Silicon Slopes | The Entrepreneur Capital of the World

In this insightful episode, we reconnect with Michelle McCullough, a leadership development expert, to discuss the evolution of her career from Startup Princess to her current work in emotional intelligence and leadership training. Michelle shares her journey, the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace, and how it impacts productivity, employee engagement, and overall company culture.00:00 - Introduction and catching up with Michelle McCullough00:36 - The story behind Startup Princess01:19 - Michelle's current work in leadership development02:02 - The crisis in emotional intelligence post-COVID-1903:19 - How to improve emotional intelligence04:19 - The importance of positivity and joy04:48 - The role of AI in emotional intelligence05:23 - Leadership and emotional intelligence06:29 - Common challenges faced by companies and leaders07:57 - The impact of remote and hybrid work on productivity and culture10:50 - The need for human connection beyond Zoom12:13 - The importance of understanding and supporting employees14:43 - The future of work and the end of "button pusher" jobs16:00 - The value of communication and humanities degrees18:51 - Leadership fatigue and the need for resilience20:04 - The evolving role of business leaders in society23:31 - Building trust in organizations27:59 - The role of social media in emotional well-being31:28 - The importance of owning your audience33:23 - Key findings from Michelle's research on emotional intelligenceIf 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: speakmichelle.comSocial: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 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 three of the most influential figures in Utah's tech community: Diogo, John, and Sid from Album VC. Join us as we dive deep into the journey of Album VC, from its inception in 2013 to becoming a powerhouse with nearly a billion dollars under management.We discuss the evolution of the Utah tech scene, the importance of building generational companies, and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with being a venture capitalist. Learn about the significance of staying humble, the value of founders, and the impact of AI on startups and venture capital.00:00 - Introduction to the guests and their journey00:40 - The creation of Silicon Slopes01:11 - Reflections on a decade of venture capital02:09 - The partnership dynamics at Album VC03:08 - The importance of staying humble and founder-centric04:50 - Diogo's journey to American citizenship05:19 - Reflections on VC and investing07:27 - The evolution of Utah's tech scene09:12 - The role of universities in fostering entrepreneurship10:04 - The impact of AI on startups and venture capital12:27 - The importance of efficiency in startups14:35 - The changing landscape of venture capital18:27 - The need for more product talent in Utah20:24 - The future of Utah's tech ecosystem23:43 - The importance of building generational companies30:06 - The role of venture capital in supporting founders33:17 - The unique dynamics of Album VC's partnership36:40 - What it takes to be a successful VCIf 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.album.vcSocial: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 episode, we sit down with Thurl Bailey, former NBA player and current color analyst for the Utah Jazz. Thurl shares his incredible journey from playing in the NBA to becoming a motivational speaker. He opens up about his experiences with the Utah Jazz, his unexpected move to Utah, and why he chose to stay post-career.Thurl also delves into his relationships with legendary leaders like Jimmy Valvano and Jerry Sloan, offering unique insights into their leadership styles and the impact they had on his life. From practicing cutting down nets with Jimmy V to experiencing Jerry Sloan's intense coaching methods, Thurl's stories are both inspiring and enlightening.We also discuss the current state of the NBA, including the recent trade moves, the young talent in the league, and the challenges teams face today. Thurl gives his take on the best teams in the league right now and shares his thoughts on the ongoing debate between Michael Jordan and LeBron James.Whether you're a basketball fan or someone interested in leadership and personal growth, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and fascinating anecdotes.00:00 - Introduction00:05 - Thurl's current role with the Utah Jazz00:40 - Inspirational speaking and its impact01:02 - Thurl's first impressions of Utah02:13 - Why Thurl stayed in Utah post-career04:19 - Current NBA discussions: Trades and team dynamics07:04 - The rise of Cleveland and Oklahoma City11:33 - Remembering Larry H. Miller17:04 - Leadership lessons from Jimmy Valvano27:00 - Thurl's NBA career and playing under Jerry Sloan42:00 - Reflections on the NBA Finals and Michael Jordan48:10 - The state of the NBA todayIf 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://edge2lead.comSocial: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

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 Evolution00:01:06 - Peterson's 15-Year Journey and 2025 Outlook00:02:08 - Evolution of the Venture Capital Ecosystem00:03:46 - JobNimbus and Utah's Unique Series A Rounds00:05:02 - Utah's Capital Efficiency Heritage00:05:59 - Venture Capital Trends and Market Shifts00:08:23 - Series B Challenges and AI's Impact on Fundraising00:09:37 - AI Infrastructure and Investment Strategies00:12:12 - AI's Effect on Consumer Businesses00:15:22 - Changing Search Dynamics and Consumer Discovery00:17:43 - AI's Role in Disrupting Established Industries00:18:40 - Opportunities in FinTech and Healthcare00:21:04 - Disrupting Distribution in Financial Services00:24:02 - Modernizing Banking and Financial Services00:25:08 - Government Tech and Energy Sector Innovations00:27:29 - Government Efficiency and Tech Infrastructure00:31:13 - Job Market Realities and Efficiency Trends00:33:29 - Founders' Involvement and Vision in Companies00:40:03 - Founders vs. Hired CEOs: Vision and Execution00:42:08 - Preparing for IPOs and Executive Team Changes00:46:07 - Private Market Capital and Liquidity 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://www.petersonventures.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

