MOVE THE NEEDLE

In this episode, we’re exploring brain health, self-leadership, and the power of holistic transformation — filmed on location at Phoenix Center for the Arts in Downtown Phoenix, Arizona!

Special thanks to our partners of this episode:

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

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

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

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

First up, we sit down with Dr. Anna Marie Frank, Doctor of Traditional Naturopathy and founder of Happy Whole You, to discuss how our beliefs, habits, and environments shape the brain. Anna Marie shares her journey of healing depression, dyslexia, and ADD — and the role of nutrition, self-talk, and nervous system support in rewiring our inner world.

Learn more about Happy Whole You HERE: https://www.happywholeyou.com

Next, Heather Laganelli, Business Development and Coaching Consultant, shares her approach to creative problem-solving, leadership, and personal transformation. Heather brings a deeply human-centered perspective to growth — blending strategic clarity with intuition, creativity, and embodied awareness.

Learn more about Heather HERE: https://www.heatherlaganelli.com

Finally, we meet Cortney McDermott, award-winning author, speaker, and celebrity coach. Cortney talks with us about accessing human potential, leading with intuition, and learning to trust yourself fully. Her work has been featured around the world, and she continues to help individuals and companies shift from overwhelm to alignment and impact.

Explore Cortney’s books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Cortney...

For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: [email protected]

Follow along on our other Platforms!

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Learn More about Mathew Blades or Steve Petz:

Mathew Blades:   / mathewblades  

Steve Petz:   / stevepetz  

Video captured and edited by Max Muehlhausen: Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we’re exploring purpose, service, and transformation—filmed on location at the all-new Brooklyn V’s in Gilbert, Arizona!

Special thanks to our partners of this episode:

Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/

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

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

First, we sit down with Paul Gunthar, Serve the World Pastor at The Grove Church, to discuss what it means to live a life of service. Paul shares how his work helps individuals connect faith with action—creating opportunities to make meaningful impact locally and globally through compassion, outreach, and community engagement. Learn more about Live Love here https://www.whatislivelove.org/

Next, we meet Melissa Christenson, Midwife and Pre-Natal Yoga Instructor, and founder of Mother Nurture Midwife. Melissa opens up about her journey from medical interpreter to midwife, and how her early experiences supporting Hispanic women during their OBGYN appointments revealed a need for more holistic, emotionally grounded prenatal care.

Through Mother Nurture Midwife, she’s helping women step into motherhood with greater confidence, awareness, and spiritual connection.

Learn more about Mother Nurture Midwife HERE: https://www.mothernurturemidwife.com/

To wrap up the episode, Steve drops by the newest Brooklyn V’s Pizza location for a visit—getting a behind-the-scenes look at how this beloved local chain continues to grow and serve the community with heart (and amazing pizza). 

In this episode, we’re celebrating women in leadership, community impact, and personal transformation filmed on location at Foothills Golf Club: The Bunker!

Special thanks to our partners of this episode:

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

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

Vero Chicago Pizza (Ahwatukee): https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest...

Keystone Montessori: https://www.keystonemontessori.com/

First, we sit down with Ben Choi, head coach of the Arizona Dragon Boat Association and 4-time defending AZDBA Corporate Champion. Ben shares how dragon boating is building teamwork, resilience, and connection across Arizona’s lakes—and how his crews have gone from local teams to Team USA medalists on the world stage in Thailand.

Learn more about Arizona Dragon Boat Association HERE: https://azdba.org/

Next, we meet Erika Frost, transformation coach and creator of Rise & Thrive, a 7-week program helping people heal emotional blocks and rediscover their inner truth. From her near-death experience at 20 to her time as a psychic medium aboard the Queen Mary, Erika’s journey has been one of deep healing and soul connection. She shares how chakra-based coaching and hypnotherapy can help anyone return to their authentic self.

Learn more about Erika HERE: https://erikafrost.com

Finally, we speak with Nicole Burbank, business strategist and systems expert, on how to bridge personal growth with operational excellence. Nicole reveals how simplifying your systems—and saying no to what doesn’t serve you—creates the foundation for sustainable success and scalable impact.

