MOVE THE NEEDLE

MOVE THE NEEDLE

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MOVE THE NEEDLE episodes

  • MTN 43 Chandler | The Living Room | MLB Coach, from Pitching to Pizza

    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: [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]

    1 hr 10 min
  • MTN 42 Gilbert | Peixoto Coffee | Joe Johnston: How Gilbert's Agritopia Got Started

    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: [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]

    1 hr 9 min
  • Episode 41- CHANDLER "Shaping Downtown Chandler's Food & Fashion"


    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-Realtor
    Book 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!

    1 hr 6 min
  • Episode 40- AHWATUKEE "Ready to E - LOVE ATE your life"

    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-az

    First, 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!

    1 hr 11 min
  • MTN 39 Scottsdale | PV Community College | Vitalant & The Urgent Need for Blood Donation

    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: [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]

    52 min
  • Episode 38- GILBERT- 100+ Women "Fly Fishing therapy for breast cancer"

    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: [email protected]

    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: [email protected]

    #movetheneedlepodcast #movingtheneedle #mtn #podcast #community #arizona #cancer #cancersupport #breastcancer #breastcancerawareness #mentalhealth #cancersurvivor #survivorship #grief #griefcounseling #fundraising #hunger #poverty #homelessness #gilbert #gilbertaz #phoenix #motivational #motivationalspeaker

    1 hr
  • MTN 37 Scottsdale | HomeSmart | “Big dogs and naked chocolate”

    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: [email protected] 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: [email protected]

    #movetheneedlepodcast #movingtheneedle #mtn #podcast #fostercare #fostercareawareness #dogrescue #germanshepherd #lifeskills #nonprofit #savingpawsrescue #scottsdale #homesmart #chocolate #healthychocolate #healthydessert #healthydesserts #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship #networking #diabeticfriendly #transitionalhousing #communityengagement

    1 hr
  • MTN 36 Ahwatukee | Foothills Golf Club | First-Time Home Buyer Tips with Christie Ellis

    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: [email protected]

    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: [email protected]

    1 hr 11 min
  • Episode 35- SCOTTSDALE Carey Peña: "Inspired Media & Luxury Living"

    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: 

     

    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: 

     

    1 hr 4 min
  • MTN 34 Gilbert | Hair of the Dog | Thomas James: Making Music a Career

    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:

    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]

    1 hr 12 min

About MOVE THE NEEDLE

From the publisher's feed

Hosted by Impact Architect Shelby Arians & Community Catalyst Steven Petz, MOVE THE NEEDLE spotlights extraordinary individuals dedicated to positive community impact within Arizona.…