Move the Needle

Move the Needle Network, LLC
  • 5.0 (3)
  • 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. 2d ago

    MTN 97 Scottsdale | HomeSmart | SERVICE. MENTORSHIP. IMPACT.

    This episode highlights three inspiring organizations serving Arizona's children and families. Learn how these leaders are making a difference and how you can get involved. Special thanks to our partners of this episode: • PlumbSmart: https://itsjustplumbsmart.com/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ • Amy Richardson, Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ First, we're joined by Joe Genovese, Chapter President of Sleep in Heavenly Peace. Joe shares how a simple request for two beds changed the course of his retirement and led him to help deliver more than 13,000 beds to children across Arizona. He discusses the importance of quality sleep, the hidden reality of childhood bed insecurity, and how communities can come together to ensure that no child sleeps on the floor. Learn more about Sleep in Heavenly Peace HERE: https://shpbeds.org/chapter/az-phoenix/ Next, we welcome Ronda Parker, Executive Director of The MVP Foundation. Ronda discusses why middle school is such a critical age for young boys and how mentorship, leadership training, and positive role models can transform lives. She shares how The MVP Foundation is helping boys build confidence, develop character, and discover their potential long before they become employees, fathers, or community leaders. Learn more about The MVP Foundation HERE: https://www.themvpfoundation.org/ Finally, Mandy Holmes, Founder of Sponsor My Athlete, joins us to discuss the rising costs of youth sports and how families can offset expenses through local sponsorships. Mandy shares how she turned her own experience as a sports mom into a business that teaches parents and young athletes valuable lessons in entrepreneurship, branding, and community partnerships. Learn more about Sponsor My Athlete HERE: https://sponsormyathlete.com/ 00:07 Intro 01:37 Joe Genovese – Chapter President, Sleep in Heavenly Peace 22:52 Ronda Parker – Executive Director, The MVP Foundation 39:59 Mandy Holmes – Founder, Sponsor My Athlete Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode! #MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #ArizonaPodcast #SleepInHeavenlyPeace #TheMVPFoundation #SponsorMyAthlete #YouthLeadership #Mentorship #YouthSports #CommunityImpact #Nonprofit #ArizonaNonprofits #PhoenixAZ #ScottsdaleAZ #Leadership #Community #GivingBack #YouthDevelopment #arizonabusiness

  2. Jul 8

    MTN 96 Gilbert | Brooklyn V's Pizza | TEARS. TRIUMPH. TRUTH.

    Featuring stories of hope, resilience, healing, and perseverance, Episode 96 highlights three inspiring women making a meaningful impact in their communities. Special thanks to our partners of this episode: • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ • Brooklyn V's Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Von Hanson's Meats & Spirits: https://vonhansonsmeats.net/ • Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/ • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ First, we're joined by Alyssa Munson, Developmental Specialist with Valleywise Health's NICU Developmental Program. Alyssa shares what life is really like caring for premature babies, why skin-to-skin contact plays such a critical role in brain development and healing, and how families can find hope during one of life's most difficult journeys. Learn more about Valleywise Health HERE: https://valleywisehealth.org/ Next, we welcome Laura Allred, Founder and Executive Director of the Brightly Living Foundation. After surviving breast cancer at 33, Laura created a nonprofit dedicated to helping women heal emotionally, mentally, and physically after diagnosis. She discusses life after cancer, the importance of community, and why mental health should be part of every survivor's treatment plan. Learn more about Brightly Living Foundation HERE: https://brightlyliving.org/ Finally, author Erika Snyder joins us to discuss her memoir, Dance With Somebody. As the wife of former NFL offensive lineman Adam Snyder, Erika shares the untold realities of NFL family life, navigating identity beyond football, and the lessons learned through marriage, motherhood, and life's biggest transitions. Learn more about Erika and Dance With Somebody HERE: https://www.erikasnyderauthor.com/ 00:07 Intro 02:36 Alyssa Munson - Developmental Specialist, Valleywise Health 20:59 Laura Allred - Founder/Executive Director, Brightly Living Foundation 41:12 Erika Snyder - Author, Dance With Somebody Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode! #MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #ArizonaPodcast #NICU #PrematureBabies #ValleywiseHealth #BreastCancerSurvivor #BrightlyLiving #MentalHealth #WomenSupportingWomen #NFL #NFLFamily #ErikaSnyder #Leadership #Resilience #Community #PhoenixAZ #Arizona

  3. Jul 1

    MTN 95 Chandler | LUCCA | Arians, Mahomes & Lowery: Super Bowl Lessons, NFL Wisdom & Community

    Featuring a community leader, an NFL Hall of Famer, and a Super Bowl-winning coach, Episode 95 is one you won't want to miss! Special thanks to our partners of this episode: • Amy Richardson - Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ • Von Hanson's Meats & Spirits: https://vonhansonsmeats.net/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Brooklyn V's Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ First, we sit down with Terri Kimble, CEO/President of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce. Terri shares how Chandler has become one of Arizona's most successful business communities, the importance of innovation and economic development, and how the city continues to balance rapid growth with its hometown feel. Learn more HERE: https://www.chandlerchamber.com/ Next, we're joined by Nick Lowery, Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Famer, author, and champion for the homeless. Nick reflects on resilience, purpose, faith, and the lessons learned from a lifetime of performing under pressure. He also discusses his new book, Naked and Alone with 80,000 People, and why meaningful connection matters more than achievement alone. Learn more about Nick Lowery HERE: https://nicklowery.com/ Finally, we welcome Coach Bruce Arians, Super Bowl-winning NFL Head Coach and two-time NFL Coach of the Year. Coach Arians opens up about leadership, family, coaching great quarterbacks, building championship cultures, and the legacy he hopes to leave through the Arians Family Foundation and decades of mentoring players on and off the field. Learn more about the Arians Family Foundation HERE: https://ariansfamilyfoundation.com/ Be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode! #MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #ArizonaPodcast #BruceArians #NickLowery #NFL #SuperBowl #Leadership #BusinessLeadership #CommunityLeadership #ChandlerChamber #ChandlerAZ #ArizonaBusiness #CommunityImpact #PersonalGrowth #PhoenixAZ #ArizonaLeaders #nflcoaching

