The Ogden Way

Mayor Ben Nadolski welcomes Dawn Hauptner from the Raindance Film Festival to announce Raindance’s new home in Ogden, and what it means for our community. They discuss Raindance’s mission to elevate emerging filmmakers,the community-first festival model (panels, premieres, student showcases), year-round programming beginning in 2026, and a charter school concept that blends classical academics with advanced film technology. It’s mo...

In this episode of The Ogden Way Podcast, Mayor Ben Nadolski sits down with retired U.S. Air Force General Max Stitzer, an Ogden native whose career took him from Airman Basic to the halls of the Pentagon. Together, they reflect on Ogden’s unique role in shaping leaders, the vital connection between community and national security, and the enduring values of service and unity. From honoring the legacy of Major Brent Taylor to suppo...

In this episode of The Ogden Way, Mayor Ben Nadolski sits down with Troy Callantine, Executive Director of the GOAL Foundation. Together, they explore how the organization inspires locals to “Get Out And Live” by participating in, volunteering for, and spectating outdoor events across Ogden. From marathons to community-building moments, Troy shares how the GOAL Foundation fuels connection, celebrates active living, and plays a majo...

In this episode of The Ogden Way, Mayor Ben Nadolski sits down with Heidi Wade, Director of the Senior Companions Program at Weber Human Services. Together, they shine a light on this heartwarming initiative where local seniors volunteer their time to support and connect with socially isolated seniors in our community. From stories of companionship to the powerful ripple effects of service, this episode celebrates the quiet heroes ...

In this special on-site episode of Flip the Script, Jaynee Nadolski and Mayor Ben Nadolski sit down inside the newly renovated Marshall White Center to explore what makes this space more than just a building. From its rich history and connection to Officer Marshall White, to its modern programs, scholarship structure, and thriving community impact, this episode digs deep into why place matters. Whether you’re a longtime local or st...

In this episode of The Ogden Way, Mayor Ben Nadolski reconnects with longtime friend and Weber State University President, Brad Mortensen. The two reflect on their years of collaboration, from youth recreation projects at the Nadolski kitchen table to shaping Ogden’s educational landscape today. Hear about Brad’s journey as a Weber State alum turned president, the university’s evolving role in the community, and how leadership and ...

In this episode of The Ogden Way, Mayor Ben Nadolski sits down with longtime friend and community leader, Murray Latson. Known for his positive spirit and signature greeting, “What’s good?”, Murray shares how service, showing up, and supporting others have shaped his life in Ogden. From personal challenges to public service, hear how one person’s energy and heart can make a lasting impact on the community.

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In this special “Flip the Script” edition of The Ogden Way, Jaynee Nadolski takes the mic once again to interview Mayor Ben Nadolski. Together, they dive into the Mayor’s recent international outreach efforts, including self-funded trips toGuadalajara and Guatemala, and discuss how these connections are opening doors for Ogden’s economy, culture, and future opportunities.

From creating pathways for underrepresented communities ...

In this episode of The Ogden Way, Mayor Ben Nadolski sits down with Michael Smauldon from the American Red Cross. They talk about the importance of community connection, what it’s like stepping into leadership roles, and how local organizations like the Red Cross support Ogden in times of need. From emergency response to building partnerships with city leadership, this conversation highlights the power of collaboration in making Og...

In this episode of The Ogden Way, Mayor Ben Nadolski sits down with Jim Taggart, President of Ogden-Weber Technical College. They discuss the college’s evolving mission, its deep connection to Ogden’s identity, and the role it plays in preparing the local workforce for in-demand careers. From redefining technical education to addressing community needs, this conversation highlights why President Taggart and his team are among Ogden...

In this meaningful episode of The Ogden Way, the script is flipped with host, Jaynee Nadolski, interviewing Mayor Nadolski. Together, they dive into the heart of what makes Ogden’s outdoor spaces so vital to the community’s well-being, identity, and future. From connecting underserved neighborhoods to trail access, to preserving Ogden’s wild spaces for generations to come, Jaynee shares the vision and strategy behind one of the cit...

Step into the rich heritage and bright future of Ogden as Mayor Ben Nadolski sits down with longtime friend and newly appointed Pioneer Days Foundation Chair, Steve Handy. From their shared days in legislative affairs to a deep dive into what makes Ogden Pioneer Days a nationally ranked rodeo and world-class celebration, this episode explores the vision, volunteerism, and values that make Ogden shine. Learn how a foundation of coll...

From Teammates to Trailblazers: In this heartfelt and energizing episode, Mayor Ben Nadolski sits down with his former football teammate and longtime friend, Luke Rasmussen, now the superintendent of the Ogden School District. Together, they reflect on their shared roots, their deep commitment to community, and how collaboration between the city and the school district is shaping opportunities for Ogden’s youth. From chicken wings ...

In this episode of The Ogden Way Podcast, Mayor Ben Nadolski sits down with former horse jockey turned financial advisor Billy Peterson, for a conversation packed with purpose. From tales of high-stakes races and weight battles to building a wealth management business from scratch, Billy shares how grit, perseverance, and mindset shaped his journey. Together, they unpack the power of sacrifice, the importance of accountability, and...

In this episode of The Ogden Way Podcast, Mayor Ben Nadolski sits down with longtime Ogdenite and community powerhouse Michelle Tanner, Executive Director of Ogden Friends of Acoustic Music (OFOAM). From her decades-long nursing career to launching one of Ogden’s most beloved events, the Ogden Music Festival, Michelle opens up about service, the healing power of music, and how grit and heart define the Ogden spirit. Together, they ...

In this episode of The Ogden Way, Mayor Ben sits down with Aldin Falcon, owner, operator, and true hustler behind Ogden Barber Company. From the heart of Washington Boulevard, Aldin opens up about his journey, the culture he's building, and what it means to serve your community one cut at a time. It’s more than a barbershop, it’s a movement. Tap in for real talk on purpose, people, and keeping it sharp.

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In this high-energy episode of The Ogden Way podcast, Mayor sits down with Evan Parker, Ogden native and manager of the Ogden Raptors. From his early days on local diamonds to leading a championship team, Evan brings fire, focus, and fierce pride for his hometown.They talk about everything from building a championship culture and mentoring young players, to the grit and hustle that define both baseball and Ogden itself. Mark your c...

In this powerful episode of The Ogden Way, Mayor Ben Nadolski sits down with Flor Lopez, local business owner, community advocate, and champion for underserved residents. From arriving in Ogden with a single suitcase and no English, to becoming a force of connection and empowerment in the city, Flor shares a gripping personal story marked by loss, resilience, and transformation. Together, they talk about barriers, bravery, and buil...

In this powerful episode of The Ogden Way, we flip the script, literally! Mayor Ben steps out of the host chair and into the hot seat as his wife, Jaynee, interviews him for a deeply candid and refreshingly human conversation.They dig into some of the most complex issues facing Ogden today, affordable housing, political polarization, class dynamics, and the future of the city all while shedding light on the difficult decisions and ...