Podcasts about utahns

The entirety of DJ & PK for February 26, 2026: HOUR TWO Jerrod Calhoun postgame and Utah Mammoth game recap Tim LaComb, SEG Media and Utah Jazz Stephen Nesbitt, The Athletic MLB HOUR TWO What is Trending: Utah Jazz, NBA, CBB, NFL, CFB, MLB, Golf, Utah Mammoth Hot Takes or Toast: How does BYU turn things around? Utahns love their "dirty soda" HOUR THREE Utah Jazz lineups continue to devolve Jeff Judkins, Longtime college basketball coach Utah high school basketball and RPI HOUR FOUR Kevin Graham talking football Cole Bagleym KSL Sports Feedback of the Day

Hour two of DJ & PK for February 26, 2026: What is Trending: Utah Jazz, NBA, CBB, NFL, CFB, MLB, Golf, Utah Mammoth Hot Takes or Toast: How does BYU turn things around? Utahns love their "dirty soda"

Utahns were recently polled on everything from housing affordability to reality TV. What did they have to say? Executive producer Emily Means, producer Ivana Martinez, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Cassie Bingham dive into the data. Plus, our top coffee shops and local shout outs.  Resources and references: Help us make a list of the 1,000 things we love about Salt Lake. Utahns dislike TV's ‘Mormon Wives,' blame developers for high housing costs and are OK with tanking [Salt Lake Tribune]  Register your kiddo for Spy Camp. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It's the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  The Watch Party Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

In this episode, we discuss two areas of focus within a recently released white paper titled “Women in the Workplace in 2025: Utahns' Awareness, Understanding, and Attitudes.” This comprehensive report explores the realities facing Utah women and girls across four critical areas, but we'll just focus on two of them: Childcare/Pre-K Programs and Organizational Strategies & Workplace Culture.Based on an 83-item survey conducted from October 1 through November 19, 2025, the study includes insights from more than 5,200 Utahns across both representative and convenience samples. This marks the third consecutive year of data collection, allowing us to examine how perceptions and experiences have shifted since the 2023 and 2024 surveys. In this episode, we walk through some key findings to better understand the challenges, trends, and opportunities shaping the lives of Utah women and girls today. Dr. Susan Madsen, an Extension Professor of Leadership at Utah State University and the Founding Director of the UWLP and A Bolder Way Forward, is joined by two Bolder Way Forward leaders. First, Sheena Blauvelt, Executive Director of HR, USANA Health Services, and A Bolder Way Forward's Organizational Strategies & Workplace Culture spoke advisor. Also joining us is Lynne Burton, who served as A Bolder Way Forward's Childcare/Pre-K Programs Spoke Coordinator. Support the show

SLC International Airport ranks among the most expensive airports to fly out of in the U.S., according to Savings.com. Greg and Holly discuss and hear from listeners about how far they have traveled to save costs on flying out of SLC.

With our first major snowfall of the season yesterday, we were reminded how cold the valley can really get. In an effort to help, Utah's Unsheltered is offering "Code Blue" movie nights to bring refuge to those without shelter this season. Merinda Cutler, Executive Director at Unsheltered Utah, discusses what these movie nights are and efforts to improve Utah's 'Code Blue' law.

A set of new bills going through the Utah Legislature this season may see more taxes applied to the online activities of Utahns including streaming websites and websites featuring adult content. Holly and Greg discuss the ramifications of the bill and what kind of bills Utah may be seeing come 2027. 

Hundreds of thousands of Utahns aren’t saving for retirement and one key reason is because many small business employees don’t have access to employer-provided retirement plans. One Utah lawmaker is trying to change that. Holly and Greg spoke to Rep. Joseph Elison who is sponsoring HB 250.  

