A Silicon Slopes East podcast devoted to what people are geeky about in southeast Utah. On these podcasts we interview locals, business owners and individuals that like to spend time in southeast Utah for one geeky reason or another. These episodes may be about individuals or companies doing high tech things in the region or entertaining activities that people are passionate about in southeast Utah.
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Beyond the lush valleys and towering peaks, there is a lot that makes the North Carolina Smoky Mountains one of the best areas to visit in the Southeast. Take a look inside Haywood County to learn about the people and places that make it such a fascinating destination. From the bustling art scene to an abundance of outdoor adventure, there's no shortage of interesting stories, and we're here to bring them right to your ears. Plan Your Trip at VisitNCSmokies.com
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Episode 30: NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend 2024
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In this episode, we sat down with Jim Owens (Town of Maggie Valley), Michelle Harris (Haywood Community College), and Sarah Worrell (Cataloochee Ski Area) to talk all things NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend. Taking place January 26-28th, the NC Smokies Ice Festival is a weekend-long event across Haywood County that aims to pack all the joys of winter in…
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Episode 29: Geek Mountain + Smoky Mountain Geek Expo
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Join us as we chat with Lee White, the mastermind behind Geek Mountain, and discover the origins of his business and the exciting Smoky Mountain Geek Expo. Get ready to unleash your inner nerd! Learn more about the Smoky Mountain Geek Expo happening on October 21st, 2023.By Amie Newsome
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In this episode of Hay Now, we dive into the fascinating world of wildlife conservation as we sit down with Joe Yarkovich, a wildlife biologist for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, who shares his experiences and insights into protecting the park's diverse ecosystem. Tune in as we explore the challenges and triumphs of preserving nature's wo…
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Join us on this episode of the Hay Now Podcast as we dive into the world of water sports and outdoor adventures! We had the pleasure of sitting down with Charles and Rebecca, of Pigeon River Outfitters in Canton, NC to learn about all the incredible experiences they offer from Memorial Day - Labor Day. In this episode, we discuss the different wate…
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Episode 26: National Travel & Tourism Week
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In this episode, we sit down with the new Executive Director of the Haywood County Tourism Development Authority (HCTDA), Corrina Ruffieux, to talk about National Travel and Tourism Week (May 7-13, 2023) and our role in this industry. The tourism industry plays a vital role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and generating revenue for local…
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22: Interview with Southeastern Utah’s Legislators
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In this episode we interview Representative Christine Watkins, Representative Phil Lyman and Senator David Hinkins on the legislative work they have been doing in Utah with over 40 years of cumulative experience. Listen in to hear about why they got involved and what they are passionate about.By Southeast Geeks
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Episode 25: Haywood Community College Trails
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Located in the heart of Haywood County, Haywood Community College (HCC) is taking a bold step towards fostering outdoor recreation and attracting both locals and visitors to the area. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Shelley White, President of HCC, to dive into the vision behind these new trails, the planning process, unique features of these…
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In this episode we conclude the two-part series of interviews with team members from the Southeastern Utah Association of Local Governments. Vikki Ori is the Housing Program Manager and discusses how SEUALG is helping with the affordable and workforce housing shortage in southeastern Utah.By Southeast Geeks
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In this episode we explore the fascinating history of Haywood County through the lens of local historian, Alex McKay. From its humble beginnings as a rural agricultural community, Haywood County has undergone significant transformations over the years. One of the most significant forces in Haywood County's history has been tourism, which has had a …
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20: Interview with Julie Rosier from SEUALG
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In this episode we speak with Julie Roser who is the Equity and Community Services Director for the Southeastern Utah Association of Local Governments. Listen in as Julie explains the exciting work her and her team are implementing throughout southeastern Utah.By Southeast Geeks
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In this episode we sit down with Kendra Straub from the National Park Service to discuss everything you need to know about the new Park It Forward Program! The new parking tag program will allow visitors to continue enjoying the Great Smoky Mountains National Park while ensuring the park can continue to operate and stay well maintained. Just last y…