  4. Jun 24

    MTN 94 Ahwatukee | Foothills Golf Club | Sports, Cancer Heroes, & Local Business

    This week on MOVE THE NEEDLE, we’re talking sports storytelling, nonprofit leadership, community impact, small business, and the people making a difference across Arizona! Thank you to our partners of this episode: Amy Richardson - Savvy Realty: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ Brewer's Air Conditioning & Heating: https://www.brewersac.com/ Foothills Golf Club: https://www.thefoothillsgc.com/ Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Contemporary Dental Concepts: https://cosmeticdentistryaz.com/ Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... First, we sit down with Paul Coro, Senior Writer at Grand Canyon University and longtime Arizona sports journalist. Paul shares stories from his decades covering high school sports, the Phoenix Suns, and GCU Athletics. He discusses the evolution of sports media, storytelling in the age of AI, and why every athlete has a story worth telling. Learn more HERE: https://gculopes.com/staff-directory/... Next, we’re joined by Amber Reiter, founder of Jasmine’s Journey. After losing her daughter Jasmine to leukemia, Amber turned her grief into purpose by creating a nonprofit that supports Arizona families facing pediatric cancer. She shares her family's story, the challenges these families face, and how Jasmine’s Journey is providing hope and practical support during difficult times. Learn more HERE: https://jazminesjourney.com/index.html Finally, we sit down with Mark Ybarra, Owner, Brewers Heating/AC, owner of Brewer’s Air Conditioning & Heating. Mark discusses building a trusted local business, the value of skilled trades, and what Arizona homeowners should know about keeping their homes comfortable during the summer months. Learn more HERE: https://www.brewersac.com/ 00:07 Intro 02:41 Paul Coro – Senior Writer, GCU Athletics 23:17 Amber Reeder – Founder, Jasmine's Journey 37:04 Mark Ybarra – Owner, Brewer's Air Conditioning & Heating #MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #ArizonaPodcast #SportsJournalism #GCU #GrandCanyonUniversity #NonprofitLeadership #ChildhoodCancerAwareness #PediatricCancer #ArizonaNonprofits #SmallBusiness #LocalBusiness #HVAC #ArizonaBusiness #CommunityLeadership #PhoenixAZ #Ahwatukee #LocalLeaders

  5. Jun 17

    MTN 93 Chandler | Bottle & Bean | Personal Growth, Community Banking, & Advocacy

    This week on Move the Needle, we’re talking personal growth, entrepreneurship, community leadership, advocacy, and the people creating lasting impact across Arizona. Thank you to our partners of this episode: Amy Richardson - Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/ Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... Von Hansons Meats & Spirits: https://vonhansonsmeats.net/ First, we sit down with Daniel Diaz, founder of Peak Life Now, to discuss personal growth, mindset, and sustainable success. Daniel shares how overcoming years of chronic pain transformed his life, why identity matters more than habits, and how entrepreneurs and business owners can create fulfillment beyond achievement. Learn more HERE: https://www.iamdanieldiaz.com/ Next, we’re joined by David Scott, Market President of First Western Bank. David shares insights on community banking, small business growth, and the importance of building strong relationships. He also discusses access to capital and how local banks help entrepreneurs and nonprofits thrive. Learn more HERE: https://www.firstwestern.bank/arizona/ Finally, we sit down with Victoria Vredevoogd, Miss Chandler 2026, bestselling author, law student, and founder of The Gender Violence Project. Victoria shares her journey to the Miss Arizona stage, her work advocating for survivors of gender-based violence, and how personal adversity shaped her commitment to service and leadership. Follow Victoria HERE: https://www.instagram.com/victoriavre... 00:07 Intro 02:10 Daniel Diaz – Founder of Peak Life Now 19:54 David Scott – Market President, First Western Bank 39:54 Victoria Vredevoogd – Miss Chandler 2026, Author & Founder, The Gender Violence Project #MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #ArizonaPodcast #ArizonaBusiness #Entrepreneurship #PersonalDevelopment #Leadership #CommunityLeadership #SmallBusiness #BusinessGrowth #CommunityBanking #Advocacy #WomenInLeadership #PhoenixAZ #ChandlerAZ #MissArizona #Podcast #LocalLeaders

  6. Jun 10

    MTN 92 Ahwatukee | Foothills Golf Club | The Dancing Nurse, School Culture, & Transforming Education

    This week on Move the Needle, we’re talking education, mentorship, movement, leadership, school culture, community, and the people shaping the next generation in Arizona! Thank you to our partners of this episode: Amy Richardson - Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ Foothills Golf Club: https://www.thefoothillsgc.com/ Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Contemporary Dental Concepts: https://cosmeticdentistryaz.com/ Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... Brewer’s Air Conditioning & Heating: https://www.brewersac.com/ First, we’re joined by Jessica Symmes, also known as “The Dancing Nurse,” to discuss her journey blending healthcare, dance, education, mentorship, and public speaking. Jessica shares how starting her nursing career during COVID shