Silicon Slopes | Leaders Interviewing Leaders

In this episode of the Silicon Slopes Podcast, we sit down with McKay and Natalie from Thanksgiving Point to discuss their groundbreaking new initiative: a Tech and Science Center for Kids. Discover how this center aims to bridge the gap in STEM education for children from all backgrounds, particularly those from low-income families.Learn about the inspiration behind this project, the role of Thanksgiving Point in the community, and the incredible impact it aims to have on the future workforce of Utah. We also delve into the history of Thanksgiving Point, its mission, and the philanthropic spirit that drives its initiatives.00:00 - Introductions and Greetings00:25 - Current Events and Tech Center Introduction01:02 - Overview of the Tech and Science Center for Kids02:01 - Mission and Background of Thanksgiving Point02:59 - STEM Job Statistics and Income Gap04:44 - Access to Opportunity and Personal Motivation05:52 - Free Access for Low-Income Families07:07 - Community Involvement and Support09:40 - Outreach to Rural Utah11:06 - History of Thanksgiving Point14:07 - Alan and Karen Ashton's Legacy15:16 - Community-Led Organization16:01 - Future Vision for Thanksgiving Point17:08 - Curiosity Farms and Ag Tech Center18:13 - Use of AI in Exhibit Design19:30 - State Support and Partnerships21:21 - Philanthropy in Utah22:16 - Encouraging Silicon Slopes Participation22:51 - Upcoming Projects: Sphere of Light24:08 - Community Events and Corporate Partnerships25:56 - Gratitude and Membership ImpactIf you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. Our website:https://www.siliconslopes.comShow Links:https://thanksgivingpoint.orgSocial:Twitter -https://twitter.com/siliconslopesInstagram -https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with the incredible founders behind Taft and Tuff Pops to discuss their entrepreneurial journey, the challenges they faced, and the lessons they learned along the way. From starting with men's no-show socks to transitioning into high-quality shoes, and now venturing into the world of protein popsicles, their story is nothing short of inspiring.00:00 - Introduction00:18 - Silicon Slopes COVID Town Halls01:21 - Utah's Unique Community and Investment Appeal02:00 - Challenges of Entering the Utah Market02:34 - Starting Taft: From Socks to Shoes03:27 - Lessons Learned from Taft05:10 - Mental Health and Entrepreneurship08:22 - Identity and Work-Life Balance10:06 - Transition from Socks to Shoes16:17 - Exiting Taft and Personal Challenges19:34 - Starting Tuff Pops: The Idea and Development25:09 - Branding and Market Positioning28:57 - Distribution and Growth Strategy35:47 - Utah's Consumer Product Ecosystem38:58 - Community Support and Networking40:04 - Entrepreneurial Fun and ChallengesIf you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. Our website:https://www.siliconslopes.comShow Links:https://tuffpops.com Social:Twitter -https://twitter.com/siliconslopesInstagram -https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with the co-founder and CEO of Renew Biotechnologies to explore the groundbreaking work his company is doing in the field of early detection for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS. Discover how a passion for research at BYU led to the creation of a company that's on the verge of changing the world. 00:00 - Introduction and guest welcome00:19 - From med school to biotech: The origin story00:51 - Early research and the birth of Renew Biotechnologies01:33 - Discussing Neuralink and the potential to cure ALS02:33 - How early detection can lead to cures02:44 - Introduction to Renew Biotechnologies and their focus03:54 - Success stories and the impact of their technology06:59 - The timeline and process for bringing a biotech product to market09:07 - The role of AI in diagnostics and healthcare10:28 - Long-term impact of AI in healthcare12:07 - Changes in administration and their impact on biotech14:21 - A day in the life of a biotech CEO15:57 - Company growth and future plans17:21 - Building a biotech company in Utah19:34 - Utah's biotech community and its growth21:53 - The role of universities in biotech innovation24:04 - Venture capital and funding challenges in biotech25:44 - Reading recommendations for CEOs26:30 - Balancing work with personal interests28:39 - Future vision for Renew Biotechnologies29:33 - Unique company structure and incentivizing innovation31:40 - The importance of integrity in healthcare33:10 - Acknowledging those who gave a chance If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.comShow Links: https://www.renewbt.com Social:Twitter -https://twitter.com/siliconslopesInstagram -https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

Brandon Rodman is a serial entrepreneur and visionary leader recognized for his talent in establishing innovative companies from scratch. A native of Eugene, Oregon, Rodman earned a degree in Communications with a focus on Marketing and Advertising from Brigham Young University. His early career in sales, where he led large teams, sharpened his skills in leadership, recruitment, and strategy, laying the groundwork for his entrepreneurial journey.In 2008, during the peak of the economic recession, Rodman co-founded Weave (originally called Recall Solutions) from the attic above his garage. What started as a call center evolved into a groundbreaking customer communication platform aimed at strengthening patient-doctor relationships through integrated software, telephony, and CRM tools. Under Rodman’s leadership, Weave became the first Utah-based company accepted into Y Combinator in 2014, a pivotal moment that propelled its growth. Rodman raised over $300 million in funding, expanded the company to nearly $100 million in annual recurring revenue, and guided it to a successful IPO on the NYSE in 2021. His employee-centric approach earned him widespread recognition, including a #4 CEO ranking in America by Glassdoor in 2019 with a 99% approval rating and the 2019 CEO of the Year award from Utah Business. Rodman stepped down as Weave’s CEO in 2020, transitioning to Chairman of the Board, but his legacy as a founder who emphasized culture and innovation endures.After 18 months of exploring new ideas, Rodman launched Previ in January 2022, where he serves as CEO and