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19: Interview with Dr. Jennifer Robinson from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute
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In this episode we speak with Dr. Jennifer Robinson who is the associate director at the Gardner Policy Institute with the University of Utah. Dr. Robinson speaks to the creation of the Coal Country Strike Team (now known as the Coal Country Synergy Team) and the successes the Synergy Team has had.By Southeast Geeks
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In this episode of the Hay Now Podcast, we sit down with Patrick O'Brien from the Ice Mill to talk about his involvement with the upcoming Maggie Valley Ice Festival. Happening on January 28th from 3-8 p.m., this FREE and family-friendly event will feature LIVE ice carving demos, an ice slide, food trucks, art vendors and so much more! For more inf…
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18: Interview with Jamie Hackbarth from the US Economic Development Administration
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In this episode, we speak with Jamie Hackbarth, an economic development representative from the Denver Regional Office of the US Economic Development Administration. Listen in to learn more about EDA grants, regional economic development and partnerships that aid rural communities.By Southeast Geeks
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In this episode of the Hay Now Podcast, we sit down with owner of Pigeon River Mercantile, Lisa Conard, to talk about her humble business beginnings, holiday gift ideas and the ever growing shopping scene in Downtown Canton. Learn more about her shop at: pigeonrivermerc.comBy Amie Newsome
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In this episode we sat down with HART Theatre's Artistic Director, Candice Dickinson, to talk about about the History of HART, how you can get involved and all the upcoming shows for their 2023 season! For more information on HART and to purchase tickets visit: harttheatre.orgBy Amie Newsome
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17: Interview with Alyssa Kay from the Utah Office of Energy Development (OED)
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In this episode, we speak with Alyssa Kay about the Utah Rural Energy Diversification and Innovation Coalition and the goals and priorities the coalition has formed for southeastern Utah. Listen to learn more about the great projects OED is participating in with Carbon and Emery Counties to bolster the local economy.…
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16: Interview with Ricky Shiner and Marianne Shiner about Price Downtown District and the Bookcliff Mural
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In this episode, we speak with Ricky Shiner and Marianne Shiner with Bookcliff Sales in Price, Utah about the commitment they have to the Price Downtown District. Bookcliff Sales just unveiled a mural in downtown Price that depicts the history of Carbon County. The mural is over 400 feet long and stretches a whole city block.…
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Tune in to hear from Cataloochee Ski Area staff, Jasper Williams and Clay Gillespe talk about all things ski for this upcoming 2022-23 season, Cataloochee’s elite snow making process, what to know before you go and the Kids Ski Free program. Stay up-to-date with ski updates and purchase your passes at cataloochee.com. Want to learn more about Catal…
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15: Interview with Stuart Clason and Patrick Mullen with the Utah Regional Growth Program
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In this episode we speak with Stuart Clason and Patrick Mullen about the Regional Growth Program and how it’s helping support rural economies through private-public partnerships. Listen to learn more about economic development initiatives happening in southeastern Utah.By Southeast Geeks
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In this episode, we sit down with co-chair of our local chapter of The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Joyce Cooper to talk about all things Elk Fest! Elk Fest is a family-friendly event full of live music, local entertainment, craft vendors, educational demonstrations, plenty of activities for the kids, an RMEF Elk Calling Contest and so much more.…
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In this episode, we sit down with Morgan Beryl, Executive Director of the Haywood County Arts Council to talk about their fall events including the Haywood County Studio Tours, The Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Festival and more! We also learn about how we can get involved with the arts council’s mission of bringing the community together to promote div…
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14: Interview with Doug Miller with the University of Utah Eastern and the Business Technical Assistance Center
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In this episode we speak with Doug Miller from USUE and the BTAC. They discuss what the BTAC has to offer and how USUE and the BTAC have partnered to expand the resources and opportunities they can offer to local businesses.By Southeast Geeks
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In this episode, we sit down with outdoor industry and travel tourism photographer, Steve Yocom. Tune in to hear more about Steve’s background, his connection to the county, some recommended easy hikes in the area for beginners, what you should know before you go out in the field and sustainable travel practices.…
