Move the Needle

This week on MOVE THE NEEDLE, we’re talking sports storytelling, nonprofit leadership, community impact, small business, and the people making a difference across Arizona! Thank you to our partners of this episode: Amy Richardson - Savvy Realty: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ Brewer's Air Conditioning & Heating: https://www.brewersac.com/ Foothills Golf Club: https://www.thefoothillsgc.com/ Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Contemporary Dental Concepts: https://cosmeticdentistryaz.com/ Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... First, we sit down with Paul Coro, Senior Writer at Grand Canyon University and longtime Arizona sports journalist. Paul shares stories from his decades covering high school sports, the Phoenix Suns, and GCU Athletics. He discusses the evolution of sports media, storytelling in the age of AI, and why every athlete has a story worth telling. Learn more HERE: https://gculopes.com/staff-directory/... Next, we’re joined by Amber Reiter, founder of Jasmine’s Journey. After losing her daughter Jasmine to leukemia, Amber turned her grief into purpose by creating a nonprofit that supports Arizona families facing pediatric cancer. She shares her family's story, the challenges these families face, and how Jasmine’s Journey is providing hope and practical support during difficult times. Learn more HERE: https://jazminesjourney.com/index.html Finally, we sit down with Mark Ybarra, Owner, Brewers Heating/AC, owner of Brewer’s Air Conditioning & Heating. Mark discusses building a trusted local business, the value of skilled trades, and what Arizona homeowners should know about keeping their homes comfortable during the summer months. Learn more HERE: https://www.brewersac.com/ 00:07 Intro 02:41 Paul Coro – Senior Writer, GCU Athletics 23:17 Amber Reeder – Founder, Jasmine's Journey 37:04 Mark Ybarra – Owner, Brewer's Air Conditioning & Heating #MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #ArizonaPodcast #SportsJournalism #GCU #GrandCanyonUniversity #NonprofitLeadership #ChildhoodCancerAwareness #PediatricCancer #ArizonaNonprofits #SmallBusiness #LocalBusiness #HVAC #ArizonaBusiness #CommunityLeadership #PhoenixAZ #Ahwatukee #LocalLeaders

This week on Move the Needle, we’re talking education, mentorship, movement, leadership, school culture, community, and the people shaping the next generation in Arizona! Thank you to our partners of this episode: Amy Richardson - Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ Foothills Golf Club: https://www.thefoothillsgc.com/ Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Contemporary Dental Concepts: https://cosmeticdentistryaz.com/ Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... Brewer’s Air Conditioning & Heating: https://www.brewersac.com/ First, we’re joined by Jessica Symmes, also known as “The Dancing Nurse,” to discuss her journey blending healthcare, dance, education, mentorship, and public speaking. Jessica shares how starting her nursing career during COVID shaped her perspective, how movement can support healing, and why students should not feel forced to choose between creativity and practicality. She also talks about teaching and mentoring future nurses at GCU, working in family practice, and the importance of helping people feel seen, heard, and valued. Next, we sit down with Brady Wald, educator, author, and principal at Summit School. Brady shares what keeps him passionate after more than 25 years in education, why school culture matters, and how Summit is creating a strong sense of community for students and families. He also discusses his book, The Principal Diaries, the personal story behind writing it, and why education needs to evolve with today’s students. Find Brady’s book on Amazon: The Principal Diaries Finally, we sit down with Shetal Walters, founder of Desert Garden Montessori, to talk about building a school from her living room and growing it into a lasting community. Sheetal shares her perspective on purpose-driven education, partnership with families, student independence, creativity, and preparing children for a rapidly changing future. She also discusses what makes Desert Garden Montessori unique and her vision for what’s next. Learn more HERE: https://desertgardenmontessori.org/ 00:07 Intro 02:51 Jessica Symmes – Family Nurse Practitioner & Educator 20:17 Brady Wald– Author & Principal at Summit School 37:41 Shetal Walters – Founder & Executive Director- Desert Garden Montessori#MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #ArizonaPodcast #PhoenixAZ #Ahwatukee #Education #ArizonaEducation #Leadership #Mentorship #Nursing #Dance #HealthcareLeadership #GCU #GrandCanyonUniversity #FamilyPractice #SummitSchool #ThePrincipalDiaries #SchoolCulture #CommunityLeadership #DesertGardenMontessori #MontessoriEducation #PurposeDriven #StudentLeadership #Podcast #LocalLeaders

