Silicon Slopes | Leaders Interviewing Leaders

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 - Introduction00:23 - The role of AI in education01:18 - Meet Courtney Hills McBeth02:06 - WGU's mission and vision03:27 - The history of WGU04:34 - WGU's structure and offerings06:43 - Responding to workforce needs07:04 - Developing new programs at WGU08:31 - The future of AI in education10:43 - Personalized learning experiences12:12 - Silicon Slope Summit announcement13:51 - The future of classrooms with AI16:00 - Democratizing learning with AI18:00 - Enhancing faculty roles with AI20:02 - The balance between self-driven learning and tutoring21:34 - The future of one-on-one tutoring with AI23:16 - The importance of accreditation and validation25:25 - Work-based pathways and experiences28:23 - Skills needed by employers29:45 - The value of liberal arts education31:29 - Building digital communities33:26 - The impact of AI on jobs and industries35:18 - The role of community in education37:30 - WGU Connect and peer interactions38:54 - The importance of location in education40:28 - Flexibility and personalization at WGU41:39 - Closing remarksIf 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.wgu.edu/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=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 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 Susceptibility01:05 - Introduction and Personal Connection02:04 - Progress in Cancer Research03:03 - Advances in Cancer Treatment03:25 - Collaboration in Utah04:24 - Children's Cancer Research05:24 - Fertility Considerations05:46 - Unique Healthcare Partnership06:11 - Spirit of Collaboration07:08 - Localized Cancer Care08:00 - New Cancer Center in Vineyard09:05 - Educational Collaborations12:27 - BYU's Medical School13:01 - Addressing Rural Cancer Care14:10 - Huntsman at Home Program15:43 - Medical Data Challenges16:33 - Legacy of John Huntsman18:10 - Contributions to Cancer Genetics20:10 - Personalized Medicine21:46 - National Recognition22:42 - Silicon Slope Summit24:26 - John Huntsman's Vision26:31 - Personal Recollections27:03 - Career Path31:17 - Future of Cancer Treatment34:24 - Challenging Cancers35:06 - Lung Cancer Treatment36:10 - Evolution of Treatment Methods37:01 - CAR-T Cell Therapy38:51 - Typical Day of a CEO40:06 - AI in Cancer Research42:31 - AI and Health Initiatives45:26 - Talent Pipeline47:32 - Relationship with University of UtahIf you enjoyed this podcast and want to support us please share it with your friends.  Our website: https://www.siliconslopes.comShow Links: https://healthcare.utah.edu/huntsmancancerinstitute/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=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 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 Festival, and the introduction of Startup Alley, where entrepreneurs can pitch their ideas to global investors.Our special guest, Paul, makes his second appearance on the show. Paul shares insights from his legendary book "Nail It Then Scale It," co-authored with Dr. Nathan Furr, and discusses its relevance in the AI era. He also talks about his extensive experience with startups, his investment journey, and his current focus on building companies through Alta Labs.We delve into Paul's inspiring work with the Health 3 Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting blood cancer patients. Learn about their innovative approaches to aggregating patient data, matching patients to clinical trials, and accelerating cancer research. Paul also shares personal stories, including his family's battle with cancer and their mission to cure it.Tune in to hear about Paul's various ventures, including IsoTalent, Obra, and Meridian Therapeutics, and his involvement with Grip6, a Utah-based minimalist design company. Discover what makes Utah a unique and thriving hub for entrepreneurs and how we can preserve its special community spirit.00:00 - Introduction to Silicon Slope Summit01:44 - Welcome back, Paul!02:07 - Partnership with Tech Buzz News03:04 - Discussion on "Nail It Then Scale It" in the AI era07:48 - Insights on startup principles and AI14:01 - Health 3 Foundation and cancer research30:32 - Utah's unique entrepreneurial spirit37:40 - Paul's daily routine and ventures40:36 - What makes Utah special45:08 - Maintaining Utah's community spiritIf 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://altaventures.