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 Sports01:13 - Founding of Philo Ventures02:24 - Philo Ventures' Unique Model03:22 - Scrappy Beginnings and Capital Partners04:19 - Real Estate Development Focus05:55 - Pre-Philo Ventures Career07:13 - Low Profile Strategy in Utah08:14 - Idea Generation and Validation Process09:27 - Team Size and Structure10:11 - Founder in Residence Recruitment12:20 - Pitching and Recruitment Process13:24 - Industry Agnosticism and Focus14:28 - Future of SaaS and AI Integration15:02 - AI Specialization and Value Creation17:29 - Success Stories and Studio Model19:16 - Challenges and Exciting Projects21:16 - Outreach and Collaboration Opportunities22:48 - Challenges in Finding Founders in Residence24:12 - Importance of Utah and Office Location25:13 - Conclusion and Future PlansIf 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: 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.philo.venturesSocial: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 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-thinking ideas.00:00 - The Tyranny of Inputs: Frustrations with Form Validation02:52 - Introduction of Guests: Sunny and Zach03:41 - Meeting at Edison House: How Sunny and Zach Met05:06 - Zach's Journey: From WeWork to New Ventures07:04 - Tech Illiteracy in Politics: Discovering Google Docs08:20 - AI and Human Interaction: Making Technology More Human09:26 - What is Orca Panda?: The Vision and Mission10:42 - Orca Panda's Origin: From Domain to Company12:19 - Pivoting to a Broader Market: Beyond Politics14:08 - Tech in Education: The Digital Literacy Test16:19 - Silicon Slope Summit: Announcement and Details18:03 - Repetition of the Tyranny of Inputs: Frustrations with Form Validation (Revisited)21:36 - Humans vs. Machines: The Struggle with Technology22:11 - AI in Education: Augmenting Good Teachers23:04 - The Death of Community: Technology's Impact on Social Spaces24:07 - Orca Panda's Vision: Simplifying Human Tasks25:04 - Practical Applications: Automating Workflows26:40 - Empowering Users: Building AI Agents28:05 - Challenges with AI: Agentic Architecture30:54 - Broader Applications: Beyond Legislative Databases33:10 - Sales Teams and CRM: Reducing Administrative Work34:27 - CSVs as Currency: The Importance of Data Exports36:20 - User Experience: Frustrations with State Forms38:05 - Early Success: Customer Stories40:02 - Raising Funds: Challenges with Local VCs41:25 - The Future of AI: Beyond Traditional Software44:45 - Paradigm Shifts: Historical Tech Innovations46:45 - Seeing the Future: Zach's Vision48:29 - Tech Trends: Cloud, Apps, and AI49:08 - Changing the Way People Work: Orca Panda's Impact50:03 - The Bright Future: Gen Z and TechnologyIf 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.philo.venturesSocial: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 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 Provo00:32 - Overview of RevRoad's Unique Venture Model01:23 - Mentorship and Human Capital in Venture02:18 - Vision and Founding of RevRoad03:11 - Attraction to RevRoad and Darren Hill's Vision04:07 - Previous Career in Government and Transition to RevRoad05:03 - Experience in Politics and Working with Spencer Cox07:00 - Relationship Between RevRoad and RevRoad Capital08:34 - Homegrown Utah Venture Model09:15 - Learning from Y Combinator and Business Model Evolution10:49 - Co-Investment Strategy with RevRoad Capital12:34 - Equity Terms and Transparency13:44 - Preparing Founders for Next Funding Rounds15:02 - Remote Work and COVID-19 Adaptations16:13 - Utah's Venture Community and Attracting Outside Investment18:20 - Building Utah's Tech and Business Ecosystem19:46 - Types of Companies Receiving Venture Funding20:47 - Big Swings in Utah's Energy Sector21:52 - Technology and Sales Skills in Utah Founders22:38 - Potential of Energy Sector in Utah23:43 - AI and Technical Founders25:06 - Provo as a Hub for Entrepreneurship27:13 - Impact of Universities on Provo's Entrepreneurial Scene29:02 - Community and Mentorship in Provo31:02 - Collaboration Between RevRoad and iHub34:00 - Partnership in Startup Alley34:53 - Future Integration of RevRoad and RevRoad Capital36:03 - Government Support for Startups38:20 - Application Process and Ideal Candidates for RevRoad39:46 - Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs40:30 - Importance of Adaptability in EntrepreneurshipIf 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.revroad.comSocial: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