Entrepreneur and author Jeff Burningham spoke at UVU’s Halladay Lecture Series, sharing lessons on AI, presence, disruption, and the joy of building.
Utah Valley University, in collaboration with the Gary R. Herbert Institute for Public Policy, was honored to host Jeff Burningham—entrepreneur, investor, and first-time author—as the featured speaker for this week’s Reed and Christine Halladay Executive Lecture Series.
Jeff has started, run, or invested early in more than a dozen companies in technology and real estate valued at over a billion dollars. As a student at BYU, he launched his first tech startup, later selling it to a NASDAQ-listed company. He went on to co-found Peak Capital Partners and Peak Ventures, managing billions in assets and fueling Utah’s rise as the Silicon Slopes. In 2020, Jeff ran for Governor of Utah, and today he continues to mentor entrepreneurs, serve on boards, and champion philanthropic efforts. Most importantly, he values time with his wife Sally, their four children, and grandchild—whether wakesurfing, skiing, or simply enjoying life together.
A few days before his lecture, Jeff launched his debut book, The Last Book Written by a Human – Becoming Wise in the Age of AI, which quickly climbed to #7 on the bestseller list. As a first-time author best known in Utah, this recognition was especially meaningful.
Jeff emphasized what he calls the “sneaky key” to happiness and success in an AI-driven world: presence. In an increasingly distracted and divided society, he urged students to bring their whole selves into every moment. “The future doesn’t exist until we arrive there through the present,” he said, encouraging students not to let past mistakes or future anxieties rob them of today.
Drawing from his book, Jeff outlined four themes:
Disruption – Accepting that change is the only constant.
Reflection – Using AI as a “cosmic mirror” to examine humanity.
Transformation – Becoming pattern breakers in a world that rewards originality.
Evolution – Rethinking institutions like education, religion, politics, and capitalism in an age of rapid change.
Jeff also shared stories from his career, including the challenges of selling his first company, the drive behind starting Peak Capital Partners, and the sobering realization that success alone can feel hollow. He reminded students that true fulfillment isn’t found at the peak, but in the process: “The joy is in the building.”
The Woodbury School of Business and the Gary R. Herbert Institute for Public Policy extend their gratitude to Jeff Burningham for sharing his time, wisdom, and inspiration with UVU students.
