Move the Needle

MTN 28 Chandler | Craft 64 Chandler | “KMLE Radio Host & Busy Boy Mom!”

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

MTN 27 Gilbert | Brooklyn V’s | “Should I start doing yoga at work?”

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

MTN 26 Chandler | Bottle & Bean | “Peixoto Coffee: The best coffee in Arizona?"

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

MTN 25 Scottsdale | Craft 64 | “Time to publish YOUR story”

This episode was filmed on-location at Craft 64 in Scottsdale, AZ! First, we sit down with Sandy, a dedicated medical professional who has transitioned into holistic wellness. Sandy shares her journey from traditional Emergency Medicine at Chandler Regional Medical Center and Mercy Gilbert Medical Center to founding inLIGHTen Wellness. She discusses the various services offered, including Ketamine therapy, Shamanic Breathwork, Reiki, and Energy Facials, all aimed at creating harmony and peace within individuals. Sandy also delves into her personal search for inner peace and how that drove her to explore these alternative healing modalities.
Learn more about inLIGHTen Wellness HERE:
https://www.inlightenwellness.com/
Next, we welcome Janine Hernandez, #1 Bestselling Author, Speaker, and Book Coach. Janine discusses her transition from being a nationally recognized media personality to guiding aspiring authors through the self-publishing process. She shares insights into her Book Publishing Academy, which specializes in helping authors transform their ideas into high-quality, reader-loved books. Janine also talks about her latest book, "CALLING FORTH THE WAVES," and the inspiration behind it.
Learn more about Janine Hernandez and her Book Publishing Academy HERE: https://janinehernandez.com/
Finally, we speak with Romy Wightman of the Wight Horse Foundation. Romy discusses the foundation's mission to empower individuals to advocate for themselves, both medically and financially. Romy also explains how the foundation assists those facing high medical expenses by providing bill review, payment plan assistance, and negotiation support. We also discuss her podcast, "To Be Continued".
Learn more about the Wight Horse Foundation HERE: https://www.wighthorse.com
 
Huge thank you to our partners of this episode: Amy Richardson, Savvy Realty Group, and Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee!

MTN 24 Ahwatukee | Vero Chicago Pizza | “Why do they call it pickleball?”

This episode was filmed in front of a live audience at Vero Chicago Pizza in Ahwatukee, AZ.
First, we sit down with Brad Cox, President of the Tempe Diablos. Brad discusses the impactful work of the Diablos, a volunteer-based organization dedicated to supporting local charities and community initiatives. He shares insights into the organization's mission, the diverse range of projects they undertake, and the positive impact they have on the Tempe community.
Brad highlights the importance of community involvement and the rewarding experience of giving back.
Learn more about the Tempe Diablos HERE: https://www.tempediabloscharities.org/
Next, we welcome Wendy Cracciolo, a dedicated Pickleball Coach, to discuss the growing popularity of the sport and its unique history. Wendy shares her passion for Pickleball, delving into its origins and the community it fosters. She explains how the sport has evolved, its accessibility for all ages, and the skills and strategies involved. Wendy also shares the fascinating story behind Pickleball's name, revealing the unexpected origins of this now well known sport!
Get in touch with Wendy HERE:  / wendy-cracchiolo-get-your-move-on-llc-0643...  

MTN 23 Scottsdale | HomeSmart | “Strip down to build confidence”

This episode was filmed live at HomeSmart in Scottsdale, AZ.
We're joined by three incredible women making a real impact in their respective fields, from empowering individuals to fostering community support. First, we welcome Karianne Munstedt, a talented photographer and speaker. Kari shares her passion for helping people reconnect with their bodies and cultivate self-confidence through her photography.
She discusses how her business goes beyond traditional portraits, encompassing empowering boudoir sessions and impactful brand photography. Kari also delves into her work as a public speaker, with workshops she hosts to inspire and uplift others. Her mission is to help people feel comfortable and empowered in their own skin, regardless of age or size. Get in touch with Kari HERE: https://kariannemunstedt.com/
 
Then, we sit down with Jarrett Ransom, the "Non-Profit Nerd," a Philanthropy Thought Leader, Speaker, Author, President & CEO. Jarrett shares her expertise in building sustainable and scalable business practices for nonprofit organizations. She discusses the importance of strategic planning and effective leadership in maximizing a nonprofit's impact, and how her work helps these organizations thrive.
Get in touch with Jarett HERE: https://www.therayvangroup.com/
Finally, and unexpectedly! Kim Tarnopolski from 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun pops on to talk to us about the organization's ongoing initiatives. She share some details about their upcoming auction, which will benefit another deserving local charity.
Get in touch with 100+ Women who Care HERE: https://www.100wwcvalleyofthesun.org/...
For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com 
 
 

MTN Episode 22 Ahwatukee “Finding a home for the big dogs”

