MOVE THE NEEDLE

This week on Move the Needle, we’re featuring incredible stories from right here in the East Valley—highlighting young entrepreneurship, family-driven content, and building community in Arizona.

Special thanks to our partners for this episode:

First, we sit down with Lejla Albert, the 12-year-old founder of Little Sweets Big Heart. Lejla shares how she turned her love for baking and chocolate-making into a growing business—starting with Facebook mom groups and expanding into custom orders, unique flavors, and even her own website. Despite facing medical challenges, she continues to pursue her passion and bring joy to others through her desserts. Recently featured on the cover of Gilbert Lifestyle Magazine, Lejla is a true example of resilience, creativity, and what’s possible at any age. Learn more HERE: https://www.littlesweetsbigheart.com

Next, we’re joined by Jana Tingom, founder of Phoenix With Kids, alongside her husband Chris. Jana shares how she built a trusted resource for Arizona families by providing real reviews, hidden gems, and curated ideas for things to do with kids across the Valley. With over 85,000 followers, Phoenix With Kids has become a go-to platform for parents looking to save time, reduce stress, and create meaningful experiences with their families. From weekend adventures to seasonal guides, Jana’s mission is simple—help families make the most of their time together. Follow along HERE: https://arizonawithkids.net/

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For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: [email protected] Follow along on our other Platforms! Instagram:   / mtn_podcast  

Video captured and edited by Max Muehlhausen: Email: [email protected] #MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #MTN85 #ArizonaPodcast #PhoenixPodcast #EastValleyAZ #scottsdale #YoungEntrepreneur #Kidpreneur #WomenInBusiness #SmallBusinessOwner #StartupStory #EntrepreneurLife #BusinessInspiration #FemaleFounder #NextGenLeaders #InspirationDaily #OvercomingChallenges #DreamBigStartSmall #Resilience #FeelGoodStory #CommunityMatters #PurposeDriven #MakeAnImpact #ChocolateLover #DessertBusiness #CustomTreats #BakingFromHome #SweetTooth #SupportSmallBusiness #ShopLocalAZ #PhoenixWithKids #ThingsToDoInPhoenix #ArizonaFamilies #FamilyFunAZ #PhoenixKids #ArizonaLife #AZLiving #VisitArizona #WeekendInPhoenix #HiddenGemsAZ #ViralContent #PodcastClips #ReelsInstagram #TikTokBusiness #ContentCreators #GrowYourBrand #SocialMediaStrategy

This week on Move the Needle, we’re filming on location in Arizona, featuring conversations around mental health advocacy, purpose-driven leadership, and creating impact through business and community.

Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Amy Richardson – Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ • Brewer’s A/C & Heating: https://www.brewersac.com/ • Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/

First, we sit down with Francine Sumner, founder and CEO of Kid in the Corner, a nonprofit dedicated to shattering the stigma around mental illness. After losing her son Zach to suicide in 2017, Francine turned her grief into purpose—building an organization that has now reached over 30,000 people nationwide. She also serves on the board of Mental Health America of Arizona and is a certified Youth Mental Health First Aid Trainer. Learn more HERE: https://www.kidinthecorner.org/

Next, we’re joined by Dr. Trent Smallwood, founder of Contemporary Dental Concepts and a leader in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry. He shares his approach to modern, patient-focused care, combining advanced technology with a conservative, education-first philosophy. Dr. Smallwood is also an internationally recognized speaker and author of the best-selling book Platinum Paradigm. Learn more HERE: https://cosmeticdentistryaz.com/

Finally, we sit down with Michelle Cirocco, a purpose-driven executive, nonprofit leader, and public speaker known for her work with 100+ Women. Michelle shares her perspective on leadership, growth, and using business as a force for good. With a career spanning management, sales, marketing, and operations, she has built a reputation for turning vision into execution while driving meaningful impact. Recognized as a Most Admired Leader, World Changing Woman, and WP Carey Hall of Fame honoree, Michelle is dedicated to creating opportunities, fostering collaboration, and helping others step into their full potential. Connect with Michelle HERE: https://www.instagram.com/mlcirocco?u...

