MountainWest Capital Network: Welcome to the Winners' Circlehttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mountainwest-capital-network-welcome-to-the-winners-circle--6513850
Together, they've created something unprecedented: intimate access to the exclusive Winners’ Circle—that electrifying pre-event gathering where Utah's fastest-growing company CEOs and founders connect before taking the stage. Now, for the first time, they're bringing that same energy and insider access directly to you through candid one-on-one conversations with the business leaders shaping Utah's economy.]]>enEntrepreneurshipMountainWest Capital Networkhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/80eac770cc9f184b72d4662926649efb.jpgMountainWest Capital Network: Welcome to the Winners' Circlehttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mountainwest-capital-network-welcome-to-the-winners-circle--6513850Thu, 30 Jul 2026 02:32:56 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkMountainWest Capital Networkdinkel@launchpod.mediaMeet Cheri Waldron and Jason Roberts, your hosts for the MountainWest Capital Network Podcast—the gateway to Utah's Winner's Circle. For nearly two decades, Cheri has been the driving force behind MountainWest Capital Network as Executive Director,...
Together, they've created something unprecedented: intimate access to the exclusive Winners’ Circle—that electrifying pre-event gathering where Utah's fastest-growing company CEOs and founders connect before taking the stage. Now, for the first time, they're bringing that same energy and insider access directly to you through candid one-on-one conversations with the business leaders shaping Utah's economy.]]>falseepisodicRevisiting Layton Construction | Building a Business Through People, Not Projectshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/revisiting-layton-construction-building-a-business-through-people-not-projects--73249683
This conversation digs into what makes Layton Construction's culture so distinct: an employee-ownership model that has turned careers into real wealth. Dave has built this give-back philosophy and a leadership style by watching his father rather than by formal executive coaching. He also opens up about the emotional cost of running a business that never turns off, and how his company is investing in AI and data technology to modernize their industry. Whether you're building a company, a team, or a legacy, this conversation is a true example of what it means to invest in people for the long haul.

What You’ll Learn:
  • How a family construction business learned to scale across multiple generations
  • Why a "team sport" mindset beats individual talent in the construction industry
  • How employee ownership can build real generational wealth
  • What it takes to retain top talent in a competitive industry
  • Leadership lessons passed down from a father, rather than a framework
  • How to lead a business through economic downturns and hardships
  • Why giving back builds a stronger company culture
  • How AI and tech are modernizing the construction industry
  • Why protecting personal time matters for busy business leaders
  • What counts as a true measure of success

Connect with Layton Construction:
Want to Connect?

Cheri@MWCN.org
jason.roberts@protiviti.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
Amanda Wallman, Alpine Edge Marketing
The LaunchPod Media Team

The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73249683Thu, 30 Jul 2026 10:00:02 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkIn this episode, Cheri and Jason revisit their conversation with Dave Layton, president of Layton Construction. Layton Construction was founded by Dave’s father and built on a family legacy of hard work, loyalty, and long-term thinking. Dave grew up...
This conversation digs into what makes Layton Construction's culture so distinct: an employee-ownership model that has turned careers into real wealth. Dave has built this give-back philosophy and a leadership style by watching his father rather than by formal executive coaching. He also opens up about the emotional cost of running a business that never turns off, and how his company is investing in AI and data technology to modernize their industry. Whether you're building a company, a team, or a legacy, this conversation is a true example of what it means to invest in people for the long haul.

What You’ll Learn:
  • How a family construction business learned to scale across multiple generations
  • Why a "team sport" mindset beats individual talent in the construction industry
  • How employee ownership can build real generational wealth
  • What it takes to retain top talent in a competitive industry
  • Leadership lessons passed down from a father, rather than a framework
  • How to lead a business through economic downturns and hardships
  • Why giving back builds a stronger company culture
  • How AI and tech are modernizing the construction industry
  • Why protecting personal time matters for busy business leaders
  • What counts as a true measure of success

Connect with Layton Construction:
Want to Connect?

Cheri@MWCN.org
jason.roberts@protiviti.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
Amanda Wallman, Alpine Edge Marketing
The LaunchPod Media Team

The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>2076ai-in-construction,business-leadership,ceos-and-founders,company-founders,construction-business,construction-industry,employee-ownership,family-business,fastest-growing-companies,generational-business,layton-construction,leadership-lessons,local-utah-business,mountain-west,mountainwest-capital-network,scaling-business,utah-businesses,utah-business-leaders,utah-companies,winners-circlefalsefullBuilding a Business From Scratch | Frameworks for Scaling a Business with Derrick Porterhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/building-a-business-from-scratch-frameworks-for-scaling-a-business-with-derrick-porter--72995421
Cheri and Jason sit down with Derrick Porter, executive chair of Clean Simple Eats and founder and former CEO of Beauty Industry Group. Derrick traces his path back to a childhood spent painting curbs, which led him to co-building the world's largest hair extension company. His journey is full of long stretches of uncertainty, a lot of pivoting, and a willingness to say yes to opportunities that didn't always make sense.

Derrick dives into the frameworks he uses for scaling companies and leading people, as well as what the personal side of scaling a business looks like. The group reflects on Utah's business culture, the role education played later in Derrick’s life, and what it means to truly become a better version of yourself. It's a conversation as much about mindset and inspiration as it is about entrepreneurship.

What You’ll Learn:
  • What it takes to build a business from scratch and scale it
  • Derrick’s two frameworks for evaluating business opportunities
  • The "intangible value chain" that links leadership to customer value
  • How to recognize and recover from burnout in business
  • Why it matters to predefine success for yourself and your business
  • What makes Utah's business culture distinct from others
  • How to reframe your thoughts on wealth, possessions, and joy
  • A simple filter for long-term decision-making
Connect with Derrick Porter, Beauty Industry Group, and Clean Simple Eats:
Want to Connect?

Cheri@MWCN.org
jason.roberts@protiviti.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
Amanda Wallman, Alpine Edge Marketing
The LaunchPod Media Team

The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72995421Thu, 16 Jul 2026 09:00:17 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkWhat is it like to build a business from nothing? Today, we’ll share the things that actually matter on your business journey. Cheri and Jason sit down with Derrick Porter, executive chair of Clean Simple Eats and founder and former CEO of Beauty...
Cheri and Jason sit down with Derrick Porter, executive chair of Clean Simple Eats and founder and former CEO of Beauty Industry Group. Derrick traces his path back to a childhood spent painting curbs, which led him to co-building the world's largest hair extension company. His journey is full of long stretches of uncertainty, a lot of pivoting, and a willingness to say yes to opportunities that didn't always make sense.

Derrick dives into the frameworks he uses for scaling companies and leading people, as well as what the personal side of scaling a business looks like. The group reflects on Utah's business culture, the role education played later in Derrick’s life, and what it means to truly become a better version of yourself. It's a conversation as much about mindset and inspiration as it is about entrepreneurship.

What You’ll Learn:
  • What it takes to build a business from scratch and scale it
  • Derrick’s two frameworks for evaluating business opportunities
  • The "intangible value chain" that links leadership to customer value
  • How to recognize and recover from burnout in business
  • Why it matters to predefine success for yourself and your business
  • What makes Utah's business culture distinct from others
  • How to reframe your thoughts on wealth, possessions, and joy
  • A simple filter for long-term decision-making
Connect with Derrick Porter, Beauty Industry Group, and Clean Simple Eats:
Want to Connect?

Cheri@MWCN.org
jason.roberts@protiviti.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
Amanda Wallman, Alpine Edge Marketing
The LaunchPod Media Team

The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>3232beauty-business,beauty-products,business-leadership,ceos-and-founders,company-founders,fastest-growing-companies,founder-business,founder-story,growing-businesses,local-utah-business,mountain-west,mountainwest-capital-network,nutrition-and-supplements,nutrition-products,protein-products,scaling-business,utah-businesses,utah-business-leaders,utah-companies,winners-circlefalsefullWorking Through the Hustle: Behind the Story of Bucked Up with Jeff & Ryan Gardnerhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/working-through-the-hustle-behind-the-story-of-bucked-up-with-jeff-ryan-gardner--72790732
Cheri and Jason sit down with Jeff and Ryan Gardner, the twin brothers behind Bucked Up, and ask them about how their company came to be. They share the origin story of the company built on instinct, hustle, and a knack for spotting opportunity. Their journey from deerantlerspray.com to a company with $300 million in revenue is full of entrepreneurial wisdom for anyone looking to scale.

Jeff and Ryan open up about the hard lessons that came with scaling. They discuss their evolving roles within the company, a growing push into AI, and what it means to build a brand that people genuinely want to be a part of. Their insights provide a masterclass in market timing, brand identity, and knowing when to get out of your own way.

What You’ll Learn:
  • Why buying the right domain name at the right time can be worth more than any marketing campaign
  • How to identify white space in a crowded market 
  • The real cost of being too frugal with early hires 
  • How to know when you've outgrown your own company and what to do about it
  • How Bucked Up is using AI to transform customer support and company adoption
  • What makes Utah a strong environment for launching and scaling a consumer brand
  • The mindset shift required to go from a founder to a leader who relies on others
Connect with Jeff, Ryan, and Bucked Up:

Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
Amanda Wallman, Alpine Edge Marketing
The LaunchPod Media Team

The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72790732Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkBucked Up is one of Utah’s most well-known supplement and energy drink brands. But do you know the full story behind the company? Cheri and Jason sit down with Jeff and Ryan Gardner, the twin brothers behind Bucked Up, and ask them about how their...
Cheri and Jason sit down with Jeff and Ryan Gardner, the twin brothers behind Bucked Up, and ask them about how their company came to be. They share the origin story of the company built on instinct, hustle, and a knack for spotting opportunity. Their journey from deerantlerspray.com to a company with $300 million in revenue is full of entrepreneurial wisdom for anyone looking to scale.

Jeff and Ryan open up about the hard lessons that came with scaling. They discuss their evolving roles within the company, a growing push into AI, and what it means to build a brand that people genuinely want to be a part of. Their insights provide a masterclass in market timing, brand identity, and knowing when to get out of your own way.

What You’ll Learn:
  • Why buying the right domain name at the right time can be worth more than any marketing campaign
  • How to identify white space in a crowded market 
  • The real cost of being too frugal with early hires 
  • How to know when you've outgrown your own company and what to do about it
  • How Bucked Up is using AI to transform customer support and company adoption
  • What makes Utah a strong environment for launching and scaling a consumer brand
  • The mindset shift required to go from a founder to a leader who relies on others
Connect with Jeff, Ryan, and Bucked Up:

Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
Amanda Wallman, Alpine Edge Marketing
The LaunchPod Media Team

The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>2926brothers-in-business,bucked-up,business-leadership,ceos-and-founders,co-founder-business,co-founders,co-founder-story,company-founders,fastest-growing-companies,local-utah-business,mountain-west,mountainwest-capital-network,nutrition-and-supplements,nutrition-products,protein-products,supplement-company,utah-businesses,utah-business-leaders,utah-companies,winners-circlefalsefullLeadership Principles Built to Last | The Story Behind FranklinCovey with Paul Walkerhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-principles-built-to-last-the-story-behind-franklincovey-with-paul-walker--72570741
Cheri and Jason are joined by Paul Walker, CEO of FranklinCovey, for a conversation about leadership, organizational culture, and the secret to successful business performance. Paul shares the origin story of FranklinCovey and draws surprising parallels to the challenges every entrepreneur faces when trying to scale.

Paul highlights the important principles that have guided him through his career and helped him stay grounded in his goals. He dives into what makes good company culture in this new age of technology and AI. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or managing a growing team, this episode is filled with insights on execution, leadership, development, and how to work with AI to further growth and success.

What You’ll Learn:
  • Why culture beats technology as a competitive advantage
  • How to narrow your focus for better execution
  • The difference between identifying problems and solving them
  • How to balance high expectations and genuine care as a leader
  • How to think about AI strategically with FranklinCovey’s framework
  • What principles-based leadership means in practice
  • How to scale a founding-stage company from the ground up
  • Why Utah has become a strong hub for tech and talent
Connect with Paul Walker and FranklinCovey:
Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
Amanda Wallman, Alpine Edge Marketing
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72570741Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:00:03 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkWhat does it take to build a company that outlasts trends, technology shifts, and decades of change? Cheri and Jason are joined by Paul Walker, CEO of FranklinCovey, for a conversation about leadership, organizational culture, and the secret to...
Cheri and Jason are joined by Paul Walker, CEO of FranklinCovey, for a conversation about leadership, organizational culture, and the secret to successful business performance. Paul shares the origin story of FranklinCovey and draws surprising parallels to the challenges every entrepreneur faces when trying to scale.

Paul highlights the important principles that have guided him through his career and helped him stay grounded in his goals. He dives into what makes good company culture in this new age of technology and AI. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or managing a growing team, this episode is filled with insights on execution, leadership, development, and how to work with AI to further growth and success.

