Small Lake City Podcast

Discover the dynamic evolution of Salt Lake City's neighborhoods, especially the transformation of Sugar House and 9th and 9th, with insights from Helen Wade, the visionary founder of the boutique store Stockist. Helen takes us through her remarkable 15-year journey adapting to the changes, expanding her store, and celebrating its milestone anniversary. Listen in as she shares her diverse background in snowboarding, horse culture, and raising a family, painting a vivid picture of the personal and professional growth that mirrors the community's own development. Reflecting on her dad’s career with Outward Bound, we explore how his passion for scenic vistas led the family to settle in Sandy, Utah. This chapter is filled with personal anecdotes from her time at the University of Utah, adventures in van travel and snowboarding, and the inspiration to create a unique clothing store in the 9th and 9th area. The store was born from a desire to provide a welcoming shopping environment for young professionals, shifting away from the impersonal experience of larger retailers. The vibrant community and convenience of the 9th and 9th neighborhood played a crucial role in bringing this vision to life. Join us as we reminisce about local entrepreneurial ventures, from selling hand-engraved sunglasses to hosting ping pong paddle art shows and bike races. We discuss the challenges faced by local businesses, such as COVID-19 and road construction, while celebrating the sense of community fostered by beloved local spots like Coffee Garden and Mazza. Helen also shares her insights on the evolution and sustainability of boutique stores in the fashion industry, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and personal touches in store design. Exciting future projects, including a potential Park City pop-up and the launch of a private label collection, promise new opportunities and continued growth. https://pod.fo/e/24d082

How did a Minnesota girl, who faced the tragic loss of her half-brother, transform into a fierce advocate for environmental justice and a US Senate hopeful? Join us as we share the incredible story of Caroline Gleich, whose journey from the snowy peaks of Mount Everest to the political battlegrounds of Utah embodies resilience and passion. Caroline takes us through her early years, the pivotal move to Utah at 15, and how her conservative approach to risk in outdoor sports shaped her path towards activism.

Big reveal that few people know, Bobby Johnson (@GlendaleBully) was born in raised in Salt Lake in Glendale before moving to California later. This is where he got introduced to tattooing and spent his childhood roaming the streets of intercity Salt Lake. Check out episode 32 of the Small Lake City podcast with Bobby wherever you listen to podcasts!

Episode 32 with Ink Master Champion and Tattoo Artist Bobby Johnson is live! Step into the vibrant world of Bobby Johnson, the Ink Master champion who's more than just a tattoo virtuoso. On our latest episode of the Small Lake City Podcast, we're graced by Bobby's presence, bringing the heat as he recounts his ascent from humble beginnings to reality TV stardom. His journey isn't just about the ink; it's a tale woven with the threads of cultural shifts, the evolution of music, and the fabric of personal growth. Prepare for a raw, unfiltered dive into the life of an artist who's as genuine as the stories etched onto skin. We've all seen the drama and competition on Ink Master, but what about the aftermath? Bobby lays it all out there, discussing the real impact of competition fame and the grounded life that ensues. His sincere reflections not only reveal the emotional rollercoaster of clinching the title but also shine a spotlight on the intricacies of the tattooing community. From the art of fulfilling client requests to maintaining one's artistic integrity, Bobby's anecdotes offer a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication required for tattoo mastery. As Bobby talks about his future endeavors, you can't help but be inspired by his relentless pursuit of creativity and growth. His plans to launch an exclusive clothing line and his seminar "The Forever Student" symbolize the essence of an artist in constant evolution. Whether he's sharing connections made while tattooing celebrities or musing about the drive necessary for success, Bobby's stories are a testament to the beauty of human connection and the unyielding spirit of an artist. Tune in for an episode that's not just a discussion—it's an experience that might just leave a permanent impression.

Episode 30 with Councilwoman Eva L. is live. Come listen to us chat anout downtown Salt Lake and what the future looks like. When we think of Salt Lake City, we envision a vibrant community at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. Join us for our milestone 30th episode as Councilwoman Eva Lopez Chavez, the first Gen Z leader in the area, guides us through the city's journey toward a brighter future. Her insights shed light on the immense transformation Salt Lake City has undergone since its last Olympics, painting a picture of the infrastructure developments, environmental challenges, and the intimate interplay of growth and community character preservation. As pioneers in our own right, we walk alongside Councilwoman Chavez discussing the critical role of local governance in building community impact and resilience. Together, we uncover the significance of grassroots change and celebrate the rich cultural tapestry that weaves through our city's history. From the Olympic legacy to the urgency of innovative urban planning, our chat reveals the essence of creative disruption—where being a 'guerrilla bureaucrat' might just be the key to keeping pace with our evolving needs. Finally, we anchor our thoughts in the role of each resident in shaping the future of our city. Environmental stewardship isn't just a policy issue; it's a personal commitment to our unique ecosystem, as we confront the declining levels of the Great Salt Lake and the scourge of air pollution. Councilwoman Chavez's call to action is clear: engage, participate, and let your voice be heard. As we close, we invite you to join us in this collaborative endeavor to chart a course for a sustainable and thriving Salt Lake City, honoring its Olympic aspirations and its heart. Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time

