Silicon Slopes | The Entrepreneur Capital of the World

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

In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with the dynamic president of Utah Valley University, who shares her unique leadership style and experiences that shaped her journey from the Philippines to the forefront of higher education.We dive into her early dreams of a better life, her academic pursuits in Russian literature and international relations, and her time in Russia during a pivotal moment in history. She reflects on the lessons learned from her experiences in Moscow, the challenges of leading in a complex world, and the importance of humility in leadership.Discover her thoughts on the future of education, the impact of technology on universities, and the need for institutions to adapt in a rapidly changing landscape. She also discusses the significance of community engagement and the core values that define what it means to be a Wolverine at UVU.Join us for an inspiring conversation that highlights the power of education, resilience, and the importance of supporting higher education in today's world.00:00 - Introduction and the "brat" dance01:04 - Leadership style and community engagement03:18 - What it means to be a Wolverine04:23 - Early dreams and ambitions06:08 - Journey from the Philippines to Provo, Utah08:20 - Academic pursuits at BYU10:10 - Experiences in Russia during the Soviet Union's collapse22:50 - Lessons learned from time in Russia25:30 - Thoughts on NATO and international relations28:24 - Transition to Microsoft and experiences in Singapore35:15 - The future of education and challenges facing universitiesIf 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.uvu.eduSocial: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 fascinating world of social media, content creation, and the evolving landscape of community building. Join us as we discuss how platforms like Facebook and YouTube have turned users into products, and the implications this has for content creators and businesses alike.Our guest, Scott, shares his journey with Gigg, a platform designed to empower influencers and businesses by giving them control over their data and communities. We explore the challenges of building a dedicated audience, the importance of owning your platform, and how sports teams and artists are leveraging community-driven strategies to enhance engagement and loyalty.00:00 - Introduction00:19 - The concept of users as products00:50 - The importance of data for creators02:03 - Building communities with Gigg06:01 - The journey of Gigg and its evolution10:49 - Utilizing social media for community growth22:13 - How sports teams are using Gigg33:00 - The future of Gigg and community buildingIf 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.gigg.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

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dan Burton, CEO of Health Catalyst, as he reflects on his incredible journey over the past 14 years. In this episode, Dan shares the evolution of his leadership style, the challenges of scaling a company from a startup to a public entity, and the impact of COVID-19 on the healthcare industry.Discover how Health Catalyst leverages data and artificial intelligence to improve healthcare outcomes and the importance of maintaining a strong company culture as the organization grows. Dan also discusses the principles of servant leadership and how they shape the way he leads his team.Throughout the episode, Dan emphasizes the significance of humility in leadership and the role of faith in his life. He shares personal anecdotes about the people who took chances on him, including his co-founders and his wife, Sarah.Whether you're a leader in the healthcare sector or simply interested in the intersection of technology and healthcare, this episode is packed with valuable insights and lessons learned from Dan's remarkable journey.00:00 - Introduction to Dan and Health Catalyst01:10 - Leadership Evolution at Health Catalyst02:50 - Understanding Health Catalyst's Mission06:40 - The Role of AI in Healthcare10:00 - Generative AI Use Cases16:20 - Future of AI in Healthcare18:10 - Going Public: The Decision and Experience24:00 - Navigating Challenges as a Public Company29:00 - The Importance of Servant Leadership33:40 - A Day in the Life of a CEO39:30 - The Role of Faith in Leadership42:30 - The Challenge of Humility in Leadership46:00 - 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.healthcatalyst.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 of our podcast, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Rob, the founder of Washie, a revolutionary toilet seat that prioritizes hygiene and convenience. Rob shares his heartfelt story about his late friend, an entrepreneur who left a lasting impact on his life and the startup community.Join us as we explore Rob's entrepreneurial path, from his initial idea sparked at the Salt Lake City Airport to the challenges he faced while launching his product. He candidly discusses the emotional toll of entrepreneurship, the importance of mental health, and the support systems that helped him navigate tough times.Rob also recounts his unique experience of traveling to China with a local waiter, his journey on Shark Tank, and the pivotal moments that led to Washei's recent success in the market. With insights on building a business, the significance of community, and the lessons learned along the way, this episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the realities of startup life.00:00 - Introduction and Tribute to GLAAD00:30 - Connection with GLAAD01:15 - First Impressions of GLAAD02:00 - The Entrepreneurial Journey Together03:00 - The Impact of GLAAD's Passing04:00 - Mental Health in Entrepreneurship05:30 - Rob's Journey as an Entrepreneur06:00 - The Founding Story of Washie08:00 - Challenges Faced on Shark Tank10:00 - The Decision to Keep Going12:00 - The Role of YouTube in Learning15:00 - Manufacturing and the Trip to China18:00 - Building Relationships in China20:00 - Funding and the COVID Impact22:00 - Raising Money and Building a Community24:00 - First Major Sales Win26:00 - The Importance of Clean Restrooms28:00 - Future Opportunities for Washie30:00 - Overcoming Low Points32:00 - Family Challenges and Moving to Utah34:00 - Dealing with Bullying36:00 - Reflections on Mental Health38:00 - Looking Ahead for Washie40:00 - The Value of the Entrepreneurial Journey42:00 - 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://www.washiepro.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

Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with a seasoned CEO who shares his journey back into the entrepreneurial world after a successful exit. Discover the excitement and challenges of building a new company, Fullcast, focused on revolutionizing revenue operations software.00:00 - Returning to the CEO Role01:27 - Finding the Right Fit02:30 - Passion for Revenue Operations04:27 - Identifying Market Gaps06:10 - Building for the Unsung Heroes07:23 - Navigating Economic Challenges09:34 - Funding the Acquisition11:37 - Choosing Investors Wisely14:42 - The Strength of the Founding Team16:16 - Building Relationships Through Service19:25 - Balancing Work and Personal Life22:10 - Leadership Traits and Examples27:36 - Managing Health and Performance30:34 - Cultural Changes in Business39:26 - Pragmatic Approach to IssuesIf 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.fullcast.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