Utah Stories Show

Thinking about heading to Moab, Utah? Don't just stick to the national parks. In this episode of Utah Stories Travel & Adventure, Richard Markosian shares how he's explored Moab for over a decade—on foot, with dogs, and off the beaten path. From red rock vistas to mouthwatering meals, this guide gives you the real Moab experience—without the crowds or tourist traps.

Is Utah, long seen as the stronghold of American religiosity, quietly drifting away from faith? In this episode, we talk with Rabbi Yoni Kayman about the rise of secularism, the decline of shared moral values, and what we stand to lose when religion no longer anchors our culture.

Thayne Tagge could have sold his land for $30 million. Instead, he chose peaches over pavement. In this exclusive video, Utah orchardist Thayne Tagge shares why he placed his Brigham City farmland in a conservation trust — preserving it for future generations. As development overtakes the Wasatch Front, Tagge's fight to save his orchards sheds light on the broader battle between agriculture and urban sprawl. Learn how Utah's unique microclimate, lake-effect protection, and rocky soil create one of the best peach-growing regions in the country — and why it's worth protecting.

In this bonus episode of Utah Stories, congressional candidate Bobby Darvish shares his personal journey from a secular Muslim upbringing to practicing Islam and eventually embracing Christianity. Darvish discusses his experiences in Iran, differences between Sunni and Shia Islam, his former leadership role with CAIR, and the religious and political beliefs that shaped his decision to leave Islam.

Should Utah embrace massive AI data centers or protect its local communities? Richard sits down with congressional write-in candidate Bobby Darvish to discuss Utah's controversial data center project, environmental concerns, economic growth, foreign influence, and national security. They explore whether AI development can coexist with local control, government transparency, and protection of Utah's natural resources.

Most Utah gardens look great for a few weeks… and then fade, dry out, or turn into bare patches by mid-summer or fall. But it doesn't have to be that way. In this episode, Loreen and Heidi from Millcreek Gardens explain how to design a true four season garden that holds color, structure, and life all year — even in Utah's harsh, desert climate. We talk about: Why so many Utah yards fail long before summer ends How to layer height, foliage, texture, and form for year-round interest  Easy winter-friendly ideas like evergreen containers, branches, berries, and structure  How to kee...

Utah's housing costs are soaring, and many wonder if the crisis is truly accidental. Richard Markosian sits down with Kimberly Burnett of Ivory Innovations to explore whether Utah's housing shortage is manufactured—sustained by policy, regulation, and zoning that keep prices high and affordable homes out of reach. They discuss how 24% of every new home's cost comes from regulation, why smaller homes and ADUs remain blocked, and what it will take for Utah's next generation to finally afford a place to call home.

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 perspective on trauma and recovery The role of peer support and communication Reflections on adoption, hope, and resilience This is more th...

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 up with Led Zeppelin, Clapton, and the blues The evolution of Utah's local music...

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. Whether you're a die-hard fan of 80s classics or looking to break into...

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 human side of homelessness and the systemic changes needed for real solutions. Join us for a deep dive into one of Utah's...

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 penny!)  The importance of knowledge and passion in coin collecting ...

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 into Utah's most pressing issues, politics, and local adventures. #PublicDiscourse #PoliticalTribalism #UtahStories #CivilConversation #H...

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 his journey made him reflect on modern society...

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 or Mexico 🔹 Why small businesses lack the cash reserves to absorb these change...

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 variety of beers along with standard offerings. By 2012 Epic had outgrown their humble State Street facility in just...

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 labeled "service-resistant" when, in reality, they have experienced repeated failures from existing mental health and shelter systems. <...

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 newsletter. There you can also support our journalism by subscribing to our print magazine for $2 per month. Follow us on: Instagram @UtahStories Tw...

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 challenges and now mentor others through their journey. Learn how this innovative community is funded, its impact on homelessness, and its potential as a model for affordable housing solutions across the Wasatch Front and...

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 a science. Plus, Brant reveals his experience at Moonshine University and how he turned a passion for whiskey into a...