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02:21 Francine Sumner - Founder of Kid in the Corner

23:16 Dr. Trent Smallwood - Founder of Centre for Contemporary Dental Concept

45:52 Michelle Cirocco - Purpose Driven Growth & Strategy Executive

#movetheneedle #MTNPodcast #Ahwatukee #PhoenixAZ #ArizonaPodcast #GilbertAZ #EastValleyAZ #MentalHealthAwareness #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthMatters #SuicidePrevention #CommunityImpact #WomenWhoLead #WomenInBusiness #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDriven #SecondChances #NonprofitLeadership #CriminalJusticeReform #Dentistry #CosmeticDentistry #HealthcareInnovation #BusinessLeadership #Entrepreneurship #podcastepisode

This week on Move the Needle, we’re filming on location at Brooklyn V’s Pizza in Gilbert, AZ! Featuring conversations around leadership, personal growth, advocacy, and building impact-driven lives.

Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Amy Richardson – Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ • Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/ • Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...

First, we sit down with Dr. Will Moreland, Army veteran turned serial entrepreneur and Founder & CEO of Moreland Training & Associates. Dr. Moreland shares his approach to leadership development, culture transformation, and what he calls “work-life harmony.” Recognized as a Top 30 Speaker in the World and a Titan 100 honoree in the Phoenix business community, he has authored over 40 books—including Leading With Civility and Happy People, Happy Culture. Through his work, he helps organizations strengthen leadership, improve engagement, and build high-performing teams using his signature frameworks, The Civility Advantage™ and CHAMPS Leadership System™. Learn more HERE: https://www.morelandtraining.com/#/

Next, we’re joined by Rebecca White, Miss Gilbert 2026, an Exercise Physiology student and founder of B Fit (@letsbfitnow). Rebecca shares her passion for helping others build strength, health, and confidence from the inside out. Currently pursuing her goal of becoming a Physician Assistant at Northern Arizona University on a full-ride scholarship, she’s also contributed to NASA-funded research studying how the body adapts to stress. Through her platform and advocacy, Rebecca is committed to empowering others while supporting causes close to her heart, including veteran initiatives. Connect with Rebecca HERE: https://www.instagram.com/becca.white...

Finally, we sit down with Kat Jutras, Arizona State Director for the Alliance for Safety and Justice. Kat shares her work advocating for criminal justice reform and supporting individuals as they rebuild their lives after incarceration. With over a decade of experience in civil rights restoration, she has helped countless individuals regain access to voting, housing, education, and employment opportunities. Through her leadership and advocacy, Kat is working to drive systemic change and create safer, more equitable communities across Arizona.

Learn more HERE: https://allianceforsafetyandjustice.o...

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02:20 Dr. Will Moreland - Founder/CEO of Moreland Training & Associates

27:20 Rebecca (Becca) White - Miss Gilbert 2026

47:44 Kat Jutras - Arizona State Director of Alliance for Safety & Justice

This week on Move the Needle, we’re filming on location at Bottle & Bean in Chandler! Featuring conversations around personal transformation, community impact, and young entrepreneurship.

Special thanks to our partners for this episode:

First, we sit down with Jeff Lobeck, Assistant Fire Captain and coach with Robbins Research International. Jeff shares how his work with Tony Robbins’ organization has shaped his approach to leadership, health, and personal development. Through his work with Healthy Once and For All, he helps overwhelmed, stressed parents reclaim their energy, improve their health, and become strong, present role models for their families. His mission centers on creating lasting transformation that impacts not just individuals—but generations to come. Connect with Jeff HERE: https://www.instagram.com/lobeckjeff?...