What You’ll Learn:
  • Why culture beats technology as a competitive advantage
  • How to narrow your focus for better execution
  • The difference between identifying problems and solving them
  • How to balance high expectations and genuine care as a leader
  • How to think about AI strategically with FranklinCovey’s framework
  • What principles-based leadership means in practice
  • How to scale a founding-stage company from the ground up
  • Why Utah has become a strong hub for tech and talent
Connect with Paul Walker and FranklinCovey:
Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
Amanda Wallman, Alpine Edge Marketing
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>2623ai-in-business,business-leadership,business-technology,ceos-and-founders,company-founders,fastest-growing-companies,founder-stories,franklincovey,leadership-skills,local-utah-business,mountain-west,mountainwest-capital-network,salt-lake-city,salt-lake-county,utah-businesses,utah-business-leaders,utah-companies,utah-county,utah-founders,winners-circlefalsefullThe Best of The Winners' Circle | A Compilation of Utah's Top Foundershttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-best-of-the-winners-circle-a-compilation-of-utah-s-top-founders--72335452
The range of companies in this episode is wide, but the thread running through every story is remarkably consistent. Community, humility, and staying in the arena even when you have no idea how it's going to work out. This is a masterclass in what it actually takes, told by the people who lived it.

What You’ll Learn:
  • The data behind Utah's deal ecosystem and what makes it more sustainable than Silicon Valley
  • Why the Nectar founders turned down an investor 
  • How Bobby Clayson lost his seat at TaxBit and what he learned
  • The "work begets work" philosophy that drives Nectar's growth
  • Why Cory Bengtzen built SkyShare for 17 years without outside investment 
  • Why Mary Crafts still believes her best decade is still ahead
  • Why Frazil's flywheel keeps spinning faster 
  • What Scott Porter learned about building a business around human connection
Guests featured in this episode:
Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
Amanda Wallman, Alpine Edge Marketing
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72335452Thu, 04 Jun 2026 10:00:03 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkCheri and Jason look back on their conversations with nine of Utah's most remarkable businesses and their founders to look at the question that kept coming up across every conversation this past year: what makes Utah a good place to build a business?...
The range of companies in this episode is wide, but the thread running through every story is remarkably consistent. Community, humility, and staying in the arena even when you have no idea how it's going to work out. This is a masterclass in what it actually takes, told by the people who lived it.

What You’ll Learn:
  • The data behind Utah's deal ecosystem and what makes it more sustainable than Silicon Valley
  • Why the Nectar founders turned down an investor 
  • How Bobby Clayson lost his seat at TaxBit and what he learned
  • The "work begets work" philosophy that drives Nectar's growth
  • Why Cory Bengtzen built SkyShare for 17 years without outside investment 
  • Why Mary Crafts still believes her best decade is still ahead
  • Why Frazil's flywheel keeps spinning faster 
  • What Scott Porter learned about building a business around human connection
Guests featured in this episode:
Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
2050business-leadership,ceos-and-founders,company-founders,fastest-growing-companies,local-utah-business,mountain-west,mountainwest-capital-network,mwcn-compilation,salt-lake-city,salt-lake-county,silicon-valley,utah-businesses,utah-business-leaders,utah-business-report,utah-companies,utah-county,utah-founders,utahs-top-business-leaders,winners-circlefalsefullThe 2025 Utah Deal Flow Report | A Look at Utah’s Business Economy with MWCNhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-2025-utah-deal-flow-report-a-look-at-utah-s-business-economy-with-mwcn--72093242
Jason and Cheri sit down with three members of the MountainWest Capital Network community to walk through the findings of the 2025 Deal Flow Report, now in its 31st edition. Kady Reese, Matt Bartholomew, and Kevin Jessop break down what actually moved capital in Utah last year and where momentum is heading in 2026.

The group gives a behind-the-scenes look at how the report is created, and how it has evolved from its humble 1996 origins. This episode highlights what makes Utah's ecosystem distinctly different from Silicon Valley and other major markets. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or simply curious about the forces shaping Utah's economy, this conversation offers a ground-level view of the state's deal-making engine.

What You’ll Learn:
  • What the Utah Deal Flow Report is and how it's put together 
  • How the report has evolved since 1996 from a pamphlet into a comprehensive annual publication
  • What drove Utah's strong 2025 deal volume, which matched the record highs of 2021
  • How private equity is expanding beyond tech into blue-collar sectors 
  • Why Utah County's deal volume is now rivaling Salt Lake County for the first time
  • How Utah's deal ecosystem compares to Silicon Valley and the broader U.S. economy
  • Who actually uses the Deal Flow Report and why 
  • What the Capital Providers section of the report is and why it was added


Connect with Kady Reese, Matt Bartholomew, and Kevin Jessop:

Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
Amanda Wallman, Alpine Edge Marketing
The LaunchPod Media Team

The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72093242Thu, 21 May 2026 10:00:04 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkUtah's deal landscape is more complex, more competitive, and more geographically diverse than ever before. This episode pulls back the curtain on how it all gets measured.  Jason and Cheri sit down with three members of the MountainWest Capital...
Jason and Cheri sit down with three members of the MountainWest Capital Network community to walk through the findings of the 2025 Deal Flow Report, now in its 31st edition. Kady Reese, Matt Bartholomew, and Kevin Jessop break down what actually moved capital in Utah last year and where momentum is heading in 2026.

The group gives a behind-the-scenes look at how the report is created, and how it has evolved from its humble 1996 origins. This episode highlights what makes Utah's ecosystem distinctly different from Silicon Valley and other major markets. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or simply curious about the forces shaping Utah's economy, this conversation offers a ground-level view of the state's deal-making engine.

What You’ll Learn:
  • What the Utah Deal Flow Report is and how it's put together 
  • How the report has evolved since 1996 from a pamphlet into a comprehensive annual publication
  • What drove Utah's strong 2025 deal volume, which matched the record highs of 2021
  • How private equity is expanding beyond tech into blue-collar sectors 
  • Why Utah County's deal volume is now rivaling Salt Lake County for the first time
  • How Utah's deal ecosystem compares to Silicon Valley and the broader U.S. economy
  • Who actually uses the Deal Flow Report and why 
  • What the Capital Providers section of the report is and why it was added


Connect with Kady Reese, Matt Bartholomew, and Kevin Jessop:

Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
Amanda Wallman, Alpine Edge Marketing
The LaunchPod Media Team

The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>29362025-deal-flow-report,business-leadership,ceos-and-founders,company-founders,deal-flow,deal-flow-report,fastest-growing-companies,local-utah-business,mountain-west,mountainwest-capital-network,mwcn,salt-lake-city,salt-lake-county,utah-businesses,utah-business-leaders,utah-business-report,utah-companies,utah-county,utah-economy,winners-circlefalsefullHealthEquity and the Future of Healthcare | Dr. Stephen Neeleman’s Insights on HSAshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/healthequity-and-the-future-of-healthcare-dr-stephen-neeleman-s-insights-on-hsas--71897244
Jason and Cheri sit down with Dr. Stephen Neeleman, founder and vice chairman of HealthEquity, to explore the story behind one of the nation’s most impactful healthcare financial platforms. Dr. Neeleman shares the core principles that have guided both his career and his company’s growth.

At the heart of their conversation is a clear mission: to help people take control of their healthcare through financial tools that create long-term security. Dr. Neeleman breaks down the evolution of HealthEquity and the innovation required to stay competitive. He reflects on personal experiences, entrepreneurial lessons, and the importance of building a culture rooted in purpose, service, and continuous improvement. 

What You’ll Learn:
  • How health savings accounts (HSAs) work and why they matter for long-term financial health
  • The connection between healthcare decisions and personal financial responsibility
  • Practical ways individuals can use HSAs at different stages of life
  • What it takes to grow a business without losing its core purpose
  • The importance of having a “why” in both business and leadership
  • Insights into the future of healthcare finance and consumer-driven healthcare
  • Leadership principles that foster strong company culture and long-term success
  • Advice for entrepreneurs looking to build impactful, purpose-driven companies


Connect with HealthEquity and Stephen Neeleman:

Want to Connect?

Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71897244Thu, 07 May 2026 10:00:02 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkWe all need healthcare, but not all of us understand the ins and outs of the business behind it. Today’s episode breaks down HSAs, the healthcare business, and how individuals can build long-term financial health through healthcare at every stage of...
Jason and Cheri sit down with Dr. Stephen Neeleman, founder and vice chairman of HealthEquity, to explore the story behind one of the nation’s most impactful healthcare financial platforms. Dr. Neeleman shares the core principles that have guided both his career and his company’s growth.

At the heart of their conversation is a clear mission: to help people take control of their healthcare through financial tools that create long-term security. Dr. Neeleman breaks down the evolution of HealthEquity and the innovation required to stay competitive. He reflects on personal experiences, entrepreneurial lessons, and the importance of building a culture rooted in purpose, service, and continuous improvement. 

What You’ll Learn:
  • How health savings accounts (HSAs) work and why they matter for long-term financial health
  • The connection between healthcare decisions and personal financial responsibility
  • Practical ways individuals can use HSAs at different stages of life
  • What it takes to grow a business without losing its core purpose
  • The importance of having a “why” in both business and leadership
  • Insights into the future of healthcare finance and consumer-driven healthcare
  • Leadership principles that foster strong company culture and long-term success
  • Advice for entrepreneurs looking to build impactful, purpose-driven companies


Connect with HealthEquity and Stephen Neeleman:

Want to Connect?

Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>2737business-leadership,ceos-and-founders,ceo-stories,company-founders,fastest-growing-companies,health-accounts,healthcare,healthcare-economy,health-economy,health-equity,hsa-accounts,local-utah-business,mountain-west,mountainwest-capital-network,mwcn,salt-lake-city,utah-business,utah-company,wealth-in-healthcare,winners-circlefalsefullThe Cynosure Story | Inside Cynosure’s Success Strategy with Bud Scruggshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-cynosure-story-inside-cynosure-s-success-strategy-with-bud-scruggs--71581824
This week, Jason and Cheri sit down with Bud Scruggs, the co-founder of The Cynosure Group, to discuss what it’s like to navigate a complex, growing business in the Utah business landscape. Bud shares what he has learned from his decades of experience in high-stakes business decisions, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to grow and sustain a successful investment platform in a competitive, evolving market.

Bud dives into the philosophy behind Cynosure’s approach to private equity, credit, and capital management, emphasizing the importance of alignment, transparency, and doing difficult things the right way. To him, business is all about culture, long-term thinking, and building trusted partnerships that stand the test of time. 


What You’ll Learn:
  • The fundamentals of private equity and credit investing
  • Why alignment between investors, operators, and partners is critical
  • The role of discipline and patience in making high-stakes business decisions
  • The importance of company culture when growing a high-performing team
  • The value of resilience and adaptability when facing challenges in business
  • What it really takes to build trust with investors and stakeholders
  • How long-term thinking can outperform short-term gains in business strategy


Connect with Cynosure:Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71581824Thu, 23 Apr 2026 10:00:02 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkIt takes more than ideas to build a long-lasting business. And Bud Scruggs from Cynosure has a clear perspective on what it takes. This week, Jason and Cheri sit down with Bud Scruggs, the co-founder of The Cynosure Group, to discuss what it’s like...
This week, Jason and Cheri sit down with Bud Scruggs, the co-founder of The Cynosure Group, to discuss what it’s like to navigate a complex, growing business in the Utah business landscape. Bud shares what he has learned from his decades of experience in high-stakes business decisions, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to grow and sustain a successful investment platform in a competitive, evolving market.

Bud dives into the philosophy behind Cynosure’s approach to private equity, credit, and capital management, emphasizing the importance of alignment, transparency, and doing difficult things the right way. To him, business is all about culture, long-term thinking, and building trusted partnerships that stand the test of time. 


What You’ll Learn:
  • The fundamentals of private equity and credit investing
  • Why alignment between investors, operators, and partners is critical
  • The role of discipline and patience in making high-stakes business decisions
  • The importance of company culture when growing a high-performing team
  • The value of resilience and adaptability when facing challenges in business
  • What it really takes to build trust with investors and stakeholders
  • How long-term thinking can outperform short-term gains in business strategy


Connect with Cynosure:Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>3488bud-scruggs,business-building,business-culture,business-investors,business-mindset,business-teamwork,co-founder,credit-investing,cynosure-group,entrepreneurial-leadership,founder-lessons,founder-mindset,high-stakes-decisions,long-term-growth,long-term-mindset,mwcn,private-equity,success-story,success-strategy,utah-startupsfalsefullTurning Slush into Scale | Inside the Frazil Growth Story with Kyle Freebairn and Sam Owenshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/turning-slush-into-scale-inside-the-frazil-growth-story-with-kyle-freebairn-and-sam-owens--71200593
Jason and Cheri sit down with Kyle Freebairn and Sam Owens, the leadership team behind Frazil, one of the fastest-growing beverage brands in the country, to talk about what it actually takes to scale—operationally, culturally, commercially.  Frazil’s story shows how a simple idea can become a category leader when paired with a strong team, and the right product at the right time.

They walk through the decisions that fueled Frazil’s growth, including the “Free Frazil Friday” campaign, and how certain risks helped drive awareness and demand for their company. Throughout their conversation, a consistent theme emerges: success isn’t about one big breakthrough; it’s compounding small, deliberate improvements while surrounding yourself with exceptional people. 

