I Am Salt Lake: Interviews And Conversations With People In Salt Lake City, Utah

On this episode of the podcast, we sit down with Blake Malan, the owner and founder of Bacana Grills, to hear the story behind his vision and passion for creating something truly unique. Blake shares what inspired him to start Bacana, how his love for Brazilian barbecue shaped the brand, and what sets his grills apart from anything else on the market. We dive into the design process, the custom accessories he’s developed, and what it takes to bring a new product to life right here in Utah.We also talk about Blake’s journey as an entrepreneur, the challenges of building a business from the ground up, and how the Salt Lake City community has supported his growth. He also gives us a look at his catering business, the bold flavors that define his menus, and what makes his events stand out. Whether you’re a barbecue fan, a food lover, or just enjoy hearing stories from local business owners, this conversation with Blake from Bacana Grills is one you’ll really enjoy.New episodes every Tuesday! Please support and su

On this episode of I am Salt Lake Podcast, we sat down with Jared Palmer from Utah Doesn’t Exist. We got to chat about his many projects, his acting work, and some of the films he has been part of. Jared shared what inspired him to start Utah Doesn’t Exist and how the idea has grown over time. He also talked about why he sometimes goes by his alias Opey Taylor on social media and what that name means to him.We also talked about the shows he used to run in Ogden, the music he creates, he shared some ghost stories, and how he got connected with Utah Musicians Radio. Jared opened up about what he loves most about living in Utah and why the local creative community means so much to him. It was a fun and honest conversation that gives listeners a great look at one of Utah’s most creative voices.Thank you for listening! New episodes drop every Tuesday.Whether you’re planning a move across town or starting your search for the perfect home, I’d love to be your go-to resource. Let’s connect and make your next move a s

On this episode of I am Salt Lake podcast we sit down with Derek Van Otten, a paranormal investigator and host of the EVP Podcast. Derek shares how he got drawn into the world of ghost hunting, what keeps him searching for answers, and some of the most unforgettable moments he’s experienced along the way.We talk about his investigations across Utah, what it’s like to capture real evidence on tape, and how he approaches the mystery behind each case. From haunted houses to eerie late-night encounters, Derek’s stories pull you right into the heart of the unknown. Whether you’re a believer or just curious, this episode is a fascinating look at the paranormal through the eyes of someone who lives it.

On this episode of I am Salt Lake, we sit down with folklorist and storyteller Danny B. Stewart, the creator of the Provo Ghost Tours. Danny has spent years collecting and sharing the haunted history of Provo, bringing local ghost stories to life in a way that connects people to the landscapes and legends of Utah. We talk about what inspired him to start the tours, how he researches the stories, and what makes Utah’s haunted past so unique.With Halloween right around the corner, this is the perfect episode for anyone who loves a good ghost story. Danny shares some of his favorite tales from the tour, the history behind them, and a few moments that even made him question what is real. Whether you believe in ghosts or just love a peek into the strange and mysterious side of Utah, this conversation is full of eerie fun and local folklore that you won’t want to miss.Thank you for listening! New episodes drop every Tuesday.Whether you’re planning a move across town or starting your search for the perfect home, I’d

On this episode of I Am Salt Lake, we sat down with Stephanie Cowan, a psychic and Reiki healing practitioner. Stephanie shared how she first discovered her abilities as a psychic medium and what those early experiences were like when she realized she could connect beyond the physical world. We also talked about some of her ghost hunting adventures here in Utah and how those moments shaped her journey.Stephanie opened up about her decision to leave her full time job to follow her passion and what that transition has been like for her. We discussed what she loves most about working with the paranormal, helping people through her gifts, and the challenges and rewards that come with being a full time psychic. This episode is a great introduction to who Stephanie is, the work she does, and the stories that led her to where she is today.Thank you for listening! New episodes drop every Tuesday.Whether you’re planning a move across town or starting your search for the perfect home, I’d love to be your go-to resource

In this episode of I Am Salt Lake, we sit down with Omar Prestwich, founder of Fruitstand Studios and host of the Everyday Heroes podcast. We dive into the story behind Fruitstand Studios, how Omar is using AI to shape the future of marketing and video production, and why he believes Utah is such a powerful place to run a creative business. Omar also shares the inspiration behind Everyday Heroes podcast and what he’s learned from shining a spotlight on the people who make a difference in their communities.On top of all that, we chat about one of his newest ventures—Billie Bites, a line of dog treats inspired by his pup. From business and creativity to community and even pets, this conversation shows Omar’s passion for building meaningful projects and his vision for where media and entrepreneurship are heading in Utah.Thank you for listening! New episodes drop every Tuesday.Whether you’re planning a move across town or starting your search for the perfect home, I’d love to be your go-to resource. Let’s connect