Next, we’re joined by Lisha Dunlap, PR & Marketing Director with Maricopa Community Colleges and a representative of the East Valley Giving Circle. Lisha shares her background in public relations and communications, along with her passion for storytelling and community outreach. She also highlights the impact of the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation, including support for GateWay Community College’s Student Emergency Fund—providing critical assistance to students facing unexpected financial hardships so they can stay on track with their education. Learn more

HERE: 

Finally, we sit down with Mariana McWilliams, a 13-year-old CEO and founder of Mari’s Gold. Mariana shares how she started her business at just 12 years old, inspired by local vendor markets and a desire to create something of her own. Today, Mari’s Gold brings fun and flavor to events across the Valley with snow cones, popcorn, and custom experiences. Beyond her business, Mariana is passionate about empowering other young entrepreneurs—hosting youth markets and even publishing her own books, inspiring kids to dream big and take action early. Learn more about Mari's Gold HERE: https://shopmarisgold.com/

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#MoveTheNeedle #PodcastEpisode #ChandlerAZ #PhoenixAZ #ArizonaBusiness #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessLife #WomenInBusiness #YoungEntrepreneur #Kidpreneur #TonyRobbins #PersonalDevelopment #HealthAndWellness #LeadershipDevelopment #CommunityImpact #GiveBack #NonprofitSupport #EducationMatters #MaricopaCommunityColleges #LocalBusinessAZ #SupportLocalAZ #CreativeEntrepreneur #BusinessPodcast #InspirationDaily #successmindset

This week on Move the Needle, we’re filming on location at Vero Chicago Pizza in Ahwatukee, Arizona, featuring conversations with a community STEM leader, a marketing strategist helping attorneys grow their practices, and a business brokerage expert who helps entrepreneurs buy and sell companies.

Special thanks to our partners for this episode:

First, we sit down with Shereka Jackson, STEM educator, speaker, and founder/CEO of Future Stars, Inc. Shereka shares her mission to expand opportunities for inner-city youth through technology education and hands-on learning. As project manager for the City of Phoenix’s codePHX program, she helps bring free coding classes to communities across the Valley. She also discusses the growth of the Hands-On STEM Fair, which now attracts around 1,000 attendees each year and inspires students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. Learn more about Future Stars HERE: https://futurestarsaz.org 

Next, we’re joined by Gary Johnson, a marketing strategist who helps attorneys grow their book of business through clearer branding, messaging, and relationship-driven marketing. Gary explains why many lawyers struggle with marketing and how storytelling, personality, and consistent outreach can help them attract more ideal clients. As the Co-Founder of LinkedIn for Lawyers, he also shares how attorneys can better position themselves online to build stronger referral networks. Connect with Gary HERE: https://www.instagram.com/garyj2marke...

Finally, we sit down with Ryan Armstrong, President and Owner of Transworld Business Advisors Phoenix. With more than 20 years of experience in business brokerage and ownership, Ryan helps entrepreneurs buy, sell, and value businesses. He discusses why early planning is critical when selling a business and what both buyers and owners should understand before entering the market. Learn more about Transworld Business Advisors Phoenix HERE: https://www.tworld.com/locations/phoenix

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This week on Move the Needle: filmed at Brooklyn V’s Pizza in Gilbert, AZ, featuring conversations with a local publisher, a rising creative entrepreneur, and a third-generation Arizona restaurateur.

Special thanks to our partners for this episode:

First, we sit down with Michaela Hetherington, publisher of Mesa City Lifestyle. Michaela shares how she and her husband built the magazine from the ground up, why print still matters in a digital world, and how the publication has become a powerful connector for local businesses and leaders—while she balances life as a wife and mother of four. Learn more about MCL HERE: https://citylifestyle.com/mesaaz

Next, we’re joined by Kenna Rettew, founder of Kicks By Kenna. At just 21, Kenna has transformed a lockdown hobby into a nationally recognized custom sneaker business, working with Olympians, professional athletes, and major sports organizations. She shares how it all started, what goes into painting custom kicks, and how being part of the Arizona Diamondbacks activation team continues to open doors. Follow Kenna HERE: https://www.instagram.com/kicks_by_ke...

