When teens experience difficulties at home, the only escape they sometimes see is to run away; which often leads to further and even greater harm due to their vulnerability. Kristen Mitchell, Executive Director of Youth Futures Utah (Youth Futures), became aware of this trend of teens suddenly becoming unsheltered, without family or other resources to turn to. When she determined that no other existing organizations were directly focused in this area, she founded Youth Futures to provide the needed shelter, support, resources, and guidance to youth experiencing homelessness—helping them move from crisis to stability and toward a healthier future. Tune in to this episode to hear powerful stories of youth who gained hope and healing with the help of Youth Futures!

Did you know human heart rates can slow down when time is spent around horses? This phenomenon can be harnessed through therapeutic riding offered to individuals who endure varying challenges. On this episode of the Tanner Impact podcast, we are joined by Dennis Bromley, Executive Director, and Nancy McMurtrey of Courage Reins, a Utah county based nonprofit organization that provides equine‑assisted therapeutic riding, mental health services, and natural horsemanship programs designed to support physical, emotional, and mental well‑being for children, teens, and adults. Tune in to learn more about the empowering environment where individuals can build confidence, improve communication, and experience meaningful personal growth with the assistance of horses and trained professionals.

When learning starts outdoors, something special happens. The benefits of being in nature are immeasurable, as are the benefits of intentional early childhood education. On this episode of the Tanner Impact Podcast, we learn more about Wonderbloom, Utah's first licensed nature-based preschool, from Lesley Gulledge, Outreach Specialist. Tune in to learn how they are helping the youngest among us learn, grow, and thrive through outdoor exploration and intentional early childhood education. Since the podcast was recorded, Wonderbloom has announced an exciting new partnership with Tracy Aviary, with plans to open a second location in 2026.