The Utah Republican Party says it's delivered more than 200,000 signatures from Utahns who would like to repeal Proposition 4, the 2018 initiative that created an independent redistricting commission. Utahns for Representative Government delivered the final signature packets to county clerks yesterday afternoon. Now, it's up to county clerks to verify the signatures, make sure there's enough, and make sure they come from the right number of State Senate Districts. In this Deep Dive, Maria Shilaos hears from people on several sides of the issue: Robert Axson from Utahns for Representative Government, Emma Petty Addams with Mormon Women for Ethical Government, and Elizabeth Rasmussen with Better Boundaries. Taylor Morgan, executive director of Count My Vote also joins to share insights on the requirements to get the question on the ballot in November.

Thousands of Utahns are requesting their names be removed from a redistricting petition that is bumping up against the deadline for submission. Bridger Beal-Cvetko with KSL.com joins the show with the latest. Utah GOP Chairman, Robert Axson calls the show with his response.

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Founded in 1945, the Utah Foundation is a nonprofit research organization that provides clear, nonpartisan analysis and publishes yearly reports to help Utahns and policymakers better understand the issues shaping our state's future. President Shawn Teigen, joins us with more. Shawn Teigen: The Utah Foundation's 2025 signature project was the Social Capital Index. That project culminated in finding that Utah has very high social capital. But what is social capital? It refers to the ways people use networks and social connections to benefit both themselves and their communities. For example, maintaining relationships with coworkers as they move into new positions can keep you up-to-date in the industry, maybe place your child in an internship or even give you a leg up in finding a better job yourself. Maintaining relationships with your business is just as important. If you are Garbett Homes, for instance, your concrete suppliers might be Staker Parson, and your lumber supplier might be SunPro. The strength of these bonds is what social capital is all about. Finally, at the Utah Foundation, we see the Salt Lake Chamber as part of our social network. We see the Chamber as part of our team, with both of us benefiting from this relationship at the end of the day. Derek Miller: The Social Capital Index highlights how strong relationships drive opportunity and economic growth across Utah. Understanding these connections helps communities thrive. Explore the findings at UtahFoundation.org. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 2/12/26

The clock is ticking for the GOP's Prop 4 repeal, and things aren't looking good. Host Ali Vallarta, newsletter editor Terina Ria, and executive producer Emily Means talk about the messy efforts to overturn something Utahns already voted on. Plus, Valentine's Day ideas for all different vibes and local shoutouts. Resources and references: A MAGA push to erase a Dem House seat is triggering accusations of fraud and violence in Utah [Politico] Get a $25 ticket to the Party for Public Lands. A Valentine's Day playlist for your listening pleasure. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It's the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Harmons Utah Museum of Fine Arts Salt Lake Sewciety ICO Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The Women's Business Center of Utah supports women entrepreneurs through training, advising, and access to critical resources. State Director, Ann Marie Wallace joins us to discuss the Utah Proclamation for Women's Entrepreneurial Empowerment and its impact on women-owned businesses statewide. Ann Marie Wallace: On Women's Entrepreneurship Day, Utah leaders from government, business and nonprofit sectors came together to sign the Utah Proclamation for Women's Entrepreneurial Empowerment. Thirty organizations joined the ceremonial signing, committing to support women-owned businesses across the state. The Proclamation recognizes the vital role women entrepreneurs play in Utah's economy. Women-owned businesses generate roughly 14 billion dollars annually and employ over 89,000 Utahns. It also acknowledges the challenges women business owners often face, including access to capital, networks and growth opportunities. Signatories pledge to take meaningful action, such as mentoring women entrepreneurs, promoting policy improvements or showcasing women-led businesses. One simple, yet powerful way we can all contribute is by intentionally buying from women-owned businesses. Individuals and organizations can still add their signatures through November 19, 2026. Supporting women entrepreneurs strengthens Utah's economy and builds a more balanced and innovative business community. Derek Miller: The Women's Business Center of Utah continues empowering women business owners while bringing the community together to support their mission. To learn more and sign the pledge, visit WBCUtah.org. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 2/9/26

How would you feel if you were a refugee and had to flee your home and move to another country? Meet two Utahns who did just that.Tune in to the Beehive Archive, a two-minute look at some of the most pivotal—and peculiar—events in Utah's history. Catch the show weekly on your favorite podcast channel or check out the whole collection at utahhumanities.org/stories.