This week on Move the Needle, we're at Vero Chicago Pizza in Ahwatukee, we’re talking neuroscience, leadership, resilience, accountability, and finding purpose through unexpected moments! Special thanks to our partners for this episode:Amy Richardson, Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ Coulter INFINITI: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Contemporary Dental Concepts: https://cosmeticdentistryaz.com/ Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... Brewer’s Air Conditioning & Heating: https://www.brewersac.com/ Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... First, we sit down with Matt Bush, founder of Next Level Neuro, to talk about the connection between the brain, pain, and nervous system regulation. Matt explains how injuries impact the brain’s internal “map” of the body, why chronic pain can linger long after healing, and how simple neurological exercises can improve performance, reduce stress, and build resilience. Learn more about Matt and Next Level Neuro HERE: https://nextlevelneuro.com/ Next, we’re joined by Sandra Marshall, artist, entrepreneur, and animal rescue advocate. Sandra shares the emotional story of Theodore, the pitbull who unexpectedly appeared on her doorstep and completely changed the direction of her life. From nationally recognized food art and creative events to raising awareness for rescue animals, Sandra opens up about purpose, compassion, and using creativity to inspire connection and community. Learn more about Sandra HERE: https://sandramarshallart.com/ Finally, we sit down with Demetris Love, founder of M^NUP, to discuss personal responsibility, accountability, leadership, and mindset. Centered around the mission of raising awareness about accountability in every area of life, Demetris shares powerful insights on growth, ownership, perseverance, and the importance of keeping things personal. Connect with Demetris HERE: https://www.instagram.com/manup4life?... Timestamps: 00:07 Intro 03:07 Matt Bush – Founder of Next Level Neuro 23:16 Sandra Marshall – Artist & Author 38:10 Demetris Love – Principal, Founder of M^NUP #MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #ArizonaPodcast #PhoenixAZ #ScottsdaleAZ #Neuroscience #BrainHealth #NervousSystem #Mindset #Leadership #Accountability #KeepItPersonal #MNUP #PersonalGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Community #AnimalRescue #Creativity #MentalHealth #podcast #Biohacking

This week on Move the Needle, we’re back with Episode 88 featuring conversations about confidence, resilience, mentorship, mental health, leadership, and community! Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/ • Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ • Amy Richardson– Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ First, we sit down with Chloe Heller, Miss Queen Creek, who shares her journey through pageantry, mentorship, and self-confidence. Chloe opens up about overcoming insecurities growing up, the impact her mother and mentors had on her life, and how organizations like Girls Rule Foundation helped shape her mission to empower young women. Through social media, mentorship, and speaking opportunities, Chloe is helping young girls find confidence and step fully into their greatness. Learn more HERE: https://www.instagram.com/missqueencr... Next, we’re joined by Jason Gillett, Marine veteran and founder of Guild Health Group. Jason shares his powerful story growing up in foster care and homelessness before serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. From navigating trauma and fatherhood to breaking generational cycles and advocating for mental health support, this conversation dives deep into resilience, purpose, and what it truly means to lead through adversity. Learn more HERE: https://www.guildhealthgroup.com/ Finally, we sit down with Carter Alcock, owner of Fitness 1440, to talk about building more than just a gym - creating a community. From youth hockey coaching and leadership to motivation, discipline, and helping people overcome intimidation in fitness spaces, this conversation highlights the importance of connection, consistency, and investing in yourself one day at a time. Learn more HERE: https://www.instagram.com/fitness1440... Timestamps: 00:07 Intro 02:07 Chloe Hiller – Miss Queen Creek 2026 23:29 Jason Gillett – Marine Veteran & Founder of Gilded Health Group 47:54 Carter Alcock – Owner of Fitness 1440 #movetheneedle #MTNPodcast #PhoenixAZ #ArizonaPodcast #GilbertAZ #QueenCreek #MissQueenCreek #MentalHealth #Leadership #Resilience #Veterans #Community #Fitness #PersonalGrowth #SelfConfidence #Entrepreneurship #Mindset #Motivation #MensMentalHealth #WomenEmpowerment #Podcast

