We wanted to tell stories. It became something bigger, something beautiful. A community worth building; a family rooting for each other’s success.

Back then, we believed someone needed to tell the true, unfiltered story of what was happening inside what was then a burgeoning startup and tech community. We believed stories were at the heart of a community.

I still believe that.

I couldn’t say whether we accomplished what we set out to do, but I remain honored to have my name (alongside Gabe and Jordan Gunderson) associated with Beehive Startups.

Over the years, I’ve thought a lot about what to do with this thing. I’ve come to realize Beehive Startups and StartFEST belong to you. This is a community asset, built up and supported by thousands of inspiring human beings.

Today, I’m proud to announce the return of Beehive Startups. But I’m even more excited to introduce you to the publication’s new Editor-in-Chief, Emily Fonnesbeck. Emily is a remarkable journalist, writer, and entrepreneur. We’re lucky to have her at the helm, and I can’t wait to watch her take this community to the moon.

I’ll get emotional if this gets much longer, but remember StartSLC? It remains the greatest event I was ever involved in. Of course, it wouldn’t have happened without Stephen Walter, Erin Valenti, and… I can’t keep typing names. You know who you are. I love you.

StartFEST is back. Thank you.