As the 47th mayor of Spanish Fork, Mike Mendenhall is known as a leader who cares about his community and can listen without offense, compromise without destruction and is trying to leave his city better than he found it. Before his mayoral efforts, he was already community-minded, serving on the city council for eight years, being president of the Spanish Fork-Salem Chamber of Commerce and president of the Spanish Fork Rotary Club. He’s also been the president of the Utah League of Cities and Towns. When not working to improve his hometown, he’s offering the same care and consideration in his own financial advising business or spending time with his wife, Amber, and three kids.
Fully Booked Up for a 5:30 a.m. workout (only because my son is up at 4:30 for the gym, so I’m trying to keep up). At the office by 7:30 a.m. for the market open (9:30 a.m. on the East Coast). Appointments until noon, lunch, afternoon appointments, city emails and city committee meetings at 3 p.m. Try to be home with the wife and kids by 7 p.m. Do it all over again the next day.
Hero’s Journey My mom passed away in 2022 from cancer. She was too young. It was the biggest challenge of my life so far. I learned a different level of grit, love and selflessness from her. I’m still learning from it.
New Chapter After 15 years of banking entrepreneurs, I decided to become one in 2019. It was a risk to leave a comfortable job and take tests to become a financial advisor, which were harder than anything I did in college. It was a calculated risk that has changed me for the better.
Vital Title “Love Your Enemies” by Arthur Brooks. Everyone should read before they attempt to debate differences in the modern political age.
Tired Tropes Loud opinions aimed to make someone feel less than others.
Character Backstory I’ve ridden my Harley in the Sturgis motorcycle rally.
Life Genre Non-fiction. I spend little time day dreaming. If it can be accomplished and is worthy of being, let’s get it done.
The Sequel No longer the mayor of Spanish Fork. But helping my clients, colleagues, and community in other impactful ways.
Author’s Note I try to live by a saying in business and politics — SW-SW-SW. “Some will, some won’t, so what.”