435 Podcast: Southern Utah

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Southern Utah is booming—and so is the pressure on local leaders to balance growth with community values. In this episode, Hurricane Mayor Nanette Billings shares how she’s guiding one of Utah’s largest cities by area through rapid development, smart land use, and critical infrastructure upgrades—all while preserving Hurricane’s unique character.

Mayor Billings reveals the inside story on:

Reforming vacation rental rules to protect neighborhoods
Defending commercial land from high-density housing pressures
Proactively securing water rights and expanding power infrastructure
Why she believes i...

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What does it take for a small desert town to become a booming resort destination—and what challenges come with that explosive growth? In this episode, Ivins City Councilman Mike Scott, a candidate for re-election, pulls back the curtain on the dramatic transformation of Ivins, Utah, sharing his data-driven perspective on city planning, real estate, and the financial crossroads facing one of Southern Utah’s most desirable communities.

With a decade on the Ivins Planning Commission and a background in commercial real estate research, Scott offers rare insider insight into how smal...

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What does it take for a small desert town to become a booming resort destination—and what challenges come with that explosive growth? In this episode, Ivins City Councilman Mike Scott, a candidate for re-election, pulls back the curtain on the dramatic transformation of Ivins, Utah, sharing his data-driven perspective on city planning, real estate, and the financial crossroads facing one of Southern Utah’s most desirable communities.

With a decade on the Ivins Planning Commission and a background in commercial real estate research, Scott offers rare insider insight into how smal...

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What drives an ordinary citizen to step into the political arena? For Shad Johnsen a kitchen designer and 20-year Ivins resident, the answer lies in a genuine desire to serve his community after his wife overcame serious health challenges. "I'm not necessarily running against incumbents—I'm running for an opportunity," Johnsen explains, setting the tone for a conversation that reveals his thoughtful, balanced approach to local governance.

Johnsen brings a refreshing perspective to hot-button issues facing Ivins. On development—often a contentious topic—he strikes a middle ground: "I don't feel that I...

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Born and raised in St. George as a fifth-generation resident, Bryan Thiriot brings a unique blend of deep local roots and extensive governmental experience to his City Council campaign. Having served as director of the Five County Association of Governments and executive director of the Dixie Metropolitan Planning Organization, Theriot has spent years collaborating with communities throughout Southern Utah on budgets, planning, and infrastructure development.

His fifteen years working with U.S. Senators in Washington D.C., Salt Lake City, and St. George have equipped him with valuable skills for navigating...

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While most American cities faced intense anti-police sentiment in previous years, something remarkable happened in Washington County, Utah – the community actually rallied around their officers with unprecedented support. How did they do it?

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with St. George Police Chief Kyle Whitehead and Washington County Sheriff Nate Brooksby, who bring over 50 years of combined law enforcement experience. They reveal how they've maintained surprisingly low crime rates while policing one of America's fastest-growing regions.

What You'll Discover:
• How officer wellness programs replaced the "tough guy" ment...

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The housing market in 2025 presents a fascinating paradox—while inventory levels climb to a ten-year high in Washington County, the fundamental affordability crisis continues to reshape how Utah families approach homeownership and life planning.

Emily Merkley, CEO of the Washington County Board of Realtors, shares eye-opening statistics that reveal a market in transition. With absorption rates hovering around five months of inventory, Washington County has reached what economists consider a balanced market. Yet this equilibrium brings its own challenges. The median home price sits stubbornly at $515,000 while local wages lag $16,000 below th...

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Michelle Tanner's political identity underwent a dramatic transformation overnight – from being labeled an "extreme right-wing conspiracy theorist" to a "satan worshiping establishment RINO." This fascinating shift occurred during Utah's recent GOP Chair race, where Tanner supported Rob Axson despite having previously backed Phil Lyman for governor, revealing the complex dynamics of local Republican politics.