This week on Move the Needle, we’re in Chandler at Bottle & Bean with conversations centered around purpose-driven leadership, personal transformation, and the power of building community. Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://www.brooklynvspizza.com/ • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ • Von Hanson’s Meats & Spirits: https://vonhansons.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Amy Richardson – Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ First, we sit down with James Madison, Founder and CEO of OnPurpose Life, where he works with high-achieving executives and leadership teams to unlock clarity, confidence, and purpose. With a background leading soldiers as a U.S. Army Captain and later guiding teams in Fortune 500 companies, James brings a unique perspective on what it means to lead when the stakes are high. Known for his reputation-driven business built on results and referrals, he shares how elite performers can elevate their leadership, build deeper trust, and create lasting impact. Learn more HERE: https://www.onpurpose-life.com/ Next, we’re joined by Linzee Belle, an embodiment coach, motivational speaker, and spiritual mentor dedicated to helping women reconnect with themselves on a deeper level. As co-owner of Align and Allow retreats, Linzee creates transformative experiences around the world focused on healing, alignment, and self-discovery. Through her own journey of overcoming trauma and personal struggle, she now guides others using breathwork, somatic practices, and mindfulness techniques to turn pain into purpose and unlock true inner power. Learn more HERE: https://www.linzeebelle.com/align-all... Finally, we sit down with Jenny Bryan, who stepped in to share a behind-the-scenes look at what’s happening in Downtown Ocotillo. As Chief of Operations, she works closely with Spike Lawrence and has been part of the area’s growth over the past four and a half years. From the evolution of Bottle & Bean to new concepts like Luca Coastal and updates to The Living Room and Bonsai, Jenny breaks down the changes, the vision behind them, and what guests can expect as the Ocotillo dining scene continues to grow. Learn more about Downtown Ocotillo HERE: https://www.dtocotillo.com/ 00:07 Intro 02:38 James Madison – Founder & CEO of OnPurpose Life 25:50 Linzee Belle – Embodiment Coach & Retreat Leader 50:29 Jenny Bryan – Event Director, Downtown Ocotillo #movetheneedle #MTNPodcast #ChandlerAZ #PhoenixAZ #ArizonaPodcast #EastValleyAZ #podcast #Leadership #ExecutiveCoaching #PurposeDriven #HighPerformance #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessGrowth #HealingJourney #MindBodyConnection #Breathwork #WomensEmpowerment #SpiritualGrowth #SelfDiscovery #CommunityMatters #EventPlanning #LocalBusiness #Networking #DowntownOcotillo #EntrepreneurLife