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In this episode, we sit down with Zeb Ross of the J Creek Cloggers to talk about his roots here in Haywood County, the styles of clogging you can see in many of his videos and what’s happened since he became “The Legend Zeb Ross” on TikTok and other social media channels.By Amie Newsome
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In this episode we speak with Randy Martin and Jenny Gleason from Redtail Aviation. They discuss what drew them to the area and their experiences with managing the airports in Price and Moab Utah.By Southeast Geeks
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Tune in to hear Becky Ramey and Terry Frady, promoters of Hillbilly Jam, talk about this year's event. Hillbilly Jam is a 2-day celebration of music, moonshine and mountain living happening July 22 & 23 at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds. For more information about Hillbilly Jam visit thehillbillyjam.com.…
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Many folks know Folkmoot as an international folk festival that happens every July in Haywood County, but what many don’t know is that they’re more than just a festival. They also have a year-round cultural center, with a focus on programs and events that celebrate diversity, encourage cultural inclusion and honor worldwide cultural heritages. In t…
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Tune in to hear from the founder of the Appalachian Adventure Company, Steven "Made in Maggie Valley" Reinhold to learn more about their upcoming content creators camp and his experiences guiding trips that stoke adventure in and around Haywood County.By Amie Newsome
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12: Interview with Dale Curtis of Joshua Tree Technologies
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28:11
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In this episode we find out about an Emery County, Utah local that used to be Chief production engineer for the the Fender Music Company. Dale Curtis now runs his own company called Joshua Tree Technologies that is an elite research and development team. Joshua Tree's services include: Custom manufacturing, contract assembly and PCB assembly and de…
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Episode 11: Harvest Moon Crepes, Ben's Backdraft Barbecue and Woof Street Bistro
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28:47
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Tune in to hear from local food truck owners, Amy and Dan of Harvest Moon Crepes, Ben Hooper of Ben's Backdraft Barbecue and Hunter Wyman of Woof Street Bistro and their experiences serving up Haywood County. From chicken fajita crepes to smoked brisket and alligator tacos, this episode will make you hungry for more!…
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Episode 10: Lauri SoJourner and Jessi LeFiles
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18:42
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Tune in to hear Lauri SoJourner, Executive Director of Lake Logan and Jessi LeFiles, Director of Camp Henry talk about the upcoming Cold Mountain Music Festival happening on June 4th. The festival features top-notch musical talent, amazing local food & drink vendors, family-friendly activities and so much more! For more information on the festival …
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11: Interview with Tara Spalding from Boom Start Up
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34:22
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In this episode we interview Tara Spalding, Managing Director of Boom Start Up. Boom Start Up believes anyone can grow a business who is willing to commit with grit. Their platform provides a foundational analysis of areas where your startup is strong and where it’s struggling. Listen to what Tara tells us in this interview then visit https://booms…
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From a hobby out of a garage in 2015, to moving into their first Brick and Mortar location in 2021, the origin of Axe and Awl Leatherworks is a story worth learning. Tune in to hear Spencer and Courtney Tetrault, owners of Axe and Awl Leatherworks tell their story of how their small business came to be and all the creative projects they have on the…
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10: Interview with Robbyn Scribner from Tech-Moms.Org
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In this episode we speak with Robbyn Scribner, Director of Outreach for Tech-Moms.org. Robbyn tells what Tech-Moms does and how interested businesses and individuals can learn more about Tech-Mom.org and what they do.By Southeast Geeks
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9: Interview with Merit 3D and Dustless Technologies
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In this episode we talk with Spencer Loveless of Dustless Technologies and Merit 3D. Spencer tells us about 3D printing operations and activities going on at Merit 3D.By Southeast Geeks
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If you're at all interested in photography, this is a must-listen episode. The Sutton brothers talk with hosts Kyle Perrotti and Ashley Rice about their adventures behind the lens in the NC Smokies, including a shockingly strange bear encounter. Best of all, they offer some valuable advice to anyone hoping to get that once-in-a-lifetime stunning sh…
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8: Interview With State Representative Christine Watkins
