Move the Needle

Move the Needle Network, LLC
  • 5.0 (2)
  • FILM INTERVIEWS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Hosted by former radio personality Mathew Blades and community catalyst Steve Petz, Move the Needle spotlights extraordinary individuals dedicated to positive community impact within Arizona. Our mission is to celebrate the unsung heroes and local legends who embody the spirit of community-driven change. Through engaging interviews and compelling profiles, we delve into the lives of those making a difference. Our content features in-depth conversations exploring their motivations, challenges, and successes. We also highlight initiatives and organizations that embody values of collaborative efforts, community events, and grassroots movements that contribute to positive change. Every week, we share stories of resilience, kindness, and empowerment to inspire and mobilize others. By focusing on transformative actions and collaborative efforts, we aim to foster a more compassionate and connected world.

  1. 6D AGO

    Episode 70- AHWATUKEE Cookies, Tutors and Foster Families

    This week on Move The Needle — filmed on location at Vero Chicago Pizza, featuring local business owners, nonprofit leaders, and community change-makers making a real impact across the Valley. Special thanks to our partners: Savvy Realty Group – Amy Richardson: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/ Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/   First, we spotlight Lookie, It’s a Cookie!, a local custom sugar cookie business offering beautifully decorated cookies, cookie cakes, and hands-on cookie classes—including the popular Cookie After Dark. From custom orders (2–5 dozen cookies) to 10” cookie cakes with royal icing details, Lookie, It’s a Cookie! brings creativity and sweetness to every celebration. Learn more and order here: https://lookie-its-a-cookie.square.site Instagram: @lookiecookieaz Next, we sit down with Kimberly Selchan, Business Growth Coach and Regional Owner of Tutor Doctor Chandler-Gilbert-Ahwatukee. With over 20 years as a people leader and more than six years growing her franchise to 90+ staff and nearly 2,000 clients, Kimberly shares insights on scaling service-based businesses and supporting today’s youth through one-to-one academic coaching and mentorship. Tutor Doctor provides personalized tutoring from Pre-K through college, including STEM, test prep, executive function coaching, special needs support, and ESL. Tutor Doctor is currently hiring tutors across the Phoenix area. Find out more about Tutor Doctor HERE: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... Finally, we talk with Kimberly Vehon, Founder and CEO of Foster Arizona and the Foster Arizona Housing Project. Kimberly shares her powerful mission to change the foster care system through education, connection, and action. Foster Arizona supports children currently in foster care and young adults ages 18–24 transitioning out of the system by providing resources, community, and safe housing—helping create stability, independence, and hope for the future. Find out more about Foster Arizona HERE: https://freeartsaz.org/ 00:07   Intro 03:14 Monica Gellman - Owner of Lookie, it's a Cookie 21:58 Kim Selchan - Owner of Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee 42:13 Kim Vehon - Found & CEO of Foster Arizona For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com 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: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com

    1h 2m

  2. 12/31/2025

    MTN 69 Scottsdale | Craft 64 Scottsdale | Snacks, Slapshots, & Saving Lives

    This week on Move The Needle — filmed on location at Craft 64 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Special thanks to our partners: • Savvy Realty Group – Amy Richardson: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ First, we sit down with Taryn George, founder of Heart & Soul by Taryn. Taryn helps busy families simplify healthy eating through realistic grocery strategies, lunchbox inspiration, and easy food swaps that remove stress and guilt. Her mission is to make nourishing your family sustainable, approachable, and doable in everyday life. Learn more and download her free starter guide HERE: https://www.heartandsoulbytaryn.com/ Next, we speak with Emily Stratton from District Hockey HQ, a premier hockey training, retail, and performance facility in Scottsdale. District Hockey HQ offers pro stock gear, game-worn jerseys, interactive shooting lanes, synthetic ice training, and advanced tools like the RapidHands Machine. We also explore their professional equipment services, including skate baking, sharpening, and ozone-based gear cleaning that naturally eliminates odors and bacteria. Learn more about District Hockey HQ HERE: https://www.districthockeyhq.com/?srs... Finally, we talk with Lea Benson, co-founder of CeCe’s Hope Center. With over 30 years of experience in business management and marketing, Lea now focuses her work on helping young women survivors of human trafficking rebuild their lives. CeCe’s Hope Center supports women ages 18–24 through education, career training, transitional housing, and individualized partner services—creating long-term healing, stability, and hope. Learn more about Cece's Hope Center HERE: https://cecescenter.org/ For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com 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: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com

    1h 8m

  3. 12/10/2025

    MTN 67 Gilbert | Brooklyn V’s Pizza | AZ’S TOP FOODIE, Cheesecake Crown + Game-Changers

