Amy Meyer, founder of Aussie Recruit.
Meyer discusses how Aussie Recruit connects U.S. employers with qualified Australian professionals across various industries, from tech and healthcare to engineering and hospitality. One key initiative, the E-3 visa program, enables Australian citizens with university degrees to work in the U.S. As an Australian native, she highlights that the program remains underutilized, with thousands of visa slots left unfilled each year. Unlike the highly competitive H-1B visa, the E-3 visa has a simpler application process, lower fees, and a quicker turnaround, making it an attractive option for U.S. companies seeking skilled workers.
Meyer shares success stories of Australian individuals whose careers were transformed by the E-3 visa program and discusses how it allows spouses to obtain work authorization. She addresses the misconceptions surrounding visa sponsorship and encourages U.S. businesses, particularly in rapidly growing states like Utah, to explore the potential of hiring Australian professionals. Meyer expresses her passion for connecting people and facilitating their "American dream," emphasizing the importance of mutual respect in the hiring process.
Season 7 Episode 8: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Elliott Parker, CEO of High Alpha Innovation.
Parker discusses his extensive experience in corporate innovation and startups, sharing his career trajectory, from working in corporate venture capital and launching multiple businesses. He highlights the challenges large corporations face in innovation, noting their optimization for efficiency over breakthrough advancements. Parker explains how High Alpha Innovation partners with corporations to build advantaged startups that leverage existing industry networks, offering examples from ag-tech, healthcare, and supply chain industries. He emphasizes the importance of resilience in modern business structures, particularly in supply chains, and underscores the role of startups in fostering innovation within large enterprises.
Parker delves into his organization's collaboration with universities to foster entrepreneurship by aligning industry needs with academic resources, citing partnerships with institutions like Notre Dame. He reflects on the evolving startup landscape, noting the impact of AI and the changing economics of company formation. Parker also highlights Utah’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem and the state’s ambitious goal to increase startups by 150%. He emphasizes the importance of action in venture building, asserting that "action creates data" and enables businesses to uncover valuable insights.
Season 7 Episode 7: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Adrienne Woolley, program manager for the Park City Center for Advanced Professional Studies (PCCAPS).
Woolley discusses her PCCAPS career managing a project-based learning initiative for high school juniors and seniors. The network, the first of its kind in Utah, offers hands-on experience in fields such as business, digital design, and physical therapy. By exploring career paths early, students build confidence, develop real-world skills, and gain a competitive edge before pursuing higher education. Woolley emphasizes the program's strong industry partnerships, including collaborations with local businesses, healthcare providers, and government entities, to provide students with real-world learning opportunities.
Woolley highlights student-led projects in hospitality, engineering, and design, such as developing a ski-in, ski-out food venue, designing parking garage charging stations, and creating a ski locker amenity. She discusses the life skills students gain, including professional communication, project management, and public speaking. Woolley also emphasizes PCCAPS’ role in connecting students with local businesses and industries, fostering professional growth, and providing meaningful learning experiences beyond traditional classroom settings.
Season 7 Episode 6: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Catherine Raney Norman, board chair of the Salt Lake City-Utah Committee for the Games.
Raney Norman discusses her journey to Utah as a four-time Olympic speed skater, her appreciation for the state’s landscapes, and her career transition from sports to leadership roles in development and fundraising. She highlights the significance of Utah hosting the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, emphasizing its impact on the local economy, community engagement, and future generations. Raney Norman also underscores the importance of resilience, inclusivity, and the role businesses, volunteers, and young people can play in making the Olympics successful.
Raney Norman highlights Utah’s strong position as a future host, citing its existing infrastructure, favorable climate, and engaged community. She also emphasizes the Kearns Olympic Oval’s impact on local pride, economic growth, and world-class athletic performance. The conversation covers the successful bid for the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, the transition from the bid committee to the organizing committee, and the ongoing efforts to engage all 29 counties in Utah.
Season 7 Episode 5: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services, talks with Romney Williams, CEO of DRYOUT.
Williams shares his extensive entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the crucial support of his wife, who encouraged him to pursue his startup dreams full-time, even when faced with financial uncertainty. His career path involved learning from successes and failures, including a significant role in bringing digital camera technology to market as an "ingredient brand," akin to GORE-TEX. This experience shaped his preference for team-based ventures, leading him to join founders who needed a CEO to drive their vision.
Williams details the invention of DRYOUT, a product designed to remove moisture from hard goods, and its scientific superiority to traditional methods like rice. DRYOUT, initially a consumer product, has evolved into a B2B model, partnering with other brands to embed its patented moisture-wicking technology in various products, from consumer electronics and military gear to hunting equipment and musical instruments. He also highlights DRYOUT’s commitment to social responsibility, aligning with Utah’s strong philanthropic values by supporting mental health initiatives — especially those focused on children and veterans.
Season 7 Episode 4: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Cassie Michael, founder of Food and Meat Co-op.
Michael discusses how she launched the business during the 2020 supply chain crisis to help communities access affordable, high-quality proteins and other food items. With a background in wholesale food and a passion for budget-friendly meal planning, she leveraged her industry connections to secure bulk pricing directly from producers, eliminating the need for traditional retail markups. Committed to quality and affordability, the co-op offers additive-free products through an online ordering system, delivering via refrigerated trucks to pickup locations across Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming, with recent expansions into home delivery in select areas.
Michael shares insights on running a community-driven food distribution business and how the cooperative model supports partnerships with local businesses for distribution. She emphasizes the importance of passion-driven entrepreneurship and the challenges of balancing business and family life. Additionally, Michael discusses the co-op’s recognition for championing women in business and its plans for expansion into Nevada and beyond.
Season 7 Episode 3: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Opportunity, talks with Loren McClure, chief executive officer of FuelUp.
McClure shares his entrepreneurial journey with FuelUp, an innovative gas delivery service that offers convenient and cost-effective refueling for vehicles, boats, and equipment by price-matching local gas stations and operating lean with Utah Department of Transportation-certified trucks. The service, modeled after a Middle Eastern concept, caters to business owners and high-net-worth individuals and recently surpassed 200 cars serviced.
He shares insights into the service's growth, emphasizing its word-of-mouth marketing strategy and potential for expansion. McClure highlights the challenges of co-founding the business with family, the role of Utah’s supportive entrepreneurial community in accelerating growth, and the company’s goals to achieve $10 million in revenue and expand offerings to include snacks, drinks, and mobile convenience store services.
Season 7 Episode 2: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Robbyn Scribner, co-founder and director of outreach at Tech-Moms.
Scribner discusses her career journey, Tech-Moms’ mission, and its impact. She shares her experience of reentering the workforce after a 15-year break and her passion for empowering women through meaningful careers. She explains how Tech-Moms addresses barriers women face by providing accessible, affordable, and flexible technical training, including advanced cybersecurity and data analytics programs.
Since its founding during the pandemic, it has trained over 600 women, equipping them with skills that boost their confidence, job readiness, and earning potential while fostering a supportive community. Scribner emphasizes the need for systemic change in gender pay equity, flexible work options, broadening tech industry culture to include diverse perspectives, and much more.
Season 7 Episode 1: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Mark Giles and Domeda Duncan, co-founders of Our Sundays.
Giles and Duncan discuss their backgrounds in communications and marketing, their transition to Utah, and their shared passion for creating inclusive spaces. They emphasize the importance of fostering a sense of belonging, particularly for Utah's growing Black population and transplants. Giles and Duncan highlight how Our Sundays bridge social connections, showcase Utah's natural beauty, and contribute to community retention efforts. They also reflect on Utah's evolving demographics and the importance of inclusivity in adapting to these changes.
Our Sundays host numerous events, such as karaoke, holiday gatherings, and service projects, promoting the retention of Black professionals in Utah through consistent, inclusive, and joy-filled experiences. They emphasize the state's supportive entrepreneurial environment, which has been pivotal in their journey to cultivate community and foster belonging in Utah.
Season 6 Episode 42: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with three World Trade Center Utah (WTC Utah) team members: Jonathan Freedman, president and CEO; Jared Anderson, senior director of global business services; and Anna Maidon, director of grants administration; and two Utah company representatives, Michael Gray, general manager of Intermountain Technologies, and Aaron Edwards, CEO of Mil Agro.
Freedman discusses Utah’s recent governor-led trade mission to South Korea and Japan. He details the mission’s key achievements, including a new nonstop Delta flight from Salt Lake City to Seoul to enhance connectivity for Utah businesses in East Asia. The delegation, comprising 47 business representatives, held 119 individual meetings, projecting nearly $77 million in new trade opportunities. The conversation also previewed upcoming trade missions to Canada and Australia in 2025, emphasizing their strategic alignment with Utah’s priority industries.
Anderson and Gray highlighted Utah’s global trade initiatives and entrepreneurial culture. The conversation covered a recent WTC Utah-led business trip to Peru involving Utah mining companies and legislators, which fostered international connections with Peruvian leaders. Anderson and Gray detail the trip’s successes, including strategic partnerships, cultural exchanges, and new opportunities in Peru’s mining industry.
Maidon and Edwards explore Utah’s involvement in the federal State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grant, explaining the STEP grant’s role in assisting small businesses with global expansion by reimbursing costs for international trade shows, website development, and market analysis. The conversation highlights Utah’s success in securing a significant portion of STEP Grant funds, enabling local businesses to access resources for global market engagement. Companies interested in applying are encouraged to contact WTC Utah for personalized guidance.
Season 6 Episode 41: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Cully Cavness, co-founder, president, and CEO of Crusoe Energy Systems Inc.
Cavness discusses his company's mission to address wasted natural gas emissions, describing how Crusoe captures flared natural gas at oil sites and converts it into energy to power data centers for AI computing and Bitcoin mining. He highlights Utah, particularly the Uinta Basin, as a significant operation hub due to its high energy capacity. Sharing his journey from geothermal energy to co-founding Crusoe, Cavness explains the environmental and economic benefits of their Digital Flare Mitigation technology, which reduces methane emissions while creating valuable computing power.
Cavness explores Crusoe's employment of mobile, satellite-connected systems to provide flexible, environmentally aligned power solutions without relying on traditional infrastructure. He showcases the company's evolution from Bitcoin mining to AI-focused GPU computing through its Crusoe Cloud product. It has driven significant growth and led to a $3.4 billion venture to build state-of-the-art liquid-cooled AI data centers in Texas powered by renewable energy. Recognized as Utah’s 2024 Rural Business of the Year at the 2024 Fall One Utah Summit, Crusoe emphasizes community engagement and sustainable practices as key drivers to Crusoe’s success.
Season 6 Episode 40:
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Scott Stubbs, chief financial officer at Extra Space Storage.
Stubbs reflects on his 20+ years at Extra Space Storage, from starting as a corporate controller to overseeing its evolution into an industry giant with over 3,800 locations across 42 states. Stubbs highlights key milestones, including the company’s 2004 initial public offering, transformative acquisitions, and strategic expansions into diverse markets. He elaborates on managing investor relations and navigating challenges like regulatory compliance, environmental impacts, and scaling operations.
Stubbs emphasizes the role of strong partnerships, consistent performance, and an employee-focused culture as major contributors to Extra Space’s sustained success as the largest publicly traded company in Utah. He highlights the company's transition to in-house investor relations, its leadership as a top-tier Real Estate Investment Trust, and its innovative strategies, including internet visibility, prime locations, and exceptional customer experience. Stubbs also shares insights into navigating rising interest rates and the company’s commitment to sustained growth in a dynamic real estate market.
Season 6 Episode 39: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Claudia Loayza, Magnify Utah program manager at the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs.
Loayza describes her background as a child of Latin American immigrants and her focus on creating generational wealth and community engagement. She explains her work with Magnify Utah, a project that connects and celebrates Utah’s diverse communities by highlighting resources, stories, and cultural landmarks. She emphasizes the importance of inclusive urban planning, equitable resource access, and intentional storytelling in strengthening Utah’s multicultural reach.
Loayza highlights the mission and impact of Magnify Utah's website, designed to highlight personal stories, community profiles, and resources that promote inclusivity and community building in Utah. The website serves as a central hub to help residents — including immigrants, veterans, and corporate transplants — integrate and thrive. She also emphasizes the state’s rich heritage of welcoming newcomers and the growing diversity that shapes its future. Loayza highlights Utah’s strong sense of community and shared values, making it attractive for entrepreneurship.
Season 6 Episode 38: In this podcast, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Kim Fischer, executive vice president of marketing and communications, Tomas Caceres, senior director of strategic community engagement at Waterford, and Anju Thapaliya UPSTART program manager at GOEO.
Fischer, Caceres, and Thapaliya discuss the UPSTART Program, an online educational tool that provides preschool children with foundational skills in reading, math, and science. This tool is made possible through state funding and a partnership with Waterford. UPSTART collaborates with local organizations to extend its reach in Utah’s rural, refugee, and Indigenous communities. Delivering this tool in homes and childcare settings helps UPSTART strengthen families and boost community engagement, giving young children a strong start in learning and development.
The Waterford team discusses its future goals to expand access to underserved communities, increase enrollment, and build partnerships to ensure all children have an early learning foundation. Fischer emphasizes that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed inequities in access to digital resources, affecting early learning and literacy nationwide, especially for marginalized communities. They discuss how UPSTART addresses these gaps by providing adaptive learning tools, a dashboard for tracking progress, and extensive family support.
Season 6 Episode 38: In this podcast, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Kim Fischer, executive vice president of marketing and communications, Tomas Caceres, senior director of strategic community engagement at Waterford, and Anju Thapaliya UPSTART program manager at GOEO.
Fischer, Caceres, and Thapaliya discuss the UPSTART Program, an online educational tool that provides preschool children with foundational skills in reading, math, and science. This tool is made possible through state funding and a partnership with Waterford. UPSTART collaborates with local organizations to extend its reach in Utah’s rural, refugee, and Indigenous communities. Delivering this tool in homes and childcare settings helps UPSTART strengthen families and boost community engagement, giving young children a strong start in learning and development.
The Waterford team discusses its future goals to expand access to underserved communities, increase enrollment, and build partnerships to ensure all children have an early learning foundation. Fischer emphasizes that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed inequities in access to digital resources, affecting early learning and literacy nationwide, especially for marginalized communities. They discuss how UPSTART addresses these gaps by providing adaptive learning tools, a dashboard for tracking progress, and extensive family support.
Season 6 Episode 37: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Melissa Clark, executive director and president of the Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce.
Clark shares her experience on the Eagle Mountain City Council and highlights her transition from roles in auditing and education to leading the Chamber. Reflecting on her time in public service, she describes her commitment to helping local businesses thrive, especially by offering resources to entrepreneurs lacking business management knowledge. Under her leadership, the Chamber has expanded from 73 to nearly 400 members in over two years.
Clark highlights the Chamber's efforts to support local businesses and community development in Eagle Mountain. She emphasizes Chamber membership as vital for new entrepreneurs to network and find support. Clark explains the Chamber's involvement in regional and state business coalitions, such as the Utah Association of Chambers and the Rural Utah Chamber Coalition, which help connect business leaders statewide. She shares the Chamber's focus on practical business education, like the annual "Lunch and Learns" and the 2025 "Money Matters" series, aimed at empowering local businesses with financial insights.
Season 6 Episode 36: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Adam Torkildson, entrepreneur and SCORE Mentors volunteer.
Torkildson shares his life and career journey in Utah, emphasizing his roots in agriculture, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to mentoring. He reflects on his early years working on farms, his Scandinavian heritage, and the discipline he developed through a rural upbringing and homeschool experience. He volunteers with SCORE Mentors, a nationwide nonprofit that provides free mentoring for small businesses in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), offering his SEO and startup management expertise to Utah's entrepreneurs.
Torkildson highlights SCORE’s mission to support entrepreneurs through resources and guidance. The discussion delves into SCORE’s blend of virtual and in-person coaching, with a recent push to increase physical events in Utah, including partnerships with organizations like the SBA to reach a broader audience. They discuss SCORE's popular "Startup Roadmap," a 12-step guide simplifying the business launch process. Torkildson emphasizes the importance of accurate online content, especially with the rise of AI, and how SCORE’s mentoring services empower business owners to manage their own SEO and digital presence.
Season 6 Episode 35:
Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of domestic violence, which may be distressing for some listeners and not suitable for a younger audience.
In this podcast, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Jennifer Campbell, executive director of Utah Domestic Violence Coalition (UDVC), and Jacki Cassady, training program coordinator at Utah Employers Against Domestic Violence (UEADV), part of UDVC.
Campbell and Cassady discuss their work at UDVC and involvement with the UEADV program. Driven by her passion for advocacy and nonprofit management, Campbell shares her transition from teaching to domestic violence services. Cassady recounts her personal experience with domestic violence and her journey to contribute to the program's development. The program educates employers in Utah on recognizing signs of domestic violence and fostering safe, supportive work environments.
