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

Jul 30, 2025
Jul 30, 2025
57 min
In this episode, we’re exploring the worlds of local legacy, underwater art, and service-led leadership—filmed on location at Foothills Golf Club in Ahwatukee!
This episode is brought to you by:
Amy Richardson – 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...
First, we sit down with Jeremy Strauss, General Manager of the Foothills Golf Course. A lifelong golfer and resident of the surrounding HOA, Jeremy shares his personal and professional journey with this iconic 18-hole course. From hosting his own wedding reception at the clubhouse to watching his daughter compete on the Desert Vista High School Golf Team, Jeremy’s roots here run deep. Now, he’s at the helm of transforming the course into one of Arizona’s premier golfing destinations—while preserving its special place in the community.
Learn more about the Foothills Gold Club HERE: https://www.thefoothillsgc.com/
Next, we meet Trevor Norris, creator of Fish Tank Therapy. Trevor brings a calming, creative energy to the art of aquascaping—building stunning underwater landscapes that feel like living works of art. Through tutorials, guides, and behind-the-scenes builds, he’s showing fellow hobbyists how to create meaningful beauty inside their tanks. Follow along on Instagram and YouTube to get inspired or start your own aquascaping journey.
Finally, we’re joined by Megan Campbell-Smith, the newly crowned Miss Tempe 2025. With a background in Organizational Communications and a role as a Digital Communications Specialist at Sonoran University of Health Sciences, Megan brings heart and strategy to her platform. Her initiative, Give the Gift of Life, encourages more people to become blood, marrow, and organ donors. She also shares stories from her travels to 13 countries—including building her first snowman in the Swiss Alps!
Learn more about the Miss Tempe pageant HERE: https://www.instagram.com/misstempeaz...
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

Jul 23, 2025
Jul 23, 2025
1hr 7 min
In this episode, we’re diving into the worlds of public health, holistic beauty, and on-camera leadership—filmed on location at Craft 64 in Scottsdale!
First, we sit down with Sarah Kearney, Executive Director of Blue Zones Project Scottsdale. With a background in communications, tourism, and community engagement, Sarah shares the mission behind turning Scottsdale into a certified Blue Zones Community. Through people-focused policy, place-making, and environmental design, the project aims to make the healthy choice the easy choice for all residents.
Learn more about Blue Zones HERE: https://www.bluezones.com
Next, we welcome Cecilia Berkley, a Licensed Aesthetician, Certified Holistic Practitioner, and Founder of Cecilia Berkley Holistic Spa and Corazón Organic Skincare. Cecilia explains how she integrates skincare, energy work, and nervous system healing through her signature facial techniques and bodywork. Her work focuses on helping women connect with their inner power and self-worth through holistic beauty rituals and mentorship.
Learn more about Cecilia’s work HERE: https://www.ceciliaberkley.com
Finally, we’re joined by Janie Peters, a coach who specializes in helping quiet leaders and shy CEOs develop on-camera confidence. Janie works with high-level entrepreneurs and thought leaders who want to communicate with more clarity, presence, and impact—without losing their authenticity. She offers a fresh perspective on visibility, legacy, and the deeper purpose behind showing up in front of the camera.
Learn more about Janie’s coaching HERE: https://www.janiepeters.com
Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these inspiring leaders and the work they’re doing in community well-being, personal development, and conscious business.
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

Jul 16, 2025
Jul 16, 2025
1hr 18 min
In this episode, we’re exploring the worlds of community wellness, entrepreneurship, and transformational journeys, recorded on location at Craft 64 Chandler!
A special thank you to this episode's sponsors:
Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/
Darwin Wall Real Estate: https://www.darwinwall.com/
Tutor Doctor: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...
First up, we welcome Chris Kline, the President of AZ Media. A business entrepreneur, community believer, and futurist, Chris dives into his personal philosophy of balancing bold innovation with careful strategic planning. He shares his three core business rules: keeping an eye on the future, bridging past and future, and communicating honestly and openly. Chris emphasizes the importance of bridging the present with the future to grow and innovate. Learn more about Chris and AZ Media HERE: https://azmedia.org/about-us/
Next, we chat with Miriam Uriarte, an intuitive entrepreneur with expertise in trauma, mental health, and spiritual growth. Miriam, a Certified Trauma & Resilience Life Coach, uses neuroscience, breathwork, somatic experiencing, and visualization techniques to help re-pattern neural pathways and foster healing. Miriam’s insights on nervous system regulation and holistic coaching provide valuable tools for healing and transformation. Learn more about Miriam's work HERE: https://www.pridehealthinstitute.com/...
Finally, we’re joined by Erika Brian! With an MBA, LCHW, RYT, and PTT, Erika is a Community Health Expert, Corporate Wellness Facilitator, Business Consultant, Author, Mentor, and Project Manager. Erika shares her journey of combining her background in physical therapy and wellness with her expertise in business consulting to help individuals and organizations create transformative experiences rooted in mindfulness and purpose.
Learn more about Erika's work HERE: / ericka-brian
Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these inspiring professionals and learn how they’re making a difference in business, wellness, and healing!
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

