Move the Needle

MTN 45 Gilbert | Think Goodness Studio | Who Created Origami Owl? Find Out the Origin Story!

In this episode, we're diving into the world of entrepreneurship, family businesses, and community building- all recorded on location at the Think Goodness Studio in Gilbert!
A special thank you to this episode's partners:
Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/
Brooklyn V's Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/
First up, we're joined by the multi-talented Shawn Maxwell! An Arizona-born and raised native and Mesa High School alum, Shawn shares his incredible journey from serving 12 years with the Phoenix Fire Department to becoming a serial entrepreneur. He's the owner/operator behind Origami Owl (now Think Goodness), Fast Forklift™, and a PH Pros Real Estate Agent. Shawn, who has been married for 23 years with three kids, is passionate about growing small businesses, fostering amazing cultures, and investing in employees. Fast Forklift™ is his full-service shop for all material handling needs!
Learn more about Fast Forklift™ HERE: https://fastforklift.com/
 
Next, we welcome Tyson Basha, the insightful Co-Founder and Chief Inspiration Officer of Think Goodness! An ASU graduate from the WP Carey School of Business in Marketing, Tyson has been involved in his family's business since he was just 10 years old. He shares how he helped open the first mall kiosk for Origami Owl, developed marketing materials, and managed quality control. Today, Tyson's passion lies in connecting with Think Goodness' independent distributors, known as Purpose Partners, helping them achieve their dreams. Discover his daily mantra from an African proverb: "If there is no enemy within, the enemy outside cannot harm."
Learn more about Think Goodness HERE: https://thinkgoodness.com/
 
Finally, we chat with Chrissy Weems, the visionary Co-Founder and CEO of Origami Owl (now Think Goodness)! Chrissy shares the inspiring origin story of Origami Owl, which began when her then fourteen-year-old daughter, Bella, wanted a car. What started as Bella selling custom lockets to friends and family from a home party and local mall kiosk quickly grew into a significant force in the social selling arena. Chrissy, a mother of five and married for over 25 years, continues to create artistic designs and new ideas for the business.
Learn more about Origami Owl HERE: https://thinkgoodness.com/pages/origa...
 
Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these incredible entrepreneurs and learn about their journeys in building successful businesses and inspiring communities!
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
#podcast #movingtheneedle #movetheneedle #mtn #movetheneedlepodcast #interview #origamiowl #localbusiness #gilbert #gilbertaz #femalebusinessowner #womeninbusiness #womenleaders #jewellery #jewellerydesign

Episode 44 GILBERT Gilbert Game Changer

In this episode, we're celebrating powerful women who are shaping our community and beyond, right here in Gilbert, AZ!
This episode was recorded on location at Hair of the Dog.
A special thank you to this episode's partners:
Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/
Brooklyn V's: https://brooklynvspizza.com/
 
First, we're joined by Jenny Lynne, a unique Life Integration Guide & Certified Emotion Code® Practitioner. Jenny shares how her specialty combines energy work with traditional coaching to provide a truly expansive and effective framework for personal growth. She explains how her sessions blend goal-setting, energy work, and coaching to help individuals achieve deeper transformation.
Learn more about Jenny's work HERE: https://www.hellojennylynne.com/
Next up, we welcome Kim Powell, the insightful Spokesperson for Maricopa County Animal Care & Control! An Emmy award-winning news reporter and passionate animal lover, Kim discusses the vital mission of MC ACC: serving the people and pets of Maricopa County by fostering a safe community and reducing the homeless pet population. She also talks about their upcoming Suns Out Pups Out Foster Fair on Saturday, June 21, 2025 – a fantastic opportunity to help local animals!
Learn more HERE: https://www.maricopa.gov/5268/Animal-Care-and-Control
 
Finally, we chat with Sarah Watts, the dynamic President/CEO of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce! A proud graduate of Chandler High School and ASU Cronkite, Sarah leads an organization that has been the proactive business advocate in Gilbert since 1978. She discusses how the Chamber, with over 620 members representing more than 50,000 employees, actively works to strengthen Gilbert's business climate.
Learn more about Sarah's work with the Chamber HERE: https://gilbertaz.com/about-the-chamber
 
Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these incredible local leaders and their contributions to the Gilbert community!

