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In an era of political polarization and media distrust, Willie Billings offers a refreshingly nuanced perspective on local politics as the newly elected Chairman of the Washington County Republican Party. His mission? To save Utah's unique caucus system from the encroachment of outside money and influence that threatens to transform the state's political landscape.

Billings passionately explains how SB 54—the controversial "dual path" legislation—has undermined the caucus convention system that once allowed ordinary citizens to participate in politics without massive financial backing. He shares the startling revelation that even Senator Mike Lee admitted he would never have challenged incumbent Bob Bennett in a pure primary system, demonstrating how caucuses create pathways for new voices that money-dominated primaries shut out.

Whether discussing economic policy, media manipulation, election integrity, or hunting adventures in Alaska, Billings offers wisdom gained from 37 years in investment advisory services and decades of community involvement. His mission now is to educate voters about the value of informed political participation before Utah's unique political heritage is lost forever.

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[00:00:00] Intro.
[00:06:13] Media's Influence on Public Perception.
[00:12:05] Investment Advisor's Market Perspective.
[00:21:19] Understanding 401k Management.
[00:30:16] The Caucus System vs SB54.
[00:47:12] Water Challenges and Growth in Southern Utah.
[01:00:11] Political Elections and Recounts.
[01:22:29] Hunting Stories and Self-Sufficiency.

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Washington County's real estate market has shifted to a more balanced position with 4.82 months of inventory, representing a 22% increase from last year, though slight downward pressure on pricing has resulted in only a 2% decrease in average sold prices.

• Median sold price of $520,000 shows minimal change from last year at just 1.7% higher
• Current 30-year fixed mortgage rate at 6.75%, down from 7.26% in January
• Original list price to sold price ratio is 95.9%, indicating sellers are typically getting slightly less than asking
• Days on market varies significantly by price point - homes between $400,000-$500,000 sell fastest at 51 days
• Migration data shows buyers from areas with higher home values (California, Colorado) find Washington County prices reasonable
• Housing market correlation with interest rates appears broken since 2022
• Local economy shows greater diversity than pre-2008 recession when construction was 30% of economy
• Current unemployment rate remains stable at around 3%

Guest Branden DuCharme, CMT,
Find Du Charme Wealth Management here:
https://ducharmewealth.com/contact-us/


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#podcast #southernutah #investing #stgeorgeutah #realestate #435podcast #financialmarket #business #affordablehousing #afforadable

[00:00:00] Intro.
[00:00:48] Washington County Real Estate Overview.
[00:08:33] Market Statistics and Current Trends.
[00:18:32] Breaking Down Price Points and Days on Market.
[00:27:46] The Conflict of Interest in Real Estate.
[00:38:35] Home Value Comparisons Across States.
[00:47:33] Employment Data and Economic Diversity.
[00:57:46] Final Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up.

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Witness history in the making as the World Strength Games returns to St. George on May 23-24 2025, transforming the Dixie Convention Center into an arena where human potential collides with physical impossibility. Since its humble beginnings in 2017 with just 11 athletes, this event has exploded into an international phenomenon, officially documenting 121 world records and counting.

What makes the World Strength Games unique isn't just the superhuman feats of strength—it's the strategic format where athletes must choose their weights wisely, getting just two attempts to etch their names in history. Think of it as high-stakes poker where competitors must decide: play it safe or risk everything for glory. This creates an electric atmosphere as athletes from Australia, Sweden, and across America push the boundaries of human capability.

The crowd favorite remains the iconic 402-pound basalt stone carry, modeled after Iceland's famous Husafell Stone but deliberately made more challenging. Last year, spectators erupted as competitors who seemed physically incapable hoisted this massive stone and carried it distances no one thought possible. This year, local hero Miles Kinikini will attempt to shatter the Farmer's Walk world record by carrying a mind-boggling 460 pounds in each hand.

Beyond strongman, this evolved fitness expo now features USA Wrestling tournaments, Ninja Warrior courses, CrossFit challenges through the Summit Games, and an NFL-style combine for aspiring athletes. Legendary figures in strength sports will be present, including four-time World's Strongest Man Magnus Ver Magnusson and potentially current reigning World's Strongest Man Tom Stoltman.

Perhaps most fascinating is how this event showcases human potential across all demographics. From 73-year-old grandmothers carrying refrigerator-sized weights to discussions on regenerative medicine with stem cell pioneer Dr. Greg Smith, the World Strength Games illustrates that strength isn't just about muscle—it's about pushing limits in every aspect of human performance.


