Utah's Own Podcast

What does it take to build an internationally recognized, award-winning spirits brand while staying rooted in sustainability and regional identity? In this episode, we sit down with Sara Sergent, the CEO and Master Botanical Distiller behind Park City's own Alpine Distilling. Sarah takes us through the company's evolution since its founding in 2016, sharing how a local craft operation grew into a multi-award-winning powerhouse known for gin, bourbon, and complex botanical liqueurs. We explore the art, science, and values driving Alpine Distilling: Mastering Botanical Distillation: Learn how Sarah approaches ingredients—from vapor-extracted botanicals in their world-renowned Alpine Elevated Gin to the subtle flavor contributions of wood barrels in their oak-aged whiskies. A Decorated Product Lineup: The stories behind flagship spirits, including the Straight Bourbon, the double-casked Triple Oak Whiskey, and signature liqueurs like Preserve that is inspired by the Swaner Nature Preserve. Sustainability & Expansion: Why being named Utah's "Green Business of the Year" three times is just the beginning, and what's in store for their eco-focused production site in Evanston, Wyoming. Community, Education, and Culture: Learn how Alpine Distilling uses their Park City Social Club to host gin-making classes, collaborate with local partners like Ritual Chocolate and Park City Coffee Roasters, and cross-train their 27-person team. Whether you're a spirits enthusiast, a supporter of sustainable craft business, or curious about the fine art of botanical distillation, this conversation offers an inspiring look at authenticity in the glass. You can find Alpine Distilling products at the following locations: Alpine Social Aid & Pleasure Club (Main Street Distillery & Lounge) Address: 364 Main St, Park City, UT Hours: Tuesday–Saturday (4:00 PM – 10:00 PM), Sunday (2:00 PM – 7:00 PM) Offerings: Bottle sales to-go, spirit flights, cocktail service, pie pairings, and gin-making workshops. Main Production Facility & Package Agency 1512 Main Street, Evanston, Wyoming 82930 Utah State Liquor Stores (DABS) Online Shipping & Out-of-State Retailers Direct-to-Consumer Online Orders: Order bottles directly online via alpinedistilling.com/dtc for delivery (where state laws permit direct spirit shipping). Out-of-State Liquor Retailers: Available through select national and regional online spirit retailers (e.g., Binny's or specialty west coast spirit outlets).

The Beehive Cheese Story Guests: Bretton Walsh, CFO of Beehive Cheese In this episode, we dive into the 20-year journey of Beehive Cheese, a family-run business out of Uinta, Utah rooted in passion, regional pride, and bold flavor innovation. Bretton takes us back to the very beginning, when they took a leap of faith into cheesemaking despite knowing little about the craft. We explore how academic mentorship, local partnerships, and unconventional thinking transformed a small operation into a national powerhouse: The Utah State University Spark: How USU provided the essential food safety training and the base recipe for "Old Juniper," launching their commercial cheesemaking dream. Breaking the Rules with "Barely Buzzed": The story behind rubbing cheddar with espresso and lavender—a move critics initially doubted until it won a blue ribbon at the American Cheese Society competition. Scaling with Integrity: How Beehive navigated massive growth by creating "Project Honey" with Gossner Cheese in Logan, expanding production through handshake agreements while keeping flavor blending and aging strictly in-house. Values-First Business: What it means to operate as a certified B Corp, prioritizing living wages, employee well-being, and a supportive family atmosphere where employees are treated like volunteers. Whether you're an artisan food lover, an entrepreneur curious about scaling without sacrificing quality, or a fan of great Utah stories, this episode offers a rich look at what happens when craftsmanship meets community values. Where to Find Beehive Cheese Look for Beehive Cheese varieties—including Barely Buzzed, Red Butte, and their signature chili and honey rubs—at regional and national retailers including Harmons, Associated Food Stores, and Costco.

The Hooks Rubs & Spices Story: From Allergy Solution to Standout Flavors Guest: Jared Hooker, Founder & "Spice Master" at Hooks Rubs and Spices In this episode, we sit down with Jared Hooker, the founder and master blender behind Hooks Rubs and Spices. Jared shares the inspiring origin story of his business, which started in Texas back in 2014 after a terrifying discovery: his daughter was diagnosed with severe peanut and soy allergies. Finding safe pantry staples proved nearly impossible, so Jared took matters into his own hands—blending custom, allergy-friendly seasoning blends right in his home kitchen. Learn how Jared brought his Southern flavor roots (Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi) to the Mountain West, starting at local farmers markets and expanding onto retail shelves. Hear why customer feedback from families with dietary restrictions means far more to him than revenue milestones. Plus, get a sneak peek at upcoming spring launches—including new hot sauces and barbecue sauces—and expansion plans across the region. Whether you're an aspiring food entrepreneur, a barbecue enthusiast, or someone navigating food allergies, Jared's story is a masterclass in turning everyday necessity into passion and purpose. Where to Find Hooks Rubs & Spices Website: hooksrub.com Social Media: Instagram (@Hookrub), TikTok (@Hookrub), YouTube, and Facebook (Hooks Rubs and Spices). Taste it Locally: Catch their seasonings live on menu items at The Cluck Truck (Salt Lake) and Scovilles (Sugar House).