The conversation peels back layers of Utah's political landscape, examining how the caucus convention system works and why Tanner believes Axson has done more to preserve it than any chair since SB54's implementation. She offers an in...

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What does it mean when a community evolves? From Farmstead's transformation into Bonrue Bakery to the complex urban planning challenges facing St. George, this conversation explores how Southern Utah is navigating its adolescence as a growing region.

Chris Conners shares his entrepreneurial journey, including how his French-inspired bakery found its footing in downtown St. George and the unexpected positive response to rebranding. His story illuminates the broader evolution happening across our community – businesses creating other businesses, talent attracting more talent, and new ideas reshaping what it means to live in this de...

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Government regulation in the energy sector has created significant challenges for local power companies over the past two decades, while clean coal technology developments have been largely overlooked in policy decisions.

• 2005 Energy Policy Act disrupted reliability projects in Washington County for almost 15 years
• Modern coal plants in Utah operate at 90% below EPA emission standards using three-stage filtration technology
• Coal power generates electricity at 2-3 cents per kilowatt-hour compared to 6 cents for natural gas
• China building 1-2 coal plants weekly while US reduces production, effectively outsourcing emissions
• Prosperity enables en...

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In an era of political polarization and media distrust, Willie Billings offers a refreshingly nuanced perspective on local politics as the newly elected Chairman of the Washington County Republican Party. His mission? To save Utah's unique caucus system from the encroachment of outside money and influence that threatens to transform the state's political landscape.

Billings passionately explains how SB 54—the controversial "dual path" legislation—has undermined the caucus convention system that once allowed ordinary citizens to participate in politics without massive financial backing. He shares the startling revelation that even Senator Mike...

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Washington County's real estate market has shifted to a more balanced position with 4.82 months of inventory, representing a 22% increase from last year, though slight downward pressure on pricing has resulted in only a 2% decrease in average sold prices.

• Median sold price of $520,000 shows minimal change from last year at just 1.7% higher
• Current 30-year fixed mortgage rate at 6.75%, down from 7.26% in January
• Original list price to sold price ratio is 95.9%, indicating sellers are typically getting slightly less than asking
• Days on market varies significantly by price point - homes between...

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Witness history in the making as the World Strength Games returns to St. George on May 23-24 2025, transforming the Dixie Convention Center into an arena where human potential collides with physical impossibility. Since its humble beginnings in 2017 with just 11 athletes, this event has exploded into an international phenomenon, officially documenting 121 world records and counting.

What makes the World Strength Games unique isn't just the superhuman feats of strength—it's the strategic format where athletes must choose their weights wisely, getting just two attempts to etch their names in history. Think of it...

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Dive into the intricacies of Utah's 2025 legislative session with Washington City's Legislative Affairs Director Jordan Hess as he breaks down the bills that will reshape Southern Utah's communities. With over 582 bills passed during this session, Jordan helps navigate the complex political landscape while offering unique insights from his perspective working directly with lawmakers and municipalities.

Jordan Hess unpacks controversial legislation like the flag display restrictions in public buildings, enhanced enforcement capabilities against illegal short-term rentals, and new voter integrity measures requiring additional verification for mail-in ballots.

The discussion takes...

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Michael Saylor transformed his company by converting $400 million in cash to Bitcoin, becoming the largest individual Bitcoin holder and pioneering the concept of a corporate Bitcoin treasury. His journey demonstrates how Bitcoin has evolved from a dismissed "internet money" to a legitimate store of value and potential foundation for our AI-driven future.

• Michael Saylor initially dismissed Bitcoin in 2013 but later faced a "mega problem" with $400 million in cash losing value during COVID
• MicroStrategy moved to a Bitcoin standard, now owns over 500,000 Bitcoin, and saw their stock rise from $11 to over $400
...

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The transformation of Washington City from farming fields to a strategically developed urban center is unfolding before our eyes. Economic Development Director Rusty Hughes reveals the careful balancing act required to maintain the city's unique character while addressing the economic realities of growth.

