In this powerful episode of Utah Stories, Richard Markosian sits down with Peggy and Steve Ayers to explore the raw, emotional journey of addiction, trauma, and healing within their family. From the hidden realities behind picture-perfect appearances to the lifesaving support of community, this episode dives deep into the challenges families face when a loved one struggles with substance abuse—and what it takes to begin healing. 🎙️ Topics include: The stigma and secrecy of addiction A parent’s ...
Jun 25, 2025•1 hr 18 min
What do Led Zeppelin, blues clubs in the UK, and pastrami sandwiches have in common? They all helped shape the life and passions of Michael Feldman—musician, storyteller, and owner of Salt Lake’s beloved Feldman’s Deli. In this soulful episode of Utah Stories, Michael sits down with Richard Markosian to reflect on his lifelong love for music, the Utah music scene, and how his travels in Europe and deep love for the blues still influence his life and community today. 🎶 In this episode: Growing u...
Jun 25, 2025•48 min•Season 1Ep. 1
What do The Goonies and Utah’s film industry have in common? 🎥 In this episode of The Utah Story Show, host Richard Markosian sits down with actor Andrew Lenz of Nuworlds Productions to talk about the highs, lows, and weird in-betweens of breaking into film. Andrew shares stories from working near Touched by an Angel, brushes with Goonies lore, and what it’s really like on a film set—why the crew matters more than the cast, and how Utah’s tight-knit production community makes all the difference...
Jun 04, 2025•26 min
In this candid and thought-provoking episode of The Utah Story Show, Richard Markosian sits down with James Behunin from the Utah Homeless Services Board to discuss the complex challenges of homelessness in Utah. Together, they examine the policy struggles, personal stories of hope and tragedy, and the delicate balance between compassion and accountability. From the inspiring transformations at The Other Side Academy to heartbreaking stories of addiction, this conversation sheds light on the hum...
May 30, 2025•38 min
Bob Campbell isn’t your average coin dealer. Raised in a poor family, Bob climbed to the top of the numismatic world, becoming President of the American Numismatic Association and a recognized expert in counterfeit coin detection. He has taught U.S. federal agencies like the FBI, Secret Service, IRS, Homeland Security, and collectors how to spot fake coins. In this podcast, Bob shares: How he built his coin business from nothing The secrets to finding rare, valuable coins (including the $500,000...
Mar 31, 2025•44 min•Season 1Ep. 4
Why has it become nearly impossible to discuss important political topics without resorting to personal attacks and tribalism? In this episode of Utah Stories, we dive deep into the state of public discourse, the growing political divide, and why ideas are often judged by who presents them rather than their actual merit. Join the discussion! Do you think we can return to rational, civil conversations about politics and society? Drop your thoughts in the comments! Subscribe for more deep dives in...
Mar 31, 2025•26 min
What would it be like to ride across 25 states on horseback? Jake Harvath took on the challenge, leaving everything behind to embark on an epic journey that tested his resilience, connected him with incredible people, and gave him a deep bond with his horses. In this episode of Utah Stories, Jake shares: 🏇 How a childhood dream turned into a 400-day odyssey 🏕️ The challenges of camping in the wild and relying on strangers for survival 🐎 The deep connection he formed with his mustangs 🌍 How h...
Mar 31, 2025•27 min
How are the latest tariffs impacting small businesses in America? In this episode of the Utah Stories Podcast, we sit down with Scott Brown, the founder of Paddle Smash, to discuss how rising import tariffs are threatening small businesses that rely on overseas manufacturing. Scott shares: 🔹 The challenges of manufacturing in the U.S. vs. China 🔹 How Trump's new tariffs are forcing price hikes on American consumers 🔹 The hidden complexities of moving production to other countries like Vietnam...
Mar 31, 2025•21 min
Epic Brewing has been a mainstay in Utah’s craft beer scene since opening in 2009. 🍺 Epic burst onto the Utah craft beer scene with incredible high-point beers immediately loved by Utah craft beer fans. Initially, Epic could not keep up with the demand for their beer for their first two years of operation: founders, David Cole and Peter Ericson, along with brewmaster Kevin Crompton, struck paydirt with a simple formula — beers with more than 3.2% ABV that tasted fantastic, offering a massive va...
Mar 31, 2025•37 min
In this powerful episode of Utah Stories, we tackle the hard-to-discuss issues of homelessness, mental health, and the nonprofit system. Richard Markosian sits down with Bernie Hart, a changemaker who's been quietly transforming lives for over a decade. Bernie runs a free Tai Chi program at Library Square in Salt Lake City, offering not only breakfast but also a chance for homeless individuals to heal their minds and bodies. Hear his unfiltered insights on why many homeless individuals are label...