This episode was filmed in front of a live audience at The Foothills Golf Club with partners 100+ Women Who Care. This week, we're diving deep into community support and the incredible work being done to help those in need, both human and animal. First, we welcome Jodi Polanski, the founder of Lost Our Home Pet Rescue. Jodi's journey is a testament to turning hardship into hope. She recounts the devastating effects of the 2008 housing crisis and how she witnessed firsthand the plight of abandoned pets. Jodi's quick action and dedication led to the creation of Lost Our Home, an organization that provides vital support to both pets and their owners during challenging times. Learn more about Lost Our Home Pet Rescue and how to support their mission HERE: https://www.lostourhome.org/
Then, we sit down with Joan Leafman from Corbin's Legacy. Joan shares the powerful story of her daughter, Corbin, a dedicated kindergarten teacher whose compassion for her students led to the creation of an organization that's making a real difference. We learn about Corbin's unwavering commitment to ensuring every child had a hot lunch, no matter their circumstances, and how that spirit lives on. Joan sheds light on the startling reality of childhood hunger in Maricopa County and the vital programs Corbin’s Legacy runs, from weekend food backpacks to free farmer's markets. 
 
Intro 04:12 Jodi Polanski - Lost Our Home
31:00 Joan Leafman - Corbin's Legacy
 
Huge thank you to our partners of this episode: Amy Richardson, Savvy Realty Group Keystone Montessori Belle Lacet Lingerie Tutor Doctor
 
For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com
Video captured and edited by Max Muehlhausen: Email: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com
 
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MTN 21 CRAFT 64 SCOTTSDALE - Bulletproof longevity

WHAT AN EPISODE! 
How did we get so lucky this week? We have a longevity doc, a grief counselor who just wrote a book on gun violence and one of the women involved with adaptive recreation for the city of Scottsdale. 
First, we begin with Jill McMahon who has just typed up a new book about gun violence. This is NOT SOME POLITICAL conversation about guns, this is a book and conversation for people who have experienced gun violence and how they can find a way out of that difficult situation. Jill even recounts her first-hand account of gun violence as a child which no doubt changed her and sent her on the trajectory she has in her life.  Find her new book Bulletproof here.
Then we got a look into what the City of Scottsdale is doing in terms of accessibility. A lot is going on, and we encourage all of you to check things out here.
Finally today we sit down with one of the most incredible doctors we’ve ever met, Dr. Robert Todd Hurst. He’s a board-certified cardiologist who opened up a longevity clinic a couple of years ago designed for people who are not willing to leave healthy years on the table. It’s a great chat that will help you decide where you want to start on your journey to better health. Please check out his concierge practice HEALTHSPAN MD. 
Learn more and become a part of our Move the Needle Podcast HERE. 
Follow along on our YouTube channels and Instagram platforms. 
Learn more about Mathew Blades or Steve Petz.
Video captured and edited by Max Muehlhausen

MTN 20 - Gilbert - Mathew Blades and Priscilla (Mix969) reunite

This week on our podcast Mathew and Priscilla get back together for their first recording since Mathew Blades left his radio show three years ago. It was GREAT to get them back on the mics together.  That’s how things started, then we just kept up the momentum with Luis DeLaCruz, the CEO of AZ Friends of Foster Care. Finally, we sat down with Jamie Heckerman, the President and CEO of Special Olympics of Arizona. 
 
Priscilla’s Instagram page can be found right here.
 
You can connect with Luis right here.
 
Finally, we encourage you to meet Jamie and see the more than 400 programs offered to Special Olympians right here.
 
Learn more and become a part of our Move the Needle Podcast HERE. 
Follow along on our YouTube channels and Instagram platforms. 
Learn more about Mathew Blades or Steve Petz.
Video captured and edited by Max Muehlhausen

MTN 19 - Donor Network of Arizona - Two new lungs, one new life

This week on the podcast we recorded from the lobby of the Donor Network of Arizona. 
Why? To promote the idea of becoming an organ donor. It’s a sensitive conversation for some, and a no-brainer for others and today we talk about the importance of signing up to become a donor.  First, we sit down with former PHX PD dispatcher and Director of Tissue Services Rhiannon Knueven, feel free to reach out to her here.
 
Next, we sat down with the Vice President of Development and Referral Services at Donor Network of Arizona, Sara Pace Jones. Please connect with her here.
 
Finally, we sat down with the start of today's podcast, Bob Horbaczewski. He’s a husband, a father, an educator, and a self-described gym rat. Bob received a second chance through a double-lung transplant after a COVID-19 infection. We discuss what it's like to get a new lease on life and he details his journey from COVID to transplant. It’s an incredible story that could make the shift for you to become an organ donor if you are not already.  
 
Many thanks to Anna Oliver from Vitalant for setting this one up, we hope you will consider making a blood donation so that you too, can save a life. Find out where to donate your blood HERE.
 
Learn more and become a part of our Move the Needle Podcast HERE. 
Follow along on our YouTube channels and Instagram platforms. 
Learn more about Mathew Blades or Steve Petz.Video captured and edited by Max Muehlhausen