What You’ll Learn:
  • How Frazil built a fully integrated business model and how it mattered for scale
  • Why hiring top-tier talent early can accelerate long-term success
  • The inside story on Free Frazil Friday and how it impacted momentum and brand awareness
  • How Utah’s business ecosystem played a direct role in Frazil’s growth
  • Why customer and retailer experience has been their sharpest competitive edge
  • How to build a brand that creates an emotional connection with customers
  • Lessons on mindset, resilience, and presence when building a business 
  • Which matters more: long-term vision vs short-term wins


Connect with Kyle Freebairn and Sam Ownes:
Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71200593Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:00:03 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkHow do you take a simple, fun product, and turn it into a large-scale beverage brand?  Jason and Cheri sit down with Kyle Freebairn and Sam Owens, the leadership team behind Frazil, one of the fastest-growing beverage brands in the country, to talk...
Jason and Cheri sit down with Kyle Freebairn and Sam Owens, the leadership team behind Frazil, one of the fastest-growing beverage brands in the country, to talk about what it actually takes to scale—operationally, culturally, commercially.  Frazil’s story shows how a simple idea can become a category leader when paired with a strong team, and the right product at the right time.

They walk through the decisions that fueled Frazil’s growth, including the “Free Frazil Friday” campaign, and how certain risks helped drive awareness and demand for their company. Throughout their conversation, a consistent theme emerges: success isn’t about one big breakthrough; it’s compounding small, deliberate improvements while surrounding yourself with exceptional people. 

What You’ll Learn:
  • How Frazil built a fully integrated business model and how it mattered for scale
  • Why hiring top-tier talent early can accelerate long-term success
  • The inside story on Free Frazil Friday and how it impacted momentum and brand awareness
  • How Utah’s business ecosystem played a direct role in Frazil’s growth
  • Why customer and retailer experience has been their sharpest competitive edge
  • How to build a brand that creates an emotional connection with customers
  • Lessons on mindset, resilience, and presence when building a business 
  • Which matters more: long-term vision vs short-term wins


Connect with Kyle Freebairn and Sam Ownes:
Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>3236beverage-company,beverage-startup,customer-experience,customer-oriented,customer-service,entrepreneurial-leadership,founder-lessons,founder-mindset,frazil,frazil-friday,freezing-point-llc,kyle-freebairn,leadership-mindset,mwcn,sam-owens,scaling-business,scaling-revenue,small-business,startup-business,utah-startupsfalsefullThe Woman Who Refused to Quit | Building a Meaningful Life with Mary Craftshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-woman-who-refused-to-quit-building-a-meaningful-life-with-mary-crafts--70882244Mary reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her work ethic and drive, including failures, family life, career choices, and personal life events. She shares the hard moments and how she overcame them, although it wasn’t easy. Today, Mary’s own mission is to help others see their own potential. Through her work as a speaker, author, and mentor, she encourages entrepreneurs and leaders to pursue meaningful lives built on service, authenticity, and courage. 

What You’ll Learn:
  • How early business failures can shape your entrepreneurial mindset

  • Why choosing the right business partners is essential

  • The importance of never risking more than you can afford to lose

  • How resilience and persistence can turn setbacks into powerful lessons

  • Why vulnerability and authenticity are essential for leadership roles

  • The ripple effect of service, generosity, and leadership on those around you

  • How to choose purpose over fear

  • What it means to create a meaningful life and lasting legacy


Connect with Mary Crafts:

Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70882244Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:00:03 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkJason and Cheri are joined by Mary Crafts, an entrepreneur, motivational speaker, author, mother, and more. Mary’s life story is extraordinary, showing that success is possible no matter where someone begins. She shares what it was like coming from...Mary reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her work ethic and drive, including failures, family life, career choices, and personal life events. She shares the hard moments and how she overcame them, although it wasn’t easy. Today, Mary’s own mission is to help others see their own potential. Through her work as a speaker, author, and mentor, she encourages entrepreneurs and leaders to pursue meaningful lives built on service, authenticity, and courage. 

What You’ll Learn:
  • How early business failures can shape your entrepreneurial mindset

  • Why choosing the right business partners is essential

  • The importance of never risking more than you can afford to lose

  • How resilience and persistence can turn setbacks into powerful lessons

  • Why vulnerability and authenticity are essential for leadership roles

  • The ripple effect of service, generosity, and leadership on those around you

  • How to choose purpose over fear

  • What it means to create a meaningful life and lasting legacy


Connect with Mary Crafts:

Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>3765catering-business,ceos-and-founders,company-founders,entrepreneurial-dreams,entrepreneurial-leadership,family-business,female-founders,founder-lessons,founder-mindset,life-motivation,mary-crafts,meaningful-life,motivational-speaker,mountain-west,mwcn,small-beginnings,success-story,utah-business,utah-startups,women-ownedfalsefullOne Utah Family’s Sweet Success | Building Andersen’s Crazy Candy with The Andersenshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/one-utah-family-s-sweet-success-building-andersen-s-crazy-candy-with-the-andersens--70602687
Jared and Heather share every detail of their story, the good and the bad, highlighting the cost and reward that come with running your own company. Through it all, they learned to rely on one another and remember the purpose behind what they are building. This is more than just a candy story; they are building something meaningful to share for generations to come.

What You’ll Learn:
  • What it takes to create a brand new product category
  • The power of distribution partnerships in scaling
  • How to pivot when facing setbacks
  • How to balance a fast-growing business with family life
  • Having courage in high-stakes business decisions
  • Avoiding fear-based decisions when scaling 
  • How coaching and mentorship can accelerate your growth
  • How Utah’s business ecosystem supports fast-growing companies

Connect with The Andersens:






Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70602687Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:00:02 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkIn this week’s episode, Jason and Cheri sit down with Jared and Heather Andersen, founders of Andersen’s Crazy Candy. What started with the simple decision to buy a freeze dryer unexpectedly turned into one of Utah’s fastest-growing confectionery...
Jared and Heather share every detail of their story, the good and the bad, highlighting the cost and reward that come with running your own company. Through it all, they learned to rely on one another and remember the purpose behind what they are building. This is more than just a candy story; they are building something meaningful to share for generations to come.

What You’ll Learn:
  • What it takes to create a brand new product category
  • The power of distribution partnerships in scaling
  • How to pivot when facing setbacks
  • How to balance a fast-growing business with family life
  • Having courage in high-stakes business decisions
  • Avoiding fear-based decisions when scaling 
  • How coaching and mentorship can accelerate your growth
  • How Utah’s business ecosystem supports fast-growing companies

Connect with The Andersens:






Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>3421business-pivots,entrepreneurial-leadership,family-business,family-innovation,family-teamwork,founder-lessons,founder-mindset,freeze-dried-candy,local-business,mwcn,new-products,product-launching,retailer-scaling,scaling-companies,small-business,startup-pivots,utah-100,utah-business,utah-startups,winners-circlefalsefullLeading Through Hypergrowth to Reinvention | Crofter Market with Bobby Claysonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leading-through-hypergrowth-to-reinvention-crofter-market-with-bobby-clayson--70286531
The conversation moves beyond startup milestones into the realities of leadership, growth, and starting again with purpose. Bobby reflects on lessons learned at TaxBit, the humility required to pivot, and why he turned his focus toward strengthening local food supply chains. It's a candid look at execution, resilience, and building companies that create meaningful impact for customers, communities, and teams.

What You’ll Learn:
  • Why solving a clear, real-world problem creates a stronger foundation than starting with a product idea
  • Lessons from scaling a fast-growing startup inside Utah’s collaborative tech ecosystem
  • How cross-functional respect (across engineering, tax, product, and operations) strengthens founding teams
  • Why culture, humility, and self-awareness matter for long-term leadership growth
  • What it means to pivot strategically while maintain forward movement with focus and intention
  • How mentors, advisors, and community networks accelerate learning and decision-making
  • Why building trust, both internally and externally, drives sustainable growth
  • How purpose-driven execution guides founders across multiple ventures and industries

Connect with Bobby Clayson: Connect with Crofter Market:

Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70286531Thu, 26 Feb 2026 11:00:02 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkThis week, Cheri and Jason sit down with entrepreneur and early TaxBit co-founder Bobby Clayson to explore what it takes to build, pivot, and rebuild in rapidly changing industries. From helping launch a billion-dollar fintech startup during the early...
The conversation moves beyond startup milestones into the realities of leadership, growth, and starting again with purpose. Bobby reflects on lessons learned at TaxBit, the humility required to pivot, and why he turned his focus toward strengthening local food supply chains. It's a candid look at execution, resilience, and building companies that create meaningful impact for customers, communities, and teams.

What You’ll Learn:
  • Why solving a clear, real-world problem creates a stronger foundation than starting with a product idea
  • Lessons from scaling a fast-growing startup inside Utah’s collaborative tech ecosystem
  • How cross-functional respect (across engineering, tax, product, and operations) strengthens founding teams
  • Why culture, humility, and self-awareness matter for long-term leadership growth
  • What it means to pivot strategically while maintain forward movement with focus and intention
  • How mentors, advisors, and community networks accelerate learning and decision-making
  • Why building trust, both internally and externally, drives sustainable growth
  • How purpose-driven execution guides founders across multiple ventures and industries

Connect with Bobby Clayson: Connect with Crofter Market:

Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com
Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>3279blockchain-startups,business-pivots,co-founder-dynamics,cryptocurrency-taxes,enterprise-saas,entrepreneurial-leadership,farm-to-consumer,fintech-growth,founder-lessons,founder-mindset,local-food-systems,marketplace-startups,regenerative-agriculture,regulatory-compliance,scaling-companies,startup-mentors,startup-pivots,supply-chain-innovation,utah-startups,venture-buildingfalsefullTurning Private Aviation into a Growth Engine | The Founding of SkyShare with Cory Bengtzenhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/turning-private-aviation-into-a-growth-engine-the-founding-of-skyshare-with-cory-bengtzen--70004777
The conversation dives into SkyShare’s evolution from aircraft brokerage to fractional ownership, charter services, and innovative programs designed to make private aviation more accessible. Cory reflects on leadership lessons learned through rapid growth, the importance of crystal-clear core values, and how trust—among co-founders, teams, and clients—became a defining advantage.What You’ll Learn:
  • Why meaningful recognition leads to better engagement, retention, and performance
  • Lessons about scaling a software-enabled aviation company inside Utah’s growing tech ecosystem
  • The role of friendship and trust in building a strong co-founder relationship
  • How to attract and retain talent through clearly lived company culture
  • What it takes to move from founder-led sales to a sustainable growth engine
  • How community, referrals, and networks accelerate startup growth
  • Leadership habits that keep teams motivated during rapid expansion
  • Why purpose and execution must grow together to build a successful company

Connect with Cory Bengtzen: 
Connect with SkyShare:


Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team

The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70004777Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:00:02 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkThis week, hosts Cheri and Jason sit down with Cory Bengtzen, Founder and CEO of SkyShare, to explore what it really takes to scale a complex, capital-intensive business while preserving trust, culture, and long-term vision. Cory shares his journey...
The conversation dives into SkyShare’s evolution from aircraft brokerage to fractional ownership, charter services, and innovative programs designed to make private aviation more accessible. Cory reflects on leadership lessons learned through rapid growth, the importance of crystal-clear core values, and how trust—among co-founders, teams, and clients—became a defining advantage.What You’ll Learn:
  • Why meaningful recognition leads to better engagement, retention, and performance
  • Lessons about scaling a software-enabled aviation company inside Utah’s growing tech ecosystem
  • The role of friendship and trust in building a strong co-founder relationship
  • How to attract and retain talent through clearly lived company culture
  • What it takes to move from founder-led sales to a sustainable growth engine
  • How community, referrals, and networks accelerate startup growth
  • Leadership habits that keep teams motivated during rapid expansion
  • Why purpose and execution must grow together to build a successful company

Connect with Cory Bengtzen: 
Connect with SkyShare:


Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team

The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>2604aviation-entrepreneurship,business-growth,capital-efficiency,client-experience,co-founder-trust,employee-retention,executive-travel,founder-journey,fractional-ownership,growth-strategy,innovation-strategy,leadership-culture,private-aviation,private-jet-access,referral-driven-growth,scaling-companies,time-management,utah-startups,values-based-leadership,western-us-aviationfalsefullTurning Employee Experience into Growth | The Founding of Nectar with Trevor Larson and Andrew Hollishttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/turning-employee-experience-into-growth-the-founding-of-nectar-with-trevor-larson-and-andrew-hollis--69659956
This episode also explores the human side of business through Nectar’s growth story. Trevor and Andrew share how recognition and employee experience became the foundation of their company, and ultimately their philosophy. From building teams that feel valued to choosing Utah as the place to scale their growth, this discussion offers an inspiring look at how purpose and community can combine to drive sustainable growth over the long term.