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In this episode we speak with State Representative Christine Watkins. She talks about how her family settled in the area and what caused her to want to serve in the Utah State Legislature.By Southeast Geeks
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In light of recent winter storms that hit the NC Smokies, the Hay Now Podcast decided to bring in News 13 Chief Meteorologist Jason Boyer, along with Visit NC Smokies' own Ashley Rice, to discuss the perils of forecasting winter weather in the mountains, as well why people who live in and visit Western North Carolina get so excited when it comes to…
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The Hay Now Podcast brings in some star power for its sixth episode as Jerry Benson from Discovery Channel's hit show Moonshiners sits down alongside Dave Angel, owner and operator of Elevated Mountain Distilling Company, and host Kyle Perrotti. Listen to Benson and Angel discuss the history of moonshine, how the television show has changed the gam…
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7: Interview with Natalie Randall Executive Director of Utah Tourism Industry Association
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In this episode we talk with Natalie Randall a remote worker and San Juan County, Utah native. Natalie was formerly the economic development director for San Juan County, now she is the Executive Director of the Utah Tourism Industry Association (UTIA). We talk with her about what UTIA does and what it is like to be a remote worker in Southeast Uta…
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Episode 5: Lynn Collins, Ben Wilder and Ashley Rice
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In this special episode, host Kyle Perrotti talks to his coworkers at the Tourism Development Authority about our role promoting this beautiful area. You'll also get to hear how each of us got here, some of the things we love about Haywood County and what developments folks can look forward to in the future.…
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Not many folks have owned a business in downtown Waynesville as long as Patricia Miller, who was joined for this episode by her sister, Roseann. Listen to the dynamic duo as they recall their fond memories of Haywood County back to the 1970s and what they love so much about Affairs of the Heart, all with the great sense of humor that keeps their cu…
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6: 9 Mile Canyon Interview With Layne Miller
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26:46
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In this episode we speak with 9 Mile Canyon guru Layne Miller about some of the sites to visit in Nine Mile Canyon.By Southeast Geeks
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The leaves are gone, and it's ski season here in the NC Smokies. Chris Bates, manager of the Cataloochee Ski Area, joins the Hay Now Podcast to talk about how much snow to expect this winter, how things have changed in over two decades on the job and why the mountain is a thrill for skiers of all skill levels. He even takes a few moments to encoura…
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Episode 2: Zeb Smathers and Kevin Sandefur
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45:58
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It's only been months since catastrophic flooding ravaged the town of Canton and surrounding areas. But as with previous hardship, the residents stiffened their spines and overcame. Listen to Mayor Zeb Smathers and Kevin Sandefur, owner of BearWaters Brewery, one of the town's most popular attractions, as they explain what it was like on the night …
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Episode 1: Tim Surrett and Darren Nicholson
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In our first episode, Haywood County's own Tim Surrett and Darren Nicholson of the world-famous bluegrass band Balsam Range talk about a variety of topics, from their recent IBMA awards to the upcoming Art of Music Festival. You'll also hear about the musicians' influences, some of which may come as a surprise, as well as individual projects each h…
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5: Interview with Carbon School District Superintendent and Tech Teacher
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45:54
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In this episode we interview Mika Salas and Wes Thompson. We talk about the school district and the various technology classes, and concurrent enrollment courses within Carbon School District.By Southeast Geeks
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4: Interview with Emery County Jr. Entrepreneur organization
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33:05
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We interview Ethan Migliori, Amanda Leonard, and Jordan Leonard about the Emery County Jr. Entrepreneur program.By Southeast Geeks
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3: Interview with Megan McFall of USU Blanding Campus
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In this interview we speak with Megan McFall. Megan is the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) director for the Utah State Univeristy, Blanding Campus. We speak with her about some of the SBDC's programs and the coworking space on the USU Blanding campus. For more information click the following link https://caas.usu.edu/avte/sparc/…
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