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Founded in 2016, Trauma‑Informed Utah empowers organizations across the state to understand and respond to trauma, offering education, training, and resources to build resilience in communities and workplaces. Executive Director, Keri Jones-Fonnesbeck, joins us with more. Keri Jones-Fonnesbeck: Our families and communities depend on people who show up — teachers, first responders, healthcare workers, and small business owners. Yet, stress and adversity are hurting Utahns, impacting how we think, respond, and connect. Trauma-Informed Utah exists to guide organizations in strengthening them from the inside out, from schools and healthcare providers to justice systems — Trauma-Informed Utah is shaping a future where every Utahn is met with understanding rather than judgment. With evidence-based tools, we offer training, consulting, and planning around implementing practical, trauma-informed principles and solutions. The importance of this work cannot be overstated. Research indicates people are experiencing unprecedented levels of stress and disconnection. We need organizations not to add to that stress and adversity but instead work side-by-side to grow resilience in the people they employ and serve. Trauma-Informed Utah is building healthy systems by building healthy people. Derek Miller: Trauma‑Informed Utah is transforming communities statewide, helping organizations foster resilience and healing. Learn more about their impactful work and access resources at traumainformedutah.org. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 2/6/26

Child Care is a huge point of discussion in Utah. For a state that is huge and family-oriented and is looking to boost birthrates, this is a major factor for those looking to start one, because we are hearing from Utahns who are struggling to find affordable childcare. A new bill from Senator Luz Escamilla would help to ease the pain of childcare by expanding current definitions in the law to provide incentives for some to open home-based childcare businesses. Sen. Escamilla joins the show to discuss this proposal and other childcare priorities.

We've been reporting on claims of Utahns being misled when approached by signature gatherers in the state. A new bill on Utah's Capitol Hill would try to prevent that by requiring more training for the gatherers and more means of transparency for voters. The sponsor of the legislation, Representative Paul Cutler, joins the show to explain his proposal. Josh Daniels, Director of Trust Utah Election.org and Former Utah County Deputy Clerk joins the show to share his input on this issue and concerns around signature fraud.

Today on the News Reel, we speak to Lizzie Ramirez, reporter at the Times-Independent, about a statement from Moab City officials in response to federal immigration officers shooting and killing two Americans in Minnesota recently. We also discuss a survey taking place in the area to assess homelessness. - Show Notes - • Moab mayor reaffirms support for immigrants: ‘We're not going to let anything happen to you.' https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/were-not-gonna-let-anything-happen-to-you-moab-mayor-reaffirms-support-for-immigrants/ • Statewide effort to count Utahns experiencing homelessness https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/statewide-effort-to-count-utahns-experiencing-homelessness/

This afternoon we're reporting on a slew of complaints against ...signature gatherers.  The people with the clipboards trying to help overturn Proposition 4. The one that creates an independent comission ... to create the Congressional Map. Joining us live... the  executive director of Count My Vote, Taylor Morgan is with us.

In a social media post last night, Governor Spencer Cox is asking Utah residents to pray for snow and to do their part to conserve water. Greg and Holly discuss this message and other action steps that should be considered. Holly shares facts of the day.

During the second Trump Administration, there have been several changes at the FDA, including changing dietary guidelines. Those changing standards have created a lot of confusion -- there has been quite a few reversals in the guidelines. For example, previous guidance said to not eat as much red meat; now, the FDA is encouraging people to eat more meat and protein. In another instance, earlier advice said to reduce the amount of saturated fats one would eat; now, the FDA says people should eat more saturated fats. The administration also recently said that it was time for people to ditch the diet soda pops... including a drink many Utahns love: Diet Coke. Dr. Carrie Durward, Associate Professor of nutrition, dietetics, and food sciences at Utah State University joins Maria Shilaos to break down the changing guidelines and how people can make sense of them.

A New Poll featured in the Deseret News shows that housing affordability dominates as the top issue Utah's want lawmakers to take action on.  Brigham Tomco, Reporter with the Deseret News, joins the show with the latest. Holly and Greg discuss some bills being considered to address housing in Utah.

