Move the Needle

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!

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

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

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

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

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
 

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

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

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_...
 

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