When we think about local development, we rarely consider the financial mechanics behind municipal decisions. For every residential property built in Washington City, local government spends $1.30-$1.60 in services for each dollar collected in revenue. This simple fact explains why Washington City, after two decades of being 98% residential...

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In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the intricate world of housing regulations, specifically focusing on a bill currently being discussed in Utah that would require home buyers to sign an affidavit pledging to live in their property within 90 days of purchasing it. This legislation has sparked a variety of opinions among locals. The implications of such a bill are vast, affecting everything from housing availability to investor interests and the overall climate of the real estate market.

As we unpack this bill, we ask the pivotal question: what is...

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Ever wondered what it takes to build a tech company from scratch in Southern Utah? Meet Blake Kvarfordt, the local genius behind Blake Technologies who's shaking things up in St. George. From his early days studying business at UVU to diving headfirst into coding at Dev Mountain, Blake's story is anything but ordinary. After cutting his teeth at tech giants like T-Mobile and Nike's innovation team, he came back home with a mission: to create STGZ, a game-changing app that helps local businesses attract customers without the usual hefty fees. But here's where...

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What if you could maintain a cherished family legacy amidst the relentless pressures of urban development? On this episode, Sherrie at Staheli Family Farm shares her journey of balancing tradition with innovation in Southern Utah's rapidly changing landscape. Through tales of resilience and adaptability, Sherrie reveals how her family farm has transitioned from vegetable farming to a thriving poultry and cattle enterprise, and how the introduction of a beloved corn maze turned skeptics into fans, capturing the hearts of the community.

We also venture into the world of civic engagement with...

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Unlock the complex world of Southern Utah's real estate market as we tackle the pressing issues shaping its current landscape. Have you ever wondered why some properties are skyrocketing in value while others seem to stagnate or even depreciate? We'll unravel these mysteries with insights into fluctuating home values, steady interest rates at 7.07%, and their impact on the pace of home sales. As St. George continues to grow rapidly, we anticipate a surge in activity by spring, driven by increasing inventory and demand. Prepare to gain a deeper understanding of how these trends...

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Unlock the secrets behind St. George City's economic development strategies with insights from Chad Thomas, the Economic Development Director, and David Cordero, the Communications and Marketing Director. Discover how the city's economic policies are shaped by local elections and sales taxes, and what the arrival of a second Costco means for residents and businesses across Southern Utah. We'll guide you through the intricate dance of attracting big-name brands like Trader Joe's, while also supporting small businesses, all without raising taxes.

The podcast explores the intricate relationship between sales tax revenue and...

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What if the intricate dance of federal land exchanges and urban development could change the landscape of Southern Utah? Join us as Kyle Pasley, the insightful Managing Director for SITLA, unpacks the complex story behind the Northern Corridor and its decade-long journey through political and logistical challenges. With tales of expired permits and the daunting tug-of-war between development and preservation, Kyle provides a compelling narrative on how these factors shape the future of infrastructure projects in the region.

Listeners will learn about the ongoing battle to balance development pressures with the...

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Discover the profound influence of early American visionaries like Thomas Jefferson and Elbridge Gerry, who laid the groundwork for America's westward expansion and the vital role of trust lands. This episode promises insights into the Northern Corridor project in Southern Utah, tracing the roots of the School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration. We explore how a historical vision has evolved into a sustainable framework that benefits public education and institutions today.

Join us as we highlight Utah's transformative journey in trust lands management, contrasting it with neighboring states like Arizona and...

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Is gratitude the key to finding joy amidst life's chaos, or is it just a comforting illusion? Join us as we navigate the complex dance between gratitude and self-awareness, especially during the Thanksgiving season. We open up about the struggle to appreciate both life's grand achievements and its simple joys, while often getting ensnared in the toxic trap of comparison and cynicism. It's a candid exploration of our personal battles with self-awareness, examining how recognizing our own shortcomings can lead to a more balanced, joyful existence. Our goal is to offer you a...