From our snow‑starved winter and what that means for the Great Salt Lake, to why housing may stay expensive even if interest rates drop, to how we can rethink education to support kids from day one. Jason Brown, President and CEO of Envision Utah, joins for a down‑to‑earth look at what Utahns can expect in the months and years ahead and what needs to be done to address these key issues.

On January 15, leaders from across Utah's civic and political landscape came together for a virtual discussion on how the state's shifting population is influencing organizing and electoral strategy. Katie Wright, Executive Director of the Utah Donor Collaborative, Emma Petty Addams, Co-Executive Director for Mormon Women for Ethical Government (MWEG), and Matt Lyon, Utah Lead for the Rural West Project—joined by moderator Reed Galen, Co-Founder of The Lincoln Project‬ and President of The Union—shared firsthand perspectives on the collaborative work underway to build durable, cross-partisan alliances across urban and rural communities.Throughout the conversation, the speakers underscored the central role of fair political representation in strengthening democracy, pointing to examples of Utahns finding common ground across ideological lines. They highlighted how shared values around accountability, participation, and representation have allowed unlikely partners to work together effectively.The panel also challenged the assumption that meaningful pro-democracy progress is limited to traditionally blue states. Drawing on lessons from Utah, they emphasized that red states should not be written off—arguing instead that sustained organizing, inclusive coalitions, and strategic engagement can and do create openings for democratic reforms, even in places long considered politically out of reach.Learn more about the Utah Donor Collaborative here: https://utahdonorcollaborative.com/ Learn more about MWEG here: https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgove... Learn more about Reed's projects the Union here: https://www.jointheunion.us/ and the Lincoln Project here: https://lincolnproject.us/ ABOUT THE SPEAKERS:Katie Wright is a nonprofit leader focused on connecting human and financial capital to address challenges such as climate change and democracy reform. As Executive Director of the Utah Donor Collaborative, she partners with donors and expert organizations to help transform Utah's political landscape. From 2008 to 2021, she led the Park City Community Foundation, growing it into one of the nation's fastest-growing community foundations while expanding grant-making and community investment. From 2021 to 2025, she led Better Boundaries, advancing fair maps and protecting Utahns' constitutional rights to balanced ballot language and citizen-led reform. Katie is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Morocco, 2005–2007) and holds an MPA from Rutgers University and a B.A. from Colorado College.Emma Petty Addams serves as co-executive director for Mormon Women for Ethical Government. After receiving her bachelor's degree in piano performance at Stanford University, she spent time in Boston and Silicon Valley working in contracts negotiation, corporate transactions and capitalization, and investor relations. In addition, she has built and run large piano studios in California, New Jersey, and Omaha, Nebraska. While seemingly unrelated, these previous career opportunities were excellent preparation for the fast-paced yet methodical and collaborative nature of the work at MWEG. Every time an MWEG member writes an op-ed, speaks out against injustice, or expresses her opinion peacefully on social media, Emma is grateful for the chance to help women contribute their part to the complex multi-voice symphony that is our democracy. Emma currently resides with her husband and three sons in Salt Lake City, Utah.Matt Lyon is the founding and managing partner of Blueprint Public Affairs, Finance Director for the Rural West Project, and leads the Rural West Project's program in Utah. A long time Utah political consultant and operative, Matt was a founder of the Better Boundaries initiative, the Utah Donor Collaborative, Alliance for a Better Utah, and other local and national redistricting efforts. He has run and worked on campaigns for the U.S. Senate, U.S. Congress, various state and mayoral efforts and a State Democratic Party.Reed Galen is an independent political strategist, co-founder of The Lincoln Project, and currently serves as the President of The Union, a nationwide coalition working to rebuild American democracy from the ground up. The Union brings together volunteers, organizers, and local leaders to support decent, competent candidates at every level of government. Under Reed's leadership, The Union is building the infrastructure needed to show up in all 50 states and strengthen civic engagement nationwide. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bigtentnews.substack.com

81% of Utahns agree that childcare access is a big problem, according to new research from the Utah Women and Leadership Project. Pressure is growing for employers and policymakers to expand the state’s childcare solutions. Susan Madsen, Director of the Utah Women and Leadership Project, joins the show to discuss the issue at hand and how it can be addressed.

