What does beef jerky have to do with camps, character, and community impact?

More than you might think.

In this episode of Miles of Impact, we dive into the story behind the Crossroads of the West Council Jerky Fundraiser — why it exists, how it supports our camps and programs, and the real difference it makes for Scouts across Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming.

From funding outdoor adventures to creating access and opportunity for youth, this isn’t just about selling jerky — it’s about fueling experiences that shape lives.

Whether you’re a parent, volunteer, partner, or just jerky-curious, this episode pulls back the curtain on one of our most impactful (and delicious) efforts of the year.

Big mission. Bold flavor. Lasting impact.

What happens when thousands of Scouts, local businesses, and community leaders rally around a single mission? Lives are changed—one bag of food at a time.

In this episode of Miles of Impact, we shine a spotlight on Scouting for Food, one of the largest annual service projects in our communities. You’ll hear how youth leadership, generosity, and collaboration come together to make a real difference for families facing food insecurity.

Joining the conversation are incredible community partners who help turn service into impact:

• Lorna Koci, Scouting for Food Chair
• Rebekah, Bountiful Food Pantry
• Joe, Arctic Circle
• Kelle, Young Caring for Our Young Foundation

Together, they share powerful stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and why partnerships like these matter now more than ever.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• How Scouting for Food supports local food pantries across our council
• The role businesses and community leaders play in amplifying youth service
• Why partnerships like Young Caring for Our Young Foundation help extend impact beyond a single day
• The lasting difference Scouts make when they serve their neighbors

This is more than a food drive—it’s a reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together with purpose.

Listen now and be inspired by the miles of impact made through service.

Learn more about Scouting and how to get involved at BeAScout.org

In this episode of Miles of Impact, we introduce America250 — the Crossroads of the West Council’s year-long celebration of our nation’s 250th birthday.

Host Dakota Jacobson is joined by Jennie Taylor, the Council’s America250 Chair, Gold Star widow, and founder of the Major Brent Taylor Foundation, to share the heart behind this once-in-a-lifetime initiative and how Scouts, families, and communities can take part.

America250 is more than a patch program. It’s an opportunity for Scouts to explore history, serve their neighbors, engage in civic life, experience outdoor adventure, and reflect on what it means to be an active citizen — all while creating meaningful memories together.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• What America250 is and why the 250th anniversary matters for Scouts and families
• An overview of the Windows of Adventure Passport, mailed to every Cub Scout pack and Scout unit
• How Scouts earn individual patch segments that come together to form a stained-glass-style design inspired by the dome of the new Utah State Museum
• Real-world examples of participation, including:
  • Wreaths Across America
  • Civics Challenge
  • Scouting for Food
  • Scout camps and community events
• Details about the America250 Gala, featuring keynote speaker Steve Young and honoring Charles Dahlquist and Frank McAllister with the Distinguished Citizen Award
• Why America250 matters — and how service, sacrifice, and citizenship are at the heart of this celebration

Get Involved

America250 is already underway, and there’s still time to participate.

• Download the digital passport or learn more: https://www.utahscouts.org/america250
• Learn more about the America250 Gala and purchase tickets: https://www.utahscouts.org/america250gala

Whether you complete one window or all six, every experience is part of your America250 story.

About the Guest

Jennie Taylor serves as the Crossroads of the West Council’s America250 Chair. She is a Gold Star widow and the founder of the Major Brent Taylor Foundation, where she continues to honor service, leadership, and community through meaningful action.

Scouting has always been about more than campfires and merit badges — it’s about leaving the world better than we found it.

In this inspiring episode, host Matthew Durrant joins Mike Perkins and Jeff Barnes from the Outdoor Ethics & Conservation Committee to explore how Scouts can turn small actions into lasting change. Together, they unpack:

• Why stewardship is at the heart of Scouting and how the OE&C Committee supports units.
• How to get started with the Distinguished Conservation Service Award — and the challenge to become the first Scout in our council to earn it.
• Scouting’s rich legacy of conservation, from the Outdoor Code to modern-day service projects.
• Simple steps to bring Leave No Trace principles into your unit’s outings.
• Local conservation opportunities — from shoreline restoration at Bear Lake to urban pollinator gardens.

Whether you’re a Scout, a leader, or a parent, this episode will show you how to help youth grow into the next generation of conservation leaders — and prove that Scouts really can be a force for good in every community.

👉 Learn more and get involved at www.utahscouts.org/LNT

Get ready to pop into action! In this episode of Miles of Impact, hosts McKay Allen and Jake Bangerter dive into the exciting world of Scouting popcorn sales—a tradition that does way more than raise funds. Discover how this program fires up youth, inspires leaders, and brings communities together.

From the game-changing Trails End app to goal-setting tips and motivating incentives, McKay and Jake unpack how popcorn sales teach real-world skills, fuel personal growth, and spark leadership development in Scouts everywhere. Tune in and see why popcorn is more than just a snack—it’s a launchpad for success!

In this episode of Miles of Impact, Council Vice President of Membership Michael Williams teams up with Director of Field Service Jake Bangeter to dive deep into what it really takes to grow Scouting in today’s world.

Together, they unpack the power of knowing your “why”—and how sharing that purpose can ignite interest, inspire action, and bring new families into the Scouting movement. From boots-on-the-ground outreach to scroll-stopping social media strategies, this episode is packed with practical, proven tools to help units thrive.

Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out, you'll walk away with new ideas to:

• Welcome more youth
• Engage and empower volunteers
• Build a culture of growth and belonging

If you're ready to take your unit to the next level and bring the magic of Scouting to every corner of your community, this one’s for you.

Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime! In this episode of Miles of Impact, host Russ Tanner dives into the excitement of the 2026 National Jamboree with seasoned Scouting leaders Robert Piper and Jeremy Robertson. From thrilling high adventure experiences to life-changing friendships, they unpack what makes the Jamboree a can’t-miss milestone for any Scout.

Discover how this once-in-a-lifetime event helps shape leaders, builds confidence, and connects youth from across the globe. Plus, hear inspiring stories from past Jamborees, tips for making the most of the journey—including an epic pre-Jamboree tour of iconic American landmarks—and why fundraising is key to unlocking the experience.

Whether you're a Scout, parent, or leader, this episode will leave you fired up and ready to start packing your bags. Don’t miss it—your Jamboree journey starts here!

In this episode of Miles of Impact, we take an inside look at National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)—one of Scouting’s most transformative programs for developing strong, confident leaders. Our guests share firsthand experiences, the mission of NYLT, and the structured training course designed to equip youth with essential leadership skills that extend far beyond Scouting.

We’ll also explore the importance of fundraising, how families and communities can support youth participation, and the lasting impact NYLT has on personal growth, teamwork, and service. Whether you're a Scout, parent, or leader, this episode is packed with insights on how NYLT can help shape the next generation of leaders.

Tune in to discover how NYLT is changing lives and why it’s an opportunity every young leader should experience!