Silicon Slopes | Leaders Interviewing Leaders

In this episode of The Silicon Slopes Show, host Brock Blake sits down with Bradley Rencher, a prominent figure in the Utah business community and a mentor to many. Bradley shares his incredible journey from being an investment banker in New York to becoming a key player in the tech industry with Omniture and Adobe, and now leading BambooHR.00:00 - Introduction00:22 - Bradley's Early Career in Investment Banking01:18 - Transition to Omniture and the Impact of the Omniture IPO02:36 - Working with Josh James and the Omniture Team05:43 - The Bold Move from Banking to Business Operations07:52 - The Acquisition of Omniture by Adobe and Its Impact on Utah's Tech Scene12:01 - The Growth of Adobe in Utah16:01 - Bradley's Decision to Leave Adobe18:13 - Joining BambooHR and Building a Strong Company Culture22:16 - Leadership Principles and Maintaining Company Culture27:15 - Balancing Professional and Personal Life30:16 - Inspiring the Next Generation of LeadersIf 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.comSocial:Twitter https://twitter.com/siliconslopesInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/siliconslopes/LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with Clint Betts, to explore his incredible journey from a small-town upbringing in Spanish Fork, Utah, to becoming a pivotal figure in Utah's tech community. Clint shares his personal story of being adopted, his early entrepreneurial ventures, and the creation of Beehive Startups and Silicon Slopes.00:00 - Introduction and Podcast Rustiness00:46 - Fourth Node Podcast and Utah's Tech History01:07 - Growing Up in Utah 01:43 - Spanish Fork and Early Life02:26 - Foster Care and Adoption04:03 - Meeting Biological Family06:44 - Adoption and Family Dynamics08:24 - Writing as Therapy10:30 - Early Career and Education11:10 - LDS Mission and Early Marriage12:18 - Running a Deli and College Life13:34 - Joining iZeni and Beehive Startups15:10 - Challenges of Raising Money in Early Utah Tech Scene16:57 - Beehive Startups and Community Building18:24 - StartSLC and Its Impact20:55 - StartSLC Pitch Competition22:25 - Transition to Silicon Slopes23:01 - Josh James and the Origin of Silicon Slopes25:05 - Silicon Slopes' Mission and Early Days28:37 - Mission Accomplished and COVID-19 Impact32:00 - Refocusing Silicon Slopes' Mission34:34 - Challenges and Community Fragmentation38:10 - Maintaining Utah's Unique Tech Ecosystem42:45 - Future Vision for Silicon SlopesIf 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.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/silic onslopes/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/silicon-slopes/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aEtQ1KJrWhJ3C2JnzXysw

In this episode, we sit down with David from Western Governors University (WGU) to explore the future of education and how WGU is leading the way with its innovative, competency-based, 100% online model. David shares his insights on the role of AI in accelerating learning, the importance of technology in education, and the unique approach WGU takes to serve its students.00:02 - Introduction and David's Tenure at WGU00:22 - Competency-Based and Online Education at WGU00:52 - The Future of Education and AI01:46 - Accelerated Learning Through AI02:15 - AI's Impact on Student Support and Learning03:56 - History and Founding of WGU05:01 - Developing New Degrees and Programs06:17 - David's Experience at Walmart08:09 - Parallels Between Walmart and WGU09:52 - Student-Centric Approach at WGU10:17 - A Day in the Life of David at WGU11:26 - Pillars of Great Leadership12:48 - Moving from Arkansas to Utah13:45 - WGU's Office Locations14:41 - David's Reading Recommendations16:10 - Future of WGU and Technology Integration18:54 - WGU's Degree Programs19:33 - David's Education Experience20:25 - The Importance of Giving and Taking Chances21:44 - 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: www.wgu.edu 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 Jeff Burningham, entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author of the thought-provoking book "Becoming Wise in the Age of AI." Jeff shares his journey from running for governor to writing a book that explores the existential implications of AI on humanity. 00:00 - Introduction00:25 - Jeff's journey to writing the book01:07 - The book's unique approach and title01:38 - Why Jeff felt compelled to write03:22 - The evolution of Jeff's writing process05:07 - The dream that changed Jeff's perspective07:22 - The message and impact of the book10:04 - The role of AI in human evolution13:20 - The importance of human connection in the age of AI16:06 - Reforming institutions for human flourishing19:06 - The hero's journey and AI's role22:31 - The future of AI and human wisdom25:06 - Jeff's reflections on his personal journey31:13 - What's next for Jeff Burningham35:54 - Similarities between launching a book and a startup39:33 - Jeff's thoughts on running for office again44:05 - The serendipitous journey of the book's creation 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:http://www.jeffburningham.com/Apple Podcasts -https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/silicon-slopes-the-entrepreneur-capital-of-the-world/id1698150372Spotify Podcasts -https://open.spotify.com/show/2ZdYnWYKPXOqH2fgJ2UJ2N?si=5890c63a145a4a3e 