This week on Move the Needle, we’re filming on location in Arizona, featuring conversations around mental health advocacy, purpose-driven leadership, and creating impact through business and community. Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Amy Richardson – Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ • Brewer’s A/C & Heating: https://www.brewersac.com/ • Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ First, we sit down with Francine Sumner, founder and CEO of Kid in the Corner, a nonprofit dedicated to shattering the stigma around mental illness. After losing her son Zach to suicide in 2017, Francine turned her grief into purpose—building an organization that has now reached over 30,000 people nationwide. She also serves on the board of Mental Health America of Arizona and is a certified Youth Mental Health First Aid Trainer. Learn more HERE: https://www.kidinthecorner.org/ Next, we’re joined by Dr. Trent Smallwood, founder of Contemporary Dental Concepts and a leader in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry. He shares his approach to modern, patient-focused care, combining advanced technology with a conservative, education-first philosophy. Dr. Smallwood is also an internationally recognized speaker and author of the best-selling book Platinum Paradigm. Learn more HERE: https://cosmeticdentistryaz.com/ Finally, we sit down with Michelle Cirocco, a purpose-driven executive, nonprofit leader, and public speaker known for her work with 100+ Women. Michelle shares her perspective on leadership, growth, and using business as a force for good. With a career spanning management, sales, marketing, and operations, she has built a reputation for turning vision into execution while driving meaningful impact. Recognized as a Most Admired Leader, World Changing Woman, and WP Carey Hall of Fame honoree, Michelle is dedicated to creating opportunities, fostering collaboration, and helping others step into their full potential. Connect with Michelle HERE: https://www.instagram.com/mlcirocco?u... 00:07 Intro 02:21 Francine Sumner - Founder of Kid in the Corner 23:16 Dr. Trent Smallwood - Founder of Centre for Contemporary Dental Concept 45:52 Michelle Cirocco - Purpose Driven Growth & Strategy Executive #movetheneedle #MTNPodcast #Ahwatukee #PhoenixAZ #ArizonaPodcast #GilbertAZ #EastValleyAZ #MentalHealthAwareness #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthMatters #SuicidePrevention #CommunityImpact #WomenWhoLead #WomenInBusiness #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDriven #SecondChances #NonprofitLeadership #CriminalJusticeReform #Dentistry #CosmeticDentistry #HealthcareInnovation #BusinessLeadership #Entrepreneurship #podcastepisode

This week on Move the Needle, we’re filming on location at Bottle & Bean in Chandler! Featuring conversations around personal transformation, community impact, and young entrepreneurship. Special thanks to our partners for this episode:• Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/• Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...• Von Hansons Meats & Spirits: https://vonhansonsmeats.net/• Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/• Savvy Realty Group – Amy Richardson: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/• Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ First, we sit down with Jeff Lobeck, Assistant Fire Captain and coach with Robbins Research International. Jeff shares how his work with Tony Robbins’ organization has shaped his approach to leadership, health, and personal development. Through his work with Healthy Once and For All, he helps overwhelmed, stressed parents reclaim their energy, improve their health, and become strong, present role models for their families. His mission centers on creating lasting transformation that impacts not just individuals—but generations to come. Connect with Jeff HERE: https://www.instagram.com/lobeckjeff?... Next, we’re joined by Lisha Dunlap, PR & Marketing Director with Maricopa Community Colleges and a representative of the East Valley Giving Circle. Lisha shares her background in public relations and communications, along with her passion for storytelling and community outreach. She also highlights the impact of the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation, including support for GateWay Community College’s Student Emergency Fund—providing critical assistance to students facing unexpected financial hardships so they can stay on track with their education. Learn more HERE: https://directory.maricopa.edu/person... Finally, we sit down with Mariana McWilliams, a 13-year-old CEO and founder of Mari’s Gold. Mariana shares how she started her business at just 12 years old, inspired by local vendor markets and a desire to create something of her own. Today, Mari’s Gold brings fun and flavor to events across the Valley with snow cones, popcorn, and custom experiences. Beyond her business, Mariana is passionate about empowering other young entrepreneurs—hosting youth markets and even publishing her own books, inspiring kids to dream big and take action early. Learn more about Mari's Gold HERE: https://shopmarisgold.com/ 00:07 Intro02:12 Jeff Lobeck - Assistant Fire Captain at Robbins Research International 28:30 Lisha Dunlap - PR Marketing Director at Maricopa Community College50:45 Mariana McWilliams - Founder of Mari’s Gold #MoveTheNeedle #PodcastEpisode #ChandlerAZ #PhoenixAZ #ArizonaBusiness #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessLife #WomenInBusiness #YoungEntrepreneur #Kidpreneur #TonyRobbins #PersonalDevelopment #HealthAndWellness #LeadershipDevelopment #CommunityImpact #GiveBack #NonprofitSupport #EducationMatters #MaricopaCommunityColleges #LocalBusinessAZ #SupportLocalAZ #CreativeEntrepreneur #BusinessPodcast #InspirationDaily #successmindset