Learn more about Nicole HERE: https://www.nicolemburbank.com/

Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these inspiring leaders and the powerful work they’re doing in our community! 00:07 Intro 03:09 Ben Choi - Platform Engineer & Dragon Boat Racer 23:27 Erika Frost - Transformation Coach 48:23 Nicole Burbank - Business & Personal Development Coach

For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: [email protected] 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: [email protected] #podcast #movetheneedle #mtn #interview #arizona #azcommunity #community #movingtheneedle #neardeathexperience #neardeathexperiences #womeninleadership #az #phoenixaz #ahwatukee #golfclub #dragonboatrace #dragonboatracing #teamusa #personaldevelopment #businesscoach

In this episode, we’re exploring quantum energy, education for at-risk youth, and the future of mental wellness—filmed on location at HomeSmart in Scottsdale, AZ!

First, we sit down with Christy Whitman—NYT bestselling author, transformational leader, and channel for The Council. Christy shares the 7 “Manifestation Killer” words that block abundance, her 2-minute daily practice for rewiring the subconscious, and insights from her bestselling books Quantum Success and The Art of Having It All.

Learn more about Christy HERE: https://www.christyandthecouncil.com/

Next, we meet Grayson Payne of Genesis City, a nonprofit serving underserved Phoenix youth for over 30 years. Genesis helps teens re-enter the education pipeline, become first-generation graduates, and build brighter futures.

Learn more about Genesis City HERE: https://genesiscity.org/about-genesis/

Finally, we talk with Dr. David W. Leicken, Scottsdale psychiatrist and co-author of Revive and Thrive. With over 20 years of experience—including two decades at the VA—Dr. Dave shares tools for resilience, recovery, and everyday wellness.

Learn more about his new course HERE: https://a.co/d/gyIQiwu

Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these incredible leaders and the powerful work they’re doing in our community!

For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: [email protected]

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: [email protected]

In this episode, we’re diving into Arizona’s airwaves, entrepreneurial grit, and the future of community banking—filmed on location at Bottle & Bean in Chandler, AZ!

This episode is brought to you by our partners:

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

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

First, we sit down with Mike Broomhead, host of The Mike Broomhead Show on KTAR 92.3 and CW7AZ’s Broomhead. For over 15 years, Mike has been Arizona’s go-to talk radio host, known for asking tough questions and speaking directly to the hottest issues of the day. Inspired by his late brother’s military service, Mike shares how that experience shaped his voice, his values, and his career that has included national TV appearances, guest hosting for Glenn Beck, and authoring the book If You’re Gonna Be Dumb, You Gotta Be Tough.

Learn more about Mike HERE: https://ktar.com/the-mike-broomhead-s...

Next, we talk with Diane Prince, serial entrepreneur, speaker, and business coach who built and sold her first staffing agency for $28 million. Diane opens up about what it takes to scale a company from a living room startup to an 8-figure exit, the lessons she now passes on to other founders, and why she combines humor with hard truths when she steps on stage as a keynote speaker. She also shares her recent adventure completing the 110-mile Tour du Mont Blanc trail across France, Italy, and Switzerland.

Learn more about Diane HERE: https://dianeprince.co/mediabio/

Finally, we meet James Christensen, CEO of Gateway Bank. James founded Gateway in 2007 with a vision for a more personal approach to banking. After weathering the recession and the pandemic, Gateway has become the only community bank left standing in Mesa—and one of the top performers in its peer group nationwide. James talks about what makes Gateway different, why he’s committed to Local First Arizona, and how music, movies, and even tattoos keep him grounded outside the boardroom.

Learn more about James HERE: https://gcbaz.com/about-us/

Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these incredible leaders and the powerful work they’re doing in Arizona! For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: [email protected]

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: [email protected]

In this episode, we’re diving into accessible mental health care, youth entrepreneurship, and culinary creativity—filmed on location at Brooklyn V’s Pizza in Gilbert, AZ!

This episode is brought to you by our partners: • Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/

First, we sit down with Princess Darko-Amoako, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner), who shares how opening this practice has been a dream rooted in a passion for compassionate, evidence-based care. We talk about the importance of accessible therapy, medication management, and hybrid in-person and virtual services that meet people where they are.