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Join us for a compelling discussion with two outstanding college athletes from Utah Tech University who provide a unique glimpse into the life of student-athletes and their thoughts on current political issues. We explore their transition from high school sports to the demanding world of college athletics, including the thrill of their first win and the prospect of setting records. Their journey offers invaluable insights into balancing sports and academics, as well as handling adult responsibilities like family and future homeownership.

Our conversation takes an intriguing turn as we examine the...

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Join us for an engaging conversation with Brad Plothow, Chief Growth Officer for Intergalactic (An Aerospace Company), as we venture into the future of warfare technology and entrepreneurship. Discover how small autonomous drone swarms are altering military strategies and challenging the dominance of traditional assets like manned helicopters. We also navigate the economic and infrastructural changes in Southern Utah, tackling issues like housing, water, and electricity while examining the role of media in fostering regional growth. Brad shares invaluable insights on how to maintain an entrepreneurial spirit while scaling businesses, emphasizing the fine...

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Ever wondered how global events reshape local governance? Join us as we engage with Shawn Guzman, the Director of Governmental Affairs for St. George, who brings his wealth of experience as the former city attorney to our conversation. Shawn offers a revealing glimpse into the intricate world of city governance in Southern Utah, highlighting the transformative impact of events like 9/11 and COVID-19 on cities heavily reliant on tourism, such as St. George. With tourism as a key economic driver, the city's future hinges on strategic collaboration with neighboring cities to manage challenges in...

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Discover how Governor Spencer J. Cox is reshaping our understanding of governance and politics through insightful literature. We delve into the transformative impact of "American Covenant" and Yuval Levin's "A Time to Build" on his leadership, exploring how these books influence both personal perspectives and cabinet initiatives. Join us as we traverse the themes of self-governance, family empowerment, and the unique democratic experiments happening in Utah, particularly in addressing the critical issue of housing affordability.

Governor Cox sheds light on the innovative strategies being implemented to tackle the housing crisis, from...

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Join me as I sit down with Jeff Watkins, a 2004 state champion and a Davis High School Hall of Famer, to explore the dynamic real estate market of Southern Utah. Ever wondered if we're heading toward a real estate bubble in Washington County? We explore this question while sharing a lighthearted conversation about childhood dreams and our mutual love for hot dogs. Jeff and I even dive into the local sports scene, reminiscing about the football season and the buzz surrounding Utah Tech's first year in the Western Athletic Conference.

Our...

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What if you could create a life that balances success across all its dimensions? Join us as Marcus Green shares the inspiration behind The Whole Enchilada community, a movement dedicated to becoming well-rounded individuals who thrive in business, relationships, and spirituality. Delve into the journey of personal growth that has attracted a network of like-minded people eager to support one another in living elevated lives. The discussion highlights the pitfalls of idolizing success in one area while neglecting others, promoting a comprehensive approach to self-development.

Discover the power of community engagement...

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Are we ignoring the critical needs of renters amidst our focus on first-time home buyers? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Joshua Aikens from Zonos as we explore this essential question ahead of the Housing Action Coalition Forum on October 30th. Joshua brings a wealth of experience from the tech industry and shares his nuanced perspective on the often-overlooked requirements of renters in Washington County. Together, we discuss why diversifying our housing focus is crucial for a thriving community, especially as renters make up a significant portion of the local workforce.
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Have you ever wondered how remote employees cope with loneliness despite their freedom? Join us as we uncover the paradox of absolute freedom with our esteemed guests, Nick and Weston of Kiln. We'll delve into the importance of community and genuine human connections in combating the hidden struggles of remote work. We'll also share personal stories that shape our appreciation for community and hospitality, setting the stage for an engaging conversation on how Kiln's innovative coworking spaces aim to make a difference.