Jul 11, 2025
Jul 11, 2025
18 min
We’re closing out our first year of the MOVE THE NEEDLE Podcast by revealing the Top 6 Most-Viewed Guests, based on Instagram Reels views — and trust us, these clips brought inspiration, heart, and a few surprises!
Here’s who made the final cut
#6 – Angela Harrolle (Episode 11) Angela Harrolle, former CEO of the 100 Club of Arizona, shares how the loss of her husband shaped her life — and how she channels that grief into meaningful, purpose-driven work supporting first responders and their families.
#5 – Mike Spangenberg (Episode 16) The CEO of State Forty Eight shares how a T-shirt idea turned into a movement. From brand growth and co-branding strategy to philanthropy and Arizona pride (yes, even a license plate!), Mike gets into what makes this local brand thrive.
#4 – Brooke Beardall (Episode 1) The founder of Holy Yoga is now exploring new frontiers with Sugar Magnolia Mushrooms, her latest venture focused on the transformative power of microdosing. A deep dive into healing, intuition, and some wild-sounding (but legal) mushrooms.
#3 – Sunny Settles (Episode 12) F45 trainer and fitness powerhouse Sunny Settles trains our very own Steve Petz — and she brought energy, wisdom, and a dog adoption tease into the mix. From fitness trends to adding another furry friend to the pack, Sunny kept it real.
#2 – Sarah Kumar (Episode 7) Sarah Kumar runs Water and Ice in Ahwatukee, but what really stood out? Her love for the local kids who visit daily — and how she invites them to learn, grow, and even try their hand behind the counter. A feel-good community story that hit home.
#1 – Shelly Albetta (Episode 15) Dogs. Laughs. And one of our most joyful interviews. Shelly Albetta of Alone No More gave us an inside look at their pet rescue magic — with a live dog cam on set. Plus, she dropped the news that she’s co-hosting a podcast for women dating in their 40s... and yes, Steve is still single.

Jul 9, 2025
Jul 9, 2025
21 min
MOVE THE NEEDLE's "A Year in Review" (Most Viewed People #12–#7): MTN has officially been going for one full year, and now we’re looking back at the moments YOU couldn’t stop watching. Based on the most-viewed Reels on our Instagram, these were the most-watched clips from our first year!
#12 – TIE: Bill Gregory (Astronaut) & Kendall Hospenthal (Friends of Ohana)
Episode 14 & 37: Bill Gregory literally biked in space. He shares what life is like aboard a shuttle, including his record-setting mission piloting Space Shuttle Endeavour. Kendall Hospenthal highlights the powerful work of Friends of Ohana, a nonprofit changing outcomes for foster youth through life skills programs and employment at Hanai Coffee.
#11 – Cheyenne Davis (Axel Crew Foundation) Episode 28: Cheyenne shares her story of resilience — from EMT to morning radio host to founder of the Axel Crew Foundation, which supports families navigating childhood cancer. Her passion is rooted in lived experience, advocacy, and community care.
#10 – Kelsey Lamper (City of Scottsdale) Episode 21: Kelsey offers a behind-the-scenes look at what the City of Scottsdale is doing to improve accessibility and inclusion — and why this work is so critical for community impact.
#9 – Julia Peters (Peixoto Coffee) Episode 26: Julia tells the story of her family's century-old coffee farm in Brazil and how it inspired the creation of Peixoto Coffee. She shares what makes their process, flavors, and sourcing truly one-of-a-kind.
#8 – Hayden Conner (AZ Storm Elite Volleyball) Episode 30: Hayden is one of Arizona’s top volleyball players — already committed to the University of Washington. She shares her journey, her training, and what it takes to compete at an elite level.
#7 – Jenn McMillan (Musician) Episode 14: Jenn shares her creative journey as a musician and soul-led entrepreneur. From burnout to breakthrough, her story is all about reclaiming your voice — and using it to inspire others.
6-1 Will be released on Friday!

Jul 2, 2025
Jul 2, 2025
1hr 7 min
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

Jun 27, 2025
Jun 27, 2025
48 min
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!

Jun 25, 2025
Jun 25, 2025
1hr 9 min
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

Jun 18, 2025
Jun 18, 2025
1hr 8 min
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

Jun 13, 2025
Jun 13, 2025
1hr 5 min
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!