The discussion spotlights the "Dear Utah" campaign, which encourages individuals across the state to share their experiences with violence. They emphasize the importance of normalizing conversations about domestic violence, highlighting the need for greater understanding, especially among youth. Campbell shares insights into how businesses can support employees affected by domestic violence through policy adjustments and fostering open communication.
Season 6 Episode 34: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Ben Elkins, CEO of Utah Broadband.
Elkins discusses his recent move to Utah and his leadership overseeing multiple broadband companies under Boston Omaha, including Airbeam, Utah Broadband, and InfoWest. Elkins explains how the company is pivotal in providing high-quality internet services and highlights the growing demand for fiber connectivity due to the increasing number of internet-connected devices. He also touches on the entrepreneurial culture in Utah and the strong demand for broadband services among businesses. Elkins emphasizes the company's focus on maintaining high customer satisfaction and addressing bandwidth needs effectively.
The duo delve into the rising importance of high-speed internet as more households adopt smart devices, spotlighting Utah Broadband's efforts to meet future demands by upgrading its network to gigabit speeds. Elkins also highlights the company's customer-centric team, selective growth strategy, and dedication to improving internet access in underserved rural areas of Utah, supported by federal infrastructure funding.
Season 6 Episode 33:
Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of domestic violence, which may be distressing for some listeners and not suitable for a younger audience.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Jessie Richards, co-founder and advisory director, and Brooke Muir, executive director, at Fight Against Domestic Violence (FADV).
Richards and Muir discuss their connections to the fight against domestic violence and the impact of FADV. Richards explains her academic research on domestic violence and how personal experiences motivated her to start the organization. Both highlight how domestic violence impacts all of society, not just victims, and emphasize the importance of raising awareness, improving data collection, and supporting victims through financial and community resources.
The duo highlights how Utah workplaces can better address domestic violence by implementing supportive measures such as awareness training, human resources, protective orders, and childcare assistance. Richards emphasizes that simple steps, like providing resources and empathetic support, can make a significant difference for victims. They also explore the challenges faced by victims, including societal stigma and the complexities of abusive relationships, especially within Utah's religious and patriarchal culture.
Help is available. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the 24-hour Utah domestic violence hotline at 800-897-LINK(5465) or visit the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition (UDVC) and the Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault (UCASA) online.
Season 6 Episode 32: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Liam Brown, president of STEMheads, and Josh Brown, co-founder of STEMheads.
Liam co-founded the nonprofit STEMheads with his parents when he was 10 years old. They emphasize the importance of STEM education and their mission to inspire young people to pursue STEM scholarships and educational content through STEMheads. Liam also reflects on discussions with Utah business leaders, the importance of entrepreneurship, and how their nonprofit is helping the next generation.
Liam and Josh share how the company's recognition in schools, with teachers using his videos, has brought pride to their family and community. They highlight how the project promotes STEM careers with livable wages and exciting opportunities. Liam addresses students' challenges and how STEMheads inspires them to explore diverse career paths. They also highlight the importance of encouraging young women to pursue STEM and their plans to continue the project through Liam's high school years and beyond.
Season 6 Episode 31: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Matthew Young, national sales manager for the corporate sales team at SymbolArts.
Young discusses his career progression from technical writing to marketing and sales. He shares insights into SymbolArts’ growth, particularly in creating high-quality metal badges and recognition items for public safety and corporate sectors. Young also discusses the company’s expansion into new markets and the advanced customization capabilities that have enhanced its product offerings over time.
He discusses SymbolArts’ strong reliance on repeat customers and referrals and highlights the company’s marketing strategy. Despite supply chain challenges during the pandemic, SymbolArts distinguishes itself with efficient air freight logistics, high-quality products, and long-standing relationships with vetted factories. Young also outlines the company’s commitment to “diamond quality” and its growth plans.
Season 6 Episode 30: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Natalie Randall, managing director of the Utah Office of Tourism and Film.
Randall discusses her journey from growing up in northern Virginia to building her career focused on outdoor recreation and tourism in Utah. She highlights her experiences in various roles, including working in adaptive recreation, running an adventure company, and leading economic development in rural Utah. Randall emphasizes the importance of community engagement, bridging divides through recreation, and enhancing tourism as part of economic growth.
The duo discusses the economic impact of tourism in Utah, emphasizing the industry’s contribution to the state’s economy, with nearly $12 billion in visitor spending in 2022 and over 151,000 tourism-related jobs. Randall highlights how tourism brings revenue and enhances the quality of life for Utah residents. She details the state’s efforts to balance tourism growth with community benefits through strategic planning and stewardship. Randall also highlights the importance of rural tourism and the film industry’s growing presence in Utah and shares her excitement for Utah’s upcoming role in the 2034 Winter Olympics.
Season 6 Episode 29: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Justin Helms, St. George branch manager of Utah Disaster Kleenup (UDK). Helms, a second-generation restoration professional, shares his love for St. George. He highlights the operations of UDK, emphasizing the company's broad service range across Utah and its capacity to handle residential, commercial, and healthcare-related disasters. Helms shares memorable experiences from his 20 years in the industry, including the challenges of restoring homes after natural disasters. He discusses UDK's involvement in community outreach, such as supporting local first responders and participating in charity events. Helms finds it incredibly rewarding to help clients restore their homes and lives after disasters. UDK recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, earning community recognition, including the "Best of Southern Utah" award for four consecutive years.
Season 6 Episode 28: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with McKenzie Bauer, co-founder of Thread Wallets.
A Utah native, Bauer studied international cultural studies and peacebuilding at BYU-Hawaii, an experience that shaped her marketing and storytelling approach. In 2014, she and her husband co-founded Thread Wallets. She recounts how the idea for her company emerged from her husband's need for a minimalist wallet and their realization that there was a market gap for expressive, functional designs. The conversation highlights the brand’s growth, its mission to inspire adventure and self-expression, and recent marketing efforts, including creating custom products for high-profile figures.
Bauer attributes Thread Wallets' rapid success to trusted mentors, a tight-knit business community, and Utah's entrepreneurial environment. She expresses her passion for supporting women in the workplace, highlighting Thread Wallets' commitment to a family-friendly, flexible work environment and equitable parental leave for both men and women. Bauer stresses the importance of maintaining simplicity in entrepreneurship, seeking mentorship, and taking incremental steps toward success.
Season 6 Episode 27: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO), talks with Josh Chavez, founder of RAH Energy. Chavez discusses his background as an entrepreneur, highlighting his early career ventures and the development of his newest business, RAH Energy, an energy drink company distinguished by its use of simple, natural ingredients, and unique flavors. Chavez explains his passion for energy drinks and how this led to the creation of RAH Energy. He also touches on the challenges of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of patience, adaptability, and the ability to bring a product to market even if it isn't perfect. Chavez elaborates on RAH Energy's direct-to-consumer strategy, citing its benefits in terms of margins, customer relationship management, and control over the brand's destiny. He shares insights on the challenges of entering retail spaces and working with local distributors while celebrating the positive feedback RAH Energy has received from customers and influencers. Chavez stresses the significance of resilience and maintaining a balance between perfection and progress for aspiring entrepreneurs while highlighting the support and resources available in Utah's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Season 6 Episode 26: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Paul Jolley, the new director of the Utah Small Business Credit Initiative (USBCI), and David Ramos, senior community affairs advisor at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).
Jolley discusses his long-standing connection to Utah and his excitement for his new role in the public sector. He highlights the initiative’s focus on supporting small businesses through the Loan Participation Program and Capital Access Program. Jolley emphasizes the importance of the upcoming “Path to Prosperity” event, co-hosted by USBCI, that provides resources and guidance to aspiring business owners.
Ramos discusses his role and the FDIC’s efforts to support small businesses and entrepreneurs across the U.S., mainly through the “Path to Prosperity” series. This initiative, created in partnership with agencies like the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Small Business Administration, fosters relationships between community banks and small businesses, offering technical assistance and expanding access to capital. Ramos highlights the importance of these resources for economic growth, especially in underserved and rural areas. He also shares insights on Utah’s favorable environment for entrepreneurs and his anticipation for the upcoming event.
“Path to Prosperity” is a free event on Aug. 22, 2024. For more information and to register, visit https://business.utah.gov/event/path-to-prosperity-utah.
Season 6 Episode 25: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Tessa Arneson, founder of the Maven District.
Arneson reflects on her upbringing in Ogden and her eventual return to Utah after living in various big cities. She describes how her love for Utah's outdoor lifestyle and the supportive, tight-knit community significantly influenced her decision to settle in Utah. Arneson highlights pivotal moments that shaped her career path. These include her early experiences in sales and high-end design and her eventual decision to purchase her first business, which led to the creation of the Maven District.
Arneson elaborates on the development and success of the Maven District, a community-oriented business hub in Salt Lake City she founded in 2015. She emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive environment for local and women-owned businesses, explaining how the district was built with a focus on community and kindness. Arneson also shares her experiences with the challenges of entrepreneurship, including her latest venture into the hospitality industry with Maven Stay, a boutique hotel. Throughout the conversation, Arneson focuses on the significance of collaboration, empathy, and the Utah way of doing business.
Season 6 Episode 24: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Salvatore Buscemi, co-founder and managing partner of Brahmin Partners.
Buscemi shares his connections to Utah and experiences with the entrepreneurial spirit of its residents. Inspired by an internship and an influential mentor, he details his educational journey at Fordham University and his unexpected career shift from pre-med to finance. He emphasizes the importance of networking, the evolving landscape of family investment groups, and his motivation to write books that share his finance and investment strategies.
Buscemi highlights rising property values driven by high equity and the difficulty of refinancing and selling. He advises that investing in real estate requires acquiring financial skills and raising capital through relationship-building and salesmanship. Buscemi also discusses banking challenges, the impact of social media on bank runs, the rise of private credit in the face of banking instability, and much more.
Email sal@brahminpartners.com for an autographed paperback copy of his book, "Investing Legacy: How the .001% Invest" or download the Audible version on Amazon.
Follow Sal on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/salvatore-buscemi/
Season 6 Episode 23: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Neight Casperson, owner and CEO of N8 Elite Skiwear. Casperson shares his deep connection to Utah, having been born and raised in Ogden. He recounts his time away during a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Vienna, Austria, and his work for Hill Air Force Base. Despite personal struggles, he found solace and inspiration in skiing. This passion inspired him to start N8 Elite Skiware. Despite challenges, including the impact of COVID-19 that temporarily halted his business, Casperson’s resilience and support from his network helped him relaunch his ski wear line. He continues to grow his business while working at Ed Kenley Ford.
The duo discusses the journey of an entrepreneur, emphasizing the multi-tasking nature of managing a startup and a regular job. Casperson highlights the importance of networking, utilizing feedback from friends and marketing groups, and overcoming hurdles like capital constraints and supply chain issues. They highlight Casperson's vision for his company, aiming to make it a prominent brand at ski resorts worldwide, with particular hopes tied to the 2034 Winter Olympics in Utah. Casperson acknowledges the supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Utah, the state’s culture of backing local businesses, and the role of recovery and clarity in his personal and professional growth.
Season 6 Episode 22: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Karrie Ketchum, executive director of Utah Dispute Resolution.
Ketchum discusses her professional journey and the significance of conflict resolution in various sectors. She recounts her experience growing up in Utah and her varied career path, which began as a paralegal in bankruptcy and real estate law. She then co-founded a commercial door business with her husband. Later, she transitioned into mediation, becoming a court-rostered mediator and eventually the executive director of Utah Dispute Resolution. She highlights her work in family mediation, her contributions to training new mediators, and the personal satisfaction she derives from her role.
Ketchum elaborates on the services and programs offered by Utah Dispute Resolution, including conflict resolution training for diverse organizations and community groups. She emphasizes the significance of effective communication and active listening in resolving conflicts. She also touches on the impact of workplace conflict, advocating for regular conflict resolution training to foster a healthy work environment and more.
Season 6 Episode 21: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO), talks with Jefferson Moss, state representative and associate commissioner of innovation at the Utah System of Higher Education, and Ryan Starks, executive director of GOEO.
The discussion highlights Utah's transformation into a recognized leader in innovation. Moss underscores the importance of bridging gaps between market ventures and academic research to propel commercialization, support emerging businesses, and further the state's innovative success.
Starks discusses the governor's ambition for Utah to become the startup capital of the world, outlining initiatives like the Utah Broadband Center, which expands broadband access statewide and supports remote work in rural areas, and the Startup State Initiative, which fosters entrepreneurship by providing a centralized resource for entrepreneurs. Moss and Starks highlight the collaboration among Utah's government, industry, and higher education as essential in creating impactful, globally relevant solutions.
The conversation also delves into the unique investment strategy of an evergreen fund in Utah that supports companies with ties to higher education. Moss explains that the fund aims to continuously reinvest in Utah-based businesses to strengthen the state's economic ecosystem. Additionally, the state-owned innovation hub, The Point, will unite various sectors, students, and universities to solve significant problems, generating financial returns and societal benefits. Moss and Starks reflect on Utah's strong sense of community and its inclusive, innovative culture making it a fertile ground for entrepreneurship.
Season 6 Episode 20: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Alan Matheson, executive director of Point of the Mountain State Land Authority, and Brandon Fugal, chairman of Colliers International.
Matheson and Fugal discuss the vision for The Point, a 600-acre state-owned land previously occupied by the Utah State Prison. The Point is set to become an innovation hub, offering residential, commercial, and recreational spaces designed to address state challenges and foster economic growth through collaboration between private and public sectors.
The discussion explores the potential of The Point to boost Utah's economy and quality of life. Fugal emphasizes the development's focus on creating a walkable, sustainable community that integrates advanced transportation solutions and diverse economic opportunities. Matheson elaborates on plans for the site's infrastructure, including public transit and green spaces, to ensure accessibility and environmental consciousness. They highlight the project's potential to attract top talent and businesses, reinforcing Utah's position as a leader in innovation and economic vitality.
View current renderings of The Point.
Season 6 Episode 19: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, interviews Vance Checketts, CEO of auticon.
Checketts discusses his career in technology, culminating in his current role at auticon, a company with a unique mission to integrate neurodivergent individuals, especially those with autism, into the tech workforce. Checketts emphasizes auticon's focus on providing talented autistic professionals to companies while also educating these companies on how to be more inclusive. He explains that neurodivergent individuals often possess exceptional data analysis, pattern recognition, and cybersecurity skills, making them invaluable assets to the tech industry. auticon's work aims to bridge the gap for these individuals who are often sidelined due to a lack of understanding and support in traditional workplaces.
Checketts also discusses auticon's impact and its approach to helping both employees and companies. He outlines the company's comprehensive process, which includes assessments and tailored training to foster neuro-inclusivity. Checketts reveals auticon's plans to expand its mission globally and introduces its upcoming nonprofit initiative focused on training autistic individuals for tech roles. He encourages companies interested in becoming more inclusive to start by learning more about neurodiversity and considering partnerships with auticon to enhance their teams' productivity and inclusivity.
Season 6 Episode 18: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, interviews Trena Anderson, president of Deseret First Charitable Foundation.
Anderson shares her journey, beginning with her move to Utah 38 years ago, her career spanning over three decades at Deseret First Credit Union, and her varied roles in human resources, communications, marketing, and private banking. She highlights her involvement in the Deseret First Charitable Foundation, which was established to assist missionaries facing financial challenges. Anderson recounts the foundation’s origins from a marketing campaign and its growth into a significant source of support, providing shoes and essential supplies to hundreds of missionaries annually through donations and word-of-mouth referrals.
Anderson also discusses her involvement with the Dominican Starfish Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving living conditions in the Dominican Republic. She emphasizes the foundation's broad scope and its impact on various communities, including Haitian refugees, through education and infrastructure development.
The two also discuss the broader context of volunteerism in Utah, noting its ranking as the most charitable state, and how individuals and organizations can find meaningful ways to contribute. Anderson shares insights into identifying opportunities that align with personal values and skills, stressing the importance of seeking out initiatives with minimal overhead to ensure the maximum impact of donations and volunteer efforts.
For more information on how you can get involved with Deseret First Charitable Foundation and Dominican Starfish Foundation, contact Trena Anderson at trenaa50@gmail.com.
Season 6 Episode 17: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Mori Paulsen, president of Bank of America Utah.
Paulsen discusses his extensive career and deep-rooted connection to the state. He shares his journey from being born in Salt Lake City to graduating from the University of Utah and starting his career at General Electric before transitioning into wealth management. He highlights the impact of his local upbringing and the supportive business environment in Utah on his career, emphasizing the state’s nurturing ecosystem for both established professionals and budding entrepreneurs.