MTN 43 Chandler | The Living Room | MLB Coach, from Pitching to Pizza

Join us this episode for an incredible lineup of guests right here in Chandler!
We're diving into the worlds of baseball, pageantry, and local government, and we've got some amazing stories to share- all filmed on location at The Living Room (Chandler)!
A special thank you to this episode's partners:
Brooklyn V's: https://brooklynvspizza.com/
Darwin Wall Real Estate: https://www.darwinwall.com/
Tutor Doctor: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...
 
First up, we're joined by Mike Butcher, also known as The Pizza Butcher! Mike shares incredible stories from his 35-year career in Major League Baseball, where he played for the Angels, Rays, and D-Backs. He also talks about his time as a coach, including being a part of the 2002 World Series-winning Angels leadership team. Now, he's bringing his leadership and passion to the culinary world with The Pizza Butcher! Don't miss his insights and a few baseball tales!
Learn more about The Pizza Butcher HERE: https://thepizzabutcher.com/
 
Next up, we chat with the inspiring Daynah Andrews, your Miss Maricopa County 2025! A Philosophy major at ASU, Daynah was born in South Africa and is a passionate Speech & Debate Coach. She's on a mission to empower others through her initiative, "Inner Voice, Outer Impact," which focuses on helping people find their confidence and make a real difference. Learn more about the amazing scholarship opportunities provided by the Miss America organization!
You can connect with her on Instagram HERE: @missmaricopacountyaz
 
Finally, we welcome Jennifer Hawkins, a dedicated Chandler City Council-member. An Arizona native and long-time Chandler resident, Jennifer is also the co-founder of Highline Car Care. She discusses her key priorities for Chandler, including fostering a business-friendly environment, ensuring smart spending, and maintaining safe communities. Plus, she shares her involvement with Miss Rodeo Arizona, Inc., an organization empowering young women and celebrating Arizona's western heritage.
Learn more about Jennifer's work with the City of Chandler HERE:
https://www.jenniferforchandler.com/
 
Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these incredible local heroes and their contributions to the Chandler community! 00:07 Intro 02:21 Mike Butcher - The Pizza Butcher 25:19 Dayna Andrews – Miss Maricopa County 48:35 Jennifer Hawkins - City of Chandler
 
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

MTN 42 Gilbert | Peixoto Coffee | Joe Johnston: How Gilbert's Agritopia Got Started

In this episode, we're celebrating local leaders shaping our community through passion and legacy - recorded on location at Peixoto Coffee in Gilbert, AZ!
Special thank you to this episode's partners:
Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/
Brooklyn V's: https://brooklynvspizza.com/
First, we're joined by Joe Johnston, the visionary behind Agritopia.
Joe discusses creating a modern village that honors his family's farming history, focusing on urban agriculture and bringing people together. He also teases "Project Q," the next exciting evolution for Agritopia.
Explore Agritopia HERE: https://www.agritopia.com/
 
Next up: the MTN Halftime Show! This episode features a special, live musical performance by local professional musician, singer, and songwriter, Jenn McMillan. She does killer renditions of 2 classic throw-backs as well as one of her own songs, "Fly Away""
Discover her music and work HERE: https://www.jennmcmillan.net/
Listen to "Fly Away" HERE: https://open.spotify.com/track/5EBdRb...
 