Guest Russell Anderson, Founder of the World Strength Games. Connect with Russell on his IG: https://www.instagram.com/desertvikingstrongman/?igsh=N3BleDZ6NjNvcGU2#

World Strength Games webpage: https://worldstrength.games/

UsMedSpa webpage: https://usmedspa.co/

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#podcast #southernutah #stgeorgeutah #435podcast #realestate #weightlifting #strongman

[00:00:00] Intro.
[00:05:10] The Evolution of Strongman Competition.
[00:09:30] Breaking World Records in St George.
[00:15:22] Event Attractions Beyond Strongman.
[00:21:27] The Enhanced Games Discussion.
[00:35:00] Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Therapy.
[00:50:11] Event Details and Community Impact.
[01:08:33] Closing Thoughts and Future Vision.

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Dive into the intricacies of Utah's 2025 legislative session with Washington City's Legislative Affairs Director Jordan Hess as he breaks down the bills that will reshape Southern Utah's communities. With over 582 bills passed during this session, Jordan helps navigate the complex political landscape while offering unique insights from his perspective working directly with lawmakers and municipalities.

Jordan Hess unpacks controversial legislation like the flag display restrictions in public buildings, enhanced enforcement capabilities against illegal short-term rentals, and new voter integrity measures requiring additional verification for mail-in ballots.

The discussion takes a particularly fascinating turn when examining the tension between state authority and local control. One failed bill would have created a "Beehive Development Agency" with power to expedite major economic projects with minimal local input—highlighting the ongoing struggle between expedient development and thoughtful local planning.

Housing affordability emerges as a critical theme throughout the episode, with Jordan explaining how new legislation prohibiting municipalities from requiring garages for affordable single-family homes could help create true "starter homes" again. The conversation explores whether government intervention can effectively address housing costs or if market forces will ultimately drive solutions.

Guest Jordan Hess, Legislative Affairs Director at Washington City,
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-hess-44b23527/

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[00:00:00] Intro.
[00:05:49] Jordan's Guatemalan Volcano Adventure.
[00:15:25] Washington City's Legislative Affairs Position.
[00:26:23] Utah Flag Bill and Culture War Legislation.
[00:35:13] Short-Term Rental Enforcement Changes.
[00:46:43] Parking Requirements and Housing Affordability.
[00:54:54] New Voting Laws and Election Integrity.
[01:02:11] The "Beehive Development Agency" Controversy.
[01:10:58] Market Solutions vs Government Intervention.


#podcast #waterconservation #affordablehousing #afforable #southernutah #435podcast #stgeorgeutah #utahpolitics #utahrealestate #utahrealestate #utahentrepreneur

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Michael Saylor transformed his company by converting $400 million in cash to Bitcoin, becoming the largest individual Bitcoin holder and pioneering the concept of a corporate Bitcoin treasury. His journey demonstrates how Bitcoin has evolved from a dismissed "internet money" to a legitimate store of value and potential foundation for our AI-driven future.

• Michael Saylor initially dismissed Bitcoin in 2013 but later faced a "mega problem" with $400 million in cash losing value during COVID
• MicroStrategy moved to a Bitcoin standard, now owns over 500,000 Bitcoin, and saw their stock rise from $11 to over $400
• Understanding Bitcoin's scarcity: 21 million total with most already mined and distributed before institutions got involved
• The "block size wars" debate between peer-to-peer transactions and store of value functions continues to shape Bitcoin's development
• Bitcoin eliminates the violence incentive in money - you can't physically take someone's Bitcoin if they don't reveal their key

If you're interested in learning more about Bitcoin, check out Utah Tech University's community education Bitcoin classes or start with resources like the book "The Bitcoin Standard" by Saifedean Ammous or Michael Saylor's website hope.com.
Link: https://www.hope.com/

Guest Aaron Olsen to LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/aarondolsen/

Link to the Visual Capitalist webpage: https://www.visualcapitalist.com/

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#southernutah #southernutah #realestate #financialmarket #investing #stgeorgeutah #bitcoin #bitcoinnews

[00:00:00] Intro.
[00:00:54] Michael Saylor's $400M Bitcoin Decision.
[00:07:16] Understanding Scale: Million vs Trillion Seconds.
[00:15:03] Bitcoin as a Treasury Strategy.
[00:26:25] The Block Size Wars: Store of Value vs Peer-to-Peer.
[00:38:48] Lost Bitcoin and Asset Ownership.
[00:52:48] The Future of Streaming Money and AI.

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The transformation of Washington City from farming fields to a strategically developed urban center is unfolding before our eyes. Economic Development Director Rusty Hughes reveals the careful balancing act required to maintain the city's unique character while addressing the economic realities of growth.

When we think about local development, we rarely consider the financial mechanics behind municipal decisions. For every residential property built in Washington City, local government spends $1.30-$1.60 in services for each dollar collected in revenue. This simple fact explains why Washington City, after two decades of being 98% residential permits, is now actively pursuing high-value commercial development along the I-15 corridor.