The conversation also delves into Bank of America’s robust community engagement and philanthropic efforts in Utah. Paulsen outlines the bank’s focus on economic mobility and support for the arts, including significant donations and volunteer programs that empower employees to give back. He mentions initiatives like the Student Leaders program, which provides high school students with valuable work experience and leadership training, and substantial investments in digital capabilities that enhance customer experiences. Paulsen also reflects on the bank’s strategic expansion in Utah, including opening numerous financial centers and creating hundreds of jobs.
Season 6 Episode 16: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Mike Hawker, vice president of operations at CoDev.
Hawker shares his professional journey, from his initial ambitions in sports public relations to his unexpected entry into the tech world. After working for 11 years at a California-based software startup specializing in automotive dealerships, Hawker transitioned to CoDev, where he has been instrumental in driving growth and operational success over the past four years.
Hawker elaborates on CoDev's unique business model, which focuses on integrating talented offshore resources into client teams, offering a cost-effective alternative to local hires. CoDev differentiates itself by fostering deep, long-term relationships with its employees, emphasizing career development over short-term gigs. As CoDev continues exploring expansion into new regions and leveraging AI to enhance its services, Hawker highlights the company’s commitment to cultural integration and providing robust support for its workforce, ensuring mutual growth and success for its clients and employees.
Season 6 Episode 15: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with David Bates, partner at Taylor Wessing, and Simon Gleeson, partner at Blick Rothenberg.
The duo discusses their ties to Utah, professional endeavors, and Utah's entrepreneurial opportunities. The conversation delves into their collaboration in professional services, focusing on international expansion. The two describe their complementary roles in providing legal and accounting services, simplifying the process for clients by offering a comprehensive approach.
Bates and Gleeson discuss Utah's business climate, attributing its success to talented people, a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem, and proactive government support. They also discuss the advantages of starting international ventures in the U.K. due to the common language, legal systems, and ease of doing business, using it as a gateway to broader European markets.
Season 6 Episode 14: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Felecia Maxfield-Barrett, president and CEO of Utah Global Diplomacy.
She discusses her deep roots in Utah and her journey through various roles that ultimately led to her current position. Born and raised in American Fork, Utah, Maxfield-Barrett shares how her college experience at Southern Utah University shaped her understanding of the importance of mentorship and guidance. Her early career involved working with the refugee population in Utah, where she played a crucial role in helping refugees access essential services. This experience ignited her passion for community service and international relations.
The duo discuss the economic and social benefits of Utah Global Diplomacy's efforts. The organization contributes to Utah's economy by bringing in international visitors who support local businesses and enhance the state's cultural and social fabric by facilitating meaningful exchanges between Utah residents and global dignitaries. Maxfield-Barrett emphasizes the unique position of Utah as a hub for international relations, bolstered by its diverse population and strong community spirit.
Season 6 Episode 13: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Lavanya Mahate, founder of Saffron Valley restaurants and the RISE Culinary Institute.
Mahate shares her story of moving to Utah from India in 2001. She details her journey in pursuing additional education at the University of Utah, which led to a pivotal role at the Salt Lake Chamber's Women's Business Center. Mahate explores her decision to channel her passion for food into her own business, resulting in the establishment of Saffron Valley, a restaurant chain that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of India. She also highlights her entrepreneurial ventures, including bakeries and RISE Culinary Institute, a nonprofit that empowers refugee women through culinary training and employment opportunities.
She also discusses her challenges and triumphs, from navigating the complexities of immigration and visa regulations to establishing a successful culinary empire in Utah. Mahate reveals her plans for the future, including her desire to explore more of Utah's outdoor landscapes and her ongoing commitment to her entrepreneurial endeavors.
Season 6 Episode 12: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of Business Services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Steve Brosvik, president and CEO of the Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO).
Brosvik shares his recent move to Utah and details his journey from the vice president and general manager of the Houston Symphony in Texas and chief operating officer of the Nashville Symphony in Tennessee to his current role as the president and CEO of the USUO.
The conversation explores Brosvik's professional journey and the unique allure of USUO. Brosvik highlights the organization's distinctive nature, being a combined full-time professional orchestra and opera company, which sets it apart from other cultural institutions across the country. He outlines the breadth of the organization's work, from its extensive educational programs reaching over 130,000 students and teachers annually to its artistic production.
Brosvik also sheds light on the composition of the Utah Symphony and Utah Opera, which consists of 87 full-time musicians and five opera resident artists from around the globe, underscoring the competitive nature of securing a position within this prestigious ensemble. He elaborates on the unique features of the USUO organization, such as being a significant combined professional orchestra and opera company with a vast educational outreach and hosting the Deer Valley Music Festival.
Season 6 Episode 12: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of Business Services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Steve Brosvik, president and CEO of the Utah Symphony | Utah Opera (USUO). Brosvik shares his recent move to Utah and details his journey from the vice president and general manager of the Houston Symphony in Texas and chief operating officer of the Nashville Symphony in Tennessee to his current role as the president and CEO of the USUO. The conversation explores Brosvik's professional journey and the unique allure of USUO. Brosvik highlights the organization's distinctive nature, being a combined full-time professional orchestra and opera company, which sets it apart from other cultural institutions across the country. He outlines the breadth of the organization's work, from its extensive educational programs reaching over 130,000 students and teachers annually to its artistic production. Brosvik also sheds light on the composition of the Utah Symphony and Utah Opera, which consists of 87 full-time musicians and five opera resident artists from around the globe, underscoring the competitive nature of securing a position within this prestigious ensemble. He elaborates on the unique features of the USUO organization, such as being a significant combined professional orchestra and opera company with a vast educational outreach and hosting the Deer Valley Music Festival.
Season 6 Episode 11: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Ally Isom, chief strategy and marketing officer at Clyde Companies.
Isom shares her extensive background and deep connection to Utah, highlighting her journey from diverse professional experiences to her current role. The duo discuss several topics ranging from Isom's interests in hiking and community engagement to her professional trajectory, including her role at Clyde Companies and its commitment to supporting women in the construction industry.
Isom emphasizes the company's dedication to diversity and inclusion, showcasing initiatives such as its women's employee resource group and its efforts to promote pay equity in sports. She also discusses Clyde Companies' merger with IHC Scott, shares her perspective on potential future endeavors, and much more.
Season 6 Episode 10: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Jaron Erickson, founder and CEO of Sales Dojo.
Erickson shares his journey from growing up in Farmington, Utah, to becoming an entrepreneur in the tech industry, where he found his passion. Inspired by his experiences and the potential he saw in tech sales, he founded Sales Dojo with a mission to help individuals learn the skills needed for business-to-business tech sales and connect them with job opportunities in the industry. In its four-week program, the company provides actionable training, focusing on developing high-performing sales representatives for tech companies in Utah and beyond.
Erickson emphasizes the inclusivity of Sales Dojo and its efforts to support underrepresented groups. With a vision for the future, he aims to expand the company's impact by partnering with universities and offering specialized training programs to contribute to the growth of Utah's entrepreneurial ecosystem through education and opportunity.
Season 6 Episode 9: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Madeline Miller, the program manager for INROADS College Links in Salt Lake City.
Miller shares her journey of fostering opportunities for diverse youth. She discusses her passion for public health, which led her to advocate for marginalized communities and promote diversity and inclusion in corporate settings.
Miller shares insights into the INROADS program, a nonprofit focused on advancing diverse youth in corporate America. She highlights the program's success in guiding students from high school to college and eventually into meaningful careers and the importance of experiential learning and mentorship. Miller shares inspiring success stories of students who excelled in the program, its emphasis on life skills, mental health support, entrepreneurship, and much more.
Season 6 Episode 8: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Rob Gardner, principal of Savory Fund.
Gardner shares his journey from his Utah roots to his diverse professional experiences, including his time in public accounting and private equity. He reflects on various aspects of the restaurant industry, its evolution, and the challenges aspiring restaurateurs face to the impact of technology on dining trends.
The duo discusses Savory Fund's mission to help restaurants scale effectively by investing in people first. Gardner highlights the importance of perseverance and focusing on key factors like good food, service, and value. He delves into the intersection of technology and traditional dining experiences, articulates a vision for the industry's future, and much more.
Season 6 Episode 7: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Ryan Westwood, chairman and CEO of Fullcast. Westwood shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey and the unique aspects of doing business in Utah. He reflects on his international experiences that led him to embrace opportunities for growth and innovation. Westwood delves into the founding of Fullcast and its recent move to Salt Lake City, highlighting its mission to create jobs and contribute to Utah's economy. He provides valuable insights into the company's fundraising process and emphasizes the support from local investors and the significance of female investors in the company's success. Westwood praises the state's thriving university entrepreneurship programs and collaborative ecosystem of entrepreneurs and venture capitalists. He also discusses the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in guiding decision-making processes, shares strategic insights into navigating challenges and staying ahead in the rapidly evolving tech landscape, and much more.
Season 6 Episode 6: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Jason Hewlett, Hall of Fame keynote speaker and keynote speaker at the 2024 spring One Utah Summit.
Hewlett shares his ties to Utah, from being born and raised in Park City to his extensive career in entertainment and speaking engagements across the state. He shares his professional journey, from his early days as an entertainer in Las Vegas to his transition into keynote speaking and consulting. The duo discusses the significance of Hewlett's induction into the Speaker Hall of Fame and his unique approach to blending entertainment with leadership principles in his presentations.
They explore the significance of the One Utah Summit, an event that provides unique opportunities to network, collaborate, and learn from leading Utah organizations. Hewlett expresses his excitement about entertaining and inspiring attendees with his unique blend of music, comedy, and motivational insights, making the summit a must-attend event for those seeking inspiration and networking opportunities in Utah's thriving business community.
Season 6 Episode 5: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Dan Lambert, CEO of PathologyWatch. Lambert shares his entrepreneurial journey and the transformative impact of digital pathology and AI on healthcare. He discusses his move from Manhattan to Utah, citing the primary factors of lower operational costs and the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. Lambert reflects on the company’s role in processing skin biopsies digitally, leveraging AI for diagnosis and prognosis. According to Lambert, digital pathology enhances accuracy, facilitates physician collaboration, and streamlines workflows. He emphasizes the significance of AI in pattern recognition, particularly in early cancer detection, citing personal experience with melanoma diagnosis. He touts Utah’s supportive environment for startups, attributing its success to a blend of local talent, accessible venture capital, and a hunger for problem-solving. Lambert envisions PathologyWatch’s continued growth, emphasizing the importance of tackling significant challenges with innovative solutions in the evolving healthcare landscape.
Season 6 Episode 4: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Hunter Manz, CEO of Eden Technologies, and Gabi Tellez, managing director of the Utah Innovation Fund. In December 2023, the Utah Innovation Fund invested $250K in Eden Technologies for their reverse osmosis centrifuge (ROC) technology. Manz shares his journey from Las Vegas to Utah, detailing his experiences as a Utah Tech University student entrepreneur and Eden Technologies inception. They explore the revolutionary technology behind the company, focusing on its potential to enhance water desalination efficiency and provide clean water solutions globally. Manz highlights the crucial role of persistence and community support in entrepreneurial success, emphasizing Utah's vibrant innovation and business growth ecosystem. Tellez shares her journey from Southern California to Utah, highlighting the state's allure with its stunning landscapes and career opportunities. She delves into the genesis of the Utah Innovation Fund, a $15 million venture capital initiative that supports early-stage companies based in Utah rooted in higher education. With a focus on sectors like aerospace, defense, biotech, and healthcare, Tellez emphasizes the fund's role in bridging the gap between academia and industry, catalyzing innovation, and retaining talent within the state.
Season 6 Episode 3: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Annalisa Holcombe, senior vice president of advancement at Western Governors University (WGU).
Holcombe shares her unique career journey, transitioning from law to higher education and eventually leading WGU's fundraising efforts. She discusses the university's unique approach to online education, focusing on competency-based learning and providing each student with a personalized, mentor-driven experience. Holcombe sheds light on WGU's mission to bridge the workforce development gap and its commitment to affordability and equity in education. She speaks on WGU's impact, providing flexibility for working learners and creating opportunities for adults with some college experience but no degree.
She also provides insights into WGU's efforts to address the changing education landscape, including developing skills-based transcripts and partnerships with organizations like the Open Skills Network. Holcombe shares her thoughts on work-life balance, the significance of creating meaningful experiences in the workplace, and much more.
Season 6 Episode 2: In this podcast, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Jonathan Freedman, president and CEO of World Trade Center Utah.
Freedman shares his journey from founding Downeast Outfitters in the early 90s to leading World Trade Center Utah. Born and raised in New York, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish a successful business venture in Utah, a state he grew to love for its outdoor activities and business opportunities. Freedman details his experiences in the retail industry, international business, and his role as the honorary consul for Ukraine in Utah.
He highlights World Trade Center Utah's mission to make Utah the crossroads of the world, emphasizing its role in fostering global connections for Utah-based businesses. Freedman discusses upcoming initiatives, trade missions, and partnerships to expand international opportunities for Utah companies. He discusses the state's supportive business environment, recognition as the best state to start a business, and the significance of Utah's global engagement.
Season 6 Episode 1: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Scott Cuthbertson, president and CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Utah (EDCUtah).
Cuthbertson reflects on his first year as president and CEO, emphasizing the importance of getting to know stakeholders, maintaining the organization's positive trajectory, and implementing changes outlined in its five-year strategic plan. He delves into the role of EDCUtah in corporate recruitment and emphasizes the organization's focus on both recruitment and retention of companies.
The duo discuss Utah's economic evolution and the need for a recalibrated approach to corporate recruitment, considering factors such as quality of life, workforce development, and social responsibility. Cuthbertson provides insights into the challenges of Utah's growth, highlights the state’s diverse and young workforce, its growing economic sectors that make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 39: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Scott Evanson, venture partner at Philo Ventures. They discuss Evanson's entrepreneurial journey and the entrepreneurial spirit that emerged during his early career, inspired by the autonomy and financial opportunities he witnessed while working for a startup. He also mentions Utah's startup ecosystem and emphasizes the state's significance as a hub for outdoor activities. Evanson shares insights into the company and outlines its diverse divisions, including real estate development, a venture studio for startup creation, and a venture fund for early-stage investments. He discusses its collaboration with investors, highlights the importance of fostering a community of passionate individuals eager to create value, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 38: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Rob Hitchcock, president and CEO of SelectHealth.
They discuss Hitchcock's journey from being born and raised in Utah to his 25-plus-year career in the healthcare industry. He reflects on his transition from wanting to attend law school to finding his niche in the health insurance industry. Hitchcock emphasizes the unique approach of SelectHealth, a community-focused nonprofit health plan owned by Intermountain Health, and the company's integration of clinical services and financing to align incentives aiming to improve overall community health.
Hitchcock discusses the company’s mission to improve the health of the communities and highlights its commitment to providing services to diverse populations. He shares his vision for the organization's future, focusing on SelectHealth's long-term sustainability, commitment to affordability, maintaining a high standard of quality, and more.
Season 5 Episode 37: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Chad Linebaugh, president and general manager of Sundance Resort.
Linebaugh shares his Utah story, discussing his love for the state and his passion for outdoor activities like skiing and hiking. He details his journey in the resort industry, starting as a waiter at Sundance in 1994 and eventually becoming the general manager. Linebaugh also mentions the history of the resort, its founder Robert Redford's vision, and its commitment to environmental preservation.
Linebaugh also discusses different aspects of Sundance, from its seasonal activities and the impact of early snowfall to challenges such as climate change and transportation issues. He discusses the resort's response to unfavorable weather, emphasizing its significant investment in snowmaking technology, provides insights into Sundance's visitation trends, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 36: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Vanessa Quigley, co-founder and chat booker-in-chief of Chatbooks.
Quigley shares insights into her journey of building a successful business and her unique challenges as a woman entrepreneur. She discusses her unexpected entry into the business world, highlights Chatbooks’ mission to strengthen families, and shares the company’s evolution.
Quigley shares the company's unique culture, team structure, and initiatives supporting work-life balance, mental health, and family-oriented benefits. She also discusses its commitment to keeping a small company culture by focusing on individual team members' well-being and much more.
Season 5 Episode 35: In this episode, host Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Julie Edwards, the owner of TowPro.
Edwards shares her entrepreneurial journey and inspiration for starting TowPro, a software company that streamlines the dispatching of tow trucks for 911 dispatchers. She discusses the challenges she faced, how the company simplifies the process and saves dispatchers valuable time, and emphasizes the importance of staying up-to-date with technology that differentiates your business.
