Business Elevated Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity

Season 6 Episode 18: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, interviews Trena Anderson, president of Deseret First Charitable Foundation.
Anderson shares her journey, beginning with her move to Utah 38 years ago, her career spanning over three decades at Deseret First Credit Union, and her varied roles in human resources, communications, marketing, and private banking. She highlights her involvement in the Deseret First Charitable Foundation, which was established to assist missionaries facing financial challenges. Anderson recounts the foundation’s origins from a marketing campaign and its growth into a significant source of support, providing shoes and essential supplies to hundreds of missionaries annually through donations and word-of-mouth referrals.
Anderson also discusses her involvement with the Dominican Starfish Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving living conditions in the Dominican Republic. She emphasizes the foundation's broad scope and its impact on various communities, including Haitian refugees, through education and infrastructure development.
The two also discuss the broader context of volunteerism in Utah, noting its ranking as the most charitable state, and how individuals and organizations can find meaningful ways to contribute. Anderson shares insights into identifying opportunities that align with personal values and skills, stressing the importance of seeking out initiatives with minimal overhead to ensure the maximum impact of donations and volunteer efforts.
For more information on how you can get involved with Deseret First Charitable Foundation and Dominican Starfish Foundation, contact Trena Anderson at trenaa50@gmail.com.

Season 6 Episode 17: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Mori Paulsen, president of Bank of America Utah.
Paulsen discusses his extensive career and deep-rooted connection to the state. He shares his journey from being born in Salt Lake City to graduating from the University of Utah and starting his career at General Electric before transitioning into wealth management. He highlights the impact of his local upbringing and the supportive business environment in Utah on his career, emphasizing the state’s nurturing ecosystem for both established professionals and budding entrepreneurs.
The conversation also delves into Bank of America’s robust community engagement and philanthropic efforts in Utah. Paulsen outlines the bank’s focus on economic mobility and support for the arts, including significant donations and volunteer programs that empower employees to give back. He mentions initiatives like the Student Leaders program, which provides high school students with valuable work experience and leadership training, and substantial investments in digital capabilities that enhance customer experiences. Paulsen also reflects on the bank’s strategic expansion in Utah, including opening numerous financial centers and creating hundreds of jobs. 

Season 6 Episode 16: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Mike Hawker, vice president of operations at CoDev. 
Hawker shares his professional journey, from his initial ambitions in sports public relations to his unexpected entry into the tech world. After working for 11 years at a California-based software startup specializing in automotive dealerships, Hawker transitioned to CoDev, where he has been instrumental in driving growth and operational success over the past four years.
Hawker elaborates on CoDev's unique business model, which focuses on integrating talented offshore resources into client teams, offering a cost-effective alternative to local hires. CoDev differentiates itself by fostering deep, long-term relationships with its employees, emphasizing career development over short-term gigs. As CoDev continues exploring expansion into new regions and leveraging AI to enhance its services, Hawker highlights the company’s commitment to cultural integration and providing robust support for its workforce, ensuring mutual growth and success for its clients and employees.

Season 6 Episode 15: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with David Bates, partner at Taylor Wessing, and Simon Gleeson, partner at Blick Rothenberg.
The duo discusses their ties to Utah, professional endeavors, and Utah's entrepreneurial opportunities. The conversation delves into their collaboration in professional services, focusing on international expansion. The two describe their complementary roles in providing legal and accounting services, simplifying the process for clients by offering a comprehensive approach. 
Bates and Gleeson discuss Utah's business climate, attributing its success to talented people, a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem, and proactive government support. They also discuss the advantages of starting international ventures in the U.K. due to the common language, legal systems, and ease of doing business, using it as a gateway to broader European markets.

Season 6 Episode 14: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Felecia Maxfield-Barrett, president and CEO of Utah Global Diplomacy.
She discusses her deep roots in Utah and her journey through various roles that ultimately led to her current position. Born and raised in American Fork, Utah, Maxfield-Barrett shares how her college experience at Southern Utah University shaped her understanding of the importance of mentorship and guidance. Her early career involved working with the refugee population in Utah, where she played a crucial role in helping refugees access essential services. This experience ignited her passion for community service and international relations.
The duo discuss the economic and social benefits of Utah Global Diplomacy's efforts. The organization contributes to Utah's economy by bringing in international visitors who support local businesses and enhance the state's cultural and social fabric by facilitating meaningful exchanges between Utah residents and global dignitaries. Maxfield-Barrett emphasizes the unique position of Utah as a hub for international relations, bolstered by its diverse population and strong community spirit.

Season 6 Episode 13: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Lavanya Mahate, founder of Saffron Valley restaurants and the RISE Culinary Institute.
Mahate shares her story of moving to Utah from India in 2001. She details her journey in pursuing additional education at the University of Utah, which led to a pivotal role at the Salt Lake Chamber's Women's Business Center. Mahate explores her decision to channel her passion for food into her own business, resulting in the establishment of Saffron Valley, a restaurant chain that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of India. She also highlights her entrepreneurial ventures, including bakeries and RISE Culinary Institute, a nonprofit that empowers refugee women through culinary training and employment opportunities. 
She also discusses her challenges and triumphs, from navigating the complexities of immigration and visa regulations to establishing a successful culinary empire in Utah. Mahate reveals her plans for the future, including her desire to explore more of Utah's outdoor landscapes and her ongoing commitment to her entrepreneurial endeavors.