Above & Beyond: Where Excellence Meets Elevation

Jan Simon
  • 5.0 (7)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Above & Beyond: Where Excellence Meets Elevation is a podcast that dives deep into the stories of business owners, community leaders, and aspiring entrepreneurs who are striving to make an extraordinary impact. Each episode explores their roots, motivations, and defining moments to inspire listeners on their own journey to excellence. 

  1. From Washington to Arizona: Sally Harrison's Path of Impact

    6D AGO

    From Washington to Arizona: Sally Harrison's Path of Impact

    Send a text This episode features Sally Harrison, president and CEO of the Mesa Chamber of Commerce since 2013, who moved from Washington state to Arizona in 2004 and joined the Mesa Chamber in 2008 after a 20-year career helping grow a physical therapy practice into 20 clinics and launching a community-focused foundation. She discusses how her upbringing in a small Washington community, her parents’ involvement in civic organizations, and her brother’s long law-enforcement career shaped her service-oriented leadership and emphasis on relationships. Sally shares personal experiences including losing her mother at 19 and her father two days later, not finishing college due to family health crises, and moving her family to Arizona after repeated spring break visits. She describes her path into the chamber through Rotary, stepping into the CEO role after a leadership transition, and her leadership philosophy of leaving ego at the door, focusing on protecting, promoting, and advocating for businesses while partnering closely with the City of Mesa. The conversation also covers misconceptions about chambers of commerce, balancing business and political considerations through a business lens, and how the chamber expanded into broader community issues during COVID. Sally speaks candidly about her oldest son Bryce’s suicide in 2006 at age 17, the aftermath for her family, and her involvement in raising awareness and convening community conversations on teen suicide, including collaborating with organizations and individuals such as Copa Health and Katie McPherson and bringing in speakers. She notes challenges facing youth such as coping with failure and highlights Mesa’s growth, the chamber’s wide range of programming, and her current family life, including her granddaughter and her son buying her longtime home. Support the show www.abovebeyondpodcast.com Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE.

    1h 32m
  2. Embracing Change: Brock Mather’s Path After Football

    FEB 12

    Embracing Change: Brock Mather’s Path After Football

    Send a text Join us for an insightful conversation with Brock Mather, a former Division 1 linebacker whose life has been profoundly shaped by discipline, family, and competition. Raised in Ridgecrest, California, Brock spent nearly two decades on the football field, fulfilling his dream at Sacramento State University where he helped secure a Big Sky Championship. After college, Brock pivoted to join his family’s legacy in the ice and water distribution business in Arizona. In this episode, Brock delves deep into his childhood, football career, the challenges of academic balance, and his journey of self-discovery post-football. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or curious about how athletes transition into new careers, this episode is a compelling listen. Support the show www.abovebeyondpodcast.com Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE.

    1h 19m
  3. Service with a Personal Touch: The Larry Schendelman Approach

    FEB 5

    Service with a Personal Touch: The Larry Schendelman Approach

    Send a text In this episode, we sit down with Larry Schendelman, the founder of A&J Graphics and Promotions, who shares his unique journey from working in the printing industry as a teenager in New York City to moving across the country and establishing his successful business in Arizona. Larry delves into his core philosophy of providing unparalleled service regardless of the client's budget, his early life working alongside his father, and the pivotal moments that shaped his entrepreneurial journey. He also opens up about personal challenges, such as dealing with anxiety and panic attacks, and how these struggles have influenced his approach to business and relationships. Whether you are interested in the intricacies of the printing and promotional merchandise industry, or seeking inspiration from Larry's unwavering commitment to customer service and legacy building, this episode offers both practical insights and heartfelt stories. Support the show www.abovebeyondpodcast.com Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE.

    1h 12m
  4. From Tires to Triumph: LJ Richardson's Journey of Perseverance and Faith

    JAN 22

    From Tires to Triumph: LJ Richardson's Journey of Perseverance and Faith

    Send a text In this episode, we sit down with LJ Richardson, a family-first entrepreneur known for his dedication, hard work, and strong relationships. LJ shares his incredible journey from struggling with the possibility of alcoholism to finding stability through his faith in Jesus. He opens up about his early career in the tire industry, his ventures into golf apparel, and the founding of MobiTire. LJ also discusses the impact of his faith on his personal and professional life, providing insights into his motivations and the lessons he's learned along the way. Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about experience, relationships, and betting on oneself.  Support the show www.abovebeyondpodcast.com Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE.