    This week on Move The Needle — filmed on location at Brooklyn V’s in Gilbert, AZ 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 Chelsey Hauston of @letthemeatthis — the largest food TikTok account in Arizona and one of the Southwest’s leading food and travel creators. Since 2019, she has built a community of over half a million followers while spotlighting local restaurants and producing content for more than 30 Arizona eateries. With graduate studies at Thunderbird School of Global Management and a background in education, Chelsey blends storytelling, strategy, and community impact in her work. Follow her on IG:   / letthemeatthis     Next, we speak with Lauren Blankenhorn, Executive Director and Founder of Nourish and Nurture AZ, a nonprofit diaper and formula bank serving families in Pinal County. She shares critical insights into the challenges facing local parents: 43% of Arizona infants are born into poverty, 1 in 2 families struggle to afford diapers, and 13% must choose between basic expenses and infant formula. Nourish and Nurture provides essential supplies and compassionate support to families in need. Learn more about Lauren HERE: https://www.nourishandnurtureaz.com/a....   Finally, we talk with Carol Burgard, Operations Consultant and Fractional Director of Operations. Carol helps businesses scale by creating strong systems, clear workflows, and aligned operations. With deep experience in project management, sales, and leadership development, she bridges the gap between big-picture vision and day-to-day execution. As a mentor with the Young & Empowered Women Group, she is committed to empowering leaders to grow with confidence and clarity. Connect with Carol HERE:   / carolburgardofficial   00:07 Intro 02:28 Chelsey Hauston - AZ Food & Travel Blogger 26:18 Lauren Blankenhorn - Founder of Nourish and Nurture AZ 45:50 Carol Burgard - Operations Consultant   For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com 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: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com

    1h 5m

  4. 12/03/2025

    MTN 66 Ahwatukee | Foothills Golf Club - The Bunker | Desert Vista High School Then and Now

    This week on Move The Needle — filmed on location at Foothills Golf Club – The Bunker in Ahwatukee, AZ Special thanks to our partners: • Savvy Realty Group – Amy Richardson: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-gilbert/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ • Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/ First, we sit down with Sammy Williams from Boys Team Charity (BTC), Ahwatukee. With nearly 20 years in cardiology spanning public relations, sales, and marketing, Sammy brings a rare combination of clinical experience and communication expertise. A Walter Cronkite School honors graduate, she now uses her investigative mindset to support organizations through copywriting, editing, research, customer service training, and business development. We also explore her work with Boys Team Charity — a service organization empowering 7th–12th grade boys to give back to their communities through parent-son volunteerism across Arizona and Tucson. Learn more about BTC: https://boysteamcharity.org/ Next, we speak with Dr. Donna Jagielski, founder of Blessings, Balance, Breath Yoga and adjunct professor at Grand Canyon University. A 20-year Ahwatukee resident, Dr. Donna offers trauma-informed yoga to underserved women and youth impacted by the justice system. With expertise in both education and wellness, she shares how technology, stress, and the fast pace of modern life highlight the urgent need for accessible self-care practices. Learn more: https://blessingsbalancebreath.org/ Finally, we talk with Mr. TJ Snyder, Assistant Principal of Academics at Desert Vista High School. Beginning at DVHS in 1995 as a baseball coach, Mr. Snyder has since served in Special Education, Counseling, Testing Coordination, and NCAA Clearinghouse support. His decades-long commitment to student success — along with his experience as a parent of two DVHS graduates — gives him a grounded, community-centered perspective on education and leadership. Explore Desert Vista High School: https://desertvista.tempeunion.org/ 00:07 Intro 03:52 Sammy Williams - BTC Charity Ahwatukee 23:16 Dr. Donna Jagielski - CEO & Founder - Blessings, Balance, Breath Yoga 45:31 For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com 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: Email: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com

    1h 6m

  5. 11/26/2025

    Ep 65 - Chandler - Bottle and Bean - Cash Money and Mathew Blades

    This week on Move The Needle — filmed on location at Bottle & Bean in Chandler, AZ Special thanks to our partners: Brooklyn V's: https://brooklynvspizza.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-gilbert/ Amy Richardson - Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/   First, we sit down with Ashley Butler, Cash Flow Advisor with Alpha Omega Wealth. Ashley grew up around the world as an Army brat, later earning degrees in Mathematics and Psychology before stepping into financial education and insurance planning. After discovering the Infinite Banking Concept through a local Cashflow meetup, she made it her mission to help people rethink their relationship with money. Today, she guides clients toward clarity, wealth-building, and financial purpose using her core values framework, “Take A. S.T.E.P.” Learn more about Ashley: https://alphaomegawealth.com/ Next, we speak with Christie Boutain, Senior Vice President and Commercial Banker at First Western Bank. With 30 years in strategic lending, Christie specializes in helping small businesses and nonprofits access the capital they need to grow. She’s committed to transparent, community-first banking and brings deep knowledge of the East Valley market, along with her involvement in the Gilbert Chamber and EVIT Foundation. Connect with Christie: https://firstwesterntrust.com/ Finally, we talk with Mathew Blades, speaker, podcast coach, and host of Learn From People Who Lived It. After nearly three decades in broadcasting, Mathew now helps creators elevate their podcasts and teaches teams how to break old patterns and communicate better. Known as “the radio star who walked away,” he has built a powerful career in personal development, keynote speaking, and content coaching. Explore Mathew’s work: https://learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/ or www.MathewBlades.com