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 dive deep into the vibrant world of Craft Lake City, an organization dedicated to promoting local artisans through the integration of technology, science, and arts. Join us as we chat with a key member of the Craft Lake City team about their mission, the history of the organization, and the exciting events they host, including the annual Craft Lake City DIY Festival.00:00 - Introduction00:37 - Transition to Craft Lake City00:50 - Guest's background in graphic design01:18 - History of Craft Lake City and its connection with Slug Magazine02:13 - The mission of Craft Lake City03:58 - Focus on STEM and youth entrepreneurship programs05:27 - The intersection of science and art07:07 - Discussion on Utah's tech and entrepreneurial community08:06 - Rocket launch events and community outreach09:07 - Impact of AI on art and upcoming exhibits11:45 - Clarifying the focus of Craft Lake City12:23 - Importance of youth entrepreneurship13:11 - The role of 3D printing in entrepreneurship14:03 - A typical day at Craft Lake City15:02 - Call to action for Utah County and contact information If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. Our website:https://www.siliconslopes.comShow Links:https://craftlakecity.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 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 reconnect with an old high school friend who has built an incredibly successful business, Disruptive Advertising. Join us as we dive deep into his journey from high school days to becoming a prominent entrepreneur in Utah. 00:00 - Introduction and Catching Up00:16 - Family Life and Kids00:42 - Entrepreneurial Journey01:24 - Starting Disruptive Advertising02:28 - Rebranding to Disruptive Advertising03:05 - Going Full-Time with Disruptive Advertising04:01 - Personal Growth and Marriage Challenges05:32 - High School Memories and Marriage Counseling07:09 - Realizing the Importance of Partnership08:19 - Transforming Business and Personal Life09:31 - Creating a Growth-Oriented Work Environment10:26 - Investing in Personal Development11:04 - Principles of Awareness, Honesty, and Responsibility12:31 - Implementing Personal Growth in Business13:41 - Detaching Identity from Business Success15:00 - Empathy and Self-Compassion16:14 - Learning from the Past17:21 - Loving Your Past Self18:05 - Launching Disruptive University Publicly19:07 - Role of AI in Marketing and Business20:23 - Adapting to AI in Marketing21:10 - Industry-Specific Teams in Disruptive Advertising22:38 - Challenges of Business Transformation23:27 - Decision to Not Raise Capital25:19 - Financial Independence and Business Risks27:23 - Conservative Upbringing and Debt Aversion28:04 - Influential Books and Philosophies30:31 - Eastern vs. Western Philosophies32:52 - Impact of AI on Life and Business34:11 - Potential Risks of AI35:10 - Writing and Publishing the Book37:10 - Content of the Book "Authenticity Wins"39:01 - Misconceptions About Authenticity40:33 - Podcast "Authenticity Wins"41:20 - Publishing Strategy for the Book41:47 - Identifying Personal Values If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. Our website:https://www.siliconslopes.comShow Links:https://disruptiveadvertising.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 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 a seasoned entrepreneur and current CEO of Entrata to discuss his journey through the tech industry, the importance of community, and the future of tech in Utah. From starting his first business in college to leading one of Utah's most promising tech companies, our guest shares invaluable insights and lessons learned along the way. 00:00 - Reconnecting After Years00:26 - Joining the Silicon Slopes Board01:01 - Early Business Influences and Mentorship02:01 - Building a Network in Utah03:05 - Learning from Industry Leaders03:47 - Personal and Professional Growth04:19 - Community Response to COVID-1905:09 - Challenges of Podcasting05:51 - Documenting Utah's Tech History06:51 - Importance of Mentorship and Community07:28 - Balancing Mentorship and Business Focus08:17 - Role of Silicon Slopes in the Tech Community09:03 - Founding Silent Whistle10:10 - Challenges and Successes of Silent Whistle11:48 - Exiting Silent Whistle12:25 - Founding Allegiance and Its Challenges13:45 - Lessons Learned from Allegiance14:48 - Joining Podium and Finding Product-Market Fit15:59 - Rapid Growth at Podium16:48 - Gaining Confidence and Raising Funds17:47 - Identity and Success18:40 - Detaching Identity from Business20:04 - Authenticity and Personal Roles22:02 - Public Perception and Criticism24:12 - Navigating Public Scrutiny25:33 - Taking a Year Off for Mental Health26:57 - Importance of Human Connection28:01 - Investing in Authentic Relationships30:24 - Leading Entrata32:00 - Entrata's Mission and Growth33:55 - Potential for Going Public36:32 - Implementing AI at Entrata39:41 - Future of AI in Tech40:51 - Maintaining Utah's Tech Magic If you enjoyed this video and want to support us please leave a LIKE, write a comment on this video and Share it with your friends. Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and click the icon for notifications when we add a new video. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. Our website:https://www.siliconslopes.comShow Links:https://www.entrata.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