Edwards also shares her journey as a woman entrepreneur in both the towing and tech industries, details lessons she learned along the way, highlights the supportive and collaborative nature of the Utah business community, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 34: In this episode, host Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Edward Bennett, the director of business development for the Suazo Business Center.
Bennett explains the Suazo Business Center’s mission and work, including its focus on entrepreneurship, economic development, and helping individuals succeed in their business endeavors, especially in underserved communities. He details the center’s programs, including one-on-one mentoring, marketing and outreach, curriculum-based education, and access to capital. Bennett also shares the significant impact it has on Utah communities, highlights success stories, expands on the center's recent certification as a Community Development Financial Institution, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 33: In this episode, host Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Nathan Rich, the founder and CEO of IsoTruss, Inc.
They discuss Rich's background and milestones of his business journey, the unique properties of IsoTruss' composite materials, and the company's growth plans. The company’s support for women in business and its recent recognition at the JEC World Innovation Awards in Paris are also discussed.
Rich shares insights into the business, including its focus on innovation and sustainability in infrastructure, key benefits of the company’s lightweight and strong materials, and its efforts to expand its global presence. He also emphasizes the importance of partnerships and relationships in the success of IsoTruss, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the company's operations, the balance between remote and on-site work, and more.
Season 5 Episode 32: In this episode, host Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Aaron Starks, president and CEO of 47G Aerospace and Defense Association (47G), formerly known as the Utah Aerospace and Defense Association.
Starks discusses his background growing up in Utah, pursuing a career that took him to different corners of the world, and the crucial role that Utah plays in the aerospace and defense industry, highlighting the state's legacy in innovation and technology. He emphasizes the importance of attracting talent to the industry, which he believes is the key to success, and 47G's dedication to promoting and supporting Utah's aerospace and defense sector. Starks also shares his insights into the organization’s recent agreement with the Ukrainian government and its mission to help Ukraine rebuild and strengthen its defense capabilities, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 31: In this episode, podcast host Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Chris Stewart, former Congressman and the chair of the Utah Aerospace and Defense Association.
Stewart shares insights into his military service, his transition to politics, and his experiences in Congress. He also discusses his decision to run for Congress and reflects on his 10 years in office. Stewart emphasizes the significance of the aerospace and defense industry in Utah and how it is contributing to national security and economic growth; he talks about his new role as the chair of the Utah Aerospace and Defense Association, where he promotes and supports the industry and its innovations, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 30: In this episode, host Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Judd Cook, Dominion Energy vice president and general manager of western gas distribution.
The duo discusses various aspects of Dominion Energy's operations and initiatives, its long-standing history in Utah, and its role in providing natural gas services to over 1.2 million customers.
The episode delves into the company's sustainability initiatives, including blending hydrogen into the gas distribution system to reduce carbon emissions and the recent completion of a liquefied natural gas facility in Magna, Utah, which is designed to ensure supply reliability during extreme weather conditions.
Cook highlights Dominion Energy's philanthropic efforts. The company donated nearly $2 million to nonprofits in 2022, supporting women in the workplace, and emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion.
Season 5 Episode 29:
In this episode, host Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, interviews Christina Lux, a certified arborist and founder of Tree Lux, a tree care services company. Lux shares her journey from being a single mother and former massage therapist to becoming an arborist and professional tree climber.
Lux discusses her passion for trees, the importance of proper tree care, and why it's essential to hire certified professionals to ensure the health and safety of trees. She discusses the challenges and rewards of running her own business and balancing work with family life as a single mother.
Lux also talks about the unique beauty of Utah's landscape, the variety of trees in the state, and the importance of preserving and caring for these natural resources.
Season 5 Episode 28: In this episode, host Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with guests Ryan Starks, executive director of the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, David Carlebach, managing director of international programs at World Trade Center Utah (WTCU), and Ike Ikeme, vice president of investments and strategic partnerships at RevRoad about the state’s recent trade mission to the UK and France.
They discuss Utah's economic development, international investment, and the significance of trade missions. Starks emphasizes Utah's unique position as a state with strong infrastructure and cooperative collaboration. Carlebach highlights WTCU’s role in connecting Utah companies globally and enhancing trade opportunities. Ikeme highlights the vibrant Utah ecosystem for startups and the impact of trade missions in fostering international relationships and investments.
Season 5 Episode 27: In this episode of Business Elevated, host Pete Codella speaks with Robert Spendlove, senior vice president and economic and public policy officer at Zion's Bank. He offers an insightful analysis of Utah's economy, combining his extensive experience in the financial sector and Utah Legislature. From navigating the complexities of interest rates, inflation, and employment trends to discussing Utah's economic resilience and its ranking as the top state in the U.S.; the conversation covers a broad spectrum of topics. Housing challenges, Zion's Bank's 150-year legacy of community service, and Utah's exceptional quality of life in Utah are also explored, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the state's economic dynamics and vibrant spirit.
Season 5 Episode 26: In this podcast episode, Ashley Okawa, public information officer at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, interviews Troy Tortorich, general manager of the Chevron Salt Lake City refinery. He shares insights about Chevron's history in Utah, starting in 1948 when Standard Oil built a refinery in the state. Tortorich discusses the refining process, including the production of Tier 3 fuels, which help reduce tailpipe emissions and contribute to better air quality. Chevron's commitment to education, the environment, and community inclusion is highlighted, showcasing partnerships with various organizations to support student STEM programs and protect critical wetlands habitat.
The episode also delves into Chevron's two-pronged approach to carbon reduction, emphasizing a future with lower-carbon energy solutions like renewables, hydrogen, and carbon capture.
To learn more about Chevron, listeners are invited to attend the Community Tour Day in the fall, celebrating Chevron's 75 years in Utah.
In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, discusses the challenges faced by women and girls in Utah with Dr. Susan Madsen, founder of the Utah Women and Leadership Project. They cover topics such as workplace inequality, sexism, domestic violence, and educational disparities. Dr. Madsen emphasizes the need for men's allyship and collaboration to create a more inclusive society.
They also introduce the Bolder Way Forward initiative, a seven-year project aimed at empowering Utah girls and women. They highlight the importance of engaging various stakeholders, including PTAs and businesses, in driving positive change. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to join the movement and contribute to a more equitable future.
Listeners gain valuable insights into the challenges faced by women and girls in Utah and the significance of collective efforts to promote gender equity. The episode inspires action and highlights the importance of collaboration in creating a more inclusive society.
For more information about the 100 Companies Championing Women please refer to this Research and Policy brief and learn more at inutah.org/inspire.
Season 5 Episode 24: This episode features a conversation with Brian Torgersen, director of the Provo Airport, and Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
Provo Municipal Airport (PVU) is Utah's second busiest airport. Commercial service is provided through its partners Breeze Airways and Allegiant Air. The airport is considered a general aviation airfield, providing space for local aviators. With over 70,000 square feet of terminal space and four passenger gates, it offers quick and comfortable access to travel opportunities.
Torgerson discusses his employment history with Provo starting as a traffic engineer to his current role as director of PVU since August 2022. He also shares his institutional knowledge of the airport, the twists and turns it took to get a new airport terminal, and plans for accommodating international flights. Torgersen shares the many benefits passengers realize when they fly out of PVU, Provo’s formation of a business travel task force that requests travel data, the competitive atmosphere of attracting and recruiting airlines, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 23: This episode features a conversation with Derrick Porter, CEO of Beauty Industry Group, and Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
The governor’s Spring 2023 One Utah Summit has a long-standing tradition of presenting awards to honor individuals and companies contributing to Utah’s economic opportunities, local communities, and industries. The One Utah International Business of the Year is Beauty Industry Group. Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Beauty Industry Group sells products in 165 countries to over 100,000 stylists and salons worldwide. Its impressive and continued growth has created hundreds of jobs in Utah and thousands worldwide. The company embraces BIG® ideas to increase opportunities and deliver true beauty to the world.
Porter discusses how his nontraditional approach to education prepared him for his current role and describes the company and its product lines. He also shares what it was like when the company started to do business internationally and how his experiences with World Trade Center Utah helped Beauty Industry Group jump-start its international expansion. Porter informs listeners of the lessons learned as an entrepreneur, what receiving the 2023 Utah International Business of the Year means to him, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 22: This episode features a conversation with the finalists of the 2023 One Utah Summit Startup Pitch competition. Listen as Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, interviews the three award winners – Pam Sitterud, co-founder of Dentacōr (first place and people’s choice), D.J. Potter, CEO of Sawtooth (second place), and Greg Scott, CEO of SRT Labs (third place).
The governor-sponsored Startup Pitch competition is an entrepreneurial speed-pitch challenge where judges rank the best ideas, and the audience selects a people’s choice award recipient. The Utah Innovation Center, part of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, presents the Startup Pitch annually. Kinect Capital powers the competition in partnership with Weber State University’s Hall Global Entrepreneurship Center.
Sitterud, co-founder of Dentacōr, a company that brings dental exams to the workplace or home, informs listeners what led her to start the company, what piqued her interest to enter the Startup Pitch competition, and the mentoring she received to prepare her for competition. She also discusses the importance of entrepreneurs being able to listen, the status of trademarking Dentacōr’s equipment, and much more.
Next, Potter, CEO of Sawtooth, a company that provides high-quality, durable truck Tonneau covers, tells listeners why he decided to participate in the competition and what he gained from the experience. He elaborates on the company’s intellectual property, his aspirations for the company, its challenges, how he plans to use the prize money, and much more.
Scott, CEO of SRT Labs, a service robotics and technologies company, explains what the company’s software does and the impetus for creating it. He also tells listeners about his experience participating in the competition, why he decided to start his business in Utah four years ago, his one piece of advice for entrepreneurs, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 21: This episode features a conversation with Kenneth Boggs, the recipient of the Cameron Russell Williams Rising Impact Award, and Ashley Okawa, public information officer at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
The Kenneth Boggs Group received the Cameron Russell Williams Rising Impact Award at the 2023 One Utah Summit for its philanthropy work. The award is given by the Cameron Russell Williams Foundation to honor Cameron’s lasting impact and legacy characterized by his rallying cry of, “Dream big. Then bigger than that.” The award honors black business and technology entrepreneurs poised to unite diverse people and provide opportunities that create prosperity for Utahns.
Boggs discusses the importance of family and the selfless and giving culture he has witnessed in Utah since moving from California. He also tells listeners about the story behind every art-inspired Kenneth Boggs suit. The fashion architect gives listeners suggestions for turning their passion into a career and the important role social media played in founding his company. Boggs describes his passion for working with children, why he chose Utah to start his business, what it means to him to receive the Cameron Russell Williams Rising Impact award, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 20: This episode features a conversation with Brock Blake, founder and CEO of Lendio, and Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
In this episode, we talk with Blake, the recipient of the 2023 One Utah Business of the Year. Founded in 2011 with headquarters in Lehi, Lendio is a marketplace for small business loans where lenders compete for business. It partners with over 75 lenders to offer small business owners access to working capital to start or grow their businesses. In 2021, Glassdoor ranked Lendio the No. 8 Best Place to Work.
Blake discusses earning a degree in entrepreneurial finance from Brigham Young University and entering an eight-week boot camp competition, how he founded Lendio to give small business owners access to capital, and what differentiates his company. He discusses his experience contributing to the small business sections on Forbes.com and the company’s designation as one of 100 Companies Championing Women. Blake also talks about how work has changed since the pandemic, what receiving the 2023 One Utah Business of the Year award at the recent One Utah Summit means to him, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 19: This episode features a conversation with Alex Dunn, managing partner at The Larry H. Miller Company (LHM), and Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
LHM is a portfolio of companies and investments united by one mission: enriching lives. Founded by Larry H. and Gail Miller, the Larry H. Miller Company is one of the largest privately-owned companies in the western United States.
Dunn gives listeners an overview of his nontraditional path to becoming an entrepreneur, what he enjoys most about being a managing partner at LHM, and joining the team as it embarks on its next chapter without the Utah Jazz or car dealerships. He discusses the next business areas LHM is focusing on, including investments, sports/entertainment, senior health, and real estate. Dunn also talks about the possibility of bringing Major League Baseball to Utah, the company's recent designation by the Economic Opportunity office as one of 100 Utah companies championing women, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 18: This episode features conversations with recipients of the Utah Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology. The three medal winners are Lora Gibbons (K-12 education), Dr. Julie Valentine, Ph.D., RN, SANE-A, FAAN (Academic/Research), and Dr. David Bearss (Industry).
Listen as Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, interviews the award winners as they discuss their background, experience, and what it means to be recognized this year by Gov. Cox with the Governor’s Science Medal.
Gibbons informs listeners about how she became involved in STEM education in elementary schools and her experiences helping students assemble science fair projects. She also elaborates on how the gender gap in STEM has narrowed, how more women are earning degrees than men, and what receiving the 2023 Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology in the K-12 education category means to her.
Next, Valentine tells listeners how her experience as a nurse and her groundbreaking research on sexual assault is influencing statewide improvements to address sexual violence and shares what changes she has seen in Utah due to her research. She also discusses how Utah compares to other states regarding sexual assault and what being recognized with Gov. Cox’s Medal for Science and Technology in the academic and research category means to her.
Bearss explains how he became involved in researching and developing new therapeutics that enhance lives and what area of his research has been most impactful. He also tells listeners what lessons he learned from participating in clinical studies, details his work with the Huntsman Cancer Institute, and shares what receiving the Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology in the industry category means to him.
Season 5 Episode 17: This episode features a conversation with Paul Allen, founder and CEO of Soar, and Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
In this episode, we talk with Paul Allen about his success with Ancestry.com as one of its co-founders. Instead of looking to the past, his latest venture as founder and CEO of Soar is future-focused. It's about artificial intelligence, and Allen has assembled a world-class team of technologists to ensure that humans can self-determine their relationship with AI.
Allen tells listeners how his bachelor's degree in Russian from Brigham Young University, and his passion for learning, led him to found successful technology companies. He talks about his positive experiences and lessons learned at Ancestry.com and elaborates on his experiences as a strengths finder coach helping individuals live their best lives. He shares details about the mission of his current company, Soar, to realize the scope of potential that is unique to everyone and its opportunity to help shape the deployment of AI in positive ways, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 16: This episode features a conversation with Jill Koziol, co-founder and CEO of Motherly, and Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
In 2022, Motherly was named an Inc. 5,000 Fastest Growing Private Company and a Parity.org Best Company for Women to Advance. It engages over 40 million readers and viewers monthly with on-demand parent education classes, Webby-award-winning videos, podcasts, essays, and articles.
Koziol tells listeners how having a master's degree from Georgetown University prepared her for the role as CEO of the all-in-one parenting platform, the inspiration for founding Motherly, and how the company supports working mothers. She also talks about her experience raising $5.4 million in Series A funding in 2020 and what she hopes readers take away from the two books she authored. Koziol also mentions the platforms and advertising partners Motherly works with, her advice for other entrepreneurs, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Trina Limpert, co-founder of Tech-Moms, and Alecia Hart, strategic initiatives program director with the Utah Small Business Credit Initiative at the Economic Opportunity office.
As part of the office’s Inspire In Utah campaign, Tech-Moms recently received the designation as one of the 100 Utah Companies Championing Women. Listen as the duo discusses the company’s efforts to champion women in the workforce.
Since launching the first group of cohorts in September 2020, Tech-Moms has helped hundreds of women to recognize that you can have a rewarding career and still make it to your kids’ soccer games. It has provided hope and inspiration to many women who couldn’t see a path forward by giving women confidence in their abilities through education, professional development, and a supportive network.
Limpert discusses what led her to start the nonprofit company, the distinction that tech jobs are mom jobs, and how COVID-19 redefined flexible work schedules. She talks about how the company offers graduates a job when they complete the program and how Tech-Moms views productivity for work-from-home moms. Limpert also explains the benefits the company realizes from student placement work, how there is a fit for anyone in technology regardless of their background or education level, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 14: This episode features a conversation with Kori Ann Edwards, managing director of strategic initiatives, and Kyle Palmer, director of the Unified Economic Opportunity Commission, about the economic development outcomes from Utah’s 2023 legislative session.
Utah’s 2023 legislative session recently concluded, and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity represented Gov. Cox’s charge to foster and encourage economic opportunities for all Utahns. This year, the Legislature passed a record number of bills totaling 575 that addressed various issues.
Edwards discusses her responsibility overseeing the strategic initiatives team, what economic development planning looks like in Utah, why the Economic Opportunity office engages with the Legislature, and its role in the legislative ecosystem. She also highlights the impacts Utah businesses can expect from the recent legislative session and looks forward to the office’s priorities for the 2024 legislative session.
Palmer elaborates on the Unified Economic Opportunity Commission’s role, its impacts on Utah residents, and how stakeholder feedback is incorporated throughout the session. He also discusses policy initiatives that resulted in new legislation and how working with stakeholders creates economic opportunities throughout the year.