Utah Mammoth analyst Dom Moore joined DJ & PK to talk about the NHL's Winter Classic coming to Salt Lake City in 2027 and examine the win over the Ottawa Senators.

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah helps people get the care they need without unnecessary stress. They support members with clear benefits, reliable service and a commitment to keeping health coverage straightforward and affordable. President, Jim Guemple, joins us with more. Jim Guemple: Rising health care costs are hitting Utah families and businesses hard. But Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah is fighting back, fiercely advocating for more affordable care for our members and customers. We negotiate lower medical and prescription drug costs with hospitals, physicians and drug companies. As a local, trusted not-for-profit, we put members first — always. We're accountable to you, not shareholders, not Wall Street. More than 90 cents of every premium dollar is spent directly on medical care. The proof? Nine out of 10 members renew with Regence every year. They trust us to have their back when it matters most. Providing support, stability and real value. We're not just a health plan — we're your advocate, your neighbor and your partner in the fight for affordable, high-quality coverage that truly puts your needs at the center and helps Utahns live better, healthier lives. Derek Miller: Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah continues to make a meaningful difference in our state, supporting communities through service, outreach and local partnerships. Their efforts help strengthen Utah, making care and resources more accessible to those who need them. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 1/7/26

Senate President Stuart Adams is facing three Republican challengers in Utah's District 7. Adams has tenure in the space, having been a lawmaker for more than 20 years in the Utah Legislature, but are Utahns ready for a change of leadership?  Greg and Holly discuss his opponents and other races within the legislature to be aware of. 

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The Federal Reserve System conducts monetary policy through 12 regional banks, each serving a specific area. Utah is in the 12th Federal Reserve District. San Francisco Federal Reserve Vice President and Regional Executive of the Salt Lake City Branch, Abby McLennan, joins us with more. Abby McLennan: The Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco serves the nine western states, including Utah, as well as two territories and a commonwealth. Together, they make up the Twelfth District – the largest District in the Federal Reserve System. The Salt Lake City branch covers the entirety of Utah, Southern Idaho and Northeastern Nevada. We support price stability and full employment, safe banking and secure payment systems. A big part of our work is processing cash – that means ensuring currency is fit for circulation and there when you need it. We also maintain trusted relationships with workers, businesses and community groups. The information and data we gather from local contacts helps shape monetary policy decisions and ensures the economic experiences of Utahns are represented. Whether it is economic research or community engagement and outreach, our work at the San Francisco Fed helps support a strong economy for all Americans. Derek Miller: The Federal Reserve strengthens Utah's economy by supporting stable prices, safe banking and reliable payment systems. Through local research, community engagement and outreach, they help Utah families and businesses thrive. Learn more at FRBSF.org. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 1/5/26

Utah Avalanche Center forecast, Wasatch County's Luke Searle to seek Utah statehouse seat, Point-in-Time Count leaders Heather Hogue and Amanda Christensen share how residents can get involved in the annual homelessness count, Wasatch Back state parks host "first-day" New Year's hikes, Utah Olympic Park General Manager Jamie Kimball shares an update on the park's facilities and upcoming events, Utah Avalanche Center warns skiers and riders of backcountry dangers after slides, Austin Smith from Bogus Basin ski resort in Boise talks about using snow storage as an unconventional early season snow solution, Utahns will be banned from using SNAP to buy soda starting Jan. 1 and Utah public safety offering Lyft gift cards for sober rides.

Rob Bishop is a name familiar to many Utahns, and he's going to become a household name once again as he threw his hat into the ring to join the Utah legislature. Greg and Holly speak with Former Utah Representative Rob Bishop to discuss his return to politics. 