This week on Move the Needle: filmed at Brooklyn V’s Pizza in Gilbert, AZ, featuring conversations with a local publisher, a rising creative entrepreneur, and a third-generation Arizona restaurateur. Special thanks to our partners for this episode:• Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/• Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/• Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/• Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... First, we sit down with Michaela Hetherington, publisher of Mesa City Lifestyle. Michaela shares how she and her husband built the magazine from the ground up, why print still matters in a digital world, and how the publication has become a powerful connector for local businesses and leaders—while she balances life as a wife and mother of four. Learn more about MCL HERE: https://citylifestyle.com/mesaaz Next, we’re joined by Kenna Rettew, founder of Kicks By Kenna. At just 21, Kenna has transformed a lockdown hobby into a nationally recognized custom sneaker business, working with Olympians, professional athletes, and major sports organizations. She shares how it all started, what goes into painting custom kicks, and how being part of the Arizona Diamondbacks activation team continues to open doors. Follow Kenna HERE: https://www.instagram.com/kicks_by_ke... Finally, we sit down with Tim Vasquez, third-generation owner of Someburros and Isabel’s Amor. Tim reflects on growing a family restaurant brand across Arizona, leading with legacy and intention, and his recent honor as 2025 Alumnus of the Year from ASU’s Hugh Downs School of Human Communication. Learn more about Someburros history HERE: https://www.someburros.com/history

This week on Move the Needle: filmed on location at Bottle & Bean, featuring conversations on entrepreneurship, resilience, creative financing, & philanthropy-driven leadership! Special thanks to our partners: Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... Von Hansons Meats & Spirits: https://vonhansonsmeats.net/ Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Amy Richardson - Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ First, we sit down with Matt Kuiper, founder of Desert Plunge, an Arizona-based company providing handcrafted, high-quality cold plunge tubs. Matt shares his journey from a 20-year career in the electrical industry to building a wellness brand rooted in discipline, recovery, and long-term performance. His story highlights the power of reinvention, accountability, and building something meaningful after adversity. Learn more HERE: https://desertplunge.com/ Next, we’re joined by Dean Bloxom, entrepreneur, financier, and film producer. Dean built and scaled imortgage.com into one of the strongest independent mortgage bankers in the U.S. before its acquisition by loanDepot, employing more than 2,500 people nationwide. He now applies that same disciplined approach to Hollywood through Deano Productions, producing feature films with global distribution. Projects discussed include Waltzing with Brando, starring Billy Zane, Jon Heder, and Richard Dreyfuss. The Last Son, starring Sam Worthington and Machine Gun Kelly. Dean also shares how storytelling, financing, and charitable initiatives intersect in his current work. Learn more HERE: https://deanoprods.com/ Finally, we sit down with Shelby Arians, Vice President Portfolio Wealth Advisor and representative of the Arians Family Foundation (AFF). With over 20 years of experience in financial services, Shelby discusses her multi-dimensional approach to portfolio management, financial planning, and philanthropic advisory. She also shares the mission of the Arians Family Foundation—“A Voice For Children”—and its work supporting CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) to help children involved in the court system due to abuse or neglect receive advocacy, care, and support. Learn more about the Arians Family Foundation: https://ariansfamilyfoundation.com/ 00:07 Intro 01:57 Matt Kuiper - Owner of Desert Plunge 27:08 Dean Bloxom - Deano Productions 51:56 Shelby Arians - VP Portfolio Wealth Advisor & Arians Family Foundation's