Finally, we sit down with Tim Vasquez, third-generation owner of Someburros and Isabel’s Amor. Tim reflects on growing a family restaurant brand across Arizona, leading with legacy and intention, and his recent honor as 2025 Alumnus of the Year from ASU’s Hugh Downs School of Human Communication. Learn more about Someburros history HERE: https://www.someburros.com/history

This week on Move the Needle: filmed on location at Vero Chicago Pizza in Ahwatukee, AZ, featuring powerful conversations with women leading in law, education, and health & fitness.

Special thanks to our partners: • Amy Richardson – Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Vero Chicago Pizza (Ahwatukee): https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Duenas Eden Cravatta, PLC: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ • Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/

First, we sit down with Dori Eden, attorney and co-owner of Duenas Eden Cravatta, PLC. Dori shares her journey from the Midwest to Phoenix, her 20+ years practicing family and personal injury law, and how compassion and clarity help clients navigate major life transitions—from custody and spousal maintenance to adoption and injury cases.

Learn more HERE: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/

Next, we’re joined by Michelle Coro, media educator at Mountain Pointe High School and adjunct professor at Grand Canyon University. With 30 years in education, Michelle reflects on mentoring Emmy award-winning student journalists, leading national media programs, and preparing the next generation for storytelling and media literacy in a rapidly changing landscape.

Connect with Michelle HERE:   / michelle-coro  

Finally, we sit down with Shauna Brown, owner and elite performance movement specialist at Unify Health. Shauna shares how her background in athletic training, massage therapy, and strength coaching helps both athletes and everyday individuals improve mobility, reduce pain, and move through life with greater strength and resilience.

Learn more about Unify HERE: https://www.unifyaz.com/ 00:07

Intro 02:00 Dori Eden - Attorney & Co-owner of Duenas Eden Cravatta, PLC

23:03 Michelle Coro - Media Educator at Mountain Pointe High School

43:12 Shauna Brown - Owner & Operator of Unify Health

This week on Move the Needle: filmed on location at Bottle & Bean, featuring conversations on entrepreneurship, resilience, creative financing, & philanthropy-driven leadership!

Special thanks to our partners:

Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/

Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...

Von Hansons Meats & Spirits: https://vonhansonsmeats.net/

Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/

Amy Richardson - Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/

Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/

First, we sit down with Matt Kuiper, founder of Desert Plunge, an Arizona-based company providing handcrafted, high-quality cold plunge tubs. Matt shares his journey from a 20-year career in the electrical industry to building a wellness brand rooted in discipline, recovery, and long-term performance. His story highlights the power of reinvention, accountability, and building something meaningful after adversity.

Learn more HERE: https://desertplunge.com/

Next, we’re joined by Dean Bloxom, entrepreneur, financier, and film producer. Dean built and scaled imortgage.com into one of the strongest independent mortgage bankers in the U.S. before its acquisition by loanDepot, employing more than 2,500 people nationwide. He now applies that same disciplined approach to Hollywood through Deano Productions, producing feature films with global distribution. Projects discussed include Waltzing with Brando, starring Billy Zane, Jon Heder, and Richard Dreyfuss. The Last Son, starring Sam Worthington and Machine Gun Kelly. Dean also shares how storytelling, financing, and charitable initiatives intersect in his current work.

Learn more HERE: https://deanoprods.com/ Finally, we sit down with Shelby Arians, Vice President Portfolio Wealth Advisor and representative of the Arians Family Foundation (AFF). With over 20 years of experience in financial services, Shelby discusses her multi-dimensional approach to portfolio management, financial planning, and philanthropic advisory. She also shares the mission of the Arians Family Foundation—“A Voice For Children”—and its work supporting CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) to help children involved in the court system due to abuse or neglect receive advocacy, care, and support.