Mar 31, 2025•25 min
Meet Bryan Billmeyer, a resident of The Other Side Village who turned his life around after years of addiction and homelessness. Now a coach, Bryan helps others find their path to recovery through the Whole Person Change approach—a philosophy of accountability, authenticity, and addressing the root causes of trauma. Discover how this transformative model is creating lasting change for those overcoming life’s toughest challenges. visit UtahStories.com for more and to subscribe to our free digital...
Feb 17, 2025•1 hr 17 min•Season 1Ep. 7
Explore how The Other Side Village is transforming lives and addressing homelessness with a groundbreaking model of whole-person change and community support. In this inspiring interview, Preston Cochrane, CEO of The Other Side Village, shares insights into their mission, including vocational training, zero-tolerance policies, and creating safe, sustainable housing for chronically homeless individuals. Discover stories of transformation, like Brian and Jennifer, who have overcome immense challen...
Feb 17, 2025•45 min•Season 1Ep. 6
What makes a great bourbon? Meet Brant Pounds, owner of Spirits of the Wasatch, a Utah-based craft distillery, as he shares his journey from mechanical engineer to master distiller. In this deep dive, Brant explains the science and artistry behind distilling whiskey, the unique four-grain bourbon his team produces, and what sets craft distilleries apart from industry giants. We also discuss bourbon’s regional protection, the impact of barrels on flavor, and why whiskey tasting is both an art and...
Feb 17, 2025•33 min•Season 1Ep. 3
Explore Utah's rapidly evolving housing market in this insightful discussion! Real estate expert Asha Klarich shares her perspective on housing affordability, rising prices, and how buyers are adapting in a competitive market. Learn about the impact of population growth, high-density developments, and strategies for first-time homebuyers to navigate the challenges of 2025. Plus, discover tips for leveraging ADUs, finding off-market properties, and making smart investments in Utah's booming housi...
Jan 10, 2025•35 min
Discover the incredible journey of Jesse Lapin and Yoni Karmon, co-founders of Magnum E-Bikes, as they share their story of innovation, perseverance, and passion. Starting with a life-changing accident in Israel, this duo built a thriving e-bike company that has revolutionized the cycling industry in the U.S. Learn how their complementary skills, grassroots hustle, and commitment to quality helped them scale from selling bikes door-to-door to partnering with major retailers like Costco. Hear the...
Jan 03, 2025•43 min•Season 1Ep. 2
Discover why Quality Billiards is the 'Face of Game Rooms' in Utah! In this debut episode of Faces of Utah , we bring you the inspiring story of Josh Thorn , a helicopter pilot who transformed his career into a thriving business venture as the owner of Quality Billiards & Game Rooms . From flying high in the skies to redefining Utah's game room experience, Josh’s journey is one of passion, grit, and entrepreneurial brilliance. Josh's story is a masterclass in pivoting careers, taking risks, ...
Dec 11, 2024•39 min•Season 1Ep. 1
Discover the magic behind Kevin Costner's Horizon , as actor Colin Cunningham takes us behind the scenes of one of Utah’s biggest productions. From breathtaking Moab vistas to the challenges of staying grounded in Hollywood, Colin shares his journey, insights into the film industry, and the incredible talent found in Utah’s community theater scene. Learn why he believes passion, persistence, and resourcefulness are key to success in filmmaking.
Nov 27, 2024•49 min
Meet Rob Meyrick, a coach at The Other Side Village. Once battling addiction and facing rock bottom, Rob now helps others transform their lives. Discover his journey, the unique culture of The Other Side Academy, and how honesty, accountability, and compassion are changing lives every day. 4o
Nov 25, 2024•14 min•Season 1Ep. 5
In this episode of Utah Stories, we dive deep into the shifting media landscape with Cory Hill, founder of Chill PR, as he explores the impact of recent elections on mainstream media's credibility. With the rise of independent podcasts and online platforms, Cory shares insights on how audiences are moving away from traditional sources and towards voices that aren't beholden to major advertisers or political agendas. We discuss the public's growing distrust in major news networks, the challenges ...
Nov 22, 2024•1 hr 4 min
In this powerful interview, Tiffany Blair shares her inspiring story of transformation from a life of homelessness and addiction to becoming a mentor and coach at The Other Side Village. Tiffany’s journey highlights the impact of accountability, community, and the belief that everyone deserves a second chance. She discusses the unique approach of The Other Side Village in helping individuals reclaim their lives, find stability, and discover their potential.