What You’ll Learn:
  • Why meaningful recognition leads to better engagement, retention, and performance
  • Lessons about scaling a software company inside Utah’s growing tech ecosystem
  • The role of friendship and trust in building a strong co-founder relationship
  • How to attract and retain talent through culture
  • What it takes to move from founder-led sales to a sustainable growth engine
  • How community and networks can help accelerate startup
  • Leadership habits that help teams stay motivated during rapid growth
  • Why purpose and execution need to grow together to make a successful company

Connect with Nectar:
Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team

The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69659956Thu, 29 Jan 2026 11:00:11 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkCheri and Jason sit down with two founders who turned their friendship into one of Utah’s fastest-growing software companies. Trevor Larson and Andrew Hollis, co-founders of Nectar, share how their small beginnings evolved into a platform that now...
This episode also explores the human side of business through Nectar’s growth story. Trevor and Andrew share how recognition and employee experience became the foundation of their company, and ultimately their philosophy. From building teams that feel valued to choosing Utah as the place to scale their growth, this discussion offers an inspiring look at how purpose and community can combine to drive sustainable growth over the long term.

What You’ll Learn:
  • Why meaningful recognition leads to better engagement, retention, and performance
  • Lessons about scaling a software company inside Utah’s growing tech ecosystem
  • The role of friendship and trust in building a strong co-founder relationship
  • How to attract and retain talent through culture
  • What it takes to move from founder-led sales to a sustainable growth engine
  • How community and networks can help accelerate startup
  • Leadership habits that help teams stay motivated during rapid growth
  • Why purpose and execution need to grow together to make a successful company

Connect with Nectar:
Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team

The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>2784co-founders,community,culture,engagement,entrepreneurship,growth,hr,leadership,performance,recognition,retention,saas,scaling,small-business,software,startups,startup-story,technology-business,utah,winners-circlefalsefullThe Journey from Idea to Impact | How Scott Porter Built San Diablo Churros From the Ground Uphttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-journey-from-idea-to-impact-how-scott-porter-built-san-diablo-churros-from-the-ground-up--69414956
Scott reflects on the realities behind sustained growth: grueling seasons, tough decisions, and the discipline of knowing when to say no. Anchored by Scott’s belief that business is all about uplifting people, he offers listeners a look at entrepreneurship as something fueled by purpose, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to happiness.

What You’ll Learn:
  • How to turn an unexpected opportunity into a real business
  • What it actually takes to launch and grow a company from scratch
  • The realities behind entrepreneurial growth, including burnout, pivots, and tough decisions
  • When to say “yes” to growth and when to walk away
  • How to scale during unpredictable moments
  • How mission, joy, and community can be built into a profitable business model
  • The importance of team culture and alignment as a company grows
  • How giving back can be integrated into a brand’s identity without becoming performative
Connect with Scott Porter:


Want to Connect?

Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69414956Thu, 15 Jan 2026 11:00:08 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkIn this episode, Cheri and Jason welcome Scott Porter, founder of San Diablo Artisan Churros, for a conversation about entrepreneurship and genuine human connection. What begins as a discussion about churros quickly unfolds into an exploration of what...
Scott reflects on the realities behind sustained growth: grueling seasons, tough decisions, and the discipline of knowing when to say no. Anchored by Scott’s belief that business is all about uplifting people, he offers listeners a look at entrepreneurship as something fueled by purpose, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to happiness.

What You’ll Learn:
  • How to turn an unexpected opportunity into a real business
  • What it actually takes to launch and grow a company from scratch
  • The realities behind entrepreneurial growth, including burnout, pivots, and tough decisions
  • When to say “yes” to growth and when to walk away
  • How to scale during unpredictable moments
  • How mission, joy, and community can be built into a profitable business model
  • The importance of team culture and alignment as a company grows
  • How giving back can be integrated into a brand’s identity without becoming performative
Connect with Scott Porter:


Want to Connect?

Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team


The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>3440business-culture,ceo-stories,community-action,company-founders,culture,entrepreneurship,food-company,founder-journey,growth,impact,innovation,leadership,local-economy,risk-taking,salt-lake-city,san-diablo-churros,small-business,startup-story,transparency,utah-businessfalsefullEntrepreneurial Lessons from Utah’s Top Foundershttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/entrepreneurial-lessons-from-utah-s-top-founders--69264616
You’ll hear from founders like Jim Sanders of Nest Tiny Homes, Carson Poppenger of Squeeze, Kristy Pack of PackTax, Crystalee Beck of Comma Copywriters, Karalynne Call of Just Ingredients, Hayden Wadsworth of HydroJug, Trevor Farnes of MTN OPS, Ben Perkins of &Collar, Rich Eggett and Ariel Faloon of Rockwell, and more. Along the way, M&A advisor Garit Lawson, MWCN President Kevin Jessop, and other leaders share perspective on exits, legacy, and Utah’s uniquely collaborative business ecosystem. Whether you’re just getting started or already scaling, this “best of” episode highlights the mindset, values, and practical habits that keep entrepreneurs moving when the stakes are highest.

What You’ll Learn
  • How founders navigate crises—from losing email systems and brands overnight to rebuilding while still serving customers.
  • Why “stubborn tenacity” often separates survivors from those who walk away.
  • How values-driven cultures get built in real life, not on posters—from “life first” policies to companies that put family ahead of perks.
  • Why many Utah founders define success as impact, service, and stewardship—not just exits, revenue, or headlines.
  • How early-stage entrepreneurs can think about pricing, volume, and “getting people through the door” before profitability kicks in.
  • The human side of M&A: how legacy, employees, and culture shape deal decisions just as much as valuation.
  • Practical advice for leaders on defining success clearly, making performance more objective, and having the hard conversations with their teams.
  • Why Utah’s high-trust, relationship-driven ecosystem creates a different kind of competitive environment, one where collaboration lifts the entire market.

Featured Founders and Leaders in This Episode


Want to Connect?
Cheri@MWCN.org
zachary.reed@pwc.com

Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
The LaunchPod Media Team




The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69264616Thu, 01 Jan 2026 11:00:08 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkIn this special compilation episode, Cheri and Jason revisit some of the most powerful moments from conversations with Utah’s top founders and business leaders. Instead of focusing on one company, this episode stitches together hard-won lessons from a...
You’ll hear from founders like Jim Sanders of Nest Tiny Homes, Carson Poppenger of Squeeze, Kristy Pack of PackTax, Crystalee Beck of Comma Copywriters, Karalynne Call of Just Ingredients, Hayden Wadsworth of HydroJug, Trevor Farnes of MTN OPS, Ben Perkins of &Collar, Rich Eggett and Ariel Faloon of Rockwell, and more. Along the way, M&A advisor Garit Lawson, MWCN President Kevin Jessop, and other leaders share perspective on exits, legacy, and Utah’s uniquely collaborative business ecosystem. Whether you’re just getting started or already scaling, this “best of” episode highlights the mindset, values, and practical habits that keep entrepreneurs moving when the stakes are highest.

What You’ll Learn
  • How founders navigate crises—from losing email systems and brands overnight to rebuilding while still serving customers.
  • Why “stubborn tenacity” often separates survivors from those who walk away.
  • How values-driven cultures get built in real life, not on posters—from “life first” policies to companies that put family ahead of perks.
  • Why many Utah founders define success as impact, service, and stewardship—not just exits, revenue, or headlines.
  • How early-stage entrepreneurs can think about pricing, volume, and “getting people through the door” before profitability kicks in.
  • The human side of M&A: how legacy, employees, and culture shape deal decisions just as much as valuation.
  • Practical advice for leaders on defining success clearly, making performance more objective, and having the hard conversations with their teams.
  • Why Utah’s high-trust, relationship-driven ecosystem creates a different kind of competitive environment, one where collaboration lifts the entire market.

Featured Founders and Leaders in This Episode
  • Jim Sanders – Founder & CEO, Nest Tiny Homes
  • Carson Poppenger – CEO & Founder, Squeeze
  • Kristy Pack – Founder, PackTax
  • Garit Lawson – Managing Director, Forbes Partners
  • Crystalee Beck – CEO & Founder, Comma Copywriters
  • Karalynne Call – CEO & Founder, Just Ingredients
  • Hayden Wadsworth – Co-Founder & CEO, HydroJug
  • 2390100,acquisitions,and,company,culture,elite,emerging,entrepreneurship,exits,family,founders,growth,innovation,leadership,legacy,mergers,resilience,scaling,utah,valuesfalsefullFrom Crisis to Client-Centered Growth | How Kristy Pack Built a New Tax Model for Real Peoplehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-crisis-to-client-centered-growth-how-kristy-pack-built-a-new-tax-model-for-real-people--69110114
    Listeners will hear how Kristy navigated career pivots, financial uncertainty, and the emotional pressure of supporting a young family, all while betting everything on a different kind of tax firm: one designed for regular people who often fall between the cracks of traditional accounting services. Her story highlights the power of clarity, moral conviction, and building a service-first company culture in an industry not known for warmth or flexibility. This episode features Kristy’s insights on modern tax strategy, the flaws in the current system, how business owners can save meaningfully by understanding their options, and why Pack Tax’s client-first approach has built not just a business, but also a community.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • Why designing a business around real-life needs—flexibility, community, accessibility— can become a competitive advantage
    • How Pack Tax grew by focusing on regular families and small businesses underserved by traditional firms
    • The tax strategies that most small business owners miss, but can save thousands with the right structure
    • How transparency and client education build loyalty in a complex, often confusing industry
    • The core values that guide Pack Tax’s culture: relationships, accuracy, data security, and no-ego collaboration
    • How to navigate conflicting tax advice from “old school” accountants versus social media-driven shortcuts
    • What it takes to grow a people-first company that balances joy, rigor, and constant improvement

    Connect with Kristy Pack:

    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69110114Thu, 18 Dec 2025 11:00:09 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkIn this episode, Cheri and Jason sit down with Kristy Pack, founder of Pack Tax, whose journey from working mother to driven entrepreneur reshaped not only her career, but also the tax experience for thousands of everyday families. What started as a...
    Listeners will hear how Kristy navigated career pivots, financial uncertainty, and the emotional pressure of supporting a young family, all while betting everything on a different kind of tax firm: one designed for regular people who often fall between the cracks of traditional accounting services. Her story highlights the power of clarity, moral conviction, and building a service-first company culture in an industry not known for warmth or flexibility. This episode features Kristy’s insights on modern tax strategy, the flaws in the current system, how business owners can save meaningfully by understanding their options, and why Pack Tax’s client-first approach has built not just a business, but also a community.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • Why designing a business around real-life needs—flexibility, community, accessibility— can become a competitive advantage
    • How Pack Tax grew by focusing on regular families and small businesses underserved by traditional firms
    • The tax strategies that most small business owners miss, but can save thousands with the right structure
    • How transparency and client education build loyalty in a complex, often confusing industry
    • The core values that guide Pack Tax’s culture: relationships, accuracy, data security, and no-ego collaboration
    • How to navigate conflicting tax advice from “old school” accountants versus social media-driven shortcuts
    • What it takes to grow a people-first company that balances joy, rigor, and constant improvement

    Connect with Kristy Pack:

    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    3211affordability,business-culture,business-growth,client-experience,data-security,flexibility,founder-journey,mentorship,pack-tax,risk-taking,scaling-operations,small-business-taxes,startup-story,tax-education,tax-prep,tax-savings,tax-strategy,transparency,utah-business,working-mothersfalsefull    Setbacks & Second Chances: The Rise of Jim Sanders & Nest Tiny Homes https://www.spreaker.com/episode/setbacks-second-chances-the-rise-of-jim-sanders-nest-tiny-homes--68843675
    In this candid conversation, Jim reflects on turning setbacks into momentum, building one of Utah’s fastest-growing ADU companies, and staying grounded while growing a team and a young family. He talks about the purpose behind Nest, the families they serve, and the craftsmanship he refuses to compromise on. His story offers a raw look at entrepreneurship, what it really means to bet on yourself, and how something beautiful can emerge from the most devastating moments.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • Why a painful franchise collapse became the launchpad for Nest Tiny Homes
    • How the ADU process works—from the first call to turning over the keys
    • The three customer groups benefiting most from ADUs today
    • What Utah entrepreneurs should know about emerging housing trends
    • How organic growth, team culture, and craftsmanship shape Nest’s success
    • The realities of permitting, timelines, and navigating regulations in two states
    • Jim’s best advice for founders ready to turn a side project into a full-time venture

    Connect with Jim Sanders:

    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68843675Thu, 04 Dec 2025 11:00:08 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkCheri and Jason sit down with Jim Sanders, a builder-turned-entrepreneur whose path to founding Nest Tiny Homes started with a leap of faith and a crisis that could have ended everything. What began as a simple side project grew quickly, but when the...
    In this candid conversation, Jim reflects on turning setbacks into momentum, building one of Utah’s fastest-growing ADU companies, and staying grounded while growing a team and a young family. He talks about the purpose behind Nest, the families they serve, and the craftsmanship he refuses to compromise on. His story offers a raw look at entrepreneurship, what it really means to bet on yourself, and how something beautiful can emerge from the most devastating moments.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • Why a painful franchise collapse became the launchpad for Nest Tiny Homes
    • How the ADU process works—from the first call to turning over the keys
    • The three customer groups benefiting most from ADUs today
    • What Utah entrepreneurs should know about emerging housing trends
    • How organic growth, team culture, and craftsmanship shape Nest’s success
    • The realities of permitting, timelines, and navigating regulations in two states
    • Jim’s best advice for founders ready to turn a side project into a full-time venture

    Connect with Jim Sanders:

    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    2652adus,affordability,blueprints,construction,craftsmanship,design,development,financing,growth,homeowners,housing,innovation,investors,permitting,rebuilding,regulations,resilience,strategy,utah,zoningfalsefull    Hope, Healing, and Honest Ingredients with Karalynne Callhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/hope-healing-and-honest-ingredients-with-karalynne-call--68650883
    She discusses how her early Instagram posts turned into a national wellness brand. Karalynne reflects on entrepreneurship, purpose, and staying grounded while leading a rapidly expanding team. Her story offers an honest look at leadership and the grit required to build something meaningful from the ground up.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • How simple, everyday habits can meaningfully impact mental and physical well-being.
    • The challenges and rewards of creating products with real food ingredients.
    • How transparency, kindness, communication, and a family-first mindset shape Just Ingredients’ culture.
    • What it takes to build a company while balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal life.
    • The importance of identifying purpose and passion to sustain long-term growth as an entrepreneur.
    • How Just Ingredients is working to address the misinformation in the supplement and energy drink industry.
    • Why taking small steps works for better health, both mentally and physically.
    • How the right team, shared mission, and aligned values are critical for a sustainable company.