On this episode of I Am Salt Lake, we get to sit down with Charles Pigott , founder and CEO of Changes Health and Fitness in Utah. Charles shares the story behind launching his gym, the challenges he faced in the early days, and how he has built a welcoming community focused on more than just workouts. We talk about his fitness philosophy and what makes Changes different from a typical gym.Charles also opens up about his personal journey, the inspiration that drove him to create a space where people feel supported in their health goals, and the lessons he has learned as an entrepreneur. Beyond fitness, we talk about the unique culture of the Salt Lake Valley and what he loves most about living in Utah.Whether you are into fitness, thinking about starting your own business, or just love hearing local stories of perseverance and community, this conversation will leave you inspired to embrace change both in the gym and in life.Thank you for listening! New episodes drop every Tuesday.Whether you’re planning a mov

On this episode of the podcast Jeramie and I sit down with David Vazquez from the Fellowship Hall . We dive into the history of the hall and what it has meant to the community over the years. David shares about the meetings, the food, the entertainment, and the welcoming space that makes Fellowship Hall such an important place for so many people.We also talk about some of the obstacles they have faced and the ongoing need to raise money to keep the doors open. Along the way, we get to know David a little more personally and hear what drives him to be a part of this work. This conversation is a great chance to learn more about an organization that is making a real difference right here in Salt Lake City.

On this episode of the podcast, Jeramie and I sat down with Dustin Gettle, the mayor of Midvale, Utah. We had a chance to dive into his journey of public service and hear what inspired him to step into leadership. Dustin opened up about the challenges and rewards of being a mayor, the passion he has for serving his community, and the unique perspective he brings to the role. From navigating the day-to-day responsibilities of running a city to reflecting on what makes Midvale such a special place, Dustin shared stories that highlight both his dedication and his love for this state.We also explored what it means for Dustin to be an openly gay mayor in Utah, the obstacles that come with it, and the progress he’s seen in fostering inclusivity in local politics. Our conversation touched on the growth of Midvale, exciting developments happening in the city, and his hopes for its future. Whether you’re curious about local leadership, passionate about community, or simply love hearing from inspiring voices shaping Ut

On this episode of the podcast, Jeramie and I sat down with Chase Murdock from the DECADA Group. We talked about what the Decada Group is, what they do, and the goals they are working toward. It was fun to look back at the last time Chase was on I Am Salt Lake almost ten years ago when we chatted about his Utah Foodie podcast.We also got into some of the businesses Chase runs today and had a great conversation about the business climate in Salt Lake City. Chase shared his thoughts on why some businesses succeed while others do not, and it was just great to catch up and hear what he has been up to over the last decade.

On this episode of the podcast, Jeramie and I sit down with Weston Brandon, a talented speaker, author, and songwriter. We dive into his incredible journey, exploring the experiences that shaped who he is today and the inspiration behind his book The Overhaul. Weston opens up about the obstacles he has faced, the challenges he has overcome, and the path that led him into men’s coaching and personal growth work.We also spend time talking about his creative work as a songwriter and the stories behind some of his music, as well as getting to know him on a personal level. This is a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with someone who has dedicated his life to helping others live with purpose and authenticity.Make sure to listen live every Wednesday evening starting at 7pm at UtahMusicRadio.comNew episodes of the podcast are released every Tuesday so make sure to subscribe you don't miss an episode.

In this episode of I Am Salt Lake, Jeramie and I sit down with Eric Westover, the owner of Huckleberry Grill. We talk about what inspired him to start the restaurant, how it all got started with a food truck, and why he loves being part of the restaurant industry. Eric shares some of his favorite menu items, what makes Huckleberry Grill unique, and how he stays motivated through the ups and downs of running a food business.We also chat about the Salt Lake City restaurant community and how supportive and tight-knit it really is. Whether you’re a foodie, a fellow business owner, or just someone who enjoys a good local success story, you’ll definitely enjoy this one.Make sure to listen live ever Wednesday starting at 7pm at UtahMusicRadio.comInterested in coming on the podcast? Send Chris an email at iamsaltlake@gmail.com

In this episode of I Am Salt Lake, we sit down with Lindsey and Alaric of Gearly Beloved, a dynamic duo creating high quality music videos and live session recordings for local bands right here in Salt Lake City.We dive into their journey into the world of music videography, how they built their brand in Utah's music scene, and what sets their work apart when it comes to helping musicians stand out online. Lindsey and Alaric share how their passion for visual storytelling and love for local music drive their work, and why hiring professionals like them can make all the difference for bands looking to grow their audience and capture their sound in a visually compelling way.