co-founder alongside Gabe Gunderson. Previ aims to revolutionize consumer finance by offering a payment platform that provides 10-20% cash back on everyday expenses, paid directly from users’ paychecks. Rodman describes Previ as his “life’s work” from a business perspective, blending profitability with a mission to put more money back into consumers’ pockets. Based in Lehi, Utah, Rodman continues to drive Previ’s growth while drawing on lessons learned from Weave’s challenges and triumphs.Rodman’s leadership philosophy emphasizes psychological safety, employee empowerment, and the creation of environments where teams can thrive. He is married to Lindsay Rodman, with whom he has four children, balancing his professional ambitions with a commitment to family. His story is one of resilience—having once liquidated personal assets to keep Weave afloat—and reflects a relentless drive to build businesses that make a meaningful impact.Connect with Silicon Slopes: https://www.siliconslopes.comSocial:X - https://x.com/siliconslopesInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with John, the visionary founder behind Leland, a groundbreaking marketplace platform based in Utah. John shares his journey from interning at Uber and working at LinkedIn to launching Leland while at Stanford. Discover how Leland is revolutionizing the coaching and content marketplace, the challenges of building network effects, and the strategic decisions that have fueled its rapid growth.00:00 - Introduction and the Kiln building00:41 - The idea behind Leland and its inception01:08 - John's background in marketplaces02:00 - Challenges and rewards of building a marketplace02:36 - Creating network effects03:54 - Recruiting coaches for Leland04:43 - Benefits for coaches on the platform05:43 - Revenue potential for coaches06:26 - The role of AI in Leland's future08:22 - Human connection vs. AI in coaching09:01 - Using AI within the company and product10:11 - AI tools for coaches and customers10:37 - Competition and market positioning11:15 - Lessons learned from LinkedIn13:10 - Fundraising journey and investor insights14:32 - Building a company in Utah vs. the Bay Area15:56 - The future of SaaS and AI17:22 - Leland's revenue model18:00 - Potential for job boards and internships18:11 - Advice for raising money and bootstrapping19:39 - Choosing the right investors20:51 - The story behind the name "Leland"21:47 - Decision to build in Utah22:42 - In-office vs. remote work23:35 - The future of Utah's startup ecosystem26:22 - Areas for improvement in Utah's tech community27:28 - The importance of funding diverse ideas28:15 - Thoughts on accelerators and YC30:26 - The value of early supporters and mentorsIf you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.comShow Links: https://www.joinleland.com/Social:Twitter - https://twitter.com/siliconslopesInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with Scott, the founder of Teton Gear, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of running a product-based business, and the lessons he's learned along the way. From the early days of starting Teton Gear in 2005 to navigating complex relationships with major retailers like Amazon, Scott shares invaluable insights into the world of outdoor gear manufacturing.00:00 - Introduction and Summit Experience00:52 - Startup Alley and Son's Startup01:41 - Entrepreneurial Traits and Family02:04 - Founding of Teton Gear02:50 - The To-Don't List03:34 - Early Challenges and Relationships05:01 - The Power of Triadic Relationships06:09 - Initial Business Model and No Domestic Inventory06:43 - Naming Teton Gear07:39 - Challenges of Direct Import Business09:25 - Transition to Domestic Inventory11:01 - Third-Party Logistics (3PL)13:02 - Amazon as a Major Customer17:02 - Amazon's Pricing Policies18:09 - Relocating to Puerto Rico19:35 - Governance and Politics of Puerto Rico20:24 - Hiring a CEO and Amazon Challenges23:09 - Transitioning Back to 1P Relationship with Amazon25:11 - Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) Strategy27:05 - Shopify as a Competitor to Amazon29:19 - Tariffs and Trade Policies30:02 - ABC Initiative: Anywhere But China31:31 - Exploring Manufacturing Outside China34:02 - Potential Geopolitical Issues with China and Taiwan36:12 - Challenges of Manufacturing in America37:01 - Maintaining Quality Control39:08 - Overseas Travel and Other Ventures39:30 - Mina Group: Middle East, North Africa41:46 - Launching New Products44:00 - Marketing Strategies45:10 - Competitors and Business PhilosophyIf you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.comShow Links: https://tetongear.comApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/silicon-slopes-the-entrepreneur-capital-of-the-world/id1698150372Spotify Podcasts - https://open.spotify.com/show/2ZdYnWYKPXOqH2fgJ2UJ2N?si=5890c63a145a4a3eSocial:Twitter - https://twitter.com/siliconslopesInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this compelling episode, we sit down with a remarkable guest who shares his journey from Ukraine to Utah, managing the largest innovation park in Eastern Europe, Unit City. Discover how he and his team have navigated the challenges of war, continued to innovate, and built strong connections with the global tech community, including a special bond with Utah.00:00 - Introduction and Guest Background00:14 - Managing Unit City During the War00:47 - U.S. Delegation Visit to Unit City01:30 - Stand-Up Comedy During the War02:59 - Building Friendships and Connections05:06 - Current Situation in Ukraine07:02 - Adapting to War Conditions08:18 - Hope for the Future and Rebuilding10:05 - War's Impact on Business and Society11:33 - Daily Life and Work at Unit City12:50 - Composition of Companies at Unit City13:35 - Personal Routine and Resilience14:50 - Renewable Energy Projects15:04 - Becoming an EV Advocate17:02 - Promoting Electric Vehicles in Ukraine19:00 - Impact of EV Legislation20:24 - Elon Musk's Controversial Role23:33 - Connection Between Utah and Ukraine24:01 - Importance of Tech Conferences25:40 - Building Trust with American Companies26:59 - Closing Remarks and GratitudeIf you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.comShow Links: https://unit.city/en/Social:Twitter - https://twitter.com/siliconslopesInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw