Building Utah

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. For many Utah students, a pair of glasses can be key to learning, confidence, and success. But access to vision care is increasingly out of reach for thousands of families. That’s where Friends for Sight steps in. Development Director, Julia DeLeeuw, joins us with more. Julia Deleeuw: At Friends for Sight, we believe vision care isn’t a luxury — it’s a basic need. Our mission is to break down barriers so every Utahn can see clearly and thrive. We do this through free vision clinics, school and community screenings, and our signature pop-up event, SightFest. Here’s the reality — 70 percent of Utah students who fail a vision screening never get the glasses they need. That’s tens of thousands of kids. That’s why SightFest matters. In just one day, we turn a school gym into a full-service eye clinic. Volunteer doctors and staff provide eye exams and fit over 100 students with their first pair of glasses — delivered to their school within weeks. What’s really great

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. For over 40 years, David Evans and Associates has supported local businesses with dependable electrical equipment, advanced automated control systems, and expert on-site support — all while staying focused on making a meaningful impact in their communities. Marketing Specialist, Megan Callister, joins us with more. Megan Callister: At David Evans and Associates, we are creating a different future: engineers, surveyors, planners, hydrographers, landscape architects, and natural resources scientists working together to improve quality of life while demonstrating stewardship of the built and natural environments. We take pride in our partnerships with clients, driving meaningful change nationwide. As a leader in transportation, land development, water resources, and energy projects, David Evans and Associates is ranked among Engineering News Record’s Top 100 Pure Design Firms. From traditional to renewable energy, our clients rely on us for smart, sustainable solutio

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since 2012, Hoopes Events has helped hundreds of clients create unforgettable events, offering full-service planning, expert day-of coordination, and custom décor and design for beautifully tailored stress-free celebrations. Lead Planner and Designer, Tonya Hoopes, joins us with more. Tonya Hoopes: Planning a corporate event — whether it’s a major conference or an intimate board retreat — requires time, strategy, and precision. That’s where a professional event planning company becomes an essential partner. An experienced planning team brings structure and clarity from day one — creating timelines, managing budgets, sourcing venues, and coordinating vendors. They handle the logistics, so your internal team can stay focused on content, goals, and stakeholder engagement. For large-scale conferences, they oversee everything from registration systems and run-of-show production to speaker management and sponsor activation. For smaller retreats, they ensure a tailored,

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. One of the best ways to support the local economy is by shopping local. From retail boutiques to family-owned restaurants, the impact is felt across Utah. Today, South Jordan Chamber President and CEO Boyd Petersen joins us to share how local businesses power his community. Boyd Petersen: One of the strongest ways to support South Jordan’s economy is by shopping local. According to the American Independent Business Alliance, for every 100 dollars spent at a local business, about 68 dollars stays in our community — compare that to just 43 dollars at national chains. This reinvestment helps create jobs, drive economic growth, and improve quality of life in South Jordan. Our Buy Local South Jordan initiative shines a spotlight on the city’s vibrant small business community offering residents easy ways to support local entrepreneurs. Local businesses give South Jordan its distinct character and charm, which big-box retailers simply can’t replicate. By choosing t

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Founded in 1886, Ensign College, formerly LDS Business College, has been helping students learn by faith and preparing them to assume responsible positions in the workplace as well-qualified, confident, and capable professionals. President, Bruce Kusch, joins us with more. Bruce Kusch: Nearly five years ago, LDS Business College became Ensign College, but that’s not all that has changed. Today, our associate and bachelor’s degrees build upon skills-based certificates, designed to help students succeed in today’s workforce. Our innovative 7-week block schedule allows students to focus on fewer courses at a time, making college more manageable for working adults, returning learners, and part-time students of any age. Ensign College serves thousands globally through our partnership with BYU-Pathway Worldwide. Here in Utah, our Salt Lake City campus offers the most affordable degrees in the state. With generous scholarships, most students graduate with little to no

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since 1967, Kimley-Horn has been helping communities thrive. As a leading national firm in engineering, planning, and design, they consistently deliver exceptional solutions that drive progress and enhance community development. Kimley-Horn Associate, Amanda Risano, joins us with more. Amanda Risano: At Kimley-Horn, we’re proud to support Utah’s growth through transformative projects across multiple market sectors, including sports and entertainment, mixed-use development, higher education, and healthcare. Our team of over 125 professionals in Salt Lake City and Lehi provides expertise in civil engineering, structural engineering, transportation planning, community engagement, landscape architecture, and more. Our local work includes the Power District Transportation Study, planning services for BallparkNext, civil and infrastructure design for the University of Utah’s America First Ballpark, and planning and engineering for The Point Promenade and Event Venue.

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Blendyd Studios is a Lehi-based tech company transforming how recruitment works in the trucking industry. With mobile-first, AI-powered tools, they help drivers and carriers connect faster and smarter — taking the stress out of hiring for everyone involved. Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Morgan Williams Brown, joins us with more. Morgan Williams Brown: Tariffs aren’t the only thing slowing down US trucking companies. Many waste hours or days chasing driver leads that don’t fill their trucks. Blendyd combines AI-powered automation with real human insight to help carriers recruit faster, smarter, and without the usual headaches. From prioritized leads and instant texting to automated compliance tools — Blendyd simplifies every step of hiring. Need CDL or non-CDL drivers? Blendyd adapts to your needs, flags the best candidates, and answers driver’s questions automatically. And here’s the difference: Blendyd doesn’t just sell software — we partner with you.

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since 1984, Double D Distribution has become an integral part of Utah’s landscape. What started as a one-man trucking dream has grown into a team of over 40 drivers operating more than 40 trucks and 100 trailers. Vice President Skyler Droubay, joins us with more. Skyler Droubay At Double D Distribution, we proudly serve local projects and freight across the US, specializing in hauling key materials for Utah’s roads like liquid asphalt and emulsion, as well as agriculture, propane, dry goods, and refrigerated freight. But Double D is more than trucks and freight. We’re a Utah company through and through — headquartered in Salt Lake City near the airport, with a facility designed for drivers: 24/7 lounges, showers, and even a full kitchen. We believe drivers are American heroes and empower our team with top‑tier equipment, supportive leadership, and a tight‑knit culture. Beyond business, we’re invested in Utah’s communities — supporting local construction, agricult

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. J.P. Morgan Chase, one of the world’s top financial institutions, helps businesses with a full range of services. In their annual midyear survey, they share insights on how leaders are navigating today’s changing economic landscape. Intermountain Market Executive, John Shane, joins us with more. John Shane: The J.P. Morgan Commercial Banking’s 2025 Business Leaders Outlook Survey underscores the resilience of middle market businesses amid shifting economic conditions. Despite a decline in economic optimism from 65 percent in January to 32 percent in June, leaders remain dedicated to their strategic plans. The survey also revealed that 85 percent anticipate steady or improved performance, and 54 percent are maintaining or accelerating business plans. However, concerns such as uncertain economic conditions, tariffs, and revenue growth persist, with companies awaiting clarity before making decisions. Optimism about the national economy has fallen, and recession e

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The Salt Lake City Department of Economic Development is founded on the principle that thriving communities are rooted in strong local economies. By providing strategic business support and thoughtful planning, their efforts promote long-term, sustainable growth. Director, Lorena Riffo Jenson, joins us with more. Lorena Riffo Jenson: At Salt Lake City’s Department of Economic Development, we’re focused on building a strong, vibrant city — one where culture, business, and community all thrive. We are a human-centered economic development department. Our mission is to create an environment that supports job opportunities, encourages local business and arts, and ensures long-term stability as Salt Lake City continues to grow. We support local businesses with resources like EDLF and construction mitigation grants to help them navigate challenges so they can succeed. We also work to bring in national and international businesses that share our values — especially whe

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since its founding in 2021, the PROG Foundation has empowered Utahns to build brighter futures through tech training, mentorship, and career support — working with schools and communities to expand access to meaningful opportunities. Director, Beth Martial, joins us with more. Beth Martial: Utah is known for its innovation — and the PROG Development Center in West Valley City is advancing that legacy by unlocking tech-driven career pathways where untapped talent meets real opportunity, economic mobility, and long-term community impact. Backed by the PROG Foundation, the PROG Development Center is a nonprofit talent accelerator helping Utahns launch careers in tech, specifically in cybersecurity, UX/UI, digital marketing and e-commerce, and data analytics — through certification programs and hands-on industry exposure. We partner with schools, employers, and community organizations to close opportunity gaps and meet workforce needs in some of Utah’s fastest-growin

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. When it comes to helping local communities thrive, Altabank delivers. As a full-service bank and trusted partner, they support families, small businesses, and big dreams — offering financial solutions with a personal touch across Utah and southern Idaho. Chief Banking Officer, Judd Austin, joins us with more. Judd Austin: This year, we’re proud to celebrate 120 years of serving the people, businesses, and communities of Utah. Since 1905, we’ve grown and evolved to meet the needs of each new generation, always grounded in a commitment to personal service. As the state’s largest community bank, Altabank provides the tools, resources, and expertise our customers need to succeed. But what truly defines us is the way we show up, with care, with experience, and with a genuine personal investment in our customers’ goals. We’ve helped families put down roots, supported local businesses through every stage of growth, and stood beside our communities in times of challe

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since 2006, Colorado Party Rentals has delivered exceptional event products and services across the Rocky Mountain region. With its 2023 Salt Lake City launch as Summit Party Rentals, the company continues to grow. Business Development Manager Liz Mallen joins us with more. Liz Mallen: Summit Party Rentals Utah is your trusted source for premium event and party rentals across Utah and the Mountain West. Whether you're planning a backyard birthday, corporate gathering, or dream wedding, we offer high-quality items and exceptional service to make your celebration unforgettable. From tents, tables, and chairs to upscale lounge furniture, tabletop, and fine linens, our diverse inventory has everything you need to bring your vision to life. Summit Party Rentals Utah is the fourth location established under the umbrella of Colorado Party Rentals, joining our sister locations in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Santa Fe, New Mexico. We pride ourselves on reliability, clean

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Established in 2022, Consider This Nutrition is a family-owned company that has been providing individuals with food sensitivities and those searching for gut-friendly nutrition with delicious and safe high-fiber protein bars. Founder, Tess Hilmo, joins us with more. Tess Hilmo: My husband and I started Consider This Nutrition after my personal journey with chronic illness and food sensitivities. When we couldn’t find a single bar I could safely eat, we created one. We know how hard it is to find a protein bar that works when you're avoiding gluten and dairy and seed oils. That’s why ours are made with just 8 to 10 whole plant ingredients — no gluten, dairy, nuts, soy, egg, sesame, seed oils, added sugars, sugar alcohols, or preservatives. They’re certified organic and lab-tested low histamine. Each bar supports the 30 Plants a Week Challenge, a science-backed way to support gut and immune health through plant diversity. At Consider This, our mission is nutritio

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since 1971, Benson’s Trophies and Plaques has been proudly providing Utah with personalized trophy and award designs. As a family-owned and operated business, they pride themselves on delivering exceptional customer service. Owner, Craig Benson, joins us with more. Craig Benson: At our family-owned shop, we’ve been helping Utah recognize excellence for years with personalized trophies and awards. Whether you're celebrating an athletic achievement, a corporate milestone, or a personal accomplishment, we’ve got you covered with custom, high-quality designs. We specialize in engraving and offer a wide variety of awards to suit every need. Our showroom, conveniently located in Salt Lake City, allows you to see the quality of our work firsthand and explore different options. We take pride in exceptional customer service, ensuring that every award we create truly reflects the value of the person or event it’s meant to honor. Our goal is to make your recognition momen

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The journey to franchise ownership can feel overwhelming, but Guide to Franchising is here to help. By providing valuable educational resources, they assist individuals in exploring and understanding the ins and outs of franchise ownership. Chief Franchise Guide, Andrea Dobkin, joins us with more. Andrea Dobkin: When people hear “franchise,” they often think fast food — but it’s so much more than that. I help Utahns and others across North America explore franchise opportunities that align with their lifestyle, values, and goals. From veterans and career changers to families re-entering the workforce or business owners looking to diversify, I guide people from all walks of life toward business ownership. Whether you’re drawn to senior care, children’s enrichment, health and wellness, food and beverage, or home services, there’s a franchise that fits your budget, background and interests. I work with 800 brands in over 70 categories, and my services are completel

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since the ‘70s, Adcentives West has grown from a small paper printing and business promotional company to become the premier promotional products distributor in the greater Salt Lake Valley region. Vice President of Marketing, David Ohlson, joins us with more. David Ohlson: Utah businesses thrive when their brands are seen, remembered, and celebrated. That’s where Adcentives West comes in. As one of Utah’s top promotional product providers for over 45 years, we help companies of all sizes make meaningful impressions through custom apparel, corporate gifting, swag kits, online company stores, and more. With decades of experience and a nationwide reach, Adcentives West empowers sales teams, marketers, and HR leaders to turn everyday interactions into lasting brand experiences. From screen printing and embroidery to kitting and fulfillment, our in-house services ensure quality and consistency every step of the way. And it’s not just about products — it’s about

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Brite was originally founded in 1983 as a custom computer manufacturer. Today, it expertly leverages industry-leading technologies in IT service, cybersecurity, and public safety technology to deliver innovative solutions that protect and empower organizations across various sectors. Account Executive, Grady Smith, joins us with more. Grady Smith: At Brite, we believe great businesses and great communities deserve great cybersecurity. That is why we work with organizations right here in Salt Lake City to help them stay protected, connected, and resilient. Because no business wants to wonder whether they would survive a data breach. With Brite, businesses get 24/7 threat detection and response, all managed by real experts here in the US. And for larger enterprises, we do more than just provide the right tools. We help simplify cybersecurity, integrate the best solutions, and co-manage security programs that can keep up with today’s risks. Whether you are runnin

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The Janet Quinney Lawson Institute for Land, Water and Air at Utah State University envisions a Utah that values shared natural resources. Through diverse projects, they offer expert insights and guide informed policy for Utah’s future. Executive Director, Brian Steed, joins us with more. Brian Steed: Utah continues to be recognized among the best places to live, work and play. But to ensure that stays true, we need to make strategic policy decisions to protect our land, water and air. Good decisions can only come from good data, and that’s what the institute provides. We’re building a two-way street between Utah scientists and policy makers to provide the best information for those that need it most. Our institute is new but growing quickly. Our 1,000-day strategy includes: -Serving as Utah’s trusted source for land, water and air expertise; -Expanding research and impact; -Creating opportunities for students; ​-Helping business innovate in land, water and a

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. With over 350 schools and 62,000 students worldwide, School of Rock shapes the next generation of incredible musicians. Through personalized lessons, group rehearsals, and live performances, they nurture talent and build confident, skilled artists. Co-Owner, Denise Hintzke, joins us with more. Denise Hintzke: Everybody loves music, and School of Rock Salt Lake City is more than a music school – it’s a vibrant community where musicians, young and old, can discover their passion, build confidence, and find their voice. We don’t teach music to put on shows, we put on shows to teach music. This approach not only develops musical talent but also fosters teamwork, discipline and self-expression. For many students, School of Rock becomes a second home; a place to feel accepted, supported and inspired. Just like everybody loves music, everyone benefits from the creative energy that radiates from student performances, which also often support local events and causes. B