    1h 36m
  5. From Cigars to Self-Discovery: Inside Frank Bellavia's World

    JAN 8

    From Cigars to Self-Discovery: Inside Frank Bellavia's World

    Send a text In this compelling episode, we dive deep into the life of Frank Bellavia, founder of Fido Cigar Company. Born in New York and raised in California, Frank moved to Arizona with his wife to bring a long-held dream to life after spending over 20 years in the cigar industry. We explore Frank's journey through personal and professional highs and lows, including his experience with ADHD, his military school days, his various career shifts, and the foundational support of his wife. Frank shares his insights on building a business, the importance of legacy, and the philosophy behind his company. Through candid conversations and reflections, this episode offers a raw and inspiring look at resilience, passion, and commitment. Support the show www.abovebeyondpodcast.com Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE.

    1h 34m
  6. Reinvention and Passion: The Steve Alexander Experience

    JAN 1

    Reinvention and Passion: The Steve Alexander Experience

    Send a text In this episode, we dive deep with Steve Alexander, a man known for his engaging presence and authentic leadership. Steve shares his journey growing up in East Texas, his diverse career path spanning 20 years in operations and talent leadership across various industries, and his current role as a talent acquisition relationship manager for TE Connectivity. He also discusses his entrepreneurial venture, Recruiter Pro 360, and the unique challenges and rewards of managing his own boutique recruiting firm. From heartfelt stories of his early years, his passion for sports and bowling, to the importance of staying motivated and finding joy in everyday tasks, Steve's perspective offers valuable insights. The conversation also touches on his personal life, including his past marriage, current relationship, and his approach to ministry through 'Cigar Church'. Join us for an inspiring and genuine conversation filled with life lessons and reflections. Support the show www.abovebeyondpodcast.com Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE.

    1h 10m
  7. Flipping the Script: Jan Simon Unveiled - From Firefighting to Insurance

    12/25/2025

    Flipping the Script: Jan Simon Unveiled - From Firefighting to Insurance

    Send a text Join us for a special episode where the tables are turned, and podcast mastermind Jan Simon takes the hot seat. In a dynamic and heartfelt interview, Jan shares his intriguing journey from a firefighter repelling from helicopters to an insurance expert and community leader. With moments that span from tear-jerking to laugh-out-loud funny, Jan recounts his challenging yet inspiring path through life's ups and downs. Tune in as he reveals his passion for storytelling, the impact of a pivotal high school wrestling coach, and the vital lesson that you're the only one who can truly hold you back. From growing up in Washington State to founding Foundation Insurance Services, don't miss this heartfelt and motivational episode that reminds us of the power of resilience and determination. Support the show www.abovebeyondpodcast.com Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE.

    1h 13m
  8. Rewriting the Rules: Ryelee Ponce on Finding Her Voice

    12/18/2025

    Rewriting the Rules: Ryelee Ponce on Finding Her Voice

    Send a text In this engaging episode, we sit down with Ryelee Ponce, an Arizona native, animal lover, and twin mom who transitioned from a corporate life to becoming the founder of LZR Marketing and Early Bird Strategies. Ryelee shares her journey from the struggles of strict parenting and a traumatic divorce to building a successful digital marketing agency with her wife, Liz. She delves into the challenges of corporate politics, finding her voice, and balancing life as an entrepreneur and a parent. Full of insights and heartfelt reflections, this episode captures Ryelee's determination to reshape her life on her own terms and inspire others to do the same. Support the show www.abovebeyondpodcast.com Please LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE.

    1h 25m
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5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Above & Beyond: Where Excellence Meets Elevation is a podcast that dives deep into the stories of business owners, community leaders, and aspiring entrepreneurs who are striving to make an extraordinary impact. Each episode explores their roots, motivations, and defining moments to inspire listeners on their own journey to excellence. 

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