Building Buzz Podcast

In this episode of Building Buzz, we sit down with Melinda Gulick, CEO of First Things First, to explore how access to quality childcare impacts workforce strength, community growth, and long-term economic development in Arizona.

Melinda shares the story behind First Things First and the unique partnerships that are reshaping how communities support working families. From success stories to opportunities for involvement, this conversation highlights why investing in early childhood isn’t optional—it’s essential for building a stronger future.

Get ready for a masterclass in real estate development. Mark Stapp, Executive Director of ASU’s Master of Real Estate Development (MRED) program, shares how ASU is redefining education through experiential learning and hands-on application. From training future industry leaders to shaping Phoenix’s urban growth, this episode is packed with insights on innovation, impact, and the future of real estate.

The newest episode of Building Buzz is out now!

Robyn Sahid from the Arizona State Land Department joins us to discuss the land auction process, her department's goals, and what’s next for some of the biggest parcels in the pipeline. She also breaks down how much land the department manages and how much is developable.

Mayor of Tempe Corey Woods joins Building Buzz to talk about the work happening behind the scenes to shape his city. He shares how Tempe is addressing housing affordability as land values rise, what city leaders learned from the Coyotes negotiations, how ASU influences development, and why collaboration with neighboring cities is more important than ever.
Listen now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!

Sharon Harper, CEO and Co-Founder of Plaza Companies, joins Building Buzz to talk SkySong, Park Central, and the vision behind Rio Reimagined. She shares stories about what it was like to break into real estate in Phoenix and what keeps her moving forward. Listen now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!
This episode of Building Buzz is brought to you by Butler Design Group, Outdoor Systems Management, and ACE Building Maintenance!

Cole Cannon shares the story behind Cannon Beach: how it started, what makes it different, and why it’s turning heads beyond Mesa. From surf technology to leasing strategy, this episode covers the real work behind launching one of the Valley's most talked-about developments. It’s a look at how vision meets execution when the playbook doesn’t exist. Check out the episode brought to you by VW Connect now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!
VW Connect is devoted to connecting families and communities and knows the job isn't done until the utilities are on. Learn more by visiting https://vwconnectllc.com/

Mike Gilbert joins Building Buzz to discuss his transition from brokerage to development and how Formation Interests selects standout sites. He also shares insights on what's next for Formation 17 and what sets the Phoenix market apart. Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

What's buzzing in Peoria? This week on Building Buzz, we talk to Mayor Jason Beck about his big goals for business growth, economic development, and water security. In this episode, he talks about attracting top industries, leading with an "innovate or die" approach, and the biggest surprises since taking office. Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

This week on Building Buzz, we sit down with Mónica Villalobos. As President & CEO of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, she’s sharing what drives her leadership, key initiatives for 2025, and the strength of Hispanic-owned businesses across the state. From industry growth to economic impact, this conversation covers what’s happening now and what’s next. Don’t miss it — listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Charley Freericks joins Building Buzz to discuss his leadership of Howard Hughes Holdings and the ambitious Teravalis project, which will bring 100,000 homes to the West Valley. We're covering the scale, strategy, and challenges involved in turning vision into reality, from builder partnerships to water concerns. Listen now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!