Learn more about the Arians Family Foundation: https://ariansfamilyfoundation.com/ 00:07

Intro 01:57 Matt Kuiper - Owner of Desert Plunge 27:08 Dean Bloxom - Deano Productions 51:56 Shelby Arians - VP Portfolio Wealth Advisor & Arians Family Foundation's

This week on Move the Needle: filmed on location at Craft 64 in Scottsdale, featuring conversations on organic content growth, sustainable wellness for women over 40, and how interactive art can be used to foster creativity, collaboration, and community.

Special thanks to our partners: Amy Richardson, Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/

Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/

First, we sit down with Aiesha Beasley, content creator, social media strategist, and influencer marketing expert. With over a decade of experience and 100K+ followers on both TikTok and Instagram, Aiesha shares insights on organic growth, viral content strategy, and how brands and creators can leverage platform algorithms to build real engagement.

She also discusses her journey from Tumblr to full-time content creation and her work spotlighting Arizona through projects like Phoenix Rooftop Bar Guide 2024.

Connect with Aiesha HERE: https://www.instagram.com/aieshabeasl...

Next, we’re joined by Nicole Farr, founder of Nicki Fit and holistic sleep coach for women over 40. Nicole shares her path into the fitness industry following a major life transition and explains her Nourish • Move • Flourish Method, which helps women rebuild sleep, energy, and overall well-being through sustainable, accessible practices. Her work focuses on meeting women where they are—at home, in person, or virtually.

Learn more about Nicki Fit HERE: https://nickifitaz.net/

Finally, we meet Debra Lee Murrow, a Scottsdale-based fine artist specializing in pen & ink and mixed media. Debra discusses her interactive art experiences designed for corporate events, team-building, fundraisers, and workshops, where participants become part of the creative process. She also shares her work as a live visual recorder, capturing conferences and events through real-time graphic illustration.

Learn more at https://www.colormeArtSpa.com and explore workshops at https://bit.ly/COLORMEworkshops

This week on Move The Needle: filmed on location at Brooklyn V’s Pizza, featuring community leaders and changemakers driving meaningful change through nonprofit leadership, public service, and digital equity.

Special thanks to our partners: Coulter Infiniti – https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Brooklyn V’s Pizza – https://brooklynvspizza.com/ Belle Lacet Lingerie – https://bellelacetlingerie.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee – https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...

First, we sit down with Shante Saulsberry, former candidate for Arizona State House Representative, founder of Janice’s Women’s Center, and owner of Janice Vaincre Boutique. Shante shares her journey through law, entrepreneurship, and nonprofit leadership and highlights the mission of Janice’s Women’s Center, which provides housing and safe lodging for women experiencing homelessness or navigating domestic violence situations.

Learn more and support the mission here: https://www.janiceswomenscenter.com

Next, we’re joined by Erin Carr-Jordan, President and CEO of the Institute for Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA) and Executive Director of Digital Equity and Social Impact at Arizona State University. Dr. Carr-Jordan discusses building systems that actually work, leading large-scale impact initiatives, and what it takes to bridge technology, policy, and human-centered design.

Learn more about IDIA HERE: https://theidia.org/

Finally, we meet Chef Nick Farrer, longtime culinary consultant for Isabel’s Amor in Gilbert. Nick has been instrumental in shaping the restaurant’s menu since 2013, recently launched his TikTok channel (@southchicagochef), which has grown to more than 25,000 followers, and built his own hot sauce brand, Southside Sauces. We discuss his appearances on Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games, his upcoming competition in the Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans, and how his South Chicago roots continue to influence his cooking. Connect with Chef Nick HERE: https://www.instagram.com/southchicag... 00:07 Intro 03:13 Shante Saulsberry - Founder of Janice’s Women’s Center & Owner of Janice Vaincre Boutique 53:42 Nick Farrer - Chef