Nov 13, 2024•25 min•Season 1Ep. 4
As temperatures drop in Utah, the struggle to provide adequate support for the homeless intensifies. In this episode, we’re joined by Pulitzer Prize-nominated photojournalist Robin Pendergrast , who shares his insights on documenting Utah’s complex social issues, including homelessness. Robin's extraordinary career has taken him across the state and beyond, with his powerful images featured in the Washington Post, Time Magazine, NBC News, and numerous Utah publications. We explore the efforts of...
Nov 08, 2024•25 min
In this episode of Stories From The Other Side, we sit down with Preston Cochrane from The Other Side Village to delve into their visionary approach to addressing chronic homelessness. This project isn’t just about providing shelter; it’s about fostering a transformative community grounded in purpose, dignity, and support. The Other Side Village goes beyond tiny homes — it’s a master-planned community where social connections and meaningful work are the heart of daily life. Here, work isn’t just...
Oct 31, 2024•32 min•Season 1Ep. 3
In this episode of Utah Stories , we dive into the heated debate over book bans in Utah's K-12 public schools. What started as a battle over specific titles has evolved into a broader cultural war. We explore both sides of this contentious issue, from parent advocacy groups pushing to remove books deemed inappropriate to educators defending the need for open discussions around complex topics like sexuality and trauma. Our guest, John Arthur, 2020 Utah Teacher of the Year and current candidate fo...
Oct 21, 2024•47 min•Season 1Ep. 1
Just a couple of years ago, I stumbled upon a program that is saving taxpayers millions of dollars to reform the lives of criminals and ex-convicts. This organization is called the Other Side Academy, and it's growing here in Utah and it's changing and shaping the way we think about prison and prison reform. I'll be sharing with you over the next few months stories of people from that program.
Oct 08, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 1
Dale Keller from Solutions Utah comes on the Utah Stories podcast to discuss Utah's homeless, the Supreme's Court's decision, Housing First, affordable housing, and more. Here is Solutions Utah's website for more info: https://solutionsutah.org. Here is The Other Side Academy's website for more info: https://www.theothersideacademy.com. Visit UtahStories.com for more and to subscribe to our free digital newsletter. There you can also support our journalism by subscribing to our print magazine fo...
Jul 17, 2024•40 min•Season 7Ep. 6
Utah is in the midst of a housing and homeless crisis. Gov. Cox appointed Steve Waldrip as new Senior Advisor for Housing Strategy and Innovation, which is similar to a special task force created to solve the problem. Waldrip is a former Utah State legislator, developer and attorney. Visit UtahStories.com for more and to subscribe to our free digital newsletter. There you can also support our journalism by subscribing to our print magazine for $3 per month. Follow us on: Instagram @UtahStories T...
Jul 03, 2024•53 min•Season 7Ep. 5
Utah is in the midst of a housing and homeless crisis. Gov. Cox appointed Steve Waldrip as new Senior Advisor for Housing Strategy and Innovation, which is similar to a special task force created to solve the problem. Wadrip is a former Utah State legislator, developer and attorney. Here he is on the Utah Stories podcast. Visit UtahStories.com for more and to subscribe to our free digital newsletter. There you can also support our journalism by subscribing to our print magazine for $3 per month....
Jul 03, 2024•27 min•Season 7Ep. 4
Infertility rates have nearly doubled in the past decade, accompanied by a sharp rise in chronic diseases like diabetes and heart conditions, yet public awareness remains limited. Despite an $11.5 billion budget and extensive resources, the CDC focuses on who and where rather than why Americans are increasingly unhealthy. Socio-economic status emerges as the primary predictor of chronic disease prevalence, overshadowing factors like diet and processed food consumption. The Amish and Mennonite co...
Jun 26, 2024•7 min•Season 7Ep. 3
Housing is getting increasingly more expensive, could tiny homes be the solution? Richard Markosian discusses this in this episode of the podcast. Visit UtahStories.com for more and to subscribe to our free digital newsletter. There you can also support our journalism by subscribing to our print magazine for $3 per month. Follow us on: Instagram @UtahStories Twitter @UtahStories
Jun 19, 2024•16 min•Season 7Ep. 2
Despite TOSA's remarkable success in aiding homeless individuals without government funding, state-funded homeless services in Utah face significant challenges, including lack of accountability and ineffective implementation. The Solutions Utah conference shed light on the increasing homelessness crisis in Salt Lake City, fueled by rising housing prices and scarcity. Governor Spencer Cox endorsed TOSA's approach, emphasizing personal accountability and community support over Housing First polici...
Jun 13, 2024•18 min•Season 7Ep. 1
