Your Business Breakthrough – A Day to Remember

From powerful keynotes to breakout sessions packed with real-life strategies, our first business symposium was a huge success!

On Thursday, June 12, the Sanpete County Chamber of Commerce hosted our first-ever Your Business Breakthrough Symposium—and what a breakthrough it was!

With ten dynamic speakers, three empowering breakout sessions, and a room full of passionate entrepreneurs, this event was all about equipping our local business owners with tools, strategies, and encouragement to overcome challenges, pivot with purpose, and take their businesses to the next level.

Opening Message: Building Together

We kicked off the day with Abby Ivory, Sanpete County’s Regional Economic Development Director from R6. Abby reminded us that small businesses hold communities together, and her words set the tone for the day:

“Lean on each other and support your competitors—and we all succeed.”

“Speak up and show up!”

Her message underscored the power of collaboration and showing up for each other, not just in business, but in life.

Keynote: The Power of the Pivot

Our morning keynote, Sharlene Wells, shared an inspiring message on The Art of Pivoting to Find Your Purpose and Passion. A trailblazer in media and communications, Sharlene’s story resonated deeply with the crowd.

“There’s a difference between opportunity and purpose.” When searching for your purpose, it’s important to ask yourself meaningful questions about what you truly value and whether your current opportunities align with those values in a way that brings fulfillment and direction.

She challenged attendees to reflect on:

What do you like to do?
What are you good at?
What makes you feel fulfilled?

Purpose isn’t always fixed—it can evolve as we grow, and learning the art of pivoting allows us to realign our path with what matters most in each new season of life. Pivoting, she explained, is about rediscovery, and that’s something to get excited about.

Breakout Sessions: Real Tools for Real Growth

Our breakout sessions provided attendees with practical, ready-to-use strategies for both personal and professional life.

Hilary Camille Thompson shared four powerful keys to building a mindset that reduces stress and fuels success. She reminded us that mindset is the foundation of every successful person, at work or home.

Julie Warnick led The Brand Blueprint, guiding attendees to craft a cohesive brand that aligns with their values and goals, not just a marketing strategy, but a clear identity.

Holly Bown taught us how to turn scrolls into sales by navigating the ever-changing world of digital marketing. Her tools for social media attraction over promotion were invaluable.

Kris Barney delivered a powerful talk on resilience, helping us discover the gifts in our “garbage.” Her personal stories, including her child’s battle with cancer, showed how roadblocks can become stepping stones.

Community Connections (and Lunch!)

Thanks to Sanpete Sandwich Company for providing breakfast and Poutine Yeti’s for our lunch. The food was as memorable as our speakers!

Attendees also had the chance to connect with resource partners from:

Department of Workforce Services
Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity
Utah Department of Agriculture and Food / Utah’s Own
Snow College
Custom Fit
Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

Afternoon Inspiration & Breakouts

Mike Mower, Senior Advisor to Governor Spencer Cox, brought both heart and humor as he spoke on Honoring Our Past and Shaping Our Future. He reminded us that Utah’s heritage should serve as a guide for the decisions we make today and in the future. He also shared a lighthearted truth—that Sanpete County truly is the heart of Utah, because almost everyone seems to have a grandma or relative who lives or once lived here. With our rich history and strong sense of place, Sanpete stands out as a leader in rural Utah.

Afternoon breakout sessions included:

Russ Tanner, Entrepreneur Center Director at Snow College, used Inigo Montoya from The Princess Bride to teach us how to pitch our businesses and own our stories.

Tony Benjamin focused on workforce development—sharing smart strategies to attract, develop, and retain top talent.

Closing Keynote: Forged in Sanpete: Lessons on Leadership, Risk and the Entrepreneurial Spirit

Our final keynote speaker was Mark Russell, a Sanpete County native who shared his journey from Manti High School, Snow College, Weber State, and BYU, where he studied law and ultimately giving up a lucrative and prestigious law career to do something he thought was "fun" and became a business leader and entrepreneur leading several fortune 500 companies. His story of embracing unexpected turns and having the courage to take the leap left us all inspired.

“Sometimes you just have to leap. Faith over fear.”

Final Thoughts

We’re proud to say the Your Business Breakthrough Symposium delivered on its promise of empowering entrepreneurs, building connections, and reminding us all of the strength and spirit of our local business community.

Special thanks to Snow College, our amazing presenters, attendees, and especially our Chamber Board, who made this event possible.

We’re already planning for next year—bigger, better, and even more impactful. Until then, keep showing up, supporting each other, and taking your next big leap.

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by Faylyn Warnick • 19 March 2025

Despite the snowy weather, we had a fantastic turnout for our Meet the Representatives event! We are incredibly fortunate to have leaders who not only take the time to visit our businesses and connect with their constituents but also fight for the unique needs of rural Utah and Sanpete County. Congressman Burgess Owens spoke about efforts to reduce federal overreach and cut through excessive red tape that burdens small businesses and the middle class. He emphasized the importance of returning more rights to state and local governments and shared his passion for improving our education system. Senator Derrin Owens provided an update on his work in the Utah Legislature, highlighting critical issues surrounding the Intermountain Power Plant in Delta and the state’s energy future. He discussed how the plant previously sent 90% of its energy to California and failed to utilize Utah-based natural resources as originally intended, instead relying on Wyoming’s natural gas. Additionally, federal efforts to shut down the plant for environmental reasons could have placed a significant financial burden on Utah taxpayers. However, Utah took proactive steps to shift its focus toward meeting the state’s growing energy demands and ensuring the plant remains a valuable resource. Senator Owens has been working on a plan to revamp the power plant and adjust laws governing its operation to secure reliable, long-term energy production for Utah. He is also working on legislation to support resource exploration in the state, ensuring that companies investing in the search for Utah’s abundant minerals can see a return on their investment. By creating incentives to produce these resources at a lower cost, Utah can strengthen its economy and energy independence. With 90% of the Senate focused on policies that benefit the four most populated counties, Senator Owens remains a strong advocate for rural Utah, constantly fighting to ensure our region’s unique needs are represented at the state level. Both leaders spoke about the strong position of our government and how things are looking good for our future. They emphasized that our country is being directed toward excellence and strength, with Utah leading the way. They shared their confidence that, both at the state and national level, our leaders are working to ensure prosperity and opportunity for businesses and communities like ours. They also highlighted Utah’s success in business, philanthropy, higher education, and overall quality of life, crediting the hardworking and engaged people who live here. Both expressed their gratitude to our Chamber members and attendees for being involved and encouraged continued communication—not just about problems, but also creative solutions they can bring back to the table. We want to extend a huge thank you to Congressman Burgess Owens and Senator Derrin Owens for taking the time to share their insight with us and for being available to our community. f you have any questions, concerns, or ideas to share, they encourage you to reach out: 📞 Congressman Burgess Owens – Call 801-999-9801 or visit his website 📞 Senator Derrin R. Owens – Call 435-851-1284 or email derrinowens@le.utah.gov Thank you to everyone who braved the snow to participate in this important discussion! Your voices matter, and together, we can shape the future of our community.

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Write about something you know. If you don’t know much about a specific topic that will interest your readers, invite an expert to write about it.