This week on Move The Needle: filmed on location at Brooklyn V’s Pizza, featuring community leaders and changemakers driving meaningful change through nonprofit leadership, public service, and digital equity. Special thanks to our partners: Coulter Infiniti – https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Brooklyn V’s Pizza – https://brooklynvspizza.com/ Belle Lacet Lingerie – https://bellelacetlingerie.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee – https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... First, we sit down with Shante Saulsberry, former candidate for Arizona State House Representative, founder of Janice’s Women’s Center, and owner of Janice Vaincre Boutique. Shante shares her journey through law, entrepreneurship, and nonprofit leadership and highlights the mission of Janice’s Women’s Center, which provides housing and safe lodging for women experiencing homelessness or navigating domestic violence situations. Learn more and support the mission here: https://www.janiceswomenscenter.com Next, we’re joined by Erin Carr-Jordan, President and CEO of the Institute for Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA) and Executive Director of Digital Equity and Social Impact at Arizona State University. Dr. Carr-Jordan discusses building systems that actually work, leading large-scale impact initiatives, and what it takes to bridge technology, policy, and human-centered design. Learn more about IDIA HERE: https://theidia.org/ Finally, we meet Chef Nick Farrer, longtime culinary consultant for Isabel’s Amor in Gilbert. Nick has been instrumental in shaping the restaurant’s menu since 2013, recently launched his TikTok channel (@southchicagochef), which has grown to more than 25,000 followers, and built his own hot sauce brand, Southside Sauces. We discuss his appearances on Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games, his upcoming competition in the Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans, and how his South Chicago roots continue to influence his cooking. Connect with Chef Nick HERE: https://www.instagram.com/southchicag... 00:07 Intro 03:13 Shante Saulsberry - Founder of Janice’s Women’s Center & Owner of Janice Vaincre Boutique 53:42 Nick Farrer - Chef

This week on Move The Needle: filmed on location at Coulter Infiniti in Mesa, AZ, featuring community leaders, advocates, and innovators making a real impact across the Valley. Special thanks to our partners: Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/ Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... First, we chat with Helen Dang, Miss Mesa 2026. Helen is a full-time medical student at A.T. Still University–School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona and the newly crowned Miss Mesa 2026. Coming from a low socioeconomic background, she shares how scholarship support made it possible to pursue her dream of becoming the first doctor in her family. As Miss Mesa, Helen leads her initiative Advocacy and Action for the Houseless, expanding compassionate care through kindness kits, naloxone distribution, and community outreach. Follow Helen HERE: https://www.instagram.com/dangghelen?... Next, we sit down with Brock Bevell, Founder of The Fentanyl Project AZ. A former undercover detective turned addiction recovery advocate, Brock has educated over four million people through awareness and harm reduction efforts. After retiring from law enforcement due to injuries sustained on duty, he founded The Fentanyl Project AZ to fight the addiction crisis through education, prevention, and community partnerships. Learn more about The Fentanyl Project AZ HERE: https://www.instagram.com/fentanylpro... Finally, we talk with Cathy Droz, Founder and CEO of HER Certified®. With more than 50 years in the automotive industry and over 700 vehicles test-driven, Cathy is a nationally recognized author and advocate for women car buyers. She founded HER Certified®, the industry’s first dealer certification focused on Honesty, Excellence, and Respect, helping dealerships better serve female consumers. Learn more about HER Certified HERE: http://hercertified.com/ 00:07 Intro 00:38 Henry Rivero - GM at Coulter Infiniti 03:51 Helen Dang - Miss Mesa 21:16 Brock Bevell - Founder of The Fentanyl Project AZ 45:50 Cathy Droz, HER Certified - Dealer Events Consultant #movetheneedle #podcast #mtn #arizona #community #az #azcommunity #entrepreneur #movingtheneedle #mesaaz #mesaarizona #gilbertaz #gilbert #hercertified #womeninleadership #fentanylcrisis #fentanyl #missamericana #missmesa #cardealership #carsales #womeninbusiness