    Connect with Karalynne Call:


    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team



    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68650883Thu, 20 Nov 2025 11:00:09 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkCheri and Jason sit down with Karalynne Call, a certified nutritionist, wellness advocate, and founder of one of Utah’s fastest-growing health brands, Just Ingredients. Her journey began with her deeply personal battle with depression, which reshaped...
    She discusses how her early Instagram posts turned into a national wellness brand. Karalynne reflects on entrepreneurship, purpose, and staying grounded while leading a rapidly expanding team. Her story offers an honest look at leadership and the grit required to build something meaningful from the ground up.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • How simple, everyday habits can meaningfully impact mental and physical well-being.
    • The challenges and rewards of creating products with real food ingredients.
    • How transparency, kindness, communication, and a family-first mindset shape Just Ingredients’ culture.
    • What it takes to build a company while balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal life.
    • The importance of identifying purpose and passion to sustain long-term growth as an entrepreneur.
    • How Just Ingredients is working to address the misinformation in the supplement and energy drink industry.
    • Why taking small steps works for better health, both mentally and physically.
    • How the right team, shared mission, and aligned values are critical for a sustainable company.


    Connect with Karalynne Call:


    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team



    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    2589capital-network,ceos-and-founders,clean-ingredients,company-founders,empower-women,entrepreneurship,fastest-growing-companies,karalynne-call,mountainwest,mountain-west,mountainwest-capital-network,nutrition,remote-team,salt-lake-city,supplements,top-100,utah-100,wellness,winners-circle,women-in-businessfalsefull    Legacy, Leadership, and Lasting Impact | Kevin Jessop on Utah’s Business Evolution & the Future of MountainWest Capital Networkhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/legacy-leadership-and-lasting-impact-kevin-jessop-on-utah-s-business-evolution-the-future-of-mountainwest-capital-network--68442375
    In this reflective episode, Kevin reflects on how decades of showing up, building trust, and people-first leadership created a lasting impact, both for MWCN and the entrepreneurs it champions. You’ll hear the stories behind Utah’s rise as a business hub, the power of mentorship and humble leadership, and why success isn’t about trophies or titles, but about helping others succeed. As he passes the torch to the next generation of MWCN leaders, Kevin offers a simple truth: real progress comes not from spotlight moments, but from years of steady presence, openness, and service to the community.


    What You’ll Learn
    • How MWCN grew from a grassroots volunteer network into a statewide business engine
    • Why trust, consistency, and showing up remain competitive advantages in Utah’s business community
    • How data and storytelling strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems and inspire future founders
    • The vision for MWCN’s next chapter: expanding connection, access, and impact

    Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn

    Want to connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68442375Thu, 06 Nov 2025 11:00:10 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkFor Kevin Jessop, outgoing president of MountainWest Capital Network, leadership has always been rooted in service, consistency, and connection. From the early days of handwritten deal reports and volunteer-run events to MWCN's role as a cornerstone...
    In this reflective episode, Kevin reflects on how decades of showing up, building trust, and people-first leadership created a lasting impact, both for MWCN and the entrepreneurs it champions. You’ll hear the stories behind Utah’s rise as a business hub, the power of mentorship and humble leadership, and why success isn’t about trophies or titles, but about helping others succeed. As he passes the torch to the next generation of MWCN leaders, Kevin offers a simple truth: real progress comes not from spotlight moments, but from years of steady presence, openness, and service to the community.


    What You’ll Learn
    • How MWCN grew from a grassroots volunteer network into a statewide business engine
    • Why trust, consistency, and showing up remain competitive advantages in Utah’s business community
    • How data and storytelling strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems and inspire future founders
    • The vision for MWCN’s next chapter: expanding connection, access, and impact

    Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn

    Want to connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    3090acquisition,capital,collaboration,community,deal-flow,economy,ecosystem,founders,growth,innovation,investment,leadership,legacy,mentorship,mountain-west,networking,service,startups,trust,utahfalsefull    How Crystalee Beck Built a Life-First Business That Empowers Womenhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-crystalee-beck-built-a-life-first-business-that-empowers-women--68234590
    In this inspiring conversation, Crystalee shares how she turned a layoff into a launchpad, built a thriving remote team guided by five core values, and learned to balance growth with grace. From letting go of ego to trusting others, setting “life-first” values, and navigating AI’s impact on creativity, her story proves that purpose and profit can thrive side by side.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • Why a powerful “why” matters for your business plan
    • The five core values that define Comma Copywriters’ culture
    • Lessons from nearly a decade of growth, trust, and leadership
    • How to navigate AI in creative industries without losing your voice
    • The story behind the High Five Grant and supporting mom entrepreneurs


    Connect with Crystalee Beck:

    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com
    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68234590Thu, 23 Oct 2025 10:00:09 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkWhat if success didn’t mean sacrificing the life you love? For Crystalee Beck, founder and CEO of Comma Copywriters, entrepreneurship began with a powerful “why”—the desire to be fully present for her growing family. Nearly a decade later, her company...
    In this inspiring conversation, Crystalee shares how she turned a layoff into a launchpad, built a thriving remote team guided by five core values, and learned to balance growth with grace. From letting go of ego to trusting others, setting “life-first” values, and navigating AI’s impact on creativity, her story proves that purpose and profit can thrive side by side.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • Why a powerful “why” matters for your business plan
    • The five core values that define Comma Copywriters’ culture
    • Lessons from nearly a decade of growth, trust, and leadership
    • How to navigate AI in creative industries without losing your voice
    • The story behind the High Five Grant and supporting mom entrepreneurs


    Connect with Crystalee Beck:

    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com
    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    3088ai,capital-network,ceos-and-founders,cheri-waldron,comma-copywriters,company-founders,crystalee-beck,empower-women,fastest-growing-companies,jason,mountainwest,mountain-west,mountainwest-capital-network,remote-team,roberts,salt-lake-city,top-100,utah-100,winners-circle,women-in-businessfalsefull    From Bootstrapping to Breakthroughs: Earl Foote on Grit, Growth, and Giving Backhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-bootstrapping-to-breakthroughs-earl-foote-on-grit-growth-and-giving-back--68053039
    Earl opens up about the challenges that tested his resilience, including early setbacks like fraud and bankruptcy, and the practices that helped him stay grounded—mindfulness, yoga, and meditation. He also shares why mentorship, community, and sustainable growth matter more than the hustle-and-grind mindset. Listeners will gain practical insight into balancing leadership with family, scaling without selling out, and building businesses that uplift not only employees and clients, but entire communities.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • How Earl bootstrapped Nexus IT from its humble beginnings into a national managed IT and cybersecurity firm.
    • The role of mindfulness, yoga, and breathwork in managing the “loneliest chair” of being a CEO.
    • The pivotal moments where grit and integrity helped overcome fraud, bankruptcy, and industry shifts.
    • Why Earl believes the Utah business ecosystem thrives on collaboration and what still needs work.
    • How mentorship, both giving and receiving, shapes the next generation of entrepreneurs.
    • Insights into balancing family, leadership, and community service without burning out.
    • The story behind Nexus IT’s $60 million minimally dilutive capital raise and expansion strategy.

    Connect with Earl Foote:

    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68053039Thu, 09 Oct 2025 10:00:08 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkIn this episode, hosts Cheri and Jason sit down with Earl Foote, founder and CEO of Nexus IT. For more than 25 years, Earl has been shaping Utah’s tech landscape with a people-first approach to business, building one of the region’s leading IT and...
    Earl opens up about the challenges that tested his resilience, including early setbacks like fraud and bankruptcy, and the practices that helped him stay grounded—mindfulness, yoga, and meditation. He also shares why mentorship, community, and sustainable growth matter more than the hustle-and-grind mindset. Listeners will gain practical insight into balancing leadership with family, scaling without selling out, and building businesses that uplift not only employees and clients, but entire communities.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • How Earl bootstrapped Nexus IT from its humble beginnings into a national managed IT and cybersecurity firm.
    • The role of mindfulness, yoga, and breathwork in managing the “loneliest chair” of being a CEO.
    • The pivotal moments where grit and integrity helped overcome fraud, bankruptcy, and industry shifts.
    • Why Earl believes the Utah business ecosystem thrives on collaboration and what still needs work.
    • How mentorship, both giving and receiving, shapes the next generation of entrepreneurs.
    • Insights into balancing family, leadership, and community service without burning out.
    • The story behind Nexus IT’s $60 million minimally dilutive capital raise and expansion strategy.

    Connect with Earl Foote:

    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    3031acquisition,bootstrapping,community,cybersecurity,founder,growth,innovation,integrity,leadership,legacy,mentorship,mindfulness,resilience,scaling,startups,strategy,technology,utah,wellness,yogafalsefull    Maximizing Founder Exits: Lessons from M&A Advisor Garit Lawson (Forbes Partners)https://www.spreaker.com/episode/maximizing-founder-exits-lessons-from-m-a-advisor-garit-lawson-forbes-partners--67884280
    You’ll hear a candid case study on Lume Deodorant’s leap from DTC success to omnichannel rocket fuel, why “dogged commitment” is the universal founder trait, and how entrepreneurs can avoid becoming their own bottleneck as they scale. Garit also dives into the human side of deals and why Utah’s ecosystem continues to produce resilient, growth-minded companies.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • The founder traits Garit sees over and over (and why “dogged and committed” matters)
    • Common pitfalls as companies scale and how to avoid becoming your own bottleneck
    • Practical steps to decide: venture-backed hypergrowth vs. bootstrapped, profitable growth
    • How to select an investment banker: running a competitive process and finding real fit
    • The human side of deals: listening, legacy, stewardship, and managing deal fatigue
    • Why Utah’s small-business backbone and talent pipeline create durable deal flow


    Connect with Garit Lawson:


    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team





    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67884280Thu, 25 Sep 2025 10:00:08 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkWhat separates founders who merely sell from those who maximize outcomes for themselves, their teams, and their legacy? In this episode, Garit Lawson, Managing Director at Forbes Partners, shares two decades of M&A experience working with...
    You’ll hear a candid case study on Lume Deodorant’s leap from DTC success to omnichannel rocket fuel, why “dogged commitment” is the universal founder trait, and how entrepreneurs can avoid becoming their own bottleneck as they scale. Garit also dives into the human side of deals and why Utah’s ecosystem continues to produce resilient, growth-minded companies.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • The founder traits Garit sees over and over (and why “dogged and committed” matters)
    • Common pitfalls as companies scale and how to avoid becoming your own bottleneck
    • Practical steps to decide: venture-backed hypergrowth vs. bootstrapped, profitable growth
    • How to select an investment banker: running a competitive process and finding real fit
    • The human side of deals: listening, legacy, stewardship, and managing deal fatigue
    • Why Utah’s small-business backbone and talent pipeline create durable deal flow


    Connect with Garit Lawson:


    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team





    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    1851capital,competition,diligence,equity,exits,forbes,founders,growth,leadership,legacy,partners,partnerships,private,process,resilience,scale,stewardship,strategy,utah,valuationfalsefull    How Hayden Wadsworth Built HydroJug Into a Hydration Phenomenonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-hayden-wadsworth-built-hydrojug-into-a-hydration-phenomenon--67695210
    In this episode, Hayden opens up about his early sacrifices, working full-time jobs, raising a family, and grinding through his MBA while building HydroJug on nights and weekends. He shares how Utah’s unique culture of hard work and shared values shaped his leadership style, why authenticity drives lasting customer loyalty, and how striving for greatness means more than financial success. 