Finally, we chat with Anthony Spinato, from the family behind Spinato's Pizzeria. Anthony shares the journey of Spinato's over the past 50 years and announces their exciting new partnerships as the Official Pizza of both the Arizona Cardinals and the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury!
Find and learn more HERE: https://www.spinatospizzeria.com/gilbert
Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these incredible local heroes and their contributions to the Gilbert community!
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

Episode 41- CHANDLER "Shaping Downtown Chandler's Food & Fashion"

In this episode, we’re spotlighting powerhouse women leading with heart, strategy, and community impact, recorded on location at Boutique on Boston in Downtown Chandler!Special thanks this episode's partners:Brooklyn V’s: https://brooklynvspizza.com/Darwin Wall Real Estate: https://www.darwinwall.com/Tutor Doctor: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-gilbert/First, we sit down with Mindy Jones, Owner and Realtor at the Amy Jones Group and Founder of Community on Purpose. As an Exactly What to Say™ Certified Guide and a nationally recognized real estate leader, Mindy shares how effective communication, empathy, and curiosity can transform businesses and lives. She also speaks on her experience as a single mom and her mission to empower women through workshops, keynote speaking, and community-building programs.Learn more HERE: https://www.amyjonesgroup.com/about/Mindy-Jones-RealtorBook Mindy for an event: https://communityonpurpose.com/Next, we’re joined by Kim Moyers, Cultural Development Director for the City of Chandler. With nearly 30 years of experience in economic and downtown development, Kim discusses the transformation of Downtown Chandler, the growing arts and events scene, and how her team fosters cultural and economic growth across the city. From the Chandler Museum to special events, Kim’s work is helping shape a thriving, inclusive community.
Explore Chandler’s cultural programs at: https://www.chandleraz.gov/Finally, we talk with Denise McCreery, CEO and owner of the McCreery Family of Brands, including d’Vine Gourmet and Boutique on Boston. Denise shares the story behind her growing local food and fashion empire, her passion for supporting Arizona makers, and how Boutique on Boston brings unique, boutique-only women’s fashion to Downtown Chandler.
Shop and learn more HERE: https://www.dvinegourmet.com/ and https://www.boutiqueonboston.com/Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these inspiring local leaders and their impact on the Chandler community!

Episode 40- AHWATUKEE "Ready to E - LOVE ATE your life"

This episode, filmed live from Vero Chicago Pizza in Ahwatukee, features fantastic local businesses, community advocates, and inspiring stories!Thank you to our advertising partners of this epiosde:Amy Richardson - Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/Keystone Montessori: https://www.keystonemontessori.com/Tutor Doctor: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-gilbert/Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/restaurant-locations/ahwatukee-azFirst, we sit down with Theresa Paganini. Theresa first highlights the Arizona Community Theatrical Company (ACT Ahwatukee). ACT guides students to grow, overcome fears, and build confidence through performance, fostering community through the joy of theater. Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 24th, at the New School for the Arts and Academics for their "To ACT With Love" Variety Fundraiser and the Cameo Award Banquet. ACT also offers summer programs with All-Star Packages for Weeks 1 (June 9-13), 2 (June 16-20), and 3 (July 7-11), plus a la carte classes and a Moana Jr. production option.
Learn more about ACT HERE: https://azact.org/Theresa then discusses her own businesses, e-LOVE-ate and Love Yourself Lean. As a Mind Body Transformation Coach and Self-Love Advocate, she explains her passion: helping women use self-love to live with vitality. She offers a year-long deconditioning/reconditioning program to build self-confidence through consistent self-love practice. Theresa focuses on middle-aged women who, despite their success, still feel "not enough."
Learn more about e-LOVE-ate HERE: https://eloveate.co/ 
Learn more about Love Yourself Lean HERE: https://loveyoulean.com/Next, hear the powerful story of Ruben Gammage, founder of 24 Apparel and Team 24. After losing everything during Hurricane Katrina and experiencing homelessness, Ruben created Team 24 in 2013 to empower Arizona's youth. Valerie Lopez praises Team 24's dedication to community and youth mentorship. The non-profit offers a 6-month football program providing life skills and mentorship, a year-round life skills program, and a year-round financial literacy program, all aimed at helping young people reach their full potential.Learn more about Team 24 HERE: https://team-24.org/Finally, meet the inspiring Kate Ringer, Miss Maricopa County's Teen. This 17-year-old junior at Xavier College Prep is a dancer, theatre kid, and competitive archer. Her service initiative, FurEver Friends, aims to improve the shelter quality of life and increase adoption rates for pets, inspired by her own furry companions. Kate also advocates for those with chronic illnesses, drawing on her own experience to inspire others that their illness doesn't define them.Please like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these incredible local heroes and their organizations!

