Move the Needle
Hosted by former radio personality Mathew Blades and community catalyst Steve Petz, Move the Needle spotlights extraordinary individuals dedicated to positive community impact within Arizona. Our mission is to celebrate the unsung heroes and local legends who embody the spirit of community-driven change. Through engaging interviews and compelling profiles, we delve into the lives of those making a difference. Our content features in-depth conversations exploring their motivations, challenges, and successes. We also highlight initiatives and organizations that embody values of collaborative efforts, community events, and grassroots movements that contribute to positive change. Every week, we share stories of resilience, kindness, and empowerment to inspire and mobilize others. By focusing on transformative actions and collaborative efforts, we aim to foster a more compassionate and connected world.
Episodes

5 hours ago
5 hours ago
This week, we're bringing you an insightful episode recorded on location at Craft 64 in Scottsdale, AZ, featuring three awesome guests!
First, we sit down with Aaron Auxier of "Story Of A Lifetime"! Known for his dedication to protecting his clients' privacy, Aaron has earned a reputation as the real estate world's Leigh Steinberg, representing some of the globe's most respected entertainers, CEOs, athletes, and inspirational leaders throughout his impressive two-decade career. We'll delve into what drives his unique approach and gain insights into his world.
Get connected with Aaron HERE:
https://williamsluxuryhomes.com/aaron-auxier/
Next, we are honored to speak with Bari Mears from the Phoenix Animal Care Coalition! Hear her inspiring story of uniting over 100 partner groups to help animals through adoption events, public education, fundraisers, a pet food bank, a thrift boutique, and a Critical Care Program. Learn about her background in broadcast and her seven published books supporting this cause. Learn more about PACC911 HERE:
https://pacc911.org/
Finally, we're thrilled to welcome Carey Pena, the Emmy-winning Journalist and Founder of Inspired Media 360! Carey shares her inspiring journey and the mission behind her social-first media shop, which focuses on telling the story behind the story to inform, inspire, and engage communities with optimism. We'll discuss her insights on content creation across podcasts, digital TV shows, and social outreach, as well as her "5 Keys to Success."
Learn more about Inspired Media 360 HERE:
https://inspiredmedia360.com/
00:00 Intro
01:15 Aaron Auxier – Pres. Celebrity/Sports Div. Williams Luxury
21:20 Bari Mears – Pres./Founder PACC911
41:30 Carey Pena – Journalist & Founder Inspired Media 360
If you enjoy these conversations, please like, subscribe, and share!
For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE:
MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com
Follow along on our other Platforms!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mtn_podcast/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mtn_podcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mtnpodcast
Learn More about Mathew Blades or Steve Petz:
Mathew Blades: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mathewblades/
Steve Petz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevepetz/
Video captured and edited by Max Muehlhausen:
Email: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com

3 days ago
3 days ago
This week, we're hanging out at Hair of the Dog in Gilbert, AZ, with another awesome lineup of guests!
A big shoutout to our incredible advertising partners for this episode:
Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/
Brooklyn V’s: https://brooklynvspizza.com/
Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...
First up, we're catching up with the incredibly talented professional local musician, Thomas James! After a break from the scene, Thomas is back and making waves. Hear about his journey jamming with some of the best in the business and the exciting news of his return with LANDED, a band with deep roots. Plus, we'll get the scoop on his solo projects.
You can follow Thomas on Instagram HERE: @thethomasjamesband And check out LANDED here: @landedtheband
Next, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Bridget Fitzgibbons, a true powerhouse in the medical and cosmetic industries. With dual certifications in psychology and social work, and over a decade of experience in laser aesthetics, she's a clinical researcher, physician, therapist, and entrepreneur. Discover her work traveling the globe teaching the latest cosmetic techniques and her ownership of Hello Handsome Med Spa & Modern Medicine & Aesthetics Training Institute. We'll also delve into her passionate advocacy against human trafficking and her involvement with the Arizona Naturopathic Medical Association.
Learn more about Hello Handsome Med Spa HERE: https://www.drbridgetfitzgibbons.com/ Finally, we're excited to chat with Brian McKean, the Co-Owner and Founder of The Sacred Pint! Get the inside scoop on this brand new community gathering spot opening in Downtown Queen Creek. Brian shares his diverse background, from sailing to business, and his vision for creating a welcoming space with yard games and a friendly atmosphere. As the approachable owner of Old Ellsworth Brewing Company and a key member of the Queen Creek community's arts and economic development initiatives, Brian has a wealth of experience to share.
Stay tuned for the grand opening of The Sacred Pint in Downtown Queen Creek!
Learn about Old Ellsworth Brewing Company HERE: https://www.oldellsworthbrewing.com/
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to support our amazing guests and the exciting things they're doing in our community!
Brewing 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