    What You’ll Learn:
    • How HydroJug went from a garage startup to a viral hydration brand
    • The role of sacrifice, persistence, and conservative financial strategy in early growth
    • How Hayden balances the demands of work and life
    • Why product quality and small details separate good brands from great ones
    • How Utah’s community and values fuel consumer brand success
    • Hayden’s perspective on resilience, wellness, and achieving greatness in business and life

    Connect with Hayden Wadsworth:

    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67695210Thu, 11 Sep 2025 10:00:08 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkWhat does it take to turn a simple water jug into a global movement? Hayden Wadsworth, co-founder and CEO of HydroJug, shares how a scrappy startup from Ogden, Utah, transformed into a household name by combining thoughtful design, relentless...
    In this episode, Hayden opens up about his early sacrifices, working full-time jobs, raising a family, and grinding through his MBA while building HydroJug on nights and weekends. He shares how Utah’s unique culture of hard work and shared values shaped his leadership style, why authenticity drives lasting customer loyalty, and how striving for greatness means more than financial success. 

    What You’ll Learn:
    • How HydroJug went from a garage startup to a viral hydration brand
    • The role of sacrifice, persistence, and conservative financial strategy in early growth
    • How Hayden balances the demands of work and life
    • Why product quality and small details separate good brands from great ones
    • How Utah’s community and values fuel consumer brand success
    • Hayden’s perspective on resilience, wellness, and achieving greatness in business and life

    Connect with Hayden Wadsworth:

    Want to Connect?
    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    2186authenticity,branding,community,craft,endurance,family,growth,hydration,hydrojug,immigrant,innovation,loyalty,ogden,philanthropy,product,resilience,sacrifice,utah,values,wellnessfalsefull    How Clark T. Bell Is Using Nanotechnology to Redefine Agriculturehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-clark-t-bell-is-using-nanotechnology-to-redefine-agriculture--67535113
    In this conversation, Clark shares how his upbringing, mentors, and entrepreneurial grit prepared him to tackle one of the world’s most pressing challenges: feeding a growing population with finite resources. Along the way, he reveals what it takes to earn farmers’ trust, balance leadership with family life, and build partnerships that scale without sacrificing values.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • How Clark’s family history and early setbacks shaped his entrepreneurial DNA
    • The science behind Nano-Yield’s nanotechnology and why it matters for farmers worldwide
    • Lessons in leadership, mentorship, and choosing the right business partners
    • Why Utah remains a fertile ground for innovation and community impact
    • Clark’s advice for founders in their first five years of building a company
    Whether you’re building a startup, scaling a company, or simply curious about the future of food, Clark’s insights show how bold ideas can change the world.

    Connect with Clark T. Bell:

    Want to Connect?

    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 


    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67535113Thu, 28 Aug 2025 10:00:10 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkWhat happens when a family legacy in farming collides with cutting-edge science? For Clark T. Bell, CEO and founder of Nano-Yield, the answer is a nanotechnology breakthrough that’s helping farmers grow more with less. From his roots on Utah farmland...
    In this conversation, Clark shares how his upbringing, mentors, and entrepreneurial grit prepared him to tackle one of the world’s most pressing challenges: feeding a growing population with finite resources. Along the way, he reveals what it takes to earn farmers’ trust, balance leadership with family life, and build partnerships that scale without sacrificing values.

    What You’ll Learn:
    • How Clark’s family history and early setbacks shaped his entrepreneurial DNA
    • The science behind Nano-Yield’s nanotechnology and why it matters for farmers worldwide
    • Lessons in leadership, mentorship, and choosing the right business partners
    • Why Utah remains a fertile ground for innovation and community impact
    • Clark’s advice for founders in their first five years of building a company
    Whether you’re building a startup, scaling a company, or simply curious about the future of food, Clark’s insights show how bold ideas can change the world.

    Connect with Clark T. Bell:

    Want to Connect?

    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 


    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    2432agriculture,agtech,biotech,crops,farming,fertilizer,impact,innovation,investment,leadership,mentorship,nanoparticles,nanotechnology,partnerships,resilience,scalability,startups,sustainability,utah,yieldfalsefull    From Credit Cards to 500 Employees: How Carson Poppenger Built Squeeze Into a Lead Conversion Powerhousehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-credit-cards-to-500-employees-how-carson-poppenger-built-squeeze-into-a-lead-conversion-powerhouse--67362921
    Carson Poppenger, founder and CEO of Squeeze, turned that exact scenario into a national lead conversion company that now employs over 500 people across multiple states. His journey from Target supervisor to Utah 100 honoree (four years running) proves that sometimes being stubborn is exactly the right strategy.

    Carson's path wasn't traditional. He jumped straight into business classes, skipped the typical undergrad route, and discovered his passion for profit margins while sneaking into Target's back office to study product data. After cutting his teeth at Prosper alongside future industry leaders, he spotted a massive gap in lead conversion and follow-up that became the foundation of Squeeze.

    From bootstrapping with credit cards to bringing on an equal equity partner (against everyone's advice) to eventually buying him out, Carson's story reveals the real challenges of scaling a service business while maintaining client relationships that turn into evangelists.

    Today, Squeeze serves top-tier mortgage, healthcare, and home service brands, delivering results that often outperform internal teams by 4x. But Carson's also preparing for the future with AI innovations like Peel Voice, which analyzes sales calls for customer sentiment and agent performance, proving that even established businesses need to stay ahead of the technology curve.What You'll Learn:
    • [06:25] The Target back office breakthrough: How Carson's obsession with sneaking into Target's office to study profit margins on different product categories revealed his true passion for business profitability and set the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey
    • [07:15] The 20% revenue solution that sparked Squeeze: Carson reveals how he built a lead conversion solution at Prosper that became 20% of company revenue and why spotting this gap in the market became his "aha moment" for starting his own business
    • [10:00] The contrarian 2009 launch strategy: Why Carson chose to bootstrap during the financial crisis instead of seeking investors, including the advice that changed everything: "Don't waste your time entertaining PE people; just go out and sell"
    • [14:23] The survival mindset: Carson's raw honesty about the terrifying lows of entrepreneurship, the friends who suggested he try something different, and how stubborn persistence became his secret weapon through the darkest moments
    • [18:40] The 50/50 partnership everyone said not to do: The controversial equal equity split that "everyone advised against," how it led to 8x growth over 4 years, and Carson's eventual buyout strategy that proved the doubters wrong
    • [29:02] AI disruption strategy from the trenches: Carson's insider perspective on why most AI voice startups won't succeed with enterprise clients, plus how Squeeze is building Peel Voice to analyze sales calls and prepare for the technology shift
    • [33:14] Why Utah made the difference: The specific ways Utah's business-friendly environment, from regulatory simplicity to collaborative culture, enabled growth that Carson believes wouldn't have been possible in other states
    Whether you're bootstrapping your first business, scaling a service company, or wondering how to prepare for AI disruption while staying human-centered, Carson shares practical insights from 15 years of building relationships, solving problems, and proving doubters wrong.Connect with Carson and Squeeze:
    Want to Connect?

    Cheri@MWCN.org
    zachary.reed@pwc.com

    Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 

    Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
    Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
    Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
    Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
    Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
    Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
    The LaunchPod Media Team


    The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67362921Thu, 14 Aug 2025 10:00:08 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkWhat happens when a self-described "bad student" from Michigan decides to bootstrap a business during the 2009 financial crisis with nothing but $15,000 and a whole lot of stubborn determination? Carson Poppenger, founder and CEO of Squeeze, turned...
    Carson Poppenger, founder and CEO of Squeeze, turned that exact scenario into a national lead conversion company that now employs over 500 people across multiple states. His journey from Target supervisor to Utah 100 honoree (four years running) proves that sometimes being stubborn is exactly the right strategy.

    Carson's path wasn't traditional. He jumped straight into business classes, skipped the typical undergrad route, and discovered his passion for profit margins while sneaking into Target's back office to study product data. After cutting his teeth at Prosper alongside future industry leaders, he spotted a massive gap in lead conversion and follow-up that became the foundation of Squeeze.

    From bootstrapping with credit cards to bringing on an equal equity partner (against everyone's advice) to eventually buying him out, Carson's story reveals the real challenges of scaling a service business while maintaining client relationships that turn into evangelists.

    Today, Squeeze serves top-tier mortgage, healthcare, and home service brands, delivering results that often outperform internal teams by 4x. But Carson's also preparing for the future with AI innovations like Peel Voice, which analyzes sales calls for customer sentiment and agent performance, proving that even established businesses need to stay ahead of the technology curve.What You'll Learn:
    • [06:25] The Target back office breakthrough: How Carson's obsession with sneaking into Target's office to study profit margins on different product categories revealed his true passion for business profitability and set the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey
    • [07:15] The 20% revenue solution that sparked Squeeze: Carson reveals how he built a lead conversion solution at Prosper that became 20% of company revenue and why spotting this gap in the market became his "aha moment" for starting his own business
    • [10:00] The contrarian 2009 launch strategy: Why Carson chose to bootstrap during the financial crisis instead of seeking investors, including the advice that changed everything: "Don't waste your time entertaining PE people; just go out and sell"
    • [14:23] The survival mindset: Carson's raw honesty about the terrifying lows of entrepreneurship, the friends who suggested he try something different, and how stubborn persistence became his secret weapon through the darkest moments
    • [18:40] The 50/50 partnership everyone said not to do: The controversial equal equity split that "everyone advised against," how it led to 8x growth over 4 years, and Carson's eventual buyout strategy that proved the doubters wrong
    • [29:02] AI disruption strategy from the trenches: Carson's insider perspective on why most AI voice startups won't succeed with enterprise clients, plus how Squeeze is building Peel Voice to analyze sales calls and prepare for the technology shift
    • [33:14] Why Utah made the difference: The specific ways Utah's business-friendly environment, from regulatory simplicity to collaborative culture, enabled growth that Carson believes wouldn't have been possible in other states
    Whether you're bootstrapping your first business, scaling a service company, or wondering how to prepare for AI disruption while staying human-centered, Carson shares practical insights from 15 years of building relationships, solving problems, and proving doubters wrong.Connect with Carson and Squeeze:
    • Website: gosqueeze.com
    • AI Technology: peelvoice.com
    • LinkedIn: 2336ai,bootstrapping,business,ceo,entrepreneur,founder,growth,innovation,leadership,leadgen,marketing,partnership,sales,scaling,service,startup,strategy,technology,utahfalsefullBuilding an 8-Figure Business from College: Ben Perkins' Blueprint for Turning Ideas into one of Utah's Fastest Growing Companieshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/building-an-8-figure-business-from-college-ben-perkins-blueprint-for-turning-ideas-into-one-of-utah-s-fastest-growing-companies--67195660
      Ben's journey reveals how international resilience, family influence, and micro-segmentation strategy create entrepreneurial advantages that most founders never discover. Moving countries as a high school senior, playing college soccer, serving an LDS mission in the Philippines, and turning a class project at UVU into a business that hit $10 million in annual revenue, Ben demonstrates how diverse experiences create entrepreneurial advantages.

      What You'll Learn:
      • How Ben's international childhood taught him teamwork and adaptability that became crucial business skills
      • The porta-potty moment after a soccer victory that shaped his "better to be a role player on a winning team" business philosophy
      • The "Under Armour dress shirt" idea that stayed with him for 10 years before becoming reality
      • Why he chose revenue milestones ($50K, $300K, $1M, $10M) as his key success metrics
      • The spreadsheet conversation with his dad that determined whether to pursue entrepreneurship full-time
      • How moving senior year to a new country prepared him for business uncertainty and change
      • The micro-segmentation strategy targeting missionaries, Orthodox Jews, teachers, and pilots
      • Why objective P&L assignments for each employee transformed their company culture
      • The founder-market fit advantage of starting a white dress shirt company in Utah
      • How international exposure influenced their customer service philosophy
      • Why he distinguishes between having an "idea" vs. a "dream" and starting businesses you don't love
      • The branding mistakes he'd fix (choosing a name people can actually pronounce and type)
      • How recycled plastic bottles become performance dress shirts
      • The employment-as-giving-back philosophy inspired by Mitt Romney
      Key Takeaways:
      • Market research matters: Ben calculated that more white dress shirts are sold per capita in Utah than anywhere else in the US
      • Don't wait for perfection: The company has trimmed from 24 to 17 employees while learning leadership lessons
      • Micro-segments can build empires: Targeting specific communities (20K male missionaries annually) creates predictable revenue
      • International experiences create resilience: Moving countries and cultures builds adaptability crucial for entrepreneurship
      • Family business dynamics: How Ben's dad's management consulting background influenced strategic decision-making
      Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur with an idea you've been sitting on, a young professional wondering about the leap to business ownership, or a leader looking to understand micro-segmentation and international market advantages, Ben's story offers practical insights wrapped in an inspiring journey from teenage frustration to business success.Connect with &Collar:
      Special Thanks: We thank Ryan Dent, former president and current chairman of MountainWest Capital Network, and managing partner of PwC Salt Lake City, for joining as guest host and sharing his perspective on Ben's growth journey from an emerging elite company to a top 10 Utah 100 recognition.

      Want to Connect?