On this episode of the I Am Salt Lake podcast, Jeramie Velarde and I sat down with our friend Elif Ekin, owner of Kahve Cafe. This marks her third time on the show, and it was a real treat to catch up and hear everything she’s been up to since her last visit.We talked about the journey of Kahve Cafe, the highs, the lows, and the lessons that Elif has learned along the way. She talked about the challenges she's faced running a small business, especially in today’s climate, and how she’s managed to overcome them with grit and creativity. If you're a fan of great coffee, community, and stories of persistence, this episode is for you.Don't forget — you can tune in to new episodes of I Am Salt Lake every Wednesday starting at 7 p.m. at utahmusicradio.com. Come hang out with us live!

On this episode of the I Am Salt Lake Podcast, Jeramie and I had the pleasure of sitting down with Omar Dominguez, the owner of Spicy Consulting, a restaurant consulting company that works closely with local restaurant owners here in Salt Lake City. Omar shared his journey in the food industry, from the restaurants he’s helped launch to the challenges he’s faced along the way.We also dove into a great conversation about the local restaurant scene in Salt Lake and what makes it unique, where it’s headed, and some of the common struggles new restaurant owners are dealing with. Omar has a real passion for food and community, and it definitely comes through in this conversation. If you're into entrepreneurship, the local food scene, or just love hearing behind-the-scenes stories from people helping shape Salt Lake City, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Early release of #619! In this episode of I Am Salt Lake, Jerarmie and I sit down with Crystal Cooper, the force behind Salt City Tarot. We dive into how she first got into reading tarot cards, the evolution of her practice, and some of the most memorable experiences she's had along the way. Crystal shares how tarot became not just a personal tool for reflection but a way to connect with others in deep, meaningful ways.We also chat about her upcoming appearance at Craft Lake City next month, where she’ll be offering live tarot readings. If you've ever been curious about tarot, or you just want to hear a rad story about someone building a business around something they're passionate about, you're going to love this one.

On this episode of I Am Salt Lake, I had a blast chatting with Rae, Ian, and Clint—the hosts of the podcast It Was a Sh*t Show. The video/podcast series about troubled productions in pop culture . They deep-dive into the drama, the rewrites, the meltdowns, and all the stuff that makes Hollywood wild, and somehow make it hilarious and super insightful at the same time.We got into how the three of them came together to start the show, what keeps them motivated, and why they’re so passionate about digging into the messy side of entertainment. They shared some favorite episodes, what surprises them most about the stories they uncover, and what they love most about creating the podcast. It was a fun, laid-back conversation that fans of their show—and anyone who loves film and TV—will definitely enjoy.

In this episode of I Am Salt Lake, I sit down with singer-songwriter Tyler Privett , the creative force behind the full band Maverick Tyler. We dive into his journey through music—what first sparked his passion, the instruments he plays, and how his sound has evolved over the years. Tyler shares stories from his early days, insights into his songwriting process, and what it’s like performing with a full band that carries his artistic vision.Joining me as guest co-host is Jeramie Velarde, who brings an extra layer of perspective and energy to the conversation. Together, we explore the roots of Maverick Tyler’s music, Tyler’s creative influences, and what fans can expect from upcoming projects. Whether you’re already familiar with Maverick Tyler or just tuning in for the first time, this episode offers an engaging, behind-the-scenes look at one of Salt Lake’s rising musical talents.

On this episode of I Am Salt Lake, I catch up with Nate Chacon III for his third time on the podcast. Nate’s been a staple in the Salt Lake City hip-hop scene for years, and we dive into everything he's been working on lately, from his music to his role in Mic Masters, and the podcasting projects he's juggling.We talk about the evolution of Salt Lake's hip-hop culture, how Nate has grown as both an artist and a person, and what’s next for him creatively. It's a laid-back, honest conversation about community, staying true to your roots, and building something that lasts.

In this episode of I Am Salt Lake, I sit down once again with Braxton Dutson, licensed sex therapist and host of the Birds and Bees Podcast. We catch up on life since his last visit and dive into what it’s like working as a sex therapist in Utah. Braxton shares insights on how he helps clients navigate intimacy, relationships, and communication around sexuality. We also chat about the mission behind his podcast, the common misconceptions people have about sex therapy, and why open conversations about sex are more important than ever. Whether you're curious about the field or just want a real, down-to-earth conversation about human connection—this one’s for you.If you’re looking to move to Utah, move across town, or just looking to downsize, give me a call at 801-244-2908. I’d love to help you find your next home!