This episode is part two of conversations featuring the partners presenting Gov. Cox's Spring One Utah Summit at the Davis Conference Center in Layton on May 1-2, 2023.
In this episode, listen to Linda Cabrales, director of the Utah Innovation Center at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, Derek Miller, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber, and Greg Todd, executive director of the Utah Office of Energy Development.
Cabrales informs listeners of the summit’s entrepreneur startup pitch competition featuring Utah's best and brightest, how it helps support Utah's startup ecosystem and why entrepreneurs should participate. She also describes how the Utah Innovation Center works with Brad Bonham, the state's first Entrepreneur-in-Residence.
Next, Miller tells listeners about the Salt Lake Chamber's history with the Economic Opportunity office's annual economic summit and why it is vital to the Chamber, what it means to businesses in northern Utah for the summit to be held in Davis County, and his thoughts about the 2023 legislative session.
Todd shares how Utah's economic well-being is intertwined with the work of the Utah Office of Energy Development, the energy-related topics that will be discussed at this year's summit, initiatives aimed at diversifying Utah's energy portfolio, and how vital rural Utah is to the state's energy supply.
Join podcast host Pete Codella and leaders from these partner organizations to learn more about what's planned for #1UTspring and why business and civic leaders should participate.
Gov. Cox's spring One Utah Summit is coming up May 1-2, 2023, at the Davis Conference Center in Layton. The One Utah Summit is a biannual conference that brings together the state's top leaders in the public and private sectors. The Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity partners with the Salt Lake Chamber, Utah Office of Energy Development, and World Trade Center Utah to present the summit.
In this episode, listen to Ryan Starks, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, Miles Hansen, chief executive officer and president of World Trade Center Utah, and Utah’s first lady, Abby Cox.
Starks describes how the One Utah Summit is a meaningful event for public and private business leaders and the reason for moving the location outside of the Salt Lake Valley. He details his experience on how the biannual summits changed over time and what he hopes the 2023 summit will accomplish.
Next, Hansen explains why the summit is important to World Trade Center Utah, highlights global trade aspects that will be discussed on May 2, and discusses upcoming 2023 trade missions.
Cox shares why she created Show Up Utah and how it will be part of this year’s summit programming with opportunities for summit attendees to participate in service projects. The discussion includes Utah's reputation as the most charitable state in the nation and the annual Show Up For Teachers conference organized by her office.
Join podcast host Pete Codella and leaders from these partner organizations to learn more about what’s planned for #1UTspring and why business and civic leaders should participate.
Season 5 Episode 11: This episode features a conversation with Vicki Varela, the Utah Office of Tourism (UOT) managing director, and Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
Varela oversees the state’s national and international strategy to create a quality and responsible tourism economy and expand film production in Utah. Her team is responsible for leading Utah’s Red Emerald tourism strategy. She has received numerous awards, including the 2022 ATHENA Leadership Award from the Salt Lake Chamber, being named the U.S. Tourism Director of the Year in 2016, and many other honors.
She describes the career path that ultimately led her to the opportunity to tell Utah's story as the director of the Utah office of tourism, explains what being recognized with the 2022 ATHENA Leadership Award meant to her, and outlines the office's mission. Varela also describes the UOT's wildly successful Mighty 5 marketing campaign responsible for making Utah a bucket list destination, what the research done by her office shows about the state's tourism industry and how that guides marketing campaigns, the balance between bringing economic benefits of tourism to Utah and preserving the quality of life for its residents, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 10: This episode features a conversation with Arianna Fuller, Managing Director of FICC and Equities Operational Risk at Goldman Sachs, and Alecia Hart, Utah Small Business Credit Initiative director, at the Economic Opportunity office.
In Utah, Goldman Sachs, and partners from the public and private sectors, has committed over $1.3 billion since 2009. These investments have resulted in over 7,800 affordable housing units, 600,000 square feet of retail, industrial, commercial, and community facility space, 2,100 more students receiving early education, and small businesses receiving financing that helps to create jobs in Utah.
As part of the Economic Opportunity office’s Inspire In Utah campaign, Goldman Sachs recently received the designation as one of the 100 Utah Companies Championing Women. Listen as the duo discusses the company’s efforts to champion women in the workforce.
Fuller discusses her background in the financial industry, details the programs and initiatives at Goldman Sachs that support women in business throughout their lifetimes, and highlights the company's returnship program. She also examines the value of having diversity of thought, her advice to other organizations considering implementing programs similar to those at Goldman Sachs, shares stories of employees that benefited from the company’s programs, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 9: This episode features a conversation with Robyn Cohen, founder and CEO of W Collective, and Alecia Hart, Strategic Initiatives program manager with the Innovation Center at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
W Collective is an events production and culture consultancy company focused on event activation, curated experiences, and educational workshops that elevate the representation of women with the support of male allyship.
As part of the Economic Opportunity office’s Inspire In Utah campaign, W Collective recently received the designation as one of the 100 Utah Companies Championing Women. Listen as the duo discusses the company’s efforts to champion women in the workforce.
Cohen informs listeners of some of the company’s noteworthy content and events, gives examples from the organization’s “Hustle” featuring startup stories and female founders, and why women's advocacy in Utah is important. She also shares stories about women that benefited from the organization’s initiatives, the challenges she sees for female business owners in Utah, and much more.
Season 5 episode 8: This episode features a conversation with Ryan Starks, the new executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity; Brad Bonham, the state’s first entrepreneur-in-residence; and Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
The Economic Opportunity office facilitates fiscal opportunities for all Utahns by assisting entrepreneurs, retaining and recruiting businesses, and bringing high-paying jobs to Utah. In January 2023, Gov. Spencer Cox appointed Ryan Starks as the new executive director of his Economic Opportunity office. The governor also named Brad Bonham as the state’s first entrepreneur-in-residence.
Starks shared his thoughts when Gov. Cox asked him to take the position as the executive director, Bonham discusses the governor’s approach to economic opportunity and the desire for Utah to be known as the startup state, and the office’s mission–to be stewards of the world's best economy and quality of life–and the facts supporting that claim.
Bonham discusses what the term entrepreneur-in-residence means and his goals for the position, Starks explains how the state’s five targeted industries programs fuel economic opportunity, and the duo discusses what it means to future-proof Utah’s economy. They also discuss the challenges of economic prosperity, how the office strategically supports business expansion in rural areas of the state, and much more.
Season 5 episode 8: This episode features a conversation with Ryan Starks, the new executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity; Brad Bonham, the state’s first entrepreneur-in-residence; and Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
The Economic Opportunity office facilitates fiscal opportunities for all Utahns by assisting entrepreneurs, retaining and recruiting businesses, and bringing high-paying jobs to Utah. In January 2023, Gov. Spencer Cox appointed Ryan Starks as the new executive director of his Economic Opportunity office. The governor also named Brad Bonham as the state’s first entrepreneur-in-residence.
Starks shared his thoughts when Gov. Cox asked him to take the position as the executive director, Bonham discusses the governor’s approach to economic opportunity and the desire for Utah to be known as the startup state, and the office’s mission–to be stewards of the world's best economy and quality of life–and the facts supporting that claim.
Bonham discusses what the term entrepreneur-in-residence means and his goals for the position, Starks explains how the state’s five targeted industries programs fuel economic opportunity, and the duo discusses what it means to future-proof Utah’s economy. They also discuss the challenges of economic prosperity, how the office strategically supports business expansion in rural areas of the state, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 7: This episode features a conversation with Katie-Rose Skelly, co-founder and chief technology officer at Known Medicine, and Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
Forbes magazine recently recognized Skelly as one of its 30 Under 30 healthcare professionals. She’s co-founder and chief technology officer at Known Medicine, a company revolutionizing precision cancer drug development to find the proper treatment for cancer patients.
She tells listeners what led her to a career in STEM, the story behind co-founding Known Medicine, and about using tissue from cancer patients to better understand how patients will respond to treatments. Skelly tells listeners about the company’s goal of transferring experimentation from patients into a laboratory setting, explains the overarching mission of the company to find the right drug for every cancer patient, her thoughts about starting a business in Utah, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 6: This episode features a conversation with Melissa Sevy, founder and CEO of Ethik, and Alecia Hart, Strategic Initiatives program manager with the Utah Innovation Center at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity..
The company makes positive economic impacts by purchasing handcrafted Ethik products from over 2,500 artisans and partners worldwide. Each order enables craftspeople to maintain important cultural practices and build a brighter future for themselves and their families.
As part of the Economic Opportunity office’s Inspire In Utah campaign, Ethik recently received the designation as one of the 100 Utah Companies Championing Women. Listen as she discusses the organization's efforts to champion women in the workforce.
Sevy describes meeting with like-minded founders and understanding their challenges, how Ethik helps women in developing economies by supplying consistent work, and how the company goes to great lengths to ensure artisans are paid a fair and livable wage. She shares a story of bringing on a cohort of women in Uganda and them chanting, “Today our children will drink milk.” after she handed out envelopes with cash inside, how Ethik tracks how many people worked on specific orders and how many dependents they are supporting, and the businesses sustainable for-profit business model. Sevy details the company’s flexible work schedules, advises other organizations looking at implementing women-centric policies, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 5: This episode features a conversation with Nathan Rafferty, president and CEO of Ski Utah, and Pete Codella, the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity managing director of business services.
The phrase “The Greatest Snow on Earth” has garnered international attention, and Utah created a license plate touting the phrase. The promise of perfect powder fuels Utah’s skiing industry, with over five million skier visits per year, according to Ski Utah. The organization is a marketing company owned and operated by the Utah Ski and Snowboard Association. It focuses on advancing the Utah winter sports industry, representing resorts, lodging, transportation, retail, restaurants, and other ski or snowboard-related services.
Rafferty tells listeners of his journey from intern to president over his 17-year career at ski Utah, how the ski resorts have reimagined year-round activities, and the not-so-well-known secrets to the state’s snowpack, such as consistency and water quality. He also discusses the decades-long issue of transit options, the possibility of a gondola the Utah Department of Transportation is considering, how the new Salt City International Airport impacts skiing tourism, and the economics of the ski industry. Rafferty tells listeners how the organization is making skiing and snowboarding accessible to locals and not just visitors, shares his views on well Utah is positioned to host another Winter Olympics, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 4: This episode features a conversation with Heather Brace, chief people officer at Intermountain Health, and Alecia Hart, Strategic Initiatives Program manager with the Innovation Center at Go Utah.
Intermountain Health, headquartered in Salt Lake City, is Utah’s largest private employer with almost 60,000 employees in seven states with the mission of helping people live their healthiest lives possible.
As part of the Inspire In Utah campaign, Intermountain recently received the designation as one of the 100 Utah Companies Championing Women. Listen as the duo discusses the company’s efforts to champion women in the workforce.
Brace discusses her role as chief people officer, operationally and strategically, for all things people-related, noteworthy programs and initiatives that support women in the workplace, and the organization’s goal to elevate more females in the leadership ranks. She also discusses Intermountain Health’s remote work strategy, which 60% of women participate in, the ability to live a lifestyle conducive to home and family, and the impact remote work has on the organization. Brace also expands on what female representation on leadership teams looks like at Intermountain, the importance of having male allies, benefits the organization offers its employees such as tuition coverage, her advice to companies looking to implement some of these women-friendly policies, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 3: This episode features a conversation with Ricki Miller, the Human Resources manager at Clearfield City, and Alecia Hart, the Strategic Initiatives program manager with the Innovation Center at Go Utah.
As part of Go Utah’s Inspire In Utah campaign, Clearfield City recently received the designation as one of the 100 Utah Companies Championing Women. Listen as the duo discusses the organization’s efforts to champion women in the workforce.
Miller discusses the many benefits of working in the public sector, such as Clearfield City’s ability to champion programs focusing on women, the city’s family-friendly policies, and the significance of the nomination from a city employee. She also tells listeners why it is important for the city to participate in other organizations and associations championing women, Clearfield City’s recent launch of its leadership program, and investing in women-centered programs that cultivate young talent. Miller shares stories of women positively impacted by the city's programs, the realized gains in employee productivity, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 2: This episode features a conversation with Aimee Winder Newton, the first senior advisor and director of the new Office of Families and Pete Codella, Go Utah’s managing director of business services.
Last year, Gov. Cox established the office to support Utah families through proactive strategies and policies, including promoting what already makes Utah the best place for children and parents to thrive. The office recommends policies, legislation, and innovation to strengthen families at all economic levels.
Winder Newton tells listeners how earning a degree from the University of Utah in communications and public relations helped her prepare for her current role as senior advisor to Gov. Cox, her work on the Salt Lake County council for the past nine years, the goals of the newly-formed Office of Families, and how Utah's families contribute to the strength of Utah’s economy. She also shares the five priorities for her office, the top two challenges facing Utah families, lessons she learned so far in her new role, how the office’s success will be measured, and much more.
Season 5 Episode 1: This episode features a conversation with Tina Hazlett, founder and CEO of Spectrum Recruiting Solutions, and Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
With Utah’s astoundingly low unemployment rate of 2.2%, finding talented and experienced employees is a serious assignment. Spectrum Recruiting Solutions partners with engineering and manufacturing companies to find exemplary talent for professional-level positions. Its match-making, unicorn-hunting team of experts specializes in finding ideal matches in the engineering and manufacturing job market.
Hazlett tells listeners about her passion for volunteer work and giving back to the community - notably the American Heart Association, founding Spectrum Recruiting Solutions in 2018, and the story of how she met with a recruiting firm and how they ended up hiring her. She tells about the satisfaction she receives when finding the right person for the position, why the recruiting company chose to focus on engineering and manufacturing, and the challenges her business faces with Utah’s historically low unemployment rate. Hazlett also shares her advice for job seekers, the trends she notices, what differentiates her recruiting company from others, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Michelle Flynn, the executive director of the nonprofit The Road Home, and Pete Codella, Go Utah’s managing director of business services. The nonprofit organization provides emergency shelter, supportive services, and housing assistance to help individuals and families step out of homelessness.
Flynn tells listeners why she has been with The Road Home for more than two decades, what first drew her to a service-oriented career, and shares the organization’s long-standing and rich history. She informs the public what the organization is doing to combat the affordable housing situation in Utah, the number of individuals The Road Home assists annually, and how the coronavirus pandemic impacted the organization. Flynn shares how the Salt Valley compares to other metropolitan areas regarding homelessness, tells listeners how they can get involved during this season of giving, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Jeremy Hafen, president of Clyde Companies, and Alecia Hart, Strategic Initiatives program manager with the Innovation Center at Go Utah.
As part of Go Utah’s Inspire In Utah campaign, Clyde Companies recently received the designation as one of the 100 Utah Companies Championing Women. Listen as the duo discusses the company’s efforts to champion women in the workforce.
Hafen discusses the company’s noteworthy programs and initiatives that support women, such as participating in the ElevateHER™ Challenge, the women's employee resource group, and the company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion program that works to ensure the company’s operational procedures align with its values. He also shares anecdotes demonstrating how employees benefit from company policies, his advice for companies looking to develop programs that benefit women, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with the nonprofit WHOlives, an organization committed to bringing clean water to developing communities in a self-sustainable process. Listen as Pete Codella, Go Utah’s managing director of business services, interviews Ashley Bracy, director of philanthropy, and Mike Anderson, director of operations, to find out how a water drill developed by a group of BYU students impacts the developing world.
Listen as the duo discusses what it means when individuals in third-world countries don't have access to clean water and how it impacts the entire world, how the idea for the philanthropic organization was born, and how it helps communities be more independent. They also examine what it’s like when villages are empowered, share stories about how their organization has changed the lives of others, what it’s like traveling the world and volunteering, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Greg Larson, CEO and co-founder of Dwellify, and Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
Dwellify digitizes home remodeling planning with one-stop-shop home makeover services. The company guides homeowners through a step-by-step process to create dream kitchens and bathrooms and eliminate pain points homeowners often encounter during a home remodeling.
Larson shares his journey from founding a private equity firm to CEO and co-founder of Dwellify, his previous experiences on kitchen and bathroom remodels costing double and taking twice as long, and the company’s business strategy. He also shares that by visiting the company’s website, homeowners can get cost estimates in minutes and receive an assortment of home remodeling products delivered to their homes, and the importance of selecting the right team members. Larson also emphasizes that homeowners must consider how they will use spaces, discusses design trends, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Patricia Jones, CEO of the Women’s Leadership Institute, and Alecia Hart, Strategic Initiatives program manager with the Innovation Center at Go Utah.