Learn more about Princess HERE: https://iyalimentalwellness.com/princ...

Next, we chat with Meg Kubo, Co-Founder & CEO of WhizAngel, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth entrepreneurs. Meg explains how WhizAngel connects young innovators with mentors, sponsors, and industry leaders who believe in “Paying it Forward,” and how the platform helps turn big ideas into real impact.

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

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.

Visit Isabel's Amor website HERE: https://isabelsamor.com/

Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these incredible leaders and the powerful work they’re doing in Arizona! 00:07 Intro 02:23 Princess Darko-Amoako – PMHNP 26:25 Meg Kubo - Co-founder & CEO of WhizAngel 45:55 Nick Farrer - Isabel's Amore Chef

For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: [email protected] 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: [email protected]

In this episode, we’re diving into mental wellness through movement, property management, and recurring revenue, language learning, and community pride—filmed on location at Vero Chicago Pizza in Ahwatukee, AZ!

This episode is brought to you by our partners:

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 Kaitlyn Gallo, Miss Ahwatukee 2025 and Arizona State University student (Business & Entrepreneurial Leadership). In “Sweat the Stress: Promoting Mental Wellness Through Movement,” Kaitlyn shares how fitness supports mental health, how public speaking and marketing shaped her leadership, and her long-term goal to launch a coffee venture as a trained barista.

Follow Kaitlyn HERE: @misskaitlyngallo

Next, we chat with Donovan Reese, Founder of MyRentDoor, about why great property management is really about people and relationships. He breaks down how their team supports renters and owners—and outlines an eye-catching referral program: earn 2% of rent collected for 2 years for each client you refer. We also have some fun with a “Longest Kiss” sidebar.

Learn more about MyRentDoor HERE: myrentdoor.com Call: 1-844-RentDoor (736-8366)

Finally, we meet Janet Collins, Teacher at Summit School, Spanish language expert, and founder of Los Niños Spanish School (est. 18 years). Janet reflects on choosing Ahwatukee two decades ago, favorite local eats (Vero’s, Florencia’s, El Fogon), hiking the ever-changing mountain trails, and what she rates a perfect 10 (Hawaii).

She credits her late father as a lasting source of wisdom and sums up “home” in three words: Family, Gratitude, Love.

Learn more about Los Niños HERE: https://losninosspanishschoolaz.com/

Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these incredible local heroes and the powerful work they’re doing in Arizona 

For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: [email protected] 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: [email protected]

In this episode, we’re diving into sports broadcasting, philanthropy, business owners, & community leadership—filmed on location at Sea & Smoke in Chandler, AZ!

This episode is brought to you by our partners:

Brooklyn V’s – Authentic New York–style pizza and Italian eats, right here in Arizona: https://brooklynvspizza.com/

Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee – Personalized in-home & online tutoring for students of all ages: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...

First, we sit down with Jim Grieshaber, ESPN broadcaster, UFC Insider, and inspirational speaker. With over 15 years of experience as a host, play-by-play commentator, and emcee, Jim shares stories from his dynamic career—spanning ESPN, Locked On Podcast Network, and Cage Side Seat MMA. Beyond sports, his mission is to inspire audiences and create meaningful connections through storytelling and live events.

Follow Jim HERE:   / jimgries_  

Next, we chat with Jason Bressler, Founder of the Phoenix Legacy Foundation. Since 2017, Jason has been passionate about building community impact through fundraising, volunteer efforts, and charitable partnerships. The foundation supports local charities serving children, pets, active military, and veterans—all to enrich lives in Arizona communities.

Learn more about Phoenix Legacy Foundation HERE: https://phxlegacy.org/

Join their next Event: Phoenix Legacy Foundation's Charity Golf Tournament Date: Friday, November 14, 2025 Time: 8:00AM-3:00PM Location: Palm Valley Golf Club, 2211 North Litchfield Road, Goodyear, AZ 85395

Finally, we meet Mark Stewart, entrepreneur, businessman, and Maricopa County Supervisor. Mark has worn many hats—former Vice Mayor and Chandler City Councilmember, small business owner, and now the force behind Gameday Men’s Health, a clinic redefining men’s wellness with hormone optimization, weight loss, and personalized care.