  Deseret News Reporter Lois Collins is one of the top health reporters in Utah. This year, she has been highlighting important stories and topics for Utahns to know concerning the health of Americans. Greg and Holly discuss her top stories of the year. 

  Utahns may remember we had a historically wet October. The record rainfall hit 4.3 inches in just one day, just about a half inch over the previous record. But now, we have seen a historically dry December with nearly no snow to speak of in the Salt Lake Valley. Utah Division of Water Resources Drought Coordinator Laura Haskell joined Greg and Holly to tell them just what the situation is.  

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. The Salvation Army in Salt Lake City has been supporting those in need in our community since 1865. Thousands of Utahns receive assistance each year through a broad array of social services. Corps Officer Major Robin Bottjen, joins us with more. Major Robin Bottjen: The overall mission of The Salvation Army is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in His name without discrimination. Here in Salt Lake Corps, we do this through a number of different services, including: a client choice food pantry, material assistance, such as hygiene products, daily hot meal program for families; utility and rental assistance, and regular church activities. Many people are familiar with the Salvation Army's Red Kettle during the Christmas Season and we are grateful for those monetary donations we receive, as they help fund our programs year-round. Due to inflation and the rising costs of food and utilities, requests for our services are at an all-time high. In Utah, The Salvation Army has locations in Salt Lake City, Ogden and St. George as well as various service centers throughout the state. To learn more, visit SaltLakeCity.SalvationArmy.org. Derek Miller: The Salvation Army is working every day to help families and individuals stay in their homes and keep food on the table. If you're interested in getting involved, it's a great way to support your community. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 12/19/25

Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz joins the show to discuss legislative accomplishments, school safety initiatives, and his vision for 2026. Plus, his favorite holiday tradition and an end-of-year message for Utahns.

In this episode, we discuss a recently released research brief titled “What Utah College Students Think about Teaching as a Career: An Analysis by Gender.” Using data collected by Envision Utah, a nonprofit organization that engages Utahns in collaborative, bottom-up decision-making, this brief explores the perceptions of Utah college students as they consider and prepare for their careers. The findings offer important insights about the pipeline of teachers and provide recommendations for attracting and retaining the best educators for Utah's classrooms. What do these findings reveal about the past, present, and future of teachers and education in Utah? We'll explore all of that and more in today's episode. Dr. Susan Madsen, a Professor of Organizational Leadership in the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University and the Founding Director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project and A Bolder Way Forward, is joined by Eric Dahlin, co-author of the report and Associate Professor of Sociology at Brigham Young University.Support the show

The holidays are usually when you ask Santa for the latest gadgets and gizmos, but if a smartphone is on the list for your tween, you may want to reconsider. A new study published in the journal Pediatrics shows that Kids who have smartphones by age 12 have a higher risk of depression and obesity.  We discuss the study's findings and ask Utahns at what age it is right to give your kid a smartphone.  

The Park Café joins the Sober Riders Motorcycle Club to collect warm winter gear, collecting coats, gloves, hats, blankets and more to support Utahns living without shelter. Greg and Holly talk to Sean Miller, Owner of the Park Café about the initiative and its impact on Utahns. 

Former state senator Derek Kitchen jumps into the race for Utah’s 1st District U.S. House seat, joining a crowded field that includes Ben McAdams and other big names. We break down the candidates and how they may fare with Utahns.  

One chef is reviving a project that aims to feed hundreds of unsheltered Utahns. The Burrito Project was started before the COVID-19 pandemic and is backed by the efforts of Jorge Fierro. Greg and Holly invite him on the show to discuss the project and what inspired him to revive it.

The Epstein Files have been a hotly debated topic in politics, and the House will vote soon on whether or not to release the files to the public. President Donald Trump has pressed House Republicans to vote for the release of the files when they come to the floor. We bring on Deseret News Congressional Correspondent Cami Mondeaux for the latest details and discuss a new poll about how Utahns feel about the Epstein files drama.