      Cheri@MWCN.org
      zachary.reed@pwc.com

      Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 


      Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
      Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
      Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
      Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
      Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
      Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
      The LaunchPod Media Team


      The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67195660Thu, 31 Jul 2025 10:00:07 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkWhat happens when a 14-year-old's frustration with uncomfortable dress shirts in Hong Kong's sweltering heat becomes Utah's 8th fastest-growing company? Ben Perkins, founder and CEO of &Collar, proves that sometimes the best business ideas come...
      Ben's journey reveals how international resilience, family influence, and micro-segmentation strategy create entrepreneurial advantages that most founders never discover. Moving countries as a high school senior, playing college soccer, serving an LDS mission in the Philippines, and turning a class project at UVU into a business that hit $10 million in annual revenue, Ben demonstrates how diverse experiences create entrepreneurial advantages.

      What You'll Learn:
      • How Ben's international childhood taught him teamwork and adaptability that became crucial business skills
      • The porta-potty moment after a soccer victory that shaped his "better to be a role player on a winning team" business philosophy
      • The "Under Armour dress shirt" idea that stayed with him for 10 years before becoming reality
      • Why he chose revenue milestones ($50K, $300K, $1M, $10M) as his key success metrics
      • The spreadsheet conversation with his dad that determined whether to pursue entrepreneurship full-time
      • How moving senior year to a new country prepared him for business uncertainty and change
      • The micro-segmentation strategy targeting missionaries, Orthodox Jews, teachers, and pilots
      • Why objective P&L assignments for each employee transformed their company culture
      • The founder-market fit advantage of starting a white dress shirt company in Utah
      • How international exposure influenced their customer service philosophy
      • Why he distinguishes between having an "idea" vs. a "dream" and starting businesses you don't love
      • The branding mistakes he'd fix (choosing a name people can actually pronounce and type)
      • How recycled plastic bottles become performance dress shirts
      • The employment-as-giving-back philosophy inspired by Mitt Romney
      Key Takeaways:
      • Market research matters: Ben calculated that more white dress shirts are sold per capita in Utah than anywhere else in the US
      • Don't wait for perfection: The company has trimmed from 24 to 17 employees while learning leadership lessons
      • Micro-segments can build empires: Targeting specific communities (20K male missionaries annually) creates predictable revenue
      • International experiences create resilience: Moving countries and cultures builds adaptability crucial for entrepreneurship
      • Family business dynamics: How Ben's dad's management consulting background influenced strategic decision-making
      Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur with an idea you've been sitting on, a young professional wondering about the leap to business ownership, or a leader looking to understand micro-segmentation and international market advantages, Ben's story offers practical insights wrapped in an inspiring journey from teenage frustration to business success.Connect with &Collar:
      Special Thanks: We thank Ryan Dent, former president and current chairman of MountainWest Capital Network, and managing partner of PwC Salt Lake City, for...]]>      2168andcollar,apparel_industry,ben_perkins,branding_mistakes,business_growth,customer_service,entrepreneurship,family_business,founder_story,international_experience,lds_mission,leadership_lessons,market_research,micro_segmentation,niche_markets,performance_dress_shirts,recycled_materials,startup_journey,sustainable_fashion,utah_businessfalsefullThe Lifestyle Revolution: How Rich Eggett & Ariel Faloon Built Rockwell Into More Than a Brandhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-lifestyle-revolution-how-rich-eggett-ariel-faloon-built-rockwell-into-more-than-a-brand--66920719
      Rich Eggett, founder of Rockwell, and his daughter Ariel Faloon have built something remarkable: a company where relationships matter more than anything else and work feels like play. Their "compound" headquarters doubles as an adventure basecamp, reflecting Rich's philosophy that came from a European backpacking trip where he discovered Utah's Bryce Canyon actually beats the Swiss Alps. Ariel's journey from starting at $7.25 an hour to becoming their manufacturing mastermind shows how this father-daughter team uses authentic passion and faith-driven values to turn a business into a movement.

      Rich and Ariel have revolutionized Italian handcrafted sunglasses and developed breakthrough floatable eyewear. They live by the philosophy that you should avoid having too many fires, not too many irons in the fire. Their legendary compound includes a gym, football field, and volleyball court. Their destination distribution strategy only partners with places they'd actually want to vacation. Rich and Ariel prove that relationships come first, and everything else follows.

      What You'll Learn:
      • Rich's "fire theory" that changed his approach to business growth and focus 
      • How Ariel went from unpaid intern to manufacturing leader negotiating with Italian craftsmen 
      • Why their "compound" workplace creates employee loyalty through lifestyle integration 
      • The floatable sunglasses breakthrough that could disrupt a billion-dollar market 
      • How faith-based values guide business decisions while staying competitive 
      • The "Hero Mission" giving program that lets customers choose their impact 
      • Why they only distribute to vacation destinations and how this strategy works 
      • How treating business contacts like family builds relationships that survive tough times
      Whether you're building a family business, scaling a lifestyle brand, or looking to integrate your values with growth, Rich and Ariel share practical insights on relationship-building, innovation, and creating work that actually feels enjoyable.Connect with Rockwell: 
      • Website: rockwelltime.com 
      • Social: @RockwellWatches and @RockwellSunglasses (Instagram) 
      • Hero Mission: Use code "HERO MISSION" for their give-back program

      Want to Connect?

      Cheri@MWCN.org
      zachary.reed@pwc.com

      Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 


      Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
      Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
      Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
      Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
      Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
      Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
      The LaunchPod Media Team


      The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>      https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66920719Thu, 17 Jul 2025 10:00:07 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkWhat if your business wasn't just a company but a lifestyle that turns work into play and customers into family? Rich Eggett, founder of Rockwell, and his daughter Ariel Faloon have built something remarkable: a company where relationships matter...
      Rich Eggett, founder of Rockwell, and his daughter Ariel Faloon have built something remarkable: a company where relationships matter more than anything else and work feels like play. Their "compound" headquarters doubles as an adventure basecamp, reflecting Rich's philosophy that came from a European backpacking trip where he discovered Utah's Bryce Canyon actually beats the Swiss Alps. Ariel's journey from starting at $7.25 an hour to becoming their manufacturing mastermind shows how this father-daughter team uses authentic passion and faith-driven values to turn a business into a movement.

      Rich and Ariel have revolutionized Italian handcrafted sunglasses and developed breakthrough floatable eyewear. They live by the philosophy that you should avoid having too many fires, not too many irons in the fire. Their legendary compound includes a gym, football field, and volleyball court. Their destination distribution strategy only partners with places they'd actually want to vacation. Rich and Ariel prove that relationships come first, and everything else follows.

      What You'll Learn:
      • Rich's "fire theory" that changed his approach to business growth and focus 
      • How Ariel went from unpaid intern to manufacturing leader negotiating with Italian craftsmen 
      • Why their "compound" workplace creates employee loyalty through lifestyle integration 
      • The floatable sunglasses breakthrough that could disrupt a billion-dollar market 
      • How faith-based values guide business decisions while staying competitive 
      • The "Hero Mission" giving program that lets customers choose their impact 
      • Why they only distribute to vacation destinations and how this strategy works 
      • How treating business contacts like family builds relationships that survive tough times
      Whether you're building a family business, scaling a lifestyle brand, or looking to integrate your values with growth, Rich and Ariel share practical insights on relationship-building, innovation, and creating work that actually feels enjoyable.Connect with Rockwell: 
      • Website: rockwelltime.com 
      • Social: @RockwellWatches and @RockwellSunglasses (Instagram) 
      • Hero Mission: Use code "HERO MISSION" for their give-back program

      Want to Connect?

      Cheri@MWCN.org
      zachary.reed@pwc.com

      Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 


      Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
      Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
      Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
      Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
      Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
      Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
      The LaunchPod Media Team


      The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>      3342falsefull      The Creative Revolution: How Miranda & Jim Built Cricut Into a Billion-Dollar Platform That Changes Liveshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-creative-revolution-how-miranda-jim-built-cricut-into-a-billion-dollar-platform-that-changes-lives--66843828
      What if your crafting hobby could launch a million-dollar business from your kitchen table? Miranda and Jim from Cricut have witnessed something extraordinary: a creative platform that doesn't just help people make greeting cards and t-shirts—it transforms ordinary crafters into thriving entrepreneurs. From a company losing money in 2011 to a billion-dollar public company paying dividends today, Cricut's journey reveals how the right platform can unleash human creativity on a global scale.

      In this conversation, Miranda, with her HR leadership spanning nearly eight years at Cricut, and Jim, bringing 25+ years of Wall Street expertise, share how they've built something far more powerful than cutting machines. From graduates honoring deceased parents through custom graduation caps to stay-at-home moms building Etsy empires, they reveal how authentic mission-driven leadership creates both financial success and life-changing impact across 5.89 million active users in 50 countries.

      What You'll Learn:
      • How Cricut transformed from a money-losing scrapbooking company to a profitable billion-dollar platform in just over a decade
      • The "platform vs. product" strategy that creates endless creative possibilities and recurring revenue streams
      • The "cheetah speed" approach to innovation—how to study markets carefully then dominate when you strike
      • How authentic employee ownership mentality attracts top talent and reduces turnover in competitive markets
      • Why giving back to teachers and communities isn't just good karma—it's smart business strategy for sustainable growth
      • The Utah advantage: How Silicon Slopes culture combines high performance with work-life balance and family values
      Whether you're scaling a creative business, building a platform company, or wondering how to turn customer passion into sustainable growth, Miranda and Jim's insights on leadership, innovation, and creating authentic impact offer a blueprint for building something that changes lives while generating serious returns.

      Connect with Cricut:
      • Website: cricut.com
      • Social: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, YouTube
      • Platform: designspace.cricut.com
      • Careers: LinkedIn @Cricut
      Want to Connect?

      Cheri@MWCN.org
      zachary.reed@pwc.com

      Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 


      Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
      Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
      Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
      Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
      Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
      Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
      The LaunchPod Media Team


      The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>      https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66843828Thu, 03 Jul 2025 10:00:08 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkThe Creative Revolution: How Miranda & Jim Built Cricut Into a Billion-Dollar Platform That Changes Lives  What if your crafting hobby could launch a million-dollar business from your kitchen table? Miranda and Jim from Cricut have witnessed...
      What if your crafting hobby could launch a million-dollar business from your kitchen table? Miranda and Jim from Cricut have witnessed something extraordinary: a creative platform that doesn't just help people make greeting cards and t-shirts—it transforms ordinary crafters into thriving entrepreneurs. From a company losing money in 2011 to a billion-dollar public company paying dividends today, Cricut's journey reveals how the right platform can unleash human creativity on a global scale.

      In this conversation, Miranda, with her HR leadership spanning nearly eight years at Cricut, and Jim, bringing 25+ years of Wall Street expertise, share how they've built something far more powerful than cutting machines. From graduates honoring deceased parents through custom graduation caps to stay-at-home moms building Etsy empires, they reveal how authentic mission-driven leadership creates both financial success and life-changing impact across 5.89 million active users in 50 countries.

      What You'll Learn:
      • How Cricut transformed from a money-losing scrapbooking company to a profitable billion-dollar platform in just over a decade
      • The "platform vs. product" strategy that creates endless creative possibilities and recurring revenue streams
      • The "cheetah speed" approach to innovation—how to study markets carefully then dominate when you strike
      • How authentic employee ownership mentality attracts top talent and reduces turnover in competitive markets
      • Why giving back to teachers and communities isn't just good karma—it's smart business strategy for sustainable growth
      • The Utah advantage: How Silicon Slopes culture combines high performance with work-life balance and family values
      Whether you're scaling a creative business, building a platform company, or wondering how to turn customer passion into sustainable growth, Miranda and Jim's insights on leadership, innovation, and creating authentic impact offer a blueprint for building something that changes lives while generating serious returns.

      Connect with Cricut:
      • Website: cricut.com
      • Social: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, YouTube
      • Platform: designspace.cricut.com
      • Careers: LinkedIn @Cricut
      Want to Connect?

      Cheri@MWCN.org
      zachary.reed@pwc.com

      Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.” 


      Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
      Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
      Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
      Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
      Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
      Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
      The LaunchPod Media Team


      The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>      2153falsefull      How Trevor Farnes Turned Business Crisis Into Global Impacthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-trevor-farnes-turned-business-crisis-into-global-impact--66628219
      Trevor Farnes, former CEO and co-founder of MTN Ops, transformed personal bankruptcy and food insecurity into a 7 million meal mission that has fed children across Utah, America, and Africa. From losing seven franchise stores and facing foreclosure to building one of Utah's fastest-growing companies, Trevor's story reveals how crisis, faith, and unwavering mission can create extraordinary impact.

      After experiencing hunger firsthand with his young family—surviving on faith and anonymous grocery deliveries—Trevor discovered that his greatest struggle would become his greatest strength. Today, MTN Ops doesn't just create nutritional products for outdoor enthusiasts; every purchase helps fund Operation Conquer Hunger, proving that profit and purpose aren't just compatible—they're inseparable.What You'll Learn:
      • How Trevor and his wife turned complete business failure into the spark for MTN Ops’ success and mission
      • Why starting with a $22 donation (our few loaves and fishes) led to feeding nearly 7 million meals worldwide
      • How faith-based core values drive decision-making and attract top talent in competitive markets
      • Why vulnerability and authentic storytelling create deeper connections with customers and employees
      Whether you're facing your own business crisis, building a mission-driven company, or wondering how to turn struggle into strength, Trevor's insights on resilience, faith, and giving back offer a blueprint for creating success that transforms lives beyond your own.Connect with Trevor Farnes:
      • Website: mtnops.com
      • Social: @TrevorFarnes (LinkedIn) / @MtnOps and @TrevorFarnes (Instagram)
      • Book: "The Conquer Code" available on Amazon and Audible
      Want to Connect?