Episode 29 with Ignacio Rosenberg and Randi Strong is live! Spring has sprung in Small Lake City, and with it, an episode brimming with the tales of transformation and tenacity from our guests Iggy and Randi. Iggy's odyssey from Argentina to America's stages as a sound and lighting maestro intertwines with Randi's graceful leap from "So You Think You Can Dance" to dazzling the ice with Olympic-level choreography. Their stories are more than just journeys; they are testaments to the power of saying "yes" to life's unexpected avenues and the beauty of Utah's ever-evolving cultural landscape. Pull up a chair and get ready to be whisked away through the highs and lows of life on tour, from Iggy's rock 'n' roll escapades to the quieter revelations of Randi's Utah upbringing. We navigate the complexities of balancing personal beliefs with public personas, and how the backdrop of the pandemic cast a new light on the allure of Salt Lake City's quality of life. This episode isn't just about recounting memories; it's a celebration of the resilience and adaptability that propel us forward. As we wrap up, join us at the intersection of creativity and pragmatism, where the worlds of sound design and ice choreography collide with the culinary arts and the aesthetics of space. From the delicate dance of restaurant design to the grandeur of Utah's architecture, Iggy and Randy share their insights on crafting experiences that resonate. So, whether you're a local or a listener from afar, tune in for an episode that weaves personal evolution with professional innovation, all set against the stunning backdrop of Utah's growth and potential. Please be sure to like, review, follow, subscribe and share the podcast with your friends and family! See you next time 

Episode 28 with Natasha Helfer is live! When the complex threads of mental health, religious belief, and societal norms interweave, the tapestry that emerges can be both intricate and daunting. That's precisely why Natasha Helfer joined me to unravel these themes, particularly as they manifest in the uniquely challenging landscape of Salt Lake City. Our conversation explores the nuances of navigating mental well-being amidst the "suicide belt," the profound influence of religious institutions on personal identity, and the delicate art of maintaining professional integrity while honoring diverse beliefs. The journey through mental health is seldom linear, and in this episode, we traverse the varied terrain of ethics in therapy, advocacy, and the impact of systemic racism and LGBTQ+ affirmation in clinical practice. Natasha brings to the table not just her expertise, but heartrending stories of mixed-faith couples striving for harmony, individuals grappling with internalized shame, and the courageous fight against the stigmas that too often plague conservative communities. These stories are not just case studies; they're raw, real-life examples of resilience and the human spirit's quest for acceptance. Our episode doesn't shy away from the hard-hitting issues: we tackle the factors influencing mental health in Utah, from the pressures of living at high altitude to the societal expectations that weigh heavily on individuals. Experts like Lisa Diamond, Braxton Detson, and Kristen Hodson lend their voices to our probing discussion on faith and sexual identity, and we spotlight the pioneering work at Symmetry Counseling. We also touch upon emerging trends, such as psychedelic-assisted therapy, that are reshaping our understanding of mental health care. Join us for a deep and meaningful exploration into the hearts and minds of those navigating the intersection of mental health and personal belief.

S1,E27 with Sculptor Ben Hammond is live! Embark on a captivating journey with Ben Hammond, a sculptor whose hands have shaped more than just clay—they've carved a life rich in artistry and mindfulness. From his humble beginnings in Blackfoot, Idaho, to the distinguished halls of the NFL Hall of Fame and the tranquil yoga studio where he teaches, Ben's tale is a masterclass in passion-driven transformation. Alongside tales of apprenticeships and critiques that honed his craft, he shares candid insights into the pivotal moments that led him from farm life to fine sculpture, crafting a narrative as textured as his works. Throughout our conversation, Ben's reflections on his artistic evolution are both grounding and inspiring. He details his transition from mentee to master, describing late nights in the basement turned personal studio, balancing the demands of mentorship with the pursuit of an independent artistic identity. His story isn't just about skillful hands molding masterpieces—it's about a collaborative spirit, the pursuit of mastery, and the complexities of an artist navigating the space between mentorship and individual acclaim. And it doesn't stop at the studio door; witness the intimate bond between artist and art, where personal passions are embedded into every creation, diverging from the professional to reveal the heart of the sculptor. But Ben's narrative takes an unexpected bend, introducing the transformative role of yoga in his life. From a devastating back injury to becoming a community beacon, he illustrates how resilience and adaptability can shape not just a career, but one's entire way of living. His experience—mirroring the very sculptures he creates—serves as a reminder that within every challenge lies an opportunity for growth and renewal. Join us for an episode that's as much about molding clay as it is about molding a life, where the art of living fully converges with the fine details of sculpting a meaningful existence.

The Salt Lake restaurant scene has matured a lot, especially post-COVID. Listen more to what Stuart is seeing as he continues covering the Salt Lake food scene through @gastronomicslc. Check out episode 26 where we chat through what he has experienced in the past 18 years running the blog and what he is excited about in the future. #downtownslc #utahbusiness #siliconslopes #saltlakecity #supportlocal #slcbusiness #slc #naturalutah #igutah #experienceutah #utahrocks #beautahful #zionnationalpark #visitutah #hikeutah #wowutah #utahgram #utahunique #utahisrad #utah #smalllakecity

The food community in Salt Lake City helps early entrepreneurs and sets them up for success. For Baby’s, Milo and the Arlo kitchen played a key role in helping them workshop their menu to provide their customers with the best bagels and sandwiches possible. Check out episode 25 with Eric, Koby, and Cyrus of Baby’s Bagels to hear more about their story and how they built a popular breakfast spot.