Wednesday May 07, 2025
Wednesday May 07, 2025
This week, we're at Rock Lobster in Chandler, AZ, with a great lineup!
Huge thanks to our advertising partners of this episode:
Brooklyn V’s: https://brooklynvspizza.com/
Darwin Wall Real Estate: https://www.darwinwall.com/
Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...
Let's dive in! First, we chat with Chef Chris George, accomplished chef, hospitality executive, and founder of Sea & Smoke in Chandler, AZ. Hear about his passion for high-end coastal cuisine and his role at Steering Hospitality CoOp. We discuss his background, including the Roy's connection, and what a CPFM certification means.
Learn more about Sea & Smoke and Chef Chris HERE: https://www.seaandsmokegrill.com/about
Next, we welcome Todd Davis, co-founder of LifeLock, an American identity theft protection company based in Tempe, Arizona. We learn all about his entrepreneurial journey in creating identity theft protection and the story behind LifeLock's success.
Connect with Todd HERE: / todd-davis-340058142
Finally, we chat with Jackie Shelley from Paz de Cristo as she shares their vital mission to help those facing hunger, poverty, and homelessness in the East Valley.
Learn how they empower individuals and about their upcoming golf tournament on May 10th, 2025: http://pazdecristo.org/get-involved/g...
And learn more about Jackie HERE: https://pazdecristo.org/our-news/paz-...
Paz De Cristo 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

Friday May 02, 2025
Friday May 02, 2025
This week's episode, filmed at Brooklyn V's Pizza in Gilbert, features two inspiring individuals dedicated to empowerment and healing!
A big thank you to our advertising partners who made this episode possible:
Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/
Brooklyn V’s: https://brooklynvspizza.com/
Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...
First, we speak with Heather Ferrari, President of The Women 360. This isn't just a networking group; it's a supportive community empowering women business owners through sisterhood, education, and resources. Members benefit from a 360 Directory, monthly speaker events, social gatherings, business exposure, and more. The Women 360 focuses on building genuine relationships and strategic partnerships to help women grow personally and professionally, with a mission to "shine one another's crowns." Interestingly, one of their featured speakers is DeAnna DuPree, who was just on our show for Episode 31!
Learn more about The Women 360 HERE: https://thewomen360.com/about-us
Then, we welcome Kaleigh Rogers, an experienced trauma expert and nationally certified therapist. With over a decade on the frontlines of mental health, Kaleigh has tackled addiction, suicide prevention, and trauma recovery in various settings. Having personally experienced profound healing through equine therapy for PTSD and addiction, she now passionately manages an Equine Therapy Program and is the owner of Shine His Light LLC and Executive Builder of Broken Arrow Wranglers.
Learn more about the Broken Arrow Wranglers HERE: https://www.azbrokenarrow.com/
Shine His Light HERE: https://www.azbrokenarrow.com/ctm_ss_...

Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
This week's episode features three impactful women!
Before we chat with today's guests, we want to thank our advertising partners for this episode:
Savvy Real Estate with Amy Richardson: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com
Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...
First, we talk with Christina Conte, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Certified Neonatal Therapist, and owner of The Feeding Fix. Based in Arizona, Christina specializes in pediatric feeding and swallowing difficulties, offering in-home support inspired by her own family's journey.
Learn more about the Feeding Fix HERE: https://thefeedingfix.com/
Connect with her on Instagram @thefeedingfix
Next, meet DeAnna DuPree of The DeAnna DuPree Experience in Scottsdale. She's a VIP wardrobe stylist and confidence coach for powerhouse businesswomen, helping them make strong impressions. DeAnna also founded the Impeccable Style Academy for aspiring stylists and is a speaker, retreat facilitator, and designer of the upcoming Di by DeAnna clothing line.
Connect with DeAnna DuPree HERE: https://deannadupree.com/
Finally, we welcome Donna Bartos, Founder & CEO of BLOOM365. Donna leads this organization dedicated to preventing domestic, sexual, and teen-dating violence, starting with a powerful vision in 2006.
Learn about her impactful work and the "Are you blooming or wilting?" concept HERE: https://bloom365.org/ Like, subscribe, and share to spread the inspiring stories of these incredible women!
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 #movetheneedle #movingtheneedle #mtn #movetheneedlepodcast #mtnpodcastseries #interview #podcast #arizona #community #scottsdale #pizza #phoenix #az #fashion #selfdevelopment #communitysupport #fashiontips

Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
This week's episode was filmed on location at the fantastic Vero Chicago Pizza in Ahwatukee, Arizona!
Before we get into today's guests, we want to thank our advertising partners who made this episode possible:
Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/
Savvy Real Estate with Amy Richardson: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com
Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...
Keystone Montessori: https://www.keystonemontessori.com/
First up, we have the inspiring Dr. Will Moreland! He is regarded as one of the most transformational speakers in the world and now dedicates his time to training other speakers, authors, consultants, and leaders on how to maximize their VOICE. You'll hear his powerful insights on leadership, creating a happy culture, and living from your C.O.R.E. With ties to Phoenix, Mexico, and St. Maarten, and having been recognized by the City of Phoenix and the Phoenix Human Rights Commission as a recipient of the 2023 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. "Living the Dream Award," Dr. Will's journey from the United States Army to empowering others is truly remarkable.
Learn more about Dr. Will Moreland HERE: https://www.morelandtraining.com/dr-w...
Next, we're thrilled to chat with the incredibly talented Hayden Conner! Ranked 2nd in the state for AZ Storm Elite volleyball, Hayden is a 6'3" Middle Blocker/Outside Hitter with an impressive standing reach of 95 inches and a standing blocking reach of 114 inches.
Learn about her journey, her commitment to the University of Washington, and her experiences playing Varsity volleyball for both Desert Vista and Corona Del Sol. Check out her HUDL page HERE: https://www.hudl.com/profile/12507331...
Finally, we welcome back Amy Richardson from Savvy Realty Group! With over 20 years of experience working in Ahwatukee and the southeast valley, Amy shares her deep understanding of the local real estate market. Discover her unique approach to helping clients visualize a home's full potential through proper staging and marketing, and her unwavering commitment to building lasting relationships based on trust and truly understanding her clients' specific needs.
Connect with Amy and explore your real estate dreams HERE: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com
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

Wednesday Apr 16, 2025
Wednesday Apr 16, 2025
This episode was filmed on-location at Belle Lacet Lingerie in Gilbert!
Before we dive into today's guests, we want to give a shoutout to our amazing advertising partners: Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/
Brooklyn V’s: https://brooklynvspizza.com/
First, we sit down with Jayne Reynolds, a Board Certified Holistic Nutritionist®. Jayne helps people balance their moods, boost energy, and decrease the need for medication through dietary changes. She offers insights from her Eat, Think, Thrive Webinar and 12-Week Coaching Program, focusing on a holistic approach to health and well-being.
Connect with Jayne HERE: / jayne-reynolds-03698413
Next, we welcome Marilee Baptiste, whose passion is serving others and who brings strengths in learning, achieving, intellect, analysis, and discipline. Marilee discusses her work with Midwest Food Bank, sharing their mission to alleviate hunger and malnutrition and provide disaster relief.
Learn more about Midwest Food Bank HERE: https://www.midwestfoodbank.org/
Finally, we talk with Karla Youmans from Belle Lacet Lingerie. She shares the story behind their boutiques in Phoenix and Gilbert, Arizona, and online, where they focus on empowering women and celebrating beauty in every size, offering a sanctuary for confidence, comfort, and style.
Learn more about Belle Lacet Lingerie HERE: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/ 00:00
Intro 01:13 Jayne Reynolds
Holistic Nutritionist 21:19
Merilee Baptiste – Midwest Foodbank 38:59
Karla Youmans – Belle Lacet Lingerie 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

Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
This episode was filmed on-location at Craft 64 Chandler!
Before we dive into today's guests, we want to give a shoutout to our amazing advertising partners:
Brooklyn V’s: https://brooklynvspizza.com/
Darwin Wall Real Estate: https://www.darwinwall.com/
Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...
First, we welcome Gus LaZear, the VP of Ability360 - A Center for Independent Living. Gus explains the vital role of a Center for Independent Living (CIL) as a nonprofit organization run by and for people with disabilities, dedicated to addressing community needs and breaking down barriers. He sheds light on Ability360's impressive Sports & Fitness Center, a unique facility specifically designed for individuals with disabilities and the only one of its kind in the Western United States. Gus also touches on Ability360's key areas of focus, including Advocacy, Home Modification, Employment, Life Transitions, and Training.
Learn more about Ability360 HERE: https://ability360.org/
Next, we sit down with Cheyenne Davis from the Axel Crew Foundation. Cheyenne shares the heartfelt mission of Axel Crew: to provide unwavering support, compassionate care, and ways to keep families together while navigating the challenging journey of childhood cancer treatment. She emphasizes the foundation's commitment to standing alongside parents, ensuring they never feel alone during this difficult time. Cheyenne also shares her personal journey as a morning radio personality on KMLE (after starting in Yakima, WA) and a busy mom of two boys. Her background as an EMT and her experiences overcoming domestic violence have fueled her passion for advocating for healthy relationships and overall well-being.
Learn more about the Axel Crew Foundation HERE: https://axelcrewfoundation.org/
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

Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
This episode was filmed on-location at Brooklyn V's Pizza in Gilbert!
Before we dive into today's guests, we want to give a shoutout to our amazing advertising partners: Belle Lacet, Darwin Wall Team, and Brooklyn V's Pizza!
First, we sit down with Teresa Porter, founder of Sirrine Yoga. Teresa reveals how Sirrine Yoga's transformative wellness programs are helping organizations reduce workplace stress by up to 75%. Whether virtually or in-person, her corporate sessions, emotional release work, and wellness retreats (including her upcoming October 2025 event) are changing how teams and individuals approach mental health. Teresa explains why dedicating just 60 minutes weekly or bi-weekly can revolutionize workplace culture, improve productivity, and foster deeper team connections.
Learn more about Sirrine Yoga HERE: https://www.sirrineyoga.com/
Next, we welcome Chef Ron Young, the founder of Foodvision. Chef Ron shares his unique journey from working in the corporate world at Nike and Victoria's Secret to cooking for professional athletes like Kyler Murray, Derrick Rose, and Odell Beckham Jr.
He recounts how a chance encounter with a customer led to his career transformation. Chef Ron also highlights Foodvision's offer of 10 custom meals for $125.
Follow Chef Ron and Foodvision HERE: Instagram: @azsdopeshef
Website: www.foodvisionmeals.com
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

Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
This episode was filmed on-location at Bottle & Bean in Ocotillo (Chandler, AZ)!
Before we dive into today's guests, we want to give a shoutout to our amazing advertising partners:
Brooklyn V's Pizza, for the best pizza in town: https://brooklynvspizza.com/
Darwin Wall Real Estate, your trusted guide in the local housing market: https://www.darwinwall.com/
Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee, empowering students to reach their full potential: https://www.tutordoctor.com/locations...
First, we sit down with Eric Sperling, CEO of STN. Eric shares his vision for STN, a dynamic media company created by experienced television journalists. He discusses the STN App, available on the App Store and Google Play, and how it delivers weekly updates featuring local shows and segments designed to inspire personal and professional growth by connecting viewers with the impactful stories of individuals and organizations within our community. Learn more about STN and download the app HERE: https://stntv.com/
Next, we welcome Lloyd Hopkins, Founder of the Million Dollar Teacher Project (MDTP). Lloyd, a graduate of Arizona State University with a passion for nonprofit leadership, discusses MDTP's mission to elevate the teaching profession. He highlights the organization's efforts to increase recognition, compensation, and support for teachers through programs like "Take a Teacher to Lunch" events and the Classroom Support Team. Lloyd shares the incredible impact MDTP has had, reaching 27,000 students and celebrating 900 teachers since its launch in 2016. Learn more about the Million Dollar Teacher Project HERE: https://www.mdtproject.org/
Finally, we speak with Julia Peters of Peixoto Coffee. Julia shares the story of her family's century-old coffee farm in southern Brazil and how she brought that legacy to Arizona with Peixoto Coffee. She discusses their commitment to sourcing sustainable green coffee and the art of crafting exceptional coffee experiences. Julia highlights the unique flavors and ingredients that make Peixoto's lattes a local favorite, from Madagascar vanilla bean paste to seasonal toppings like dried lavender and bee pollen.
Learn more about Peixoto Coffee HERE: https://peixotocoffee.com/
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