MTN 39 Scottsdale | PV Community College | Vitalant & The Urgent Need for Blood Donation

Get ready for an episode packed with vital community insights from Paradise Valley Community College's Festival of Tales!
First up, we sit down with Rob Van Tuyle, President and COO of Vitalant. Rob, a seasoned executive and advocate, shares why diverse blood donors are crucial for Sickle Cell patients and reveals that only 3% of the population donates. Learn about the Sickle Cell Relay at PVCC on September 20th (8 AM-12 PM, track field) – aiming for 50 donations!
Sign up to donate and make a difference HERE: https://www.vitalant.org/
Next, meet Meggin Kirk, Co-Director of PVCC's Education Program. Meggin, a passionate advocate for a better world, discusses PVCC's extensive 125+ degree and certificate programs (including Nursing, Video Game Production, and Fire Science!), and the unique opportunities within early childhood education.
Learn more about PVCC's Education Programs HERE: https://www.paradisevalley.edu/degree...
Finally, prepare to be inspired by Aleta, a queer, trans, poly Education Major and social advocate. Hear Aleta's unique journey and his insights into the importance of respecting children in learning. His focus on hands-on, applied learning in STEM, and his upcoming graduation in 2027 from the Bachelor's program, showcases the incredible talent at PVCC.
Please like, subscribe, and share this episode to help support these incredible initiatives! 
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

Episode 38- GILBERT- 100+ Women "Fly Fishing therapy for breast cancer"

This week, we're filming at the delicious Brooklyn V's in Gilbert, in partnership with 100+ Women Who Care!
First, a big shout-out to our amazing partners of this episode, who's support makes this all possible:
Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/
Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-gilbert/
Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/
Let's dive into inspiring stories and impactful work in our community:
Our first guest, Karen Gruminger from  @CastingforrecoveryOrg1  shares how their retreats offer women with breast cancer a unique blend of fly fishing and psychosocial support. Discover how nature and camaraderie create a healing experience.
Learn more HERE: https://castingforrecovery.org/
Next, we welcome Trinity Donovan, CEO of AZ Send, who discusses their comprehensive approach to tackling homelessness. From food assistance to early literacy programs, learn how  @AZCEND  is making a difference in preventing evictions and supporting those in need.
Learn more HERE: https://azcend.org/
Finally, Shane Musgrove ( @17-Days ) the creator of 17 Days, a public speaking platform dedicated to helping others navigate grief, loss, adversity, addiction, and more, opens up about his personal journey through his own grief after losing his wife to cancer. Hear how he's turned his loss into purpose, including writing a children's book, "My Grandma is an Angel," to help others navigate the complexities of loss.
Connect with Shane and learn more about 17 Days HERE: https://www.instagram.com/_17_days?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com
Follow our journey on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mtn_podcast/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mtn_podcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mtnpodcast
Connect with your Hosts:
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
#movetheneedlepodcast #movingtheneedle #mtn #podcast #community #arizona #cancer #cancersupport #breastcancer #breastcancerawareness #mentalhealth #cancersurvivor #survivorship #grief #griefcounseling #fundraising #hunger #poverty #homelessness #gilbert #gilbertaz #phoenix #motivational #motivationalspeaker

MTN 37 Scottsdale | HomeSmart | “Big dogs and naked chocolate”