Every ski resort wanted to open this weekend. But what percentage of Utahns are actually going up there? Host Ali Vallarta asks ⁠Salt Lake Tribune reporter Julie Jag⁠ what to expect this ski season and how you could ski for free. If you enjoyed the interview with Gretchen Dietrich, executive director of the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, ⁠learn more here⁠. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at ⁠membership.citycast.fm⁠. Subscribe to Hey Salt Lake, our ⁠daily morning newsletter⁠. You can also find us on Instagram ⁠@CityCastSLC⁠. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠PLUNJ⁠ ⁠Harmons⁠ ⁠The Scout Guide⁠ ⁠Utah Museum of Fine Arts

  Becky Wickstrom from the Utah Department of Workforce Services told Holly and Greg about when Utahns should expect to see their benefits, as well as just how large of an impact the shutdown had on Utah families. But while SNAP comes back, people are still left wondering about things like flights and backpay. 

  A Utah woman's grassroots organization aims to feed 300 families this weekend. This amazing effort to feed Utahns in need all started from one woman helping her neighbors. 

Pressure mounts to release Epstein files AG's v. AI  Is the American Dream failing? One Woman, One Thanksgiving Mission, 300 Families Fed  Women's Suffrage in Utah KSL Movie Show! 

Utahns are everywhere these days, whether they're foxtrotting on national TV or doing backflips. Host Ali Vallarta asks Meg Walter, culture writer and host of the Hive Mind podcast when we hit critical mass and why we're natural performers.  Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.  Subscribe to Hey Salt Lake, our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  ICO Harmons Salt Lake Sewciety Visit Walla Walla Woodward Park City

Utahns have new congressional districts, after a drawn-out redistricting saga. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means break down what the boundaries are, who's running for office, and what's the Legislature's next move.  Resources and references: Judge picks a new congressional map in redistricting [FOX 13] Utah's Congressional Maps Need To Be Redrawn. Now What? [City Cast Salt Lake] Lawmakers Meet Today To Pick a New Voting Map. Here's What To Expect. [City Cast Salt Lake]   Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It's the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to Hey Salt Lake, our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  ICO Harmons Salt Lake Sewciety Visit Walla Walla Woodward Park City

