Silicon Slopes | Leaders Interviewing Leaders

In this compelling episode, we sit down with a remarkable guest who shares his journey from Ukraine to Utah, managing the largest innovation park in Eastern Europe, Unit City. Discover how he and his team have navigated the challenges of war, continued to innovate, and built strong connections with the global tech community, including a special bond with Utah. 00:00 - Introduction and Guest Backgr...

In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of venture capital, AI, and the tech ecosystem with our special guest. We reminisce about the early days of Beehive Startups and discuss the transformation of Provo's startup scene. 00:00 - Reminiscing Beehive Startups and Provo's Evolution 00:01:06 - Peterson's 15-Year Journey and 2025 Outlook 00:02:08 - Evolution of the Venture Capital Ec...

Welcome to another episode of our podcast! In this episode, we sit down with the visionary behind Philo Ventures, a unique startup studio based in Utah that's making waves in the entrepreneurial world. 00:00 - Introduction and Utah Sports 01:13 - Founding of Philo Ventures 02:24 - Philo Ventures' Unique Model 03:22 - Scrappy Beginnings and Capital Partners 04:19 - Real Estate Development Focus 05:...

In this episode, we dive deep into the future of AI and human interaction with the founders of Orca Panda, Sunny and Zach. Join us as we explore how AI can make our lives more human by eliminating mundane tasks and allowing us to focus on what truly matters. From the chaos of form validation to the revolutionary potential of conversational AI, this episode is packed with insights and forward-think...

In this episode, we sit down with the CEO of RevRoad, a venture firm based in Provo, Utah, that is redefining the traditional venture capital model. Instead of just writing checks, Revroad deploys human capital to help startups navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. 00:00 - Introduction and Entrepreneurial Spirit in Provo 00:32 - Overview of RevRoad's Unique Venture Model 01:23 - Mentorshi...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Tunisha Brown, the visionary founder of Impact Magazine, to discuss her journey of empowering, encouraging, and educating Black communities and their supporters. Tunisha shares her experiences from starting the magazine 17 years ago to building a platform that celebrates Black excellence and fosters understanding across diverse communities. 00:00 - Intro...

In this episode of the Silicon Slopes Podcast, we dive deep into the intricacies of effective human systems within organizations with our special guest, Ed. With over 20 years of experience in engineering and organizational consulting, Ed shares his unique insights on what makes a company thrive. 00:00 - Introduction to Effective Human Systems 01:17 - Guest Introduction and Background 02:17 - The...

In this episode of the Silicon Slopes Podcast, we dive deep into the entrepreneurial journey of Jeff Burningham and his partners as they transition from Peak Ventures to Element Ventures. Join us as we explore their experiences in the world of real estate, venture capital, and politics. 00:00 - Jeff Burningham's Governor Run: Initial Thoughts 01:10 - Big Announcement: Element Ventures 03:03 - Meet...

In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative work of "The Light in Us" and the "HEARE Brotherhood" with our special guest. Discover how these initiatives are creating spaces for deeper connection, vulnerability, and personal growth through retreats and community-building activities. 00:00 - Introduction 00:14 - The Light in Us: Origins and Purpose 00:57 - The Power of Intentional Communit...

In this insightful episode, we sit down with the CEO of Intermountain Health to discuss the evolving landscape of healthcare. With over 28 years of experience at Intermountain, our guest shares his journey from Chief Operating Officer to CEO, the challenges and opportunities that come with the role, and the unique history of Intermountain Health. 00:00 - Competing in Healthcare: Focusing on Diseas...

In this episode of the Silicon Slopes Podcast, we dive deep into the future of education with Courtney Hills McBeth, the Chief Academic Officer and Provost at Western Governors University (WGU). Join us as we explore how AI and technology are revolutionizing the learning experience, making education more accessible, personalized, and affordable. 00:00 - Introduction 00:23 - The role of AI in educa...

In this enlightening episode of the Silicon Slopes Podcast, we sit down with Mary Beckerle, CEO of Huntsman Cancer Institute, to discuss groundbreaking advancements in cancer research and treatment. Discover how the Utah Population Database and collaborative efforts with institutions like the University of Utah and Intermountain Healthcare are revolutionizing cancer care. 00:00 - Inherited Cancer...