He shares his perspective on innovation, business growth, and what it takes to create opportunity both in government and in the private sector.

Learn more about Mark HERE: https://markstewartaz.com/

Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these incredible leaders and the powerful work they’re doing in Arizona and beyond!

For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: [email protected]

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: [email protected]

In this episode, we’re diving into housing solutions, real estate expertise, and grassroots community support—filmed on location at Brooklyn V’s in Gilbert, AZ!

This episode is brought to you by our partners:

Belle Lacet Lingerie – Luxury lingerie & intimate apparel for every body: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/

Brooklyn V’s Pizza – Authentic New York–style pizza and Italian eats, right here in Gilbert: https://brooklynvspizza.com/

First up, we sit down with Kayla Kolar, CEO of House of Refuge, a nonprofit that has been supporting families in Mesa since 1996. With 88 two-bedroom homes on a 20-acre property, House of Refuge provides transitional housing to families experiencing homelessness—offering not just shelter, but wrap-around programs that help families achieve self-sufficiency and long-term stability.

Learn more about House of Refuge HERE: https://houseofrefuge.org/

Next, we chat with Kari Dean, Real Estate Professional and Community Connector. A Valley resident of over 20 years, Kari specializes in residential real estate across Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe, and Scottsdale. She shares her passion for guiding buyers and sellers through one of the biggest milestones of their lives—and why community involvement keeps her grounded in her work.

Connect with Kari HERE: https://www.karidean.com/

Finally, we meet Nancy Haggerty, Founder of Nancy’s Closet AZ. Since 2015, Nancy’s Closet has grown from a home-based clothing resource into a 501(c)(3) private foundation supporting single mothers—affectionately called “Mom Warriors.” Nancy shares her inspiring journey from Miss Fitness competitor to nonprofit founder, and how a personal encounter led her to create a safe, empowering space for moms in need.

Learn more about Nancy’s Closet AZ HERE: https://www.nancysclosetaz.org/

Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these incredible leaders and the powerful work they’re doing in Arizona and beyond!

For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE:

[email protected] 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 protected]

In this episode, we’re diving into community connection, nonprofit leadership, and innovative workforce solutions—filmed on location at Foothills Golf Club in Ahwatukee, AZ!

This episode is brought to you by:

Amy Richardson, Savvy Realty Group – Helping you find the perfect place to call home: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/

Keystone Montessori – Inspiring lifelong learning through Montessori education: https://www.keystonemontessori.com/

Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee – Personalized in-home & online tutoring for students of all ages: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-...

Vero Chicago Pizza – Authentic Chicago-style pizza, right here in the Valley: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest...

First, we sit down with Brenda Nichols, Program Director at Y-OPAS (YMCA’s Outreach Program for Aging Seniors). Brenda shares how this vital program supports seniors with connection, independence, and community care. This quarter, their members proudly delivered a gift of $14,175 to further their mission of reducing isolation, fostering independence, and creating stronger connections for aging adults in our community.

Learn more about Y-OPAS HERE: https://valleyymca.org/programs/more-...

Next, we chat with Jackson Fonder, CEO of UMOM New Day Centers. As the leader of Arizona’s largest provider of services for families experiencing homelessness, Jackson brings a no-nonsense, results-driven approach shaped by 22 years in the Air Force and over 16 years as a nonprofit CEO. He opens up about building high-impact teams, scaling organizational impact, and what ultrarunning has taught him about perseverance and finishing strong.

Learn more about UMOM HERE: https://www.umom.org/

Finally, we meet Chad Sorrick, CEO of Structure Resources. Chad and his team provide flexible workforce solutions and direct placements for the commercial and industrial construction industry. With the sector facing a shortage of 500,000–700,000 skilled workers, Structure Resources helps businesses boost productivity and profitability by connecting them with the right people at the right time.

Learn more about Structure Resources HERE: https://structureresources.com/

Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these incredible leaders and the powerful work they’re doing in Arizona and beyond!

For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: [email protected]