Gerrymandering—the manipulation of voting maps for partisan gain—has been part of American politics since its founding, but today, the problem is reaching a breaking point.In this episode, host Simone Leeper shares the story of Vicki and Malcolm Reed, a Utah couple who Campaign Legal Center are representing in a landmark lawsuit defending voters' rights, alongside Mark Gaber, CLC's Senior Director of Redistricting. Together, they trace how Utahns fought back after lawmakers attempted to overturn a voter-approved ballot measure that created a citizen-led independent  redistricting commission—and how the Utah Supreme Court ultimately sided with voters.As Malcolm and Vicki's story unfolds, we also highlight how the current wave of mid-decade redistricting arms race that started in Texas and is now spilling into other  states threatens to weaken voters' voices nationwide.  We explore how voters, courts and Congress can act to restore fairness to America's elections and ensure that voters — not politicians — decide the outcome.Timestamps:(00:01) — Who are Vicki and Malcolm Reed, and why did they take on Utah's legislature?(02:10) — What is gerrymandering, and how does it work?(05:11) — How did the framers envision fair representation?(10:10) — What is redistricting, and why does it matter for voters?(11:25) — What was Utah's Proposition 4, and how did it aim to end gerrymandering?(14:42) — What's the difference between racial and partisan gerrymandering?(15:12) — How do “packing” and “cracking” weaken voters' power?(16:02) — How has technology supercharged modern gerrymandering?(17:12) — How did Utah lawmakers gut the independent redistricting commission?(20:44) — Why did Campaign Legal Center sue the Utah legislature?(23:22) — What happened when CLC argued the case before the Utah Supreme Court?(25:15) — What did the unanimous court decision mean for Utah voters?(28:50) — What is happening right now in Texas and other states across the country?(32:55) — What federal laws could end gerrymandering nationwide?(36:13) — Why should the fight for fair maps in Utah give us hope for democracy?Host and Guests:Simone Leeper litigates a wide range of redistricting-related cases at Campaign Legal Center, challenging gerrymanders and advocating for election systems that guarantee all voters an equal opportunity to influence our democracy. Prior to arriving at CLC, Simone was a law clerk in the office of Senator Ed Markey and at the Library of Congress, Office of General Counsel. She received her J.D. cum laude from Georgetown University Law Center in 2019 and a bachelor's degree in political science from Columbia University in 2016.Mark Gaber manages Campaign Legal Center's redistricting litigation and policy program, which seeks to achieve fair maps for racial and language minority groups, and to curb the influence of partisanship in redistricting.Mark has led CLC's redistricting program to major successes since the 2020 Census. He argued for petitioners in the Wisconsin Supreme Court in Clarke v. Wisconsin Election Commission, which resulted in the invalidation of Wisconsin's state legislative maps and the transformation of the state's legislative maps from being among the most politically skewed to among the most politically fair in the country. He is lead counsel in League of Women Voters of Utah v. Utah State Legislature, in which CLC has successfully challenged the Utah legislature's repeal of a voter-adopted initiative reforming the state's redistricting process and its enactment of an extremely gerrymandered congressional map. In that case, Mark has (to date) argued twice in the Utah Supreme Court, resulting in two unanimous decisions in favor of CLC's clients.Mark has also led CLC's redistricting team to victories enforcing the Voting Rights Act (VRA). These include two cases on behalf of North Dakota's Native American voters, where he has argued in the Eighth Circuit against a challenge aiming to neutralize the VRA by precluding citizens from filing suit and where CLC's clients have secured two legislative districts providing Native American voters an equal opportunity to elect their preferred candidates. Mark also led CLC's successful challenge to Washington's legislative map, which was found to discriminate against Latino voters in the Yakima region, and CLC's ongoing challenge to the racially discriminatory Galveston County, Texas, map.Links: Cartoon, "The Gerry-Mander", 1813 — Smithsonian Gerrymandering: The Origin Story — Library of Congress Blogs LWV Utah and MWEG v. Utah State Legislature — CLC Voting Rights Groups Sue To Ensure All Utah Voters Have a Voice — CLC Opinion: Why we sued Utah lawmakers for alleged gerrymandering — Desert News CLC, Utahns Score Huge Victory in the Fight for Fair Maps — CLC Utahns Score Huge Victory Voiding Amendment D — CLC What Is Gerrymandering? — CLC How Can We Combat Gerrymandering? — CLC Do Independent Redistricting Commissions Really Prevent Gerrymandering? Yes, They Do — CLC New Report Outlines How to Make a Redistricting Commission Effective — CLC Independent Redistricting Commissions: Primer and Best Practices — CLC Redistricting Commissions in the 2021 Redistricting Cycle — CLC League of Women Voters on the Utah win — LWV Understanding the Current High Stakes Redistricting Fight – Trevor Potter's Newsletter Inside the Trump Administration's Efforts to Discriminate Against Texas' Black and Latino Voters — CLC About CLC:Democracy Decoded is a production of Campaign Legal Center, a nonpartisan nonprofit organization dedicated to solving the wide range of challenges facing American democracy. Campaign Legal Center fights for every American's freedom to vote and participate meaningfully in the democratic process. Learn more about us.Democracy Decoded is part of The Democracy Group, a network of podcasts that examines what's broken in our democracy and how we can work together to fix it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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So happy to be here chatting with yall today!!! So much to catch up on - Sabrina Carpenter, DWTS (aka Dancing with The Utahns), a few weekly submissions, and some personal updates from me!TODAY'S SPONSORS: BETTERHELP: This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Go to BETTERHELP.COM/BAD to get 10% off your first month of therapy //QUINCE: Get free shipping and 365 returns when you go to QUINCE.COM/BAD //CLEAN SIMPLE EATS: Go to CLEANSIMPLEEATS.COM and use the code BAD for 20% off of your order! //NUTRAFOL: Get $10 off your first month's subscription and free shipping when you go to NUTRAFOL.COM and use the promo code BAD at checkout! Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.