If you're driving down Highway 89, you can't miss the Thorne Orchards from July to September! Kelly Andrew joins us and traces the farm's heart back to his grandmother, who—after being widowed at a young age—heroically managed the orchard, taught school, and raised five children on her own. Their farm stand in Perry, Utah, produces sweet, juicy peaches, and the family legacy of hard work. As a staple at Brigham City's Peach Days, they continue to embrace the grueling but rewarding life of farming because it continues to connect their family, community, and the love of the land. For Thorne Orchard, every harvest is a tribute to the family's endurance and their deep-rooted love for Utah's "Fruit Way."

Tucked away in the mountains of Huntsville, Utah, lies JulBud Ranch—a small family farm with a big heart. This week, we're joined by Angela to talk about the past, present, and future of their family-run operation. Angela takes us behind the scenes of raising Nigerian Dwarf goats and explains why their rich, nourishing milk is the secret ingredient to their luxurious, handmade soaps. From the early days of crafting soaps with grass-fed tallow and botanicals to opening their seasonal farm stand and hosting community classes, Angela shares what it really looks like to build a sustainable, nature-led business. Whether you're a fan of all-natural skincare or you dream of starting your own mountain homestead, this conversation is a breath of fresh air.

In this episode, we sit down with the heart and soul behind Kitchen Kneads, a retail store that has been a cornerstone of the Utah baking community for decades. From its humble beginnings to becoming a destination for home bakers and professionals alike, we talk to Tylan Crane and his parents Bruce and Carla Crane to explore the flour-dusted history and the bright future of this family-owned gem.  Whether you're a sourdough enthusiast, a kitchen gadget geek, or a local business buff, this conversation offers a deep dive into the grit and grace required to sustain a "legacy" business. Discover how Kitchen Kneads manages to stay fresh while honoring the traditional techniques that started it all.

Join us for a deep dive into the world of Uncle Hoss's Criss Cross Crunch! In this episode, we sit down with Millcreek's own Sonja Erickson, to learn about its humble beginnings to its current place in the local market. Sonja shares the past, present, and future of Uncle Hoss's Criss Cross Crunch. Discover the inspiration behind the crunch, the challenges they've overcome, and their exciting vision for the future. We also explore the role that Utah's Own has played in their success. Sonja details how this vital program has supported their growth, helped them connect with local consumers, and elevated their brand within the community. If you love supporting local businesses and getting a taste of Utah's entrepreneurial spirit, this is the story you don't want to miss!

Go straight to the source for a taste of Utah County's rich agricultural history! In this episode, we sit down with Chad Rowley, a third-generation fruit grower and representative of Payson Fruit Growers, a co-op whose roots in the region date back to the early 20th century. Chad provides a fascinating look at the history of cherries in Utah County, revealing how the unique microclimate near Utah Lake created the perfect conditions for growing the tart cherry. Learn about the challenges facing cherry growers today including the constant threat of urbanization that puts pressure on valuable farmland. Chad shares the successes of the co-op, which innovated decades ago by focusing on value-added products like their signature dried tart cherries and tart cherry concentrate. Discover how being a part of Utah's Own has been a positive support system which includes helping to bring awareness to the Payson Fruit Growers high-quality, locally grown products with consumers who value Utah's agricultural heritage. Finally, Chad gives us the outlook for the future, sharing his commitment to innovation, family values, and ensuring that the tradition of growing great Utah fruit continues for generations to come.

Step onto a piece of Utah history! Join us as we sit down with Utah's Own member Chalise Smith of Oliver's Place and Hee Haw Farms, a family operation that has been cultivating community and crops in Utah County since 1870.   Chalise shares the incredible six-generation journey, from the original homestead to the local farm and vibrant agritourism business and they are today. Discover the challenges of adapting a multi-generational farm in the face of modern development, and the successes of building a place where the community can connect with open land, farm-fresh food, and fun all year round.   Hear firsthand how their partnership with Utah's Own has supported their pivot, from providing technical assistance to increasing consumer awareness for their local meat, products, and popular farm activities.   What does the future hold? Find out what Chalise and her family are looking forward to next, including their vision for financial sustainability, community building, and preparing the next generation to carry on the legacy.   Tune in for a dose of Utah agricultural heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and local pride!