Hear firsthand from Wes and Nick, the director for...

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Can Macrae Heppler's bold proposal for three six-hole courses at St George Golf Club revolutionize the game of golf and make it more accessible to busy individuals and families? Join us as we explore the innovative concept that promises a quick 60-minute round of golf, potentially transforming the sport's accessibility and appeal. We also take a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about the history of golf in Southern Utah and discussing the city's pivotal role in establishing and maintaining these green spaces. From the development of Dixie Red Hills in the mid-1960s...

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Special Episode! From the live podcast at RISE with Stacy Young, Rob and Stacy break down how the addition of 100,000 people since 2004 has reshaped the region's economy, housing, and community planning. Together, we'll explore the balance between population growth and the quest for stability, examining the broader implications on local businesses and community well-being.

We'll take you through the dramatic contrasts between modest income growth and soaring home values, shedding light on the pressing issues of affordable housing and wage stagnation. Learn about key developments understand the pivotal role of tourism...

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What if the key to transforming education lies in the innovative approaches of charter schools? Our special guest, Dr. Justin Blasko, principal of Vista School in Southern Utah, takes us on a journey through his 29 years in education, spanning Northern Utah, Alaska, and Washington. From his early influences shaped by an athletic background to hands-on classroom experiences, Dr. Blasko reveals the pivotal moments and mentors that guided his path toward elementary education. Together, we navigate the complexities of school choice and the unique challenge of fostering community within Vista's diverse student body.
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Greg Hughes, former Speaker of the House for Utah, joins us to unpack pressing issues that are reshaping Southern Utah's landscape. From the skyrocketing cost of living to the scarcity of local industries, we explore the real-world consequences on the younger generation and the community at large. Greg sheds light on critical matters such as infrastructure and housing, while also urging us to channel our collective frustrations towards meaningful change. We also dive into the fascinating shift from centralized to decentralized media sources and how this evolution impacts public discourse and focus.
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Newly elected Congresswoman Celeste Maloy from Utah's District 2 shares her journey, the emotional highs and lows, and the meticulous policy work that fuels her passion. From her narrow primary victory to her stance on crucial issues like FISA and the impact of media-driven outrage on small businesses, Celeste provides an unfiltered look at her political odyssey and the legislation she's championing.

Discover the intricacies of small business advocacy as we explore bipartisan committee efforts and the remarkable alignment between parties on this crucial issue. We delve into the successful acquisition of...

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Learn how to interpret the recent market sell-offs, unexpected job reports, and the Bank of Japan's interest rate adjustments with Rob and Branden Du Charme with Du Charme Wealth Management. We'll break down the Federal Reserve's rate hikes and explain the VIX or volatility index, helping you understand the true implications of market volatility for your investments.

Explore the interconnected world of stock market participants and exchanges, from the New York Stock Exchange to NASDAQ. Discover the nuances of trading options, the risks involved, and how stocks can be listed on...

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Ever wondered how entrepreneurs tackle both legal nightmares and ambitious projects? Today, we promise an enlightening conversation with Jeremy Johnson, the CEO of Box House, who shares his harrowing experiences with government indictments and the relentless pressure of ever-evolving charges. Jeremy also lets us in on his personal venture of building a custom house in the woods, contrasting it with the hands-on approach he now takes at Box House. With the support from Atwood Innovation Plaza, witness how Box House morphed from a small team into a thriving workforce.

Explore innovative...

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Ever wondered why a significant number of Americans identify as Christian but have a limited grasp of core Christian doctrines? We kick off this episode exploring this intriguing paradox, setting the stage for a deeper dive into how faith intertwines with everyday challenges. We bring you a riveting real estate story from the Ledges community, where a high-end, yet dated property posed unique selling challenges. From initial overpricing to the emotional journey of a seller looking to relocate closer to family, this narrative uncovers the rich human experiences behind market dynamics.

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