Rusty shares fascinating insights about projects reshaping the landscape: ARA Southwest Logistics, the largest industrial development in Washington County history; WinCo's long-awaited arrival at Exit 11 after eight years of searching for the perfect location; and plans for a walkable downtown core that will give Washington City its own unique gathering place. Each project is strategically positioned to generate revenue, create jobs, and reduce the number of residents who must commute elsewhere for work and shopping.

Perhaps most compelling is Hughes' perspective as both an economic developer and a 20-year resident who raised her children in Washington City. Her journey from military service to economic development illustrates the diverse backgrounds bringing expertise to municipal government. She emphasizes how community engagement shapes development decisions, inviting residents to follow projects on the city's interactive map at WashingtonCity.org/ed.


Guest: Rusty Hughes, Economic Development Director for Washington City, Utah
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rusty-hughes-8544696b/?trk=public_post_comment_actor-image

Washington City Economic Developments: https://washingtoncity.org/development/economicdevelopment

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#southernutah #stgeorgeutah #435podcast #washingtoncityutah #podcast #realestate #realestatemarket #citygrowth #citydevelopment

[00:00:00] Intro.
[00:01:28] Economic Challenges for Washington City.
[00:06:15] Rusty's Background in Economic Development.
[00:17:36] Washington City vs. St. George Development.
[00:26:59] Residential Growth and Service Population Challenges.
[00:35:56] Industrial Development and Aura Southwest Logistics.
[00:48:35] Winco and New Retail Development.
[00:54:39] Auto Mall and Downtown Revitalization Plans.
[01:03:17] Community Engagement and Online Resources

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In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the intricate world of housing regulations, specifically focusing on a bill currently being discussed in Utah that would require home buyers to sign an affidavit pledging to live in their property within 90 days of purchasing it. This legislation has sparked a variety of opinions among locals. The implications of such a bill are vast, affecting everything from housing availability to investor interests and the overall climate of the real estate market.

As we unpack this bill, we ask the pivotal question: what is the role of the government when it comes to housing? Should they intervene in the real estate market, or should buyers and sellers determine the terms of their transactions? Many argue that government regulation is necessary to maintain fair housing practices and accessibility for first-time buyers, while others caution against overreach that could stifle innovation and personal autonomy.

In discussing the bill, we transition to broader topics such as lobbying and the influence it wields on local and federal policy. Our conversation navigates through the murky waters of political donations, interest groups, and the ethical nuances of lobbyists influencing legislation. We highlight the delicate balance between supporting favorable policies and ensuring that the voices of ordinary citizens are not drowned out in the process. The fear of excessive influence leads to discussions about accountability and transparency in governance, as well as the potential creation of a Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which could help oversee such policies.

Link to Deseret News article 'Does Utah need DOGE?'
web: https://www.deseret.com/politics/2025/02/27/utah-speaker-mike-schultz-says-doge-under-elon-musk-could-learn-from-utah-legislature/

Guest - Blake Norton
Website - https://www.blueformmedia.com/

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#southernutah #podcast #stgeorgeutah #435podcast #afforadable #affordablehousing #elonmusk #financialmarket #realestate #realestatemarket #doge

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Ever wondered what it takes to build a tech company from scratch in Southern Utah? Meet Blake Kvarfordt, the local genius behind Blake Technologies who's shaking things up in St. George. From his early days studying business at UVU to diving headfirst into coding at Dev Mountain, Blake's story is anything but ordinary. After cutting his teeth at tech giants like T-Mobile and Nike's innovation team, he came back home with a mission: to create STGZ, a game-changing app that helps local businesses attract customers without the usual hefty fees. But here's where it gets really interesting - Blake drops some serious knowledge about how AI is transforming the way we build software, while keeping it real about why the human touch still matters. We get into the nitty-gritty of startup life and why face-to-face connections are more important than ever in our screen-obsessed world. Want to know what the future looks like? Blake's got some wild ideas about AR and VR that'll blow your mind, especially when it comes to education and everyday life. He's cooking up something big - think Groupon, but way better and focused right here in our community. Plus, if you're into real estate, stick around for his take on investment strategies and what's happening with manufactured homes. Trust me, you don't want to miss this one.

Guest - Blake Kvarfordt
Website - https://www.blaketechnologies.com/

Looking for a Real Estate expert? Find us here!
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#southernutah #435podcast #stgeorgeutah #ai #technology #aitechnology

[00:00:00] Intro.
[00:01:38] Local Entrepreneur's Coupon App Journey.
[00:11:07] Tech Stack and Remote Work Trends.
[00:14:15] Remote Work Challenges and Community Benefits.
[00:25:42] Virtual Reality and Future Education Trends.
[00:30:14] Local Events Integration for Business Coupons.
[00:36:07] Real Estate and Investment Strategies.
[00:39:42] Manufactured Homes and Lending Laws