      Cheri@MWCN.org
      zachary.reed@pwc.com

      Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.”
       
      Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
      Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
      Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
      Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
      Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
      Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
      The LaunchPod Media Team


      The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>      https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66628219Thu, 19 Jun 2025 13:49:19 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkWhat if your darkest financial crisis became the foundation for feeding millions of hungry children? Trevor Farnes, former CEO and co-founder of MTN Ops, transformed personal bankruptcy and food insecurity into a 7 million meal mission that has fed...
      Trevor Farnes, former CEO and co-founder of MTN Ops, transformed personal bankruptcy and food insecurity into a 7 million meal mission that has fed children across Utah, America, and Africa. From losing seven franchise stores and facing foreclosure to building one of Utah's fastest-growing companies, Trevor's story reveals how crisis, faith, and unwavering mission can create extraordinary impact.

      After experiencing hunger firsthand with his young family—surviving on faith and anonymous grocery deliveries—Trevor discovered that his greatest struggle would become his greatest strength. Today, MTN Ops doesn't just create nutritional products for outdoor enthusiasts; every purchase helps fund Operation Conquer Hunger, proving that profit and purpose aren't just compatible—they're inseparable.What You'll Learn:
      • How Trevor and his wife turned complete business failure into the spark for MTN Ops’ success and mission
      • Why starting with a $22 donation (our few loaves and fishes) led to feeding nearly 7 million meals worldwide
      • How faith-based core values drive decision-making and attract top talent in competitive markets
      • Why vulnerability and authentic storytelling create deeper connections with customers and employees
      Whether you're facing your own business crisis, building a mission-driven company, or wondering how to turn struggle into strength, Trevor's insights on resilience, faith, and giving back offer a blueprint for creating success that transforms lives beyond your own.Connect with Trevor Farnes:
      • Website: mtnops.com
      • Social: @TrevorFarnes (LinkedIn) / @MtnOps and @TrevorFarnes (Instagram)
      • Book: "The Conquer Code" available on Amazon and Audible
      Want to Connect?

      Cheri@MWCN.org
      zachary.reed@pwc.com

      Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.”
       
      Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
      Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
      Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
      Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
      Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
      Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
      The LaunchPod Media Team


      The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>      2959falsefull      Building More Than Buildings: Old School Foundation, Next Generation Growthhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/building-more-than-buildings-old-school-foundation-next-generation-growth--66407373
      In this conversation, Dave shares the "Layton Way"—a philosophy that's driven explosive growth from $350 million in 2004 to over $1 billion today, with offices across 11 markets. The real magic isn't in the revenue numbers; it's in how they've created a culture where top talent stays for decades, building wealth while building America's most important projects from hospitals to sports venues.What You'll Learn:
      • The employee ownership model that turns construction workers into millionaires over 20-40 year careers
      • Why growth is essential for retention and how Dave uses expansion to create career paths for emerging talent
      • The "team sport" approach to construction that delivers predictable outcomes in an unpredictable industry
      • How AI and predictive analytics are revolutionizing safety and project management in traditional construction
      • Dave's crisis leadership lessons from surviving the 2008 recession with a 30-40% revenue drop
      • The mentorship philosophy passed down from his 92-year-old father who "never stopped teaching"
      • Why the rock never rolls on its own and what it takes to keep pushing when business gets tough
      • Technology strategies that help companies do more with less skilled labor in today's market
      Whether you're building a family business, scaling a company, or wondering how to create lasting employee loyalty, Dave's insights on leadership, growth, and giving back offer a blueprint for building something that lasts generations.Connect with Layton Construction:
      • Website: laytonconstruction.com
      • Instagram: @LaytonConstruct
      Want to reach out? 

      cheri@mwcn.org
      zachary.reed@pwc.com

      Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.”

      Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
      Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
      Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
      Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
      Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
      Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
      The LaunchPod Media Team


      Follow the journey of Utah's fastest-growing companies and the leaders who built them 
      Discover why thousands of business leaders consider the Winners’ Circle the most energizing networking experience in Utah.

      Welcome to the Winner's Circle—where listening isn't just about hearing stories, it's about transforming your business and life with each episode.

      The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>      https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66407373Thu, 05 Jun 2025 13:13:00 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkDave Layton, CEO of Layton Construction, has built something remarkable: a company where more than half the employees own shares and retire, having changed their family tree. From the youngest of 10 children working in his father's vegetable garden to...
      In this conversation, Dave shares the "Layton Way"—a philosophy that's driven explosive growth from $350 million in 2004 to over $1 billion today, with offices across 11 markets. The real magic isn't in the revenue numbers; it's in how they've created a culture where top talent stays for decades, building wealth while building America's most important projects from hospitals to sports venues.What You'll Learn:
      • The employee ownership model that turns construction workers into millionaires over 20-40 year careers
      • Why growth is essential for retention and how Dave uses expansion to create career paths for emerging talent
      • The "team sport" approach to construction that delivers predictable outcomes in an unpredictable industry
      • How AI and predictive analytics are revolutionizing safety and project management in traditional construction
      • Dave's crisis leadership lessons from surviving the 2008 recession with a 30-40% revenue drop
      • The mentorship philosophy passed down from his 92-year-old father who "never stopped teaching"
      • Why the rock never rolls on its own and what it takes to keep pushing when business gets tough
      • Technology strategies that help companies do more with less skilled labor in today's market
      Whether you're building a family business, scaling a company, or wondering how to create lasting employee loyalty, Dave's insights on leadership, growth, and giving back offer a blueprint for building something that lasts generations.Connect with Layton Construction:
      • Website: laytonconstruction.com
      • Instagram: @LaytonConstruct
      Want to reach out? 

      cheri@mwcn.org
      zachary.reed@pwc.com

      Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.”

      Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
      Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
      Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
      Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
      Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
      Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
      The LaunchPod Media Team


      Follow the journey of Utah's fastest-growing companies and the leaders who built them 
      Discover why thousands of business leaders consider the Winners’ Circle the most energizing networking experience in Utah.

      Welcome to the Winner's Circle—where listening isn't just about hearing stories, it's about transforming your business and life with each episode.

      The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>      2279career_development,company_culture,construction_leadership,crisis_management,employee_ownership,growth_strategy,mentorship,predictive_analytics,talent_retention,technology_in_construction,utah,winners-circlefalsefull      Welcome to the Winners' Circlehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/welcome-to-the-winners-circle--64496535
      Meet Cheri Waldron and Jason Roberts, your hosts for the MountainWest Capital Network Podcast—the gateway to Utah's Winner's Circle. For nearly two decades, Cheri has been the driving force behind MountainWest Capital Network as Executive Director, orchestrating Utah's most prestigious business celebration, the Utah 100. Jason brings 22 years of global business consulting expertise as Managing Director of Protiviti's Salt Lake City office, having grown the local team from 2-3 people to over 70 professionals.

      Together, they've created something unprecedented: intimate access to the exclusive Winners’ Circle—that electrifying pre-event gathering where Utah's fastest-growing company CEOs and founders connect before taking the stage. Now, for the first time, they're bringing that same energy and insider access directly to you through candid one-on-one conversations with the business leaders shaping Utah's economy.

      What You'll Discover: 

      • Why Utah earned its reputation as "the startup state" and how collaboration drives unprecedented business success
      • The untold stories behind Utah's fastest-growing companies, from garage startups to billion-dollar enterprises
      • How MountainWest Capital Network's volunteer-driven model creates authentic connections between industry leaders
      • The power of "business forums"—intimate, unscripted conversations that reveal the real challenges behind the highlight reels
      • Why early morning inspiration drives the best entrepreneurial ideas and strategic decisions
      • How authentic storytelling and vulnerability create deeper connections in business and leadership Behind the Mission: This isn't just another business podcast.

      Cheri and Jason are passionate about showcasing Utah's unique collaborative culture where competitors become collaborators, where success is celebrated collectively, and where giving back isn't just encouraged—it's embedded in the business model. Every episode reflects their shared belief that inspiration, motivation, and authentic connection are essential ingredients for entrepreneurial success.Whether you're scaling your first startup, leading a Fortune 500 company, or somewhere in between, you'll find yourself feeling like a close personal friend of every guest—because that's exactly what happens when barriers come down and real stories emerge.Connect with

      Your Hosts: MountainWest Capital Network: Learn about Utah's premier business community and the legendary Utah 100 event

      https://www.mwcn.org/sponsors/
      https://www.mwcn.org/podcast/


      Want to reach out? 

      cheri@mwcn.org
      zachary.reed@pwc.com

      Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.”

      Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
      Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
      Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
      Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
      Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
      Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
      The LaunchPod Media Team


      • Follow the journey of Utah's fastest-growing companies and the leaders who built them
      • Discover why thousands of business leaders consider the Winners’ Circle the most energizing networking experience in Utah.

      Welcome to the Winner's Circle—where listening isn't just about hearing stories, it's about transforming your business and life with each episode.

      The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>      https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64496535Tue, 03 Jun 2025 10:00:09 +0000MountainWest Capital NetworkEver wondered who's behind the voices connecting you with Utah's most successful entrepreneurs? Meet Cheri Waldron and Jason Roberts, your hosts for the MountainWest Capital Network Podcast—the gateway to Utah's Winner's Circle. For nearly two...
      Meet Cheri Waldron and Jason Roberts, your hosts for the MountainWest Capital Network Podcast—the gateway to Utah's Winner's Circle. For nearly two decades, Cheri has been the driving force behind MountainWest Capital Network as Executive Director, orchestrating Utah's most prestigious business celebration, the Utah 100. Jason brings 22 years of global business consulting expertise as Managing Director of Protiviti's Salt Lake City office, having grown the local team from 2-3 people to over 70 professionals.

      Together, they've created something unprecedented: intimate access to the exclusive Winners’ Circle—that electrifying pre-event gathering where Utah's fastest-growing company CEOs and founders connect before taking the stage. Now, for the first time, they're bringing that same energy and insider access directly to you through candid one-on-one conversations with the business leaders shaping Utah's economy.

      What You'll Discover: 

      • Why Utah earned its reputation as "the startup state" and how collaboration drives unprecedented business success
      • The untold stories behind Utah's fastest-growing companies, from garage startups to billion-dollar enterprises
      • How MountainWest Capital Network's volunteer-driven model creates authentic connections between industry leaders
      • The power of "business forums"—intimate, unscripted conversations that reveal the real challenges behind the highlight reels
      • Why early morning inspiration drives the best entrepreneurial ideas and strategic decisions
      • How authentic storytelling and vulnerability create deeper connections in business and leadership Behind the Mission: This isn't just another business podcast.

      Cheri and Jason are passionate about showcasing Utah's unique collaborative culture where competitors become collaborators, where success is celebrated collectively, and where giving back isn't just encouraged—it's embedded in the business model. Every episode reflects their shared belief that inspiration, motivation, and authentic connection are essential ingredients for entrepreneurial success.Whether you're scaling your first startup, leading a Fortune 500 company, or somewhere in between, you'll find yourself feeling like a close personal friend of every guest—because that's exactly what happens when barriers come down and real stories emerge.Connect with

      Your Hosts: MountainWest Capital Network: Learn about Utah's premier business community and the legendary Utah 100 event

      https://www.mwcn.org/sponsors/
      https://www.mwcn.org/podcast/


      Want to reach out? 

      cheri@mwcn.org
      zachary.reed@pwc.com

      Meet the dedicated members of our podcast committee who curate content, organize interviews, and ensure the success of The MountainWest Capital Network Podcast “Welcome to the Winners’ Circle.”

      Cheri Waldron, MWCN Executive Director
      Jason Roberts, MWCN President and Managing Director, Protiviti
      Kevin Jessop, MWCN Podcast Vice-Chair and Chief Marketing Officer, IMA
      Garit Lawson, MWCN Podcast Chair, Managing Director, Forbes Partners
      Zachary Reed, MWCN Podcast Producer, Senior Associate, PwC LLP
      Katie Brown, MWCN Business Operations Specialist
      The LaunchPod Media Team


      • Follow the journey of Utah's fastest-growing companies and the leaders who built them
      • Discover why thousands of business leaders consider the Winners’ Circle the most energizing networking experience in Utah.

      Welcome to the Winner's Circle—where listening isn't just about hearing stories, it's about transforming your business and life with...]]>      1682capital,cheri,collaboration,entrepreneurs,inspiration,jason,leadership,mountain,mountain_west,mountainwest_capital_network,mwcn,network,salt_lake_city,startup,utah,utah100,wasatch,west,winners',winners_circlefalsefull      Introducing the Winners' Circlehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/introducing-the-winners-circle--64496534The views expressed in this program are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. Any references to specific investments or outcomes are illustrative and not indicative of overall performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64496534Tue, 03 Jun 2025 10:00:09 +0000MountainWest Capital Network111falsetrailer