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, 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 Scene01:07 - Silicon Slopes and Fiji Water01:23 - Introducing Burke Olsen01:50 - Early Career in PR and Journalism02:32 - Olympic Experience and Career Growth03:13 - Graduate School and Boutique PR Firm03:50 - Joining Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life05:05 - Silicon Slope Summit Announcement06:01 - Transition to Digital Media and Deseret News07:18 - First Role at Deseret News08:18 - Digital Disruption and Content Strategy09:19 - General Manager and Digital Integration10:16 - Journalistic Accountability and Analytics11:38 - Joining Pew Research Center Board13:00 - Geographic and Ideological Diversity14:09 - Deseret News' National Reach and Strategy15:21 - KSL Classifieds and Digital Success16:35 - KSL's Unique Market Position17:42 - KSL's Simplicity and User Needs18:11 - KSL TV and Radio Success19:12 - KSL's Regional Radio Stations20:00 - Balancing Commerce and Information21:04 - Media Bias and Objective Reporting22:32 - Deseret News' National Strategy24:09 - Deseret News' Unique Position and Mission25:12 - Church Ownership and Editorial Independence27:09 - Religious Liberty and Specialized Coverage28:54 - External Perception of Deseret News30:07 - Relationship with Salt Lake Tribune31:37 - Dissolution of Joint Operating Agreement32:52 - Tribune's Coverage and Revenue Challenges33:56 - Deseret News' Approach to Paywalls35:10 - Successful Subscription Models Elsewhere36:39 - Diversifying Revenue Streams37:32 - Building User Habits and Loyalty38:00 - Deseret News' Unique Voice and Community39:02 - Role of Editorial Boards40:07 - Editorials and Public Opinion42:01 - Editorials' Impact on Coverage43:11 - Example from Salt Lake TribuneIf 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.deseret.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

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 support, and the future of Utah's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with valuable information and inspiration.00:00 - Introduction and Tim's Role00:17 - Dress Code in the Governor's Office00:33 - Tim's Initial Experience and Attire00:45 - The Startup State Initiative01:07 - Promoting Utah's Entrepreneurship01:58 - The Challenge of Event Awareness02:34 - Evolution of Utah's Entrepreneurial Events03:24 - The Role of Silicon Slopes04:06 - Tim's Official Title and Responsibilities04:53 - Branding Utah as the Startup State05:29 - Comparing Utah to Silicon Valley06:07 - Utah's Unique Appeal06:34 - Tim's Experience in New York06:45 - The Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in Utah07:07 - Encouraging Small Businesses08:00 - The Importance of Grassroots Entrepreneurship09:03 - The Role of Small Business Development Centers09:36 - Competition in the Community10:07 - Utah's Sales Force and Business Models11:11 - The Reality of Startup Finances12:22 - The Importance of Community Support13:23 - The Role of Trust in Leadership14:32 - Addressing Fraud in Utah15:04 - Different Types of Entrepreneurs16:34 - Rain Clouds for Utah's Tech Future17:58 - The Future of Utah's Tech Industry19:06 - The Role of Private Equity20:01 - The Impact of AI on Small Businesses21:16 - The Importance of Big Business in Utah22:11 - The Role of Aerospace and Agriculture23:01 - The Potential of Bio and Health Tech24:06 - The Challenges of Deep Tech25:06 - The Future of Tech and AI26:11 - The Get Started Program27:38 - Overcoming Governmental Challenges28:19 - The Startup Dashboard29:01 - The Role of Human Interaction30:28 - The Importance of Community Building31:58 - The Future of Utah's Entrepreneurial Ecosystem33:03 - The Role of Give First in the Community34:53 - Working for Governor Cox36:18 - The Political Aspect of the Role37:28 - Traveling the State38:22 - Conclusion and Final ThoughtsIf 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://business.utah.govSocial: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 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 Palace00:25 - First Experiences and DTC Transition01:17 - Company Launch and Initial Sales01:58 - Wholesale to Direct-to-Consumer Pivot02:31 - Background of the CEO03:10 - Joining Kizik and Initial Impressions03:50 - Early Prototypes and Innovation05:38 - Factory Search in Asia07:25 - Hands-Free Shoe Concept and Market Potential08:49 - Comparison to Other Innovations09:00 - First Successful Shoe: The Madrid09:37 - Nike Partnership and Validation11:18 - Expanding Product Line and New Models12:33 - Hiking Shoe and Future Product Plans14:03 - Design Philosophy and Unified Technology15:00 - Marketing and Product Launch Strategy15:36 - Jet-Puffed Partnership17:04 - Impact of Collaborations on Sales18:08 - Product Launch Process and Timeline18:20 - Transition to Brick-and-Mortar Stores20:45 - Global Expansion Plans21:06 - Rationale for Brick-and-Mortar Stores22:39 - Selling on Amazon24:05 - Brand Building and Innovation26:13 - Community and Customer Experience27:43 - Future Vision for Kizik29:02 - Global Distribution and Market Reach30:07 - Manufacturing and Technology Challenges32:13 - Company Growth and Employee Base32:33 - Commitment to Utah and Closing RemarksIf 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://kizik.