This week, we're broadcasting from the vibrant heart of the Valley at HomeSmart in Scottsdale!
Our first guest is Kendall Hospenthal from Friends of Ohana. Kendall shares the inspiring mission of this nonprofit, focusing on breaking historical cycles for foster youth. Discover their Life Launch program, which equips young adults with essential life skills, and learn about Hanai Coffee, their employment hub for aged-out foster youth.
Learn more HERE: https://www.ohanaaz.org/programs/frie...
Next, we chat with Steve Hoffman from Saving Paws Rescue, a dog rescue located in Glendale, AZ. Steve discusses the organization's commitment to rescuing and rehoming German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois. He highlights the unique characteristics of these breeds and shares his personal journey of adopting a rescue dog named Kala.
Learn more HERE: https://www.savingpawsrescueaz.org/
 
Finally, we welcome Sue Berliner, the creative force behind b Naked Chocolates. Sue introduces us to her world of healthy, artisanal raw chocolate products, which she developed to be diabetic-friendly and free from refined sugar, dairy, soy, and gluten. Our hosts even get to indulge in a tasting session, exploring the unique flavors and textures of these decadent yet healthy treats!
Explore their offerings HERE: https://www.bnakedchocolates.com/
For any inquiries, reach out to us HERE: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com Follow our journey on Social Media:
Instagram:   / mtn_podcast  
TikTok:   / mtn_podcast  
Facebook:   / mtnpodcast  
Connect with your Hosts:
Mathew Blades:   / mathewblades  
Steve Petz:   / stevepetz  
 
Video captured and edited by Max Muehlhausen: Email: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com
#movetheneedlepodcast #movingtheneedle #mtn #podcast #fostercare #fostercareawareness #dogrescue #germanshepherd #lifeskills #nonprofit #savingpawsrescue #scottsdale #homesmart #chocolate #healthychocolate #healthydessert #healthydesserts #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship #networking #diabeticfriendly #transitionalhousing #communityengagement

MTN 36 Ahwatukee | Foothills Golf Club | First-Time Home Buyer Tips with Christie Ellis

This week, we're coming to you from the Foothills Golf Club in Ahwatukee!
First, we want to give a shout-out to our advertising partners of this episode:
Amy Richardson with Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/
Keystone Montessori: https://www.keystonemontessori.com/
Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...
Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest...
Support these amazing local businesses!
 
Our first guest is Meghan Murphy from the inspiring non-profit organization, New Freedom Project. This organization emerged in 2006 from incarcerated men seeking to uplift others. They developed peer-led courses focused on crucial life skills and recovery for successful reentry, covering areas like HOUSING, job training & education, CLINICAL CARE, clothing & hygiene, documents, and nutrition & wellness. Learn how you can help by sponsoring an individual or holding a community drive! Learn more about
New Freedom Project HERE: https://www.nfproject.org/
 
Next, we chat with Dr. Rock Rockett, the founder of Rockett Healthcare Strategies. With extensive experience in the healthcare industry, he shares his insights on strategic growth, development partnerships, and payer contracting for physician groups and ambulatory surgery centers. If you're in the healthcare space, you won't want to miss his expertise!
Learn more about Rockett Healthcare Strategies HERE: https://rocketthealthcare.com/
Finally , we welcome Christie Ellis, a Realtor with Keller Williams - Team Breezy Street and a dedicated philanthropist. Christie offers valuable perspectives on the real estate market, covering essential information for first-time homebuyers, considerations for various home purchases, and what both buyers and sellers should expect in the current climate.
Connect with Christie & the Team HERE: https://teambreezystreet.kw.com/
 
For any inquiries, reach out to: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com
Follow our journey on: Instagram:   / mtn_podcast  
TikTok:   / mtn_podcast  
Facebook:   / mtnpodcast  
Connect with your hosts:
Mathew Blades:   / mathewblades  
Steve Petz:   / stevepetz  
 
Video captured and edited by Max Muehlhausen: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com