Silicon Slopes | Leaders Interviewing Leaders

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 working on various political campaigns to launching Proximity after recognizing the inefficiencies in existing tools. We discuss the challenges candidates face, the importance of data-driven insights, and how Proximity aims to democratize the political process by making it easier for candidates to gather signatures and engage with constituents.We also dive into the role of AI in enhancing campaign logistics, the significance of the Dignity Index in political speech, and the importance of protecting voter data. Becki emphasizes the need for a more inclusive political system and how Proximity is positioned to make a difference.00:00 - Introduction to Proximity01:00 - The Need for Proximity02:30 - Nonpartisan Approach03:30 - Bootstrapping Success04:00 - Market Potential05:00 - Current Tools Used by Politicians06:00 - Proud Moments and Candidate Feedback07:00 - AI Integration in Proximity08:30 - Understanding the Dignity Index09:30 - Data Protection and Privacy10:30 - Utah's Tech Community11:30 - Terms of Use and Candidate Selection12:30 - Signature Gathering System in Utah14:00 - Proximity's Role in Democratizing Access15:00 - The Name 'Proximity' Explained16:30 - Closing Thoughts and Acknowledgments17:30 - Who Gave You 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://proximitycampaigns.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

Scott Porter, founder of San Diablo Churros, discusses his journey of creating gourmet filled churros that are set to hit Target shelves. He shares the innovative process behind their new frozen churro line and the emotional connections consumers have with churros. Porter highlights the challenges of entering the frozen dessert market and reflects on the cultural significance of churros as a nostalgic treat. The conversation also touches on adapting the business during the pandemic and exciting future ventures, including potential restaurant partnerships.

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 impact of the pandemic on small businesses, the importance of integrity in lending, and the innovative technology Lendio is using to streamline the loan process. Brock also discusses the company's exciting new SaaS products aimed at both lenders and borrowers, and how they are leveraging data to better serve the small business community.Join us as we explore Brock's insights on leadership, the entrepreneurial spirit in Utah, and the lessons he's learned over nearly two decades in the industry. Whether you're a small business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just curious about the world of lending, this episode is packed with valuable information and inspiration.00:00 - Introduction and Overview of Lindio's Journey00:19 - Impact of COVID-19 on Lindio01:54 - Challenges and Sacrifices During the Pandemic02:35 - Survival Mode and Motivation03:49 - Navigating the CARES Act and Compliance05:14 - Fraud and Scams During the PPP07:20 - Comparing Fraud Levels Across States08:03 - Identity Verification and Technology Use11:02 - AI's Role in Lindio's Operations13:19 - Why Lindio is Not a Lender14:48 - Longevity in Leadership and Experience16:08 - Insights on the State of the Economy19:05 - Phase Two: New Products and Services25:09 - SBA Loan Processing Improvements25:47 - Traction with Bank Products26:50 - Motivation and Daily Routine30:03 - Leadership Lessons Learned31:11 - Utah's Unique Business Environment32:04 - Final Thoughts on Giving 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://www.lendio.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 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 Career00:45 - First Big Win: July 6th, 199601:39 - First USA and the Internet Revolution02:50 - Creating the World's First Internet Bank03:43 - Founding Juniper and Early Internet Banks04:26 - Wilmington, Delaware: The Payments Epicenter05:41 - Transition to Juniper and Venture Capital07:05 - Bank Mergers and Name Changes08:01 - Moving to England and Global Banking Experience09:55 - Global Banking and Cultural Insights10:59 - Humanity and Cultural Nuances12:46 - Living in Dubai During the Financial Crisis15:02 - Cultural Experiences in Dubai16:16 - Dubai's Innovation and Leadership19:47 - Transition to Blockchain and Mobile Money21:05 - Building the First Mobile Money Service in Europe23:42 - The Role of Accelerators in Startups25:03 - Disruption and Innovation in Banking27:25 - Returning to Utah and Galileo29:21 - The Future of Money and AI33:54 - Global Currencies and Blockchain36:17 - The Role of Bitcoin and Cryptocurrencies38:10 - Utah's Influence in the Financial System39:04 - FinTech Success Stories in Utah40:58 - Keeping Companies in Utah42:38 - Potential for the Next Big Tech Company in Utah43:54 - Utah's Growing Talent and Economy44:46 - Utah's Strength in FinTech46:01 - The Role of Data in FinTech46:11 - Utah's Venture Capital and Angel Networks49:04 - Future Plans for Galileo50:25 - Building Relationships in the Utah Ecosystem52:14 - Global Ecosystems and Connectivity53:56 - Breaking into the Utah Tech SceneIf 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.galileo-ft.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 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 Learning00:00:41 - The Importance of Early Education00:01:52 - Savvy Learning's Product Offering00:02:52 - Launching During COVID-1900:03:46 - Role of AI and Technology in Education00:04:46 - Insights on the Education System00:05:02 - Savvy Learning's Market Position00:07:32 - Fundraising and Financial Strategy00:09:40 - Integration of AI in Operations00:10:28 - Marketing Strategy and Influencer Partnerships00:13:24 - Affiliate Marketing Insights00:15:42 - Leadership and Team Growth00:18:07 - Co-Founding Dynamics00:19:41 - Utah's Role in Savvy Learning's Growth00:21:07 - Acknowledging Key SupportersIf 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://savvylearning.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 sit down with Heather, a dynamic force in the tech industry and a passionate advocate for women in the workforce. Heather shares her journey as a single mom of five, her role as vice chair of the AI chapter in the Silicon Slopes community, and her mission to empower women to return to work with confidence through her startup, Elavare.We dive deep into the current state of AI in Utah, discussing the challenges and opportunities that businesses face in realizing the full potential of AI technologies. Heather also highlights the importance of building confidence among women, addressing the barriers they encounter when re-entering the workforce, and the critical role that male allies play in supporting women's career advancement.00:00 - Introduction and Welcome00:40 - Heather's Background01:08 - Utah's AI Landscape02:12 - The Future of AI Agents03:38 - Heather's Work in Tech04:38 - Elavare: Supporting Women in the Workforce06:11 - Barriers for Women Returning to Work07:09 - Employer Perspectives on Career Gaps08:34 - Lessons from KT Tape10:12 - Understanding KT Tape11:04 - Transitioning from KT Tape to Tech13:05 - Upcoming Event for Women14:55 - Event Details and Registration15:40 - The Future of Events17:05 - Encouraging Women to Attend Events19:29 - Finding Worthwhile Events21:06 - The Importance of Giving First22:20 - Organizations Supporting Women24:27 - Personal Growth and Confidence25:10 - The Role of Men in Women's Success27:14 - Legacy and Future Aspirations28:18 - The Confidence Gap30:49 - The Value of Vulnerability32:31 - Final Thoughts on Confidence36:47 - 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://www.elavare.com/

In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with President Randall Taylor of the University of Utah to discuss the impact of college football on university life, the evolution of education, and the exciting developments happening in Utah's higher education landscape.President Taylor shares insights on how athletics have transformed the university's reputation and attracted a diverse student body from across the nation. He highlights the importance of building a vibrant campus culture and the university's commitment to fostering innovation and economic development in the state.00:00 - Introduction and Weekend Responsibilities01:11 - The Importance of College Football for Universities02:45 - Impact of Out-of-State Students on Campus Culture04:58 - Student Retention and Post-Graduation Trends05:40 - Land Development and Campus Expansion06:41 - Economic Development and University Collaboration09:39 - Artificial Intelligence Initiatives11:44 - University of Utah's Tech History12:50 - Masters of Business Creation Program14:40 - Background and Career Path of President Taylor16:09 - Leadership Lessons as University President17:13 - Future of Education and Technology Integration20:15 - Evolving Role of Professors in Education23:06 - Political Climate and University Dynamics25:39 - Legacy and Societal Impact of the University26:49 - Managing Growth in Utah28:50 - Collaboration Among University Presidents31:29 - BYU's Medical School Announcement32:32 - Utah's Educational Success Factors33:35 - Personal Reflection on Opportunities and MentorshipIf 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.utah.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 inspiring episode, we sit down with the visionary behind Tech Moms, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at removing barriers for women entering the tech industry. Over the past five years, Tech Moms has successfully guided over 600 women through their programs, providing essential skills, confidence, and a supportive community.00:00 - Introduction and Casual Conversation00:46 - Tech Moms Initiative Overview01:22 - Mission and Challenges for Women in Tech02:04 - Program Details and Community Building03:08 - Partnerships and Expansion03:57 - Progress and Regional Challenges04:38 - Upcoming Events and Community Engagement05:52 - How Silicon Slopes Can Support Tech Moms07:38 - Mentorship vs. Sponsorship09:21 - Speed Networking and Sponsorship10:15 - Consulting and AI Strategy12:15 - AI's Impact on Community Building14:04 - Slopes Collective Program16:38 - Importance of Curated Communities17:13 - Internal Company Culture and Belonging18:49 - Utah's Growth and Challenges21:54 - Leadership Insights24:22 - The Importance of Support and Giving Chances25:52 - 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://www.tech-moms.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 CEO of Canopy, a leading software company in the accounting space, to explore the intricacies of the SaaS industry, the impact of AI on accounting, and the unique dynamics of the Utah tech ecosystem. From the challenges of fundraising and managing a growing company to the future of AI in professional services, this conversation covers it all.00:00 - Introduction and Greetings00:37 - Company Background and Role01:11 - Focus on Vertical SaaS01:50 - The Grossness Quotient in Software02:40 - Utah's Big Exits03:12 - Impact of AI on Accounting Software05:26 - Future of AI and Society05:57 - Integrating AI in Canopy's Software06:19 - AI's Limitations and Potential07:01 - Strategic and Creative Thinking in Accounting08:00 - Technology and Human Interaction08:22 - Critique of Modern Technology Use09:44 - Hopes for AI in Automating Tasks10:32 - Typical Day as a CEO12:05 - Fundraising and Burn Rates13:11 - Challenges in Predicting Growth and Burn15:04 - Impact of Public Market Sentiment on Venture Capital16:47 - Types of Venture Investors17:32 - Wall Street Experience and Risk Aversion18:39 - Human Nature in Investment Decisions19:22 - Local and National Venture Community21:09 - Seed Funding in Utah23:12 - Utah's Venture Ecosystem Needs25:03 - Utah's Strength in SaaS27:15 - Media Perception of Utah's Tech Scene29:32 - Historical Roots of Utah's B2B Success31:00 - Cultural Factors in Utah's Tech Scene33:01 - Decline in Utah's Fertility Rates34:17 - Silicon Valley's Continued Dominance35:48 - Desire for Growth in Utah's Tech Scene38:04 - Balancing Growth and Quality of Life39:02 - Biotech and Other Emerging Sectors in Utah41:33 - Future Plans for Canopy and AI Integration44:05 - Challenges in Modernizing Accounting FirmsIf 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.getcanopy.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 sit down with Rachelle Morris, a candidate for Salt Lake County Council, to discuss her journey into politics and the importance of local governance. Rachelle shares her experiences navigating the convention process, her motivations for running, and the unique dynamics of Salt Lake County's political landscape.We dive into the challenges and opportunities facing the county, including the significant $2 billion budget and the need for effective public safety and mental health solutions. Rachelle also highlights her work with Revroad Capital, a venture fund focused on supporting innovative startups in Utah, including the exciting developments at Hypercraft.Join us as we explore the intersection of politics, community engagement, and entrepreneurship, and learn why every vote matters, especially in local elections. Whether you're a seasoned voter or new to the process, this conversation will inspire you to get involved and make your voice heard.00:00 - Introduction00:37 - Rachelle's background and decision to run for office01:47 - The convention process and campaign journey06:11 - The importance of local governance10:01 - Salt Lake County's political landscape15:08 - Addressing school lunch debt and community needs20:01 - The role of venture funding in Utah30:33 - Insights on Revroad Capital and Hypercraft40:53 - The future of venture funding in Utah46:14 - Encouragement for Gen Z votersIf 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://voterachellemorris.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