As part of Go Utah’s Inspire In Utah campaign, the Women’s Leadership Institute recently received the designation as one of the 100 Utah Companies Championing Women. The organization’s mission is to elevate the status of women in leadership roles in business and politics. Listen as the duo discusses the organization’s efforts to champion women in the workforce.
Jones discusses how her experience as a state legislator and market researcher led her to start the Women’s Leadership Institute, the organization’s ElevateHER™ Challenge, and its eight-month-long Career Development and Political Development Series. She also shares anecdotes and personal stories demonstrating the importance of having men as allies and advocates and the importance of women speaking up and challenging assumptions. Jones also explains why it is important for women to be leaders in their community, consider running for political offices, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Chris Naugle, the founder and CEO of Private Money Club, and Pete Codella, Go Utah’s managing director of business services.
The Private Money Club launched nationally at Sundance in Park City, Utah, in October 2022. Naugle is a pro-snowboarder turned money mentor, Mapping Out the Millionaire Mystery author, and a noted public speaker on real estate and money and management topics. He built 16 companies and featured his business in Forbes, on ABC, and on House Hunters.
Naugle shares why he chose to launch The Private Money from a must-see Utah ski resort, his journey from professional snow border to money mentor, and how he became an entrepreneur at 16 and the struggle to fund his dream. He also talks about his early career on Wall Street and how that compares to being an entrepreneur, his philosophy and advice on money, and the impetus for founding the club that he compares to a dating site for money. Naugle shares his predictions on the real estate market, discusses how alternate banking options could yield higher returns for investors, and much more.
From Teenage Skater Kid to Chef Extraordinaire:
Chef Shon Foster’s Wild Ride
This episode features a conversation with Chef Shon Foster, executive chef and owner of Sego restaurant in Kanab, and Pete Codella, Go Utah’s managing director of business services. The restaurant serves a selection of regional New American cuisine focusing on what makes the country unique and eclectic through its social plate dining concept.
Foster shares his story of slowly starting a business by selling one sandwich at a time and building a long-term game plan, turning a job into a career, and gaining an appreciation for the finest ingredients. He also shares the importance of making mistakes, his food philosophy that food should tell a story, and why food is important to a community’s culture. Foster comments on Utah’s foodie scene, the state’s recent gain in notoriety as a must-experience dining destination, the countless mentors that made him the chef he is today, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Margaret Busse, executive director of the Utah Department of Commerce, Jeff Shumway, the new director of the Office of Professional Licensure Review, and Pete Codella, Go Utah’s managing director of business services.
Utah's leading the way in professional licensure reform. Recently, Gov. Cox signed S.B. 16, which created the Office of Professional Licensure Review, to reduce unnecessary barriers to workforce development in Utah.
Margaret Busse explains her keen interest in public policy issues and her career path, how the department is reducing regulatory barriers for businesses and individuals, and the office’s role in managing professional licenses in Utah, where over 700,000 workers are required to have a professional license. She also discusses licensing requirements in the state, the goal of licensing reform, and how she views Utah licensure reform moving forward.
Shumway details his career path to become the director of the new Office of Professional Licensure and review within the Utah Department of Commerce, the social impacts state government can have, and the primary objective of the office he oversees. He shares lessons learned in his early tenure, the licensing reviews he hopes will lead to meaningful changes in the state, and how professional licensing review in Utah compares to other states.
Four Initiatives & One Common Goal: Provide Utah Businesses With Valuable Resources
This episode features conversations with business services team members at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity. Listen as Pete Codella, managing director of business services, interviews the business services initiative leaders. First up is Chuck Spence, director of Utah's Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), followed by Natalie El-Deiry, director of immigration and New American integration at the Utah Immigration Assistance Center. Next, Codella speaks with Linda Cabrales, director of the Utah Innovation Center, and finally, with Dane Ishihara, director of the Utah Office of Regulatory Relief. Go Utah's business services team provides resources for Utah's small business owners and entrepreneurs. It manages initiatives facilitating economic opportunities for Utah’s businesses and communities.
Spence informs listeners why PTAC is Utah’s best-kept secret. He discusses the center’s individual or group training, how much money it attracts to the state of Utah, and how PTAC best positions its clients to win federal contracts.
Next, El-Deiry introduces the Utah Immigration Assistance Center and explains how it helps businesses navigate recruiting and retaining global talent, the services of the center, and its New American Task Force statewide initiative.
Cabrales explains how the award-winning Utah Innovation Center connects small businesses across Utah working on innovative technologies with funding sources, the three predominant industry sectors that seek assistance from the center, and the free counseling services it offers.
Ishihara gives listeners an overview of the recently-formed Utah Office of Regulatory Relief, how the regulatory sandbox and its advisory board work, and how Utahns with questions about the office can contact regrelief@utah.gov.
This episode features a conversation with Nathan Millecam, co-founder and CEO of Electric Power Systems (EP Systems), and Pete Codella, Go Utah’s managing director of business services. The company recently announced its partnerships with Tokyo-based SkyDrive and U.S.-based Supernal. Together, they are working on electric air vehicles. In other words, a futuristic flying car or flying taxi.
Millecam explains what led him to create EP Systems, the company’s successes and failures, and what it's like to work with NASA. He defines the term “certifiable system” and why it is the north star that guides everything safety-related in the aviation industry, what led him to establish the company’s roots in Logan, Utah, and the exciting clients EP Systems has worked with (hint: think about the magic kingdom). Millecam also discusses his recent trip to the Farnborough International Air Show in London with Go Utah and World Trade Center Utah representatives, how the Federal Aviation Administration views urban air mobility, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Lt. Gov. Deidre M. Henderson and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah's managing director of business services. Henderson served eight years in the Utah Senate before joining Gov. Spencer J. Cox in the 2020 governor’s election and being sworn into office in January 2021. She's responsible for protecting and preserving Utah's fair and secure elections, a steward of the official state seal, and a vocal advocate for Utah’s women and families.
Lt. Gov. Henderson shares lessons learned in her almost two years as the state's second-highest elected official. She discusses returning to Brigham Young University to complete her bachelor’s degree in history, the importance of education, and Return Utah – her work-based learning initiative to help adults re-enter the workforce. She also discusses her role in updating Utah's public education curriculum to include the state's history of women's equality, unique challenges women entrepreneurs face, how Utahns can support women-owned businesses, and her thoughts on preserving family units and maintaining robust, safe Utah communities. Henderson also discusses the importance of providing opportunities for Utahns, identifying a new state flag, and more.
This episode features a conversation with several speakers at the One Utah Summit recently held on the Southern Utah University (SUU) campus in Cedar City. Listen as podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director, asks five thought leaders with expertise in various areas to share their unique knowledge and experiences.
First, we spoke with SUU President Mindy Benson about the university’s role in preparing a trained workforce and her experience teaching and leading at the university. Next, Gov. Cox’s Senior Advisor for Education, Brittney Cummins, joined Codella to discuss educating Utah’s youth. Joel Ferry, executive director of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, discussed his team’s work throughout the state.
Codella also spoke with Kevin Lewis, director of tourism for Greater Zion, about bringing the IRONMAN competition to Southern Utah. Finally, Brian Steed, executive director at the new Janet Quinney Lawson Institute for Land, Water, and Air at Utah State University, shared his thoughts on overcoming environmental challenges in the nation’s fastest-growing state.
The next One Utah Summit is scheduled for May 1-2, 2023, at the Davis Conference Center in Layton.
This episode features a conversation with David Smith, chief strategy officer for The Larry H. Miller Company, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. The Larry H. Miller Company is well-known for its business portfolio, including the 1979 opening of Toyota of Murray, which expanded to dozens of automotive dealerships in several states, the Utah Jazz, Salt Lake Bees, Megaplex Theatres, and other enterprises. This Utah company firmly believes in doing good and giving back. David explains how previous roles at various companies managing mergers and acquisitions prepared him for his current position at the company and how knowing the day-to-day operations and being on the frontlines continues to help him put people first. He expands on the company’s diversified business holdings, its core mission of enriching lives, and how its board of directors works closely with the executive team to preserve its culture. David also explains why community building and giving back are vital to the Miller family culture, what's in store for the company's future, and much more
This episode features a conversation with Mike Gauss, Gauss Management Research and Engineering, Inc. (GMRE) CEO, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. Gauss started GMRE in 2005 to serve clients in the aerospace, defense, and engineering sectors with a focus on business integration.
As a retired member of the U.S. Air Force, Gauss earned his engineering degree and developed requirements for air and crew simulators. That proved to be a good transition from active duty to defense contractor. He discusses what led him to create GMRE, what he learned about not leaving any money on the table and creating a corporate culture of optimism. Gauss tells Codella how he created a work environment that attracts the best engineers and scientists, a successful business model, and the secrets to keeping an eye out for hidden intellectual property. He also talks about significant projects GMRE is working on, why he chose northern Utah as his home base and the importance of recruiting and maintaining a talented workforce.
Listen to the episode for these conversations and more.
This episode features a conversation with two representatives of World Trade Center Utah: David Carlebach, the chief operating officer and managing director of international programs, and Jim Porter, director of service operations and client strategy, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. WTC Utah provides companies with opportunities for establishing global connections and partners with Go Utah on international trade missions that help companies make valuable international connections.
Carlebach and Porter discuss international investments companies make in Utah and their impacts on the state’s economy, innovation in the state, and working with small and mid-size companies to prepare them for international growth. Codella asks Porter about the organization's expanded vision and what the term 'Crossroads of the World' means as it elevates Utah companies on the world stage. The duo also gives listeners advice on how to get involved with the organization, the economic benefits and opportunities Utanns realize from an organization like WTC Utah, and more.
For more information about World Trade Center Utah, visit World Trade Center Utah or contact David Carlebach at dcarlebach@wtcutah.com or Jim Porter at jporter@wtcutah.com.
This episode features a conversation with Natalie Gochnour, associate dean in the David Eccles School of Business and director of the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. The episode springboards off the Opportunity Atlas, which shows the American and Utah neighborhoods that offer children the best chance to rise out of poverty.
Gochnour discusses her thoughts on upward mobility in Utah and the two significant findings that education and neighborhoods matter. She also notes that Utah has America's largest middle class and ranks high for upward mobility and how that plays out in urban communities versus rural ones. Codella asks Gochnour about the connection between where individuals worship and upward mobility, why Utah has a large middle class, and the cyclical nature of Utah’s economy.
Gochnour also talks about a new economic impact study for corporate retention and recruitment that the Gardner Policy Institute prepares for Go Utah's Board and executive director, providing detailed economic impact considerations for proposed new EDTIF tax credits. The EDTIF program is Utah Legislature's post-performance corporate incentive to attract new high-paying jobs and keep Utah companies in the state.
Listen to the episode for these conversations and more.
This episode features a conversation with Dr. Susan Madsen, director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project in the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
In the summer of 2021, Dr. Madsen’s organization published a whitepaper in response to Utah ranking last for women’s equality in the United States in a report published by WalletHub. Since then, the Cox/Henderson administration assembled a task force to address the report’s metrics and work to move the needle.
Madsen discusses efforts to elevate discussions about women in the workforce and ways to close educational, gender, and wage gaps. She also talks about WalletHub’s most recent report, “Best and Worst States for Women.” She discusses equal pay legislation, religion's role in the state’s low gender equity ranking, how she thinks the state’s growing population will impact gender equity, what community members can do to positively impact women's role in Utah's economy, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Stephen Lisonbee, senior advisor to Gov. Cox for Rural Affairs and associate vice president at Southern Utah University (SUU) Office of Regional Services, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
From Oct. 11 to 13, Utah's rural leaders and decision-makers will convene on the campus of SUU for the 35th consecutive Utah Rural Summit, now known as the southern One Utah Summit. The summit occurs every fall in Cedar City and every spring in northern Utah.
During the discussion, Lisonbee shares what it is like to be the point person responsible for implementing Gov. Cox’s increased importance on rural Utah. He also shares programming highlights for this year’s networking event, including a rundown of the agenda, keynote speakers, and the entrepreneurial pitch, known as the State Bank Business Challenge, and why it is important for SUU to continue hosting the summit. Lisonbee also discusses plans for the summit's final day, known as Leadership Day, when leaders gather for training and to convene board and committee meetings to tend to important business.
Learn more about the summit and purchase tickets by visiting the One Utah Summit website.
This is the 100th episode of the Business Elevated podcast. Go Utah executives joined the podcast to celebrate the milestone and discuss the office's work and team. Executive Director Dan Hemmert discussed what providing economic opportunity for Utahns means to the Cox/Henderson administration and the work of the 90+ employees in the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.
Ryan Starks, managing director of business services, detailed the office’s programs supporting Utah entrepreneurs, small businesses, targeted industries, and Utahns in urban and rural areas. He also shares his thoughts on Utah’s successful startup and business climate.
Finally, we talk with Kori Ann Edwards, managing director of operations, about all of the Go Utah teams, about her experience joining the team just before the COVID-19 pandemic, how that changed the office's work, and some of the grants and other programs currently available. She also shares her enthusiasm and support for the office’s work as the government-to-industry governor’s team.
Thanks for listening to the Business Elevated podcast. Feel free to contact us at business@utah.gov.
This episode features a conversation with Bryce Bird, director of the Division of Air Quality within the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, Candice Hasenyager, director of the Division of Water Resources within the Department of Natural Resources, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. Go Utah recently announced an Air & Water Innovation Grant. This $10 million grant program incentivizes Utah-based businesses to implement strategic and innovative solutions to address the state’s air quality and water conservation.
In this episode, Bird discusses what innovations he anticipates seeing from this grant, how Utah’s air quality compares to other metropolitan areas, and his recommendations for residents to improve the state’s air quality. Codella and Bird talk about how the Division of Air Quality addresses Utah’s burgeoning population, the Utah Air Quality app that monitors air quality statewide, and much more.
Next, Hasenyager discusses the measures the Division of Water Quality takes to safeguard Utah's water resources, including conservation, the innovations she hopes to see from the Air & Water Innovation Grant, and her message to all Utahns for preserving the state’s water resources. She also discusses how policy has evolved in the 15 years she has been with the department, balancing the state’s growing population and economy with water resources, the efforts underway in the driest parts of Utah, and much more.
The Air & Water Innovation grant application portal closes on Sept. 29 at 4 p.m. Learn more at business.utah.gov/grants.
This episode features a conversation between Stephaine Duer, water conservation manager at the Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. Utah is experiencing its worst drought in over 1,200 years, and how Utah manages its limited water supply will impact the state's future.
In this episode, Duer shares valuable lessons learned over two decades at the forefront of Utah’s complex water matters. She also shares her multi-year experience working on Gov. Herbert's state water conservation strategy as the only municipal representative on the task force. Duer talks about how the statewide drought impacts her work and provides tips to conserve water (hint: use less). She also discusses the difference between residential and commercial water usage, the Utah water savers initiative, Salt Lake City's native water conservation demonstration garden, and much more.
If you'd like to contact Stephanie Duer, you can reach her at stephanie.duer@slcgov.com or 801-483-6860.
This episode features a conversation between Christina Oliver, Housing & Community Development director in the Utah Department of Workforce Services, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. The Deseret News recently quoted CNBC’s “America’s Top States for Business” study, which ranked Utah No. 1 for having the most stable housing market.
In this Business Elevated episode, listen as Oliver shares how her multifaceted professional experiences, in both the public and private sectors, prepared her for her current role. We talk about the number of affordable housing units throughout the state and the challenges Utah faces as the nation's fastest-growing state. Oliver also discusses the consequences of growth and how the state can address it, housing and rent prices pre- and post-pandemic, and how Utah wages aren't keeping pace with increased housing costs. The duo also talks about staying engaged in housing and community development issues, partnerships with like-minded organizations, and much more.
This episode features a conversation between Sean Slatter, CEO and president of LSI, about owning and operating a consulting business with operations in Northern Utah and Washington, D.C., and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. The company specializes in business and economic development, social impact practices, logistics, and supply chain management.
Slatter shares valuable lessons he's learned as a business owner and entrepreneur, such as being tenacious and not giving up, the three primary disciplines LSI focuses on, and how the company’s capabilities have evolved. He explains the company’s social impact work, including creating jobs for unemployed veterans, LSI’s experience in the aerospace and defense industry in northern Utah, and how the state’s small to medium-sized businesses are primary drivers of Utah’s strong and diverse economy. Slatter also discusses what changes he sees in Utah’s workforce, housing supply and demand in the state, and much more.
This episode features a conversation between Nate Thatcher, CEO of XIMA, about what it takes to build a software as a service company from the ground up, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. XIMA is a software company making inbound business phone call reporting more user-friendly with its flagship product, Chronicle.
Thatcher explains how the company grew from its humble beginnings with three employees by recognizing customers' need for an all-inclusive phone call reporting system. He discusses what the term Contact Center-as-a-Service (CCaaS) means, XIMA’s key differentiator, and building a company culture that employees are proud of from the top down. Thatcher also discusses the challenge of finding skilled software developers in today’s competitive job market, the challenges of running a business in a post-COVID environment, the importance of taking care of customers, and much more.
This episode features a conversation between Katelin Roberts, the executive director of BioHive, the fastest growing nonprofit life sciences community in the nation, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. BioHive represents more than 1,300 life science and healthcare innovation companies devoted to life-changing interventions and economic growth.
Roberts discusses the importance of having the proper tools, tests, devices, and infrastructure in place so Utah-based companies can thrive. Listen as she highlights the rapidly evolving telehealth ecosystem, the important role local small businesses play in the life sciences ecosystem, and why it is important for Utah to strategically focus on the burgeoning life sciences industry. Roberts also discusses why Utahns who work in the industry typically earn higher wages, how having a life science hub benefits locals and individuals worldwide, her recent appointment to serve a four-year term on Go Utah’s Board, and much more.
This episode features a conversation between Vital co-founder Alex Doman, a company dedicated to improving brain performance, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. They discuss how the company’s innovative headphones and app help listeners find a desired state of mind — to relax, meditate, focus, or optimize thoughts.
Doman explains how the company helps individuals maximize their lives by improving brain function. He also shares the science behind the app, the goal to make the technology more accessible, and Vital’s initiative for companies or organizations to purchase headphones to help with their employees’ mental health. Doman also discusses the background and experience of the company’s executive team, the benefits of having a geographically distributed team, and much more.
In this episode, hear from Go Utah's corporate retention and recruitment team, including the office Deputy Director Ben Hart, Director of Corporate Growth and Business Development Daniel Royal, and Analyst Abby Hunsaker.
The three join podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah's communications director, to provide an overview of the state's post-performance tax credit, commonly known as EDTIF, and discuss noteworthy accomplishments from the state's 2022 fiscal year.
The group also discusses the rural REDTIF program and highlights corporate investment in rural Utah during this fiscal year. Learn more about the state's corporate retention and recruitment program here, and check out a data table containing all of the state's EDTIF incentives here.
This episode features conversations with Lance Soffe, Go Utah’s Targeted Industries director, Tulinda Larsen, the executive director of the Utah Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Initiative, Win Jeanfreau, executive director of iMpact Utah, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. This podcast also includes valuable information about Go Utah’s newly-formed State Small Business Credit Initiative program.
In this Business Elevated episode, listen as Soffe provides details about the office’s new Utah Manufacturing Modernization Grant that incentivizes modernizing, establishing, relocating, retaining, or developing manufacturing in the state. The $10 million grant authorized by the Utah Legislature aims to modernize Utah companies’ manufacturing, increase supply chain resilience, and lessen American dependence on foreign manufacturing. He also discusses the qualifications and requirements companies must meet.
Secondly, Larsen gives specifics about UAMMI, a public-private nonprofit partnership that works to elevate the work of Utah-based companies. Codella asks her such questions as what the industry looks like in Utah, which is comprised of both household names and smaller businesses, funding resources, the industry’s impact in rural Utah, and how the advanced materials and manufacturing industry collaborates.
Thirdly, Jeanfreau discusses iMpact Utah and the organization’s purpose, services, and operational excellence goals. He also discusses the eclectic group members’ talents and resources, what sets Utah apart from other states, details about the organization’s automation grant program and its funding availability, the types of businesses that work with the organization, and more.
Lastly, Codella shares information about the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative and Go Utah’s role in expanding access to capital, developing opportunities in underserved communities, and creating new jobs that will help increase economic opportunity in Utah. The program will make loans available to Utah small businesses through enrolled lenders in the coming months. Learn more by signing up for the SSBCI email newsletter or contacting Strategic Programs Manager Alecia Hart at aleciahart@utah.gov.
This episode features a conversation between Davis Smith, CEO and founder of Cotopaxi, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. They discuss the mission of Cotopaxi, Utah’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, what it means to be a B Corporation, and how the pandemic impacted Cotopaxi’s operations.
Smith shares advice for entrepreneurs and leaders and talks about his adventurous approach to life, including a memorable survivalist experience. Learn more about Cotopaxi’s start and culture as Smith shares honest, poignant insights in this episode of the Business Elevated podcast.
This episode features a conversation with three One Utah Summit Startup Pitch runners-up: PÜRTREK, Light Line Medical, Merit3D, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
The three company founders participated in last month’s VentureCapital.org Deal Forum competition held at Silicon Slopes, where real-world investors identified the top three entrepreneurs to compete at Gov. Cox's One Utah Summit Startup Pitch on May 10, 2022.
Although this threesome of companies didn't present at the summit, they were equally impressive during the Deal Forum pitch event.
PÜRTREK is the world's first combined trek pole/water filtration system, combining two must-have trail items into one simple, efficient tool. Light Line Medical uses visible light to prevent infections in catheters and endotracheal tubes without antibiotic-resistant issues. Lastly, Merit3D helps local manufacturers bypass oversea suppliers, injection molding constraints, and lengthy product development times through additive manufacturing using 3D printers.
The Startup Pitch was a partnership between the summit organizers, Utah-based VentureCaptial, and Weber State University's Hall Global Entrepreneurship Center. Contestants went through a sorting process based on their submitted materials, then mentorship with industry experts.
In this episode, hear from the three entrepreneurs about what inspired their invention, why they participated in the Startup Pitch, lessons they’ve learned, their most significant challenges, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with the One Utah Summit top three Startup Pitch finalists: Poly Platform (first place and people’s choice), Dental Dash (second place), Jipe (third place), and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
Poly Platform is a smart-city civic engagement platform that serves as a one-stop shop for municipalities. Dental Dash, a product of Woobie, provides gamified workflow automation software with training for dental office staff. Finally, Jipe is an entry-level job search app connecting GenZ job seekers to employment opportunities.
The Startup Pitch was a partnership between the summit organizers, Utah-based VentureCaptial.org, and Weber State University's Hall Global Entrepreneurship Center. Contestants went through a sorting process based on the materials they submitted, then mentorship with industry experts, and finally were selected to compete at Gov. Cox’s One Utah Summit for cash and in-kind prizes totaling a value of $60,000.
Hear from the three Startup Pitch finalists about what inspired them to start their companies, why they participated in the entrepreneur challenge, the lessons they’ve learned as a business person, the most significant challenges they’ve faced, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Tim Ryan, the chief financial officer of Bout Time Pub & Grub, a neighborhood sports bar, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
In this Business Elevated episode, listen as Ryan describes starting the first 1600-square-feet restaurant in West Jordan and growing to 15 locations in Utah and Colorado. He talks about what makes the sports bars a popular neighborhood destination and the Bout Time’s commitment to its employees and communities. He also discusses operating under Utah’s liquor laws, how the restaurants weathered the coronavirus pandemic, and the challenge of hiring talented employees. Ryan also mentions the made-from-scratch menu selections, his perspective on how Utah’s becoming more diverse as its population increases, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Marla Gutmann, a trained mechanical engineer, outdoors enthusiast, nature lover, and one of the co-founders of Wild Sage Mountain Guides, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
Wild Sage Mountain Guides is a Utah backcountry guide business founded by women for women backpackers. Gutmann shares her inspiration for starting the women-owned company alongside her co-founders, the importance of recreating responsibly and leaving no trace behind. She also highlights the lessons learned since starting the company, such as obtaining permits, insurance, and other business establishment requirements. Gutmann also explains what the most popular flagship trip entails, why her clients should feel safe and secure with expeditions led by Wild Sage Mountain Guides, her favorite Utah outdoor experience, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Natalie El-Deiry, the director of immigration and New American integration at Go Utah, in its newly formed Utah Immigration Assistance Center, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
The Utah Immigration Assistance Center was established following the 2022 legislative session to support Utah businesses navigating the challenges of recruiting foreign labor and immigrant inclusion. El-Deiry discusses the meaning of New American integration and why Utah has a well-deserved reputation for welcoming immigrants and refugees.
The duo also discusses Go Utah’s partnership with the Utah Department of Workforce Services and other entities to support the Cox/Henderson administration’s inclusivity goal, some of the challenges New Americans face and how listeners can support them, how Utah compares to other states in this arena, and much more.
To reach Natalie El-Deiry, please email her at natalieeldeiry@utah.gov.
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This episode features a conversation with Molly Rose, the founder of Virtual Assistant Academy, a company providing career alternatives for those wanting to work wherever, whenever, and with whomever they want, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
Rose discusses the academy’s training and certification program, her reasons for branching out from being a corporate cubicle dweller, and the trends she sees like the great resignation and low unemployment and how it impacts her business model. She explains what goes into training successful virtual assistants, from service offerings they provide to pricing, personality traits that make successful virtual assistants, and her fee schedule. Rose also talks about the competitive virtual assistant marketplace, her company’s future, and much more.
This episode features a conversation with Stackline’s Chief Revenue Officer Dave Helmreich, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
Helmreich discusses the retail intelligence and software company’s tools that help leading brands sell products across an ecosystem spanning online retail, marketplaces, social media, and direct-to-consumer. He also discusses Stackline’s plans to bring about 150 jobs to Utah over the next five years, the company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, and lessons learned from its global expansion operations. Helmreich explains how the company strives for unparalleled customer service, how social media has changed electronic commerce operations, and more.
This episode spotlights the 2022 Talent Ready Apprenticeship Connection (TRAC) Week, which takes place April 11-15 at the Westpointe Workforce Training & Education Center on the Salt Lake Community College campus.
This conversation features an all-star cast, including:
- Vic Hockett, director of the Talent Ready Utah initiative within the state’s Economic Opportunity office
- Peter Reed, Talent Ready Utah program manager for higher education initiatives
- Rick Bouillon, associate vice president of workforce and economic development at Salt Lake Community College
- Amy Andre, a marketing specialist at Stadler US
- Gigi Earnest-Stippich, an electrical apprentice at Stadler US
- Anthony Wernli, a Swiss consultant and expert on vocational pathway programs
These industry professionals join podcast host and Go Utah Communications Director Pete Codella.
TRAC Week is a multi-day exploration of the apprenticeship connection program that provides meaningful work experiences for students to learn the skills needed for a successful career. Listen as the guests discuss how program elements work hand-in-hand with industry and education. Utah adopted its apprenticeship model from Switzerland to train and help students fill the talent pipeline. High school seniors become part-time apprentices, and Utah companies pay for their training, turning them into valuable full-time employees in two to three years. The apprentice model allows students to grow into careers without college debt.
The podcast guests also discuss the benefits companies and education partners realize from participating in TRAC Week, the collaborative workforce ecosystem in Utah, funding for workforce development programs, and much more.
To learn more and register for the 2022 TRAC Week, click here. To learn more about Talent Ready Utah's TRAC model, click here.
This episode features a conversation about Fierce Fighting Championship with the organization’s founder Cody Bunderson, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
Bunderson discusses his passion for mixed martial arts and opening his first fighting gym in Price, Utah, which has grown to more than 300 members and the founding of his “Be Fierce, Be Kind” initiative. He also discusses the organization’s mission to encourage self-defense sportsmanship, fitness, and nutrition, and engaging in the fight against bullying, his passion for training children, what it takes to bring fights to large venues like Utah’s Maverik Center, which can draw crowds of 5,000+, and smaller rural shows with amateurs, and much more.
This episode features a conversation about Kado with the organization’s founder Gladymir Philippe, and podcast host Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director. Philippe discusses how he came up with the concept for Kado, a marketplace that brings real-world experience into the classroom to eliminate graduate underemployment. The Quebec native and University of Utah graduate discusses the high quality of life he enjoys in Utah, streamlining matching college students' skillsets with employer needs to help fill the talent pipeline, and the trends he sees in college education. He also discusses challenges college students face, the types of companies that use his platform for contract work, and much more.
This episode features a conversation about the Utah Black Chamber with the organization’s founder and president, James Jackson, and podcast host, Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
Jackson shares his experience founding and growing the Utah Black Chamber, from what he thought would be a side hustle job in 2009 to a thriving entity representing over 400 voices. He talks about the accomplishments of the black success center — an educational platform for black professionals and entrepreneurs, and his new book, Black Utah, Stories From A Thriving Community, which highlights stories of individuals and how they’ve made Utah their home. The discussion includes the importance of building a community of diverse and connected individuals and a new black museum the organization’s raising money for, and much more.
This episode features a conversation about Real Salt Lake with the organization’s president, John Kimball, and podcast host, Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
Kimball shares his experience as interim president and now president of the organization, what new ownership means for the team, and why he thinks Real soccer fans are some of the most passionate and loudest soccer fans in the country. He also talks about the stadium’s naming rights and why it is important to get the right partner, new players, including Major Soccer League’s youngest professional, Axel Kei, and the importance of developing homegrown soccer talent through the RSL Academy.
This episode features a conversation about Utah’s new state flag initiative and a bit of Utah history with Dr. Paul Reeve, a professor of history and the Simmons Chair of Mormon Studies at the University of Utah, with podcast host, Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director.
Dr. Reeve shares the historical context of each element of the current Utah State Flag and discusses the state’s most popular symbols and geographic landmarks, which may be used, somehow, in a new state flag design.
The new state flag initiative is in the open submission phase until April 30, 2022. At that point, the initiative’s design review subcommittee will review and score designs and state values or characteristics submitted through an online survey. In May, public designers will be hired to submit up to five designs inspired by the public survey and submitted flag designs. The design review subcommittee will review all submissions and select finalists in June.
In August, the new state flag task force will share the proposed flag designs, which will be open to public comment. In September, the design review subcommittee selects three final designs, which will be presented to the new state flag task force. Together, they’ll decide on the adoption of a new state flag.
We hope you enjoy this stroll down memory lane, touching on Utah history in the context of our current state flag.
To learn more about the new state flag initiative and get involved, please visit flag.utah.gov.
Also of note: the current Utah state flag will remain the governor’s official flag, so it’s not going away for good.
Season 4 Episode 7: Gov. Cox's One Utah Summit is coming up on May 10, 2022, at The Grand America Hotel in downtown Salt Lake City. It will be Gov. Cox's first One Utah Summit in Northern Utah. The state's southern One Utah Summit was held last October at Southern Utah University. The new One Utah Summit series will alternate northern and southern locations every six months, providing opportunities to discuss the day's important topics and how government and the private sector work together to create an even better Utah, with economic opportunity and unparalleled quality of life for Utahns.
The Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity is responsible for the governor's One Utah Summit series. We pick up where we left off with the previous episode in episode seven. You'll hear from President and CEO of World Trade Center Utah Miles Hansen, President and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber, and Chief Communications and Government Relations Officer at the Larry H. Miller Company, Amanda Covington.
Go Utah partners with World Trade Center Utah and the Salt Lake Chamber to organize and present the One Utah Summit. The Larry H. Miller Company is the One Utah Partner sponsor of the One Utah Summit in 2022 for the Salt Lake City and Cedar City summits.
Join podcast host, Go Utah's Communications Director Pete Codella, and leaders from these partner organizations to learn more about what's planned for #1UTspring and why business and civic leaders should participate.
Season 4 Episode 6: Gov. Cox's One Utah Summit is coming up on May 10, 2022, at The Grand America Hotel in downtown Salt Lake City. It will be Gov. Cox's first One Utah Summit in Northern Utah. The state's southern One Utah Summit was held last October at Southern Utah University. The new One Utah Summit series will alternate northern and southern locations every six months, providing opportunities to discuss the day's important topics and how government and the private sector work together to create an even better Utah, with economic opportunity and unparalleled quality of life for Utahns.
The Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity is responsible for the governor's One Utah Summit series. In this episode, part one of the entire conversation, you'll hear from Go Utah's Executive Director Dan Hemmert, the Utah Office of Energy Development's Executive Director Thom Carter, and First Lady Abby Cox.
The Go Utah and Energy teams partner in organizing and presenting the One Utah Summit. First Lady Abby Cox joins the conversation because, for the first time, the summit will include an opportunity for participants to give back by donating time and money as part of the First Lady's #ShowUpForService initiative. Summit organizers have planned afternoon service activities, including:
- Service projects assembling food and hygiene kits and student supply backpacks,
- Visiting with Utah nonprofits to learn more about their work and find ways to engage, and
- Participating in a new children’s book drive.
Learn more about the summit’s Show Up For Service initiative here.
Join podcast host, Go Utah's Communications Director Pete Codella, executive directors Hemmert and Carter, and Utah's First Lady, to learn more about what's planned for #1UTspring and why business and civic leaders should participate.