    1h 20m

  6. 11/19/2025

    MTN 64 Chandler | Craft 64 Chandler | Fine Jewelry to Fine Cuts of Meats

    This week on Move The Needle, we’re spotlighting three incredible women shaping their industries — filmed on location at Craft 64 Chandler, AZ. Special thanks to our partners: • Amy Richardson, Savvy Realty Group — https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Brooklyn V's — https://brooklynvspizza.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Von Hansons Meats & Spirits: https://vonhansonsmeats.net/    First, we sit down with Myranda Molina of Myranda Fine Jewelry. Myranda made her first pair of earrings at 12 and never looked back. Today, she’s known for her estate pieces, custom designs, and diamond expertise, with thriving locations in Scottsdale and Chandler. We talk legacy, craftsmanship, and what it takes to build a trusted fine-jewelry brand. Explore her work: https://MyrandaFineJewelry.com   Next, we talk with Jessica Feldman, Owner of Digital Vibes. With 15+ years in digital marketing, Jessica breaks down where tech is heading — including her thoughts on OpenAI’s new Sora model and the shift from cameras to concepts. She also shares the mission behind SHE, her platform offering free tools and courses to help women rise, lead, and thrive. Connect with Jessica HERE: https://digitalvibesagency.com/about/   Finally, we meet Malesha Goode of Von Hanson’s Meats & Spirits in Chandler. Known as the Valley’s go-to local butcher shop, Von Hanson’s continues to expand its reach. Malesha discusses driving major sales growth, community partnerships, and her recent nominations for “Women Business Owner of the Year” and the “Shero Award.” She also gives us a look at Von Hanson’s new partnership with the Valley Suns G League team. Connect with Malesha HERE:   / maleshainthisane   00:07 Intro 03:50 Myranda Molina - Myranda Fine Jewelry 26:10 Jessica Feldman - Digital Vibes Agency 48:37 Malesha Goode - Von Hanson's Meats & Spirits 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: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com   #podcast #movetheneedle #mtn #community #interview #arizona #entrepreneur #azcommunity #az #chandleraz #phoenix #womenownedbusiness #jewellery #finejewelry #digitalmarketing #butcher #freshmeats

    1h 13m

  7. 11/12/2025

    MTN 63 Scottsdale | Craft 64 Scottsdale | Healthy Minds, Happy Vibes, Honest Snacks

    In this episode, we're diving into mental health, entrepreneurship, and personal transformation — filmed on location at Craft 64 in Scottsdale, AZ! Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Amy Richardson, Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta Law: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ First, we sit down with Colter Bloxom, an Arizona native and Clinical Mental Health Counselor who brings a grounded, “tell-it-like-it-is” approach to some of life’s most challenging conversations. Colter shares why he feels called to sit with people in their hardest moments, what it means to hold space without judgment, and why there’s nothing a client can say that will ever be “too much.” Get in touch with Colter HERE: https://www.thrivetherapyphx.com/team... Next, we talk with Steve Cislaw and Chuck Moore of Elovado Drinks, creators of premium hand-crafted hemp-infused and cannabis cocktails. They share the origin story behind their product line — including the moment a single margarita request sparked the idea that would eventually lead to their first bottled mixer. Today, Elovado’s variety pack is proudly sold at Total Wine. Find Elovado Drinks HERE: https://elevadodrinks.com/ Finally, we meet Katie Aho, Health Coach and Bioresonance Practitioner, who recently returned from a two-week immersion in the Amazon jungle of Peru. Katie opens up about fasting, plant medicine, and the deep self-awareness that comes from stripping away all external distractions. She reflects on what surfaces when we stop running from what’s buried and choose instead to face it with honesty and intention. Connect with Katie HERE:   / _positivelykatie_     00:07 Intro 03:08 Colter Bloxom - Thrive Therapy 23:24 Steve Cislaw/Chuck Moore - Owners of Elovado Drinks 41:36 Katie Aho - Health Coach + Bioresonance Practitioner For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com 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: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com

    1h 4m

  8. 10/29/2025

    MTN 61 Downtown Phoenix | Live from Phoenix Center for the Arts

    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... Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support these inspiring leaders and the powerful work happening in our community. 00:00 Intro 01:13 Dr. Anna Marie Frank - Founder of Happy Whole You 19:35 Heather Laganelli - Business Development & Coaching Consultant 34:06 Cortney McDermott - Author, Speaker, & Celebrity Coach   For any inquiries, get in touch with us HERE: MOVETHENEEDLENETWORK@gmail.com 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: maxmuehlhausen@gmail.com

    53 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Hosted by former radio personality Mathew Blades and community catalyst Steve Petz, Move the Needle spotlights extraordinary individuals dedicated to positive community impact within Arizona. Our mission is to celebrate the unsung heroes and local legends who embody the spirit of community-driven change. Through engaging interviews and compelling profiles, we delve into the lives of those making a difference. Our content features in-depth conversations exploring their motivations, challenges, and successes. We also highlight initiatives and organizations that embody values of collaborative efforts, community events, and grassroots movements that contribute to positive change. Every week, we share stories of resilience, kindness, and empowerment to inspire and mobilize others. By focusing on transformative actions and collaborative efforts, we aim to foster a more compassionate and connected world.

Information

  • Creator
    Move the Needle Network, LLC
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    72
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Move the Needle