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 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.00:00 - Tragic Accident and Its Impact01:26 - Physical Recovery and Surgeries01:57 - Fishing Trip to Argentina02:50 - Legacy and Personal Values05:02 - Current Daily Routine07:03 - Decision Against Starting a New Company08:41 - Deploy Surveillance and Business Ventures10:56 - Joy of Being a Grandparent12:07 - Staying Grounded and Humble15:06 - Wife's Postpartum Depression16:19 - Vivint's Growth and Rebranding16:30 - Off-Road Racing Accident19:00 - Forgiveness and Personal Growth21:12 - Faith and Coping with Tragedy26:22 - Experience in Mexican Jail30:00 - Forgiveness from the Victim's Family32:44 - Perspective on Forgiveness35:22 - Mental Health in the Entrepreneurial Community37:26 - Avoiding Social Media38:26 - Observations on Modern Startups40:59 - Lack of Venture Capital in the Early 90s42:04 - Financial Prudence and Business ResilienceIf 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.vivint.com/home/testSocial: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 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 transforming the landscape of software development.The future of SaaS versus AI agents and what it means for businesses.The importance of building a network and offering value as an entrepreneur.The challenges and opportunities in the current startup ecosystem, especially in Utah.Insights into regulatory capture and its impact on innovation and startups.The evolution of Utah's tech scene and its rise as a hub for entrepreneurship.Whether you're an entrepreneur, a tech enthusiast, or someone interested in the future of AI and startups, this episode is packed with valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions.📌 Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:25 - The lifecycle of successful events00:42 - The psychology of events post-pandemic01:16 - The role of AI in startups02:23 - The future of SaaS vs. AI agents05:35 - Building a network as an entrepreneur07:38 - The importance of offering value08:04 - The theory of events and takers vs. givers10:05 - The impact of regulatory capture11:03 - The future of AI and its challenges13:09 - The evolution of Utah's tech scene15:22 - The rise of product and engineering-focused companies19:04 - The importance of solving problems efficiently20:05 - The future of B2B SaaS and AI24:47 - The impact of Web3 and blockchain25:00 - The role of regulatory capture in tech29:13 - Utah's unique entrepreneurial culture32:12 - Building Kickstart and the challenges faced33:50 - Lessons learned from Fund One38:00 - The importance of building an ecosystem40:58 - The defining year of Utah's tech ecosystem42:18 - The current crop of tech 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.comShow Links: https://www.kickstartfund.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 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 the challenges faced by higher education institutions following the passing of significant bills that restrict DEI initiatives, and how these changes create unintended consequences for talent pipelines and business partnerships. Our hosts share insights on the importance of data in understanding the current landscape and dispelling misconceptions surrounding DEI efforts.Additionally, we address the evolving role of business leaders in navigating societal issues and the complexities of engaging in political conversations. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, we emphasize the need for a nuanced approach to DEI that includes all voices and perspectives.00:00 - Introduction to Silicon Slope Summit01:51 - DEI Pulse Check Release02:57 - Insights from the DEI Survey05:16 - Impact of Legislation on Higher Ed and Government06:22 - Legislative Changes and Concerns09:44 - Public vs. Private Sector Impacts12:04 - Public-Private Partnerships in Utah15:06 - Concerns Over Higher Ed Compliance18:03 - Limitations on Events and Programs21:00 - The Role of Higher Education in Workforce Development24:15 - Business Leaders' Involvement in DEI27:47 - The Need for Collaboration30:09 - Current Engagement in DEI Efforts32:30 - Creativity in Addressing DEI Challenges36:40 - Navigating Political Conversations39:24 - Diverse Perspectives on DEI42:04 - Conclusion and Future DirectionsIf 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://inclusionpro.com/free-report-utah-dei-pulsecheck-brief/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 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 Connections00:53 - Transition from Public Accounting to Contract CFO01:36 - Discovering Offshore Talent02:51 - Building Efficient Accounting Systems04:14 - The Shift to Cloud Accounting04:28 - Meeting Brandon Craig and the Transformation06:02 - Brandon Craig's Impact on Leadership07:49 - Understanding Leadership Beyond Tactics09:10 - Early Success and Joint Ventures10:17 - Rebranding to Nimble and Growth11:14 - Ideal Client Profile for Nimble12:49 - The Importance of Accounting for Small Businesses13:57 - Team Structure and Growth14:38 - Cultural Fit of the Philippine Team15:01 - Personal Growth and Leadership Lessons16:00 - Health Transformation Journey17:32 - Future Growth Aspirations19:26 - Managing a Fully Remote Team21:22 - The Role of Utah in Nimble's Story22:01 - Key Leadership Lessons from Brandon23:46 - Acknowledging Those Who Gave ChancesIf 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://trustnimbl.comBrandon Craig interview: https://youtu.be/kvjMAoX5IkQSocial: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