This week on Move The Needle — filmed on location at Vero Chicago Pizza, featuring local business owners, nonprofit leaders, and community change-makers making a real impact across the Valley. Special thanks to our partners: Savvy Realty Group – Amy Richardson: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/ Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ First, we spotlight Lookie, It’s a Cookie!, a local custom sugar cookie business offering beautifully decorated cookies, cookie cakes, and hands-on cookie classes—including the popular Cookie After Dark. From custom orders (2–5 dozen cookies) to 10” cookie cakes with royal icing details, Lookie, It’s a Cookie! brings creativity and sweetness to every celebration. Learn more and order here: https://lookie-its-a-cookie.square.site Instagram: @lookiecookieaz Next, we sit down with Kimberly Selchan, Business Growth Coach and Regional Owner of Tutor Doctor Chandler-Gilbert-Ahwatukee. With over 20 years as a people leader and more than six years growing her franchise to 90+ staff and nearly 2,000 clients, Kimberly shares insights on scaling service-based businesses and supporting today’s youth through one-to-one academic coaching and mentorship. Tutor Doctor provides personalized tutoring from Pre-K through college, including STEM, test prep, executive function coaching, special needs support, and ESL. Tutor Doctor is currently hiring tutors across the Phoenix area. Find out more about Tutor Doctor HERE: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... Finally, we talk with Kimberly Vehon, Founder and CEO of Foster Arizona and the Foster Arizona Housing Project. Kimberly shares her powerful mission to change the foster care system through education, connection, and action. Foster Arizona supports children currently in foster care and young adults ages 18–24 transitioning out of the system by providing resources, community, and safe housing—helping create stability, independence, and hope for the future. Find out more about Foster Arizona HERE: https://freeartsaz.org/ 00:07 Intro 03:14 Monica Gellman - Owner of Lookie, it's a Cookie 21:58 Kim Selchan - Owner of Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee 42:13 Kim Vehon - Found & CEO of Foster Arizona For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com Follow along on our other Platforms! Instagram: / mtn_podcast TikTok: / mtn_podcast Facebook: / mtnpodcast Learn More about Mathew Blades or Steve Petz: Mathew Blades: / mathewblades Steve Petz: / stevepetz Video captured and edited by Max Muehlhausen: Email: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com

This week on Move The Needle — filmed on location at Brooklyn V’s in Gilbert, AZ Special thanks to our partners: Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/ Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... First, we sit down with Chelsey Hauston of @letthemeatthis — the largest food TikTok account in Arizona and one of the Southwest’s leading food and travel creators. Since 2019, she has built a community of over half a million followers while spotlighting local restaurants and producing content for more than 30 Arizona eateries. With graduate studies at Thunderbird School of Global Management and a background in education, Chelsey blends storytelling, strategy, and community impact in her work. Follow her on IG: / letthemeatthis Next, we speak with Lauren Blankenhorn, Executive Director and Founder of Nourish and Nurture AZ, a nonprofit diaper and formula bank serving families in Pinal County. She shares critical insights into the challenges facing local parents: 43% of Arizona infants are born into poverty, 1 in 2 families struggle to afford diapers, and 13% must choose between basic expenses and infant formula. Nourish and Nurture provides essential supplies and compassionate support to families in need. Learn more about Lauren HERE: https://www.nourishandnurtureaz.com/a.... Finally, we talk with Carol Burgard, Operations Consultant and Fractional Director of Operations. Carol helps businesses scale by creating strong systems, clear workflows, and aligned operations. With deep experience in project management, sales, and leadership development, she bridges the gap between big-picture vision and day-to-day execution. As a mentor with the Young & Empowered Women Group, she is committed to empowering leaders to grow with confidence and clarity. Connect with Carol HERE: / carolburgardofficial 00:07 Intro 02:28 Chelsey Hauston - AZ Food & Travel Blogger 26:18 Lauren Blankenhorn - Founder of Nourish and Nurture AZ 45:50 Carol Burgard - Operations Consultant For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com Follow along on our other Platforms! Instagram: / mtn_podcast TikTok: / mtn_podcast Facebook: / mtnpodcast Learn More about Mathew Blades or Steve Petz: Mathew Blades: / mathewblades Steve Petz: / stevepetz Video captured and edited by Max Muehlhausen: Email: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com