Season 4 Episode 5: The Utah LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce represents over 140 small business, corporate, and nonprofit members who share the values of promoting equality and diversity in the workplace. It serves small businesses throughout the state by connecting its members with resources and funding. The Chamber is a catalyst for creating long-lasting partnerships between key organizations and businesses across the state while advocating for civil rights.
Listen to Liz Pitts, president of the Utah LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, Samantha Taylor, the organization's board chair, and Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director, as they discuss the journey the organization has been on since it was started 10 years ago, the importance of using inclusive speech to help people feel safe, the Chamber's LGBTQ+ employee resource group that leads companies' diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, the benefits it realizes from Utah’s well-educated and committed workforce, and much more.
Season 4 Episode 4: Research parks create opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship, serve as tools in the state’s economic development toolkit.
The University of Utah Research Park is an award-winning entity that brings together Utah-based companies, U faculty and students, resulting in breakthrough innovations. Listen to a discussion about innovation and growth in Utah with Jonathon Bates, executive director of University of Utah Research Park, Brian Darmody, CEO of the Association of University Research Parks (AURP), and Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director, as they discuss why 85% of the state’s life science companies trace their roots to the University of Utah, why NASA and the U.S. Air Force lean on Utah, the impact COVID-19 has had on businesses headquartered at the university’s Research Park, and much more.
Season 4 Episode 3: From live concerts to action sports, LMPE Company is an experiential marketing company specializing in creating memorable branded experiences. Tony and Gina Duffy moved from Chicago to Eden, Utah,10 years ago to be closer to the mountains they love. The company has a mission to bring people closer together, wherever they congregate, to deliver a memorable experience.
Listen to Tony and Gina Duffy, owners and operators of LMPE Inc., and Pete Codella, Go Utah’s associate managing director of communications, as they discuss being a married entrepreneurial couple, the challenge of always needing more business resources, how they answer the question of why a business should operate in Utah, and much more.
Season 4 Episode 2: Viet and Alexis Pham are Pretty Bird Hot Chicken owners and serve up Nashville-style hot chicken every day in the Salt Lake Valley. Born in a refugee camp, Chef Viet Pham and his family immigrated to the United States when he was seven months old. He began his career in finance but found it far from fulfilling, so he began to cook. Realizing he loved making people happy by serving good food with down-home hospitality, he left the world of finance to open a fine dining restaurant in Salt Lake City.
Listen to Viet and Alexis Pham, owners of Pretty Bird Chicken restaurant, and Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director, as they discuss operating their restaurants in the Salt Lake Valley. Viet shares his early days' experience, driving his Prius around Salt Lake City with a turkey fryer in his trunk. They talk about pandemic safety precautions, Viet's cooking show television appearances, how they tackle the dreaded "What's for dinner?" question, and much more.
Season 4 Episode 1: Equal representation and equal pay in the modern-day workforce are the building blocks and foundation of parity.org. It’s essential that companies have a roadmap to reach gender and racial parity, track progress, and recognize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) best practices.
Listen to Cathrin Stickney, the founder and CEO of parity.org, and Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director, as they discuss the difference between parity and diversity, creating a gender and racial parity dashboard, Utah's DE&I progress, and much more.
Season 3 Episode 17: Widely recognized as one of the most important economic opportunities in state history, The Point consists of 600 acres of state-owned land at the south end of Salt Lake County along the I-15 corridor that will become an innovation community. Imagined as Utah’s first, intentional 15-minute city - where you can get anywhere within 15 minutes - the master-planned community will foster innovation and technological advancement, provide parks and open space, seamlessly connect to existing regional communities, and support economic growth while balancing environmental impact. Listen to Alan Matheson, executive director of The Point of the Mountain State Land Authority, and Pete Codella, Go Utah’s communications director, discussing The Point’s modern design, maintaining Utahns’ high quality of life, some challenges the large development presents, and more.
Season 3 Episode 16: Jefferson Rogers has grown his company, JKR Windows, from scratch to a multi-million dollar company in four short years. Listen to founder and CEO Jefferson Rogers, and Go Utah's communications director, Pete Codella, discuss what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur and business owner.
Season 3 Episode 15: Utah-based peer-to-peer rental startup Yoodlize provides a platform for individuals to rent items to others in their community. Listen to founder and CEO, Jason Fairbourne, and Go Utah's communications director, Pete Codella, discuss the benefits of renting items from neighbors and Yoodlize's future expansion plans.
Season 3 Episode 14: Utah has long been known for its iconic landscapes; from the state’s well-known southern red rock to scenes encompassing the majestic Wasatch Front, Utah continues to make its mark on the film industry. Listen to Virginia Pierce, the Utah Film Commission director, and Jeff Johnson, president of the Motion Picture Association of Utah, discuss attracting and promoting film production in Utah, the state’s motion picture incentive program, new safety protocols amid COVID-19, and much more.
Season 3 Episode 13: The Women’s Business Center of Utah (WBCU) helps women build confidence and achieve success in business ownership through counseling and training women business owners. The Center offers one-on-one advising, group training, online courses, and webinars. Additionally, WBCU also provides a women-owned business directory to purchase products or services from Utah-based women-owned businesses.
Join us for episode 65 of the Business Elevated Podcast and listen to Ann Marie Wallace, director of WBCU, on how she started her business, got involved with WBCU, and is now pushing for equality and grant opportunities for women.
Season 3 Episode 12: This podcast series features business and government leaders discussing what it’s like to live and work in the great state of Utah. This episode includes a conversation between Dan Hemmert, Go Utah’s executive director, and Carine Clark, chair of the Go Utah Board.
Season 3 Episode 11: This podcast series features business and government leaders discussing what it’s like to live and work in the great state of Utah. This episode includes a conversation between Ben Hart, GOED's deputy director, and director of corporate recruitment, Mark Pittman, the CEO of blink Blynscy and Elizabeth McMillan, communications director for UDOT.
Season 3 Episode 10: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, Go Utah director of business services, and Rich Baron, Executive Coach at Intelligent Leadership Executive Coaching.
Season 3 Episode 9: This episode includes a conversation between Dan Royal, GOED director of corporate growth and business development, and Martin Tuason, CEO of Armscor Global.
Season 3 Episode 8: This episode includes a conversation between Pete Codella, director of marketing and communications at Go Utah, and Brad Bonham, CEO of Walker Edison.
Season 3 Episode 7: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, managing director of business services at GOED, and Aaron Starks, vice president at the World Trade Center Utah.
Season 3 Episode 6: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, and Ally Isom, chief strategy and marketing officer at EVŌQ nano.
Season 3 Episode 5: This episode includes a conversation between Linda Cabrales, industry director for the software and IT sector at GOED, and Peter Djokovich and Taylor Bench, with Summit Venture Studio.
Season 3 Episode 4: This episode includes a conversation between April Young Bennett, industry director of life sciences and healthcare innovation GOED, and Dan Orenstein, general counsel at Health Catalyst.
Season 3 Episode 3: This episode includes a conversation between April Young Bennett, industry director of life sciences and healthcare innovation GOED, and Chandana Haque, executive director at Altitude Lab.
Season 3 Episode 2: This episode includes a conversation between Pete Codella, director of marketing and communications at GOED, and Tyler Sohm, VP and executive creative director at RUMOR Advertising.
Season 3 Episode 1: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, managing director of Business Services at GOED, and Trent Christensen, CEO and president of VentureCapital.org.
Season 2 Episode 32: This episode includes a conversation between Pitt Grewe, director of the office of outdoor recreation at GOED, and Trent Meisenheimer from the Utah Avalanche Center.
Season 2 Episode 31: This episode includes a conversation between April Young Bennett, industry director of life sciences and healthcare innovation at GOED, and Katelin Roberts, interim CEO of BioHive.
Season 2 Episode 30: This episode includes a conversation between Ben Hart, deputy director of GOED, and Mark Pittman, CEO of Blyncsy.
Season 2 Episode 29: This episode includes a conversation between Pitt Grewe, director of the Utah Office of Outdoor Recreation, and Mike Maughan, president and general manager of the Alta Ski Resort.
Season 2 Episode 28: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, managing director of business services at GOED, and Mary Beckerle, CEO of the Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah.
Season 2 Episode 27: This episode includes a conversation between Miles Hansen, president and CEO of World Trade Center Utah, and Dr. Richard Haas, president of the Council on Foreign Relations.
Season 2 Episode 26: This episode includes a conversation between Chanel Flores, industry director for the advanced manufacturing and aerospace and defense targeted industries at GOED, and Greg Manuel, vice president and general manager for the Strategic Deterrent System Division within the Northrop Grumman Space System sector.
Season 2 Episode 25: This episode includes a conversation between Jim Grover, the compliance director at GOED, and Todd Jorgensen, chief revenue officer of Ident Solutions.
Season 2 Episode 24: This episode includes a conversation between Pete Codella, GOED's director of marketing and communications, and Nicole Sherwood, director of grants and operations, and STEP project director at World Trade Center Utah.
Season 2 Episode 23: This episode includes a conversation between Chuck Spence, director of the Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) at GOED, and Raymond Christy, senior planner and disadvantaged business enterprise coordinator for the Salt Lake City Department of Airport.
Season 2 Episode 22: This episode includes a conversation between Ben Hart, deputy director at GOED, Lloyd Allen, managing director for the Salt Lake City office of CBRE, and Brian Anderson, vice president and retail market specialist at CBRE.
Season 2 Episode 21: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, managing director of business services at GOED, and Theresa Foxley, the president and CEO of EDCUtah.
Season 2 Episode 20: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, managing director of business services at GOED, and Silvia Castro, executive director of the Suazo Business Center.
Season 2 Episode 19: This episode includes a conversation between Pitt Grewe, the director of the Utah Office of Outdoor Recreation, and Stacy Bare, founder of Adventure United.
Season 2 Episode 18: This episode includes a conversation between Kimberlee Carlile, director of Talent Ready Utah at GOED and Jessica Gilmore who is the Associate Commissioner Workforce Development & Industry Engagement at the Utah System of Higher Education.
Season 2 Episode 17: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, managing director of business services at GOED, and David Carlebach, vice president of international investment at the World Trade Center Utah.
Season 2 Episode 16: This episode includes a conversation between Kori Ann Edwards, managing director of operations at the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED), and Dane Ishihara, program manager over the GOED grant programs.
Season 2 Episode 15: This episode includes a conversation between Pete Codella, director of marketing and communications at the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Development, and Tyler Sohm, vice president and executive creative director at Rumor Advertising.
Season 2 Episode 14: This episode includes a conversation between Scott Romney, program manager of Talent Ready Utah at GOED, and Kent Harrison, assistant chief helicopter pilot at InterMountain Life Flight.
Season 2 Episode 13: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, managing director of Business Services at GOED, and Mary Cardon, director of the Utah Industry and Innovation Center.
Season 2 Episode 12: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, managing director of Business Services at GOED, amd Shane Rowley, co-founder and president of Nimbl.
Season 2 Episode 11: This episode includes a conversation about the COVID-19 Commercial Rental Assistance Program between Kori Ann Edwards, managing director of operations of the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development, and Dane Ishihara, economic analyst at GOED.
Season 2 Episode 10: This episode includes a conversation between Ben Hart, deputy director at GOED, and Todd Bingham, president and CEO of the Utah Manufacturer's Association.
Season 2 Episode 9: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, managing director of Business Services at the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Development and Andrew Scivally, CEO and co-founder of eLearning Brothers
Season 2 Episode 8: This episode contains a conversation with Val Hale, GOED’s executive director, and Kori Ann Edwards, GOED’s managing director of operations. Hale and Edwards discuss the new Utah Leads Together Small Business Bridge Loan which is available to Utah small businesses.
Season 2 Episode 7: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, GOED's managing director of Business Services and Nate McDonald, communications director for the Utah Department of Workforce Services.
Season 2 Episode 6: This episode includes a conversation between Pete Codella, GOED's director of Marketing and Communications and Ryan Starks, GOED's managing director of Business Services.
Season 2 Episode 5: This episode includes a conversation between Scott Romney, program manager at Talent Ready Utah, and Ian Eggleston, a student at West High School and TRAC apprentice at Stadler Rail.
Season 2 Episode 4: This episode includes a conversation between Clark Cahoon, the life science industry director at the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, and Tina Larson, president and COO of Recursion
Season 2 Episode 3: This episode includes a conversation between Ryan Starks, managing director of Business Services for the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Development, and Nicole Sherwood, STEP project director at World Trade Center Utah
Season 2 Episode 2: This is a conversation between Val Hale, executive director of the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Development, and Gov. Herbert's chief of staff, Justin Harding.
Season 2 Episode 1: This episode includes a conversation between Rose Smith, Office of Outdoor Recreation program manager, Rebecca Chavez-Houck, advisory board member of HECHO, and Kenny Jackson from Intermountain Healthcare.
Season 1 Episode 20: This is a conversation between Thomas Wadsworth, business development and corporate incentives manager at GOED and Geoff Atkinson CEO of Huckabuy.
Season 1 Episode 19: This is a conversation between Tom Adams, director of the Utah Office of Outdoor Recreation, Nathan Fey, director of the Colorado Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry, and Cassidy Rasnick, deputy secretary of commerce and trade for rural economic development at the Virginia Office of the Governor.
Season 1 Episode 18: This is a conversation between Tara McKee, program manager with the Utah Office of Outdoor Recreation, Jake Powell, extension specialist in the Department of Landscape Architecture at Utah State University and Dayton Crites, Cache County Trails and Active Transportation planner.
Season 1 Episode 17: This is a conversation between Chanel Flores, the Aerospace and IT cluster director for the Governor's Office of Economic Development, Nathan Millecam, the CEO of Electric Power Systems and Michael Armstrong, the CTO of Electric Power Systems.
Season 1 Episode 16: This is a conversation between Tom Adams, director for Utah's Office of Outdoor Recreation, Dustin Cederholm, executive director for the Utah Outdoor Association, Alex Adema, president and CEO of DPS Skis, as well as the chairman of the Utah Outdoor Association and Brandon Stoddard, director of the Hall Global Entrepreneurship Center, Weber State University, as well as the CEO of venturecapitol.org.
Season 1 Episode 15: This is a conversation between Pete Codella, director of marketing and communications at GOED, and Clint Betts, the executive director of Silicon Slopes.
Season 1 Episode 14: This episode includes a conversation between Chuck Spence, director for PTAC at the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development, and Joshua Frank, CEO of RSM Federal.
Season 1 Episode 13: This is a conversation between Ginger Chinn, managing director for Urban and Rural Business Services at the Governor's Office of Economic Development, and Courtney McBeth, project director for the American Dream Ideas Challenge.
Season 1 Episode 12: This is a conversation between Kimberlee Carlile, director of Talent Ready Utah in the Governor's Office of Economic Development, and Emma Vanderhoeven, team lead at Boeing.
Season 1 Episode 11: This is a conversation between Ben Hart, deputy director at the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Development and Brock Blake, CEO and founder of Lendio.
Season 1 Episode 10: This is a conversation between Tom Adams, director, and Rose Smith, program specialist for the Utah Office of Outdoor Recreation.
Season 1 Episode 9: This episode includes a conversation between Clark Cahoon, life science cluster director at GOED, and Dan McMaster, director of strategy and business development at 3M health care.
Season 1 Episode 8: This is a conversation between the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Development's Regional Director for International Trade and Diplomacy, Franz Kolb; Mr. Swapnil Mekal, Managing Partner at Supercraft Elastomers Pvt Ltd; and Dr. Ashok Joshi, an esteemed businessman from India.
Season 1 Episode 7: A conversation between Scott Romney, Program Specialist at Talent Ready Utah, and Taryn Nenow, Human Resources Business Partner at Cummins.
Season 1 Episode 6: A conversation between the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Development's Regional Director for International Trade and Diplomacy Franz Kolb, and His Excellency George Maior, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Romania to the U.S.
Season 1 Episode 5: A conversation between the Utah Governors Office of Economic Development's Life Science Director, Clark Cahoon, and Utah Association of Counties Director of Opportunity Zones and Financial Incentives, Patrick Mullen.
Season 1 Episode 4: A conversation between the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development’s Talent Ready Utah Director, Kimberlee Carlile, and Associate professor of building design and construction at Weber State University, Jeremy Farner.
Season 1 Episode 3: It features a conversation between the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development’s Communications Director, Pete Codella, and Daniel Gelston, President, Broadband Communications Sector, L3 Technologies.
Season 1 Episode 2: A conversation between the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Development's Regional Director for International Trade and Diplomacy Franz Kolb, and His Excellency Elin Suleymanov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to the United States.
Season 1 Episode 1: A conversation between the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Development's Executive Director, Val Hale and the chair of the GOED Board of Directors, Jerry Oldroyd.