In this episode of The Silicon Slopes Show, we dive deep into the exciting world of tech and entrepreneurship in Utah. We kick off with some thrilling news about the Silicon Slope Summit, Utah's premier grassroots tech event, which is now free for all Utahns for the first time ever! Join us as we discuss the return of the Summit to its original January dates, coinciding with the Sundance Film Fest...

In this episode, Clint Betts sits down with Burke Olsen, a prominent figure in Utah's media landscape, to discuss his fascinating career journey and the dynamic world of journalism and media. From his early days in PR to his current role at the Deseret News, Burke shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of the industry. 00:00 - Introduction and Provo's Vibrant Scene 01:07 - Silicon Slopes...

Welcome to another exciting episode of our podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Tim, the Director of Entrepreneurship for the State of Utah, to discuss the innovative initiatives and programs aimed at fostering entrepreneurship in Utah. Tim shares his journey, insights, and the unique challenges he faces in his role. We delve into the Startup State Initiative, the importance of community sup...

In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating journey of Kizik, the revolutionary hands-free footwear brand, with Monty, the CEO of Kizik. From its humble beginnings in 2017 to becoming a global sensation, Monty shares the pivotal moments, challenges, and innovations that have shaped Kizik's success. 00:00 - Introduction and Early Days at the Salt Palace 00:25 - First Experiences and DTC Tran...

In this deeply moving and insightful episode, we sit down with Todd Pedersen, the founder of Vivint, to discuss his incredible journey through personal and professional challenges. Todd opens up about a tragic accident that changed his life forever, the struggles of dealing with his wife's postpartum depression, and how these experiences have shaped his perspective on life, success, and legacy. 00...

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of tech events, the impact of AI on startups, and the unique entrepreneurial culture in Utah. Join us as we discuss: The lifecycle of successful events and how they can sow the seeds of their own destruction. The psychology of events post-pandemic and the shift towards more curated, one-to-one connections. The role of AI in startups and how it's transfo...

In this episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the implications of recent DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) legislation in Utah and its impact on various sectors, including tech, higher education, and corporate environments. Join us as we discuss the findings from the newly released DEI pulse check, which reveals shifting sentiments and concerns among leaders in the community. We explore t...

In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with the founder of Nimbl, a modern accounting service that has transformed the way small businesses manage their finances. Starting as a contract CFO, he shares his journey from public accounting to building a successful company that provides comprehensive financial solutions for startups and small businesses. 00:00 - Introduction to Nimble and Early Co...

In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with Becki, the founder of Proximity, a groundbreaking platform designed to help political leaders connect more effectively with their voters. With nearly two years of operation and presence in 10 states, Proximity combines the functionalities of HubSpot, MailChimp, and Eventbrite specifically for the political arena. Becki shares her journey from workin...

In this exciting episode, we dive into the world of churros with the founder of San Diablo Churros! Join us as we explore the innovative journey of bringing gourmet filled churros to the masses, including their new frozen churro line set to hit Target stores in Texas, Oklahoma, and Colorado this fall. Discover how the churro craze is taking over grocery aisles, the challenges of entering the froze...

In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with Brock Blake, the co-founder and CEO of Lendio, to discuss the incredible journey of his company during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Brock shares how Lendio pivoted to help hundreds of thousands of small businesses access vital funding through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the challenges they faced along the way. We dive into the imp...

In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating journey of a FinTech pioneer whose impact has been monumental yet often flies under the radar. From the early days of the internet to the cutting-edge innovations in mobile money and blockchain, our guest has been at the forefront of financial technology. 00:00 - Introduction and Early Career 00:45 - First Big Win: July 6th, 1996 01:39 - First USA...

In this episode, we sit down with the co-founder of Savvy Learning, an innovative online learning platform designed to help children excel in reading and math. Discover how Savvy Learning was born out of a need to address the alarming statistic that two-thirds of kids are not reading at a proficient level by the end of third grade. 00:00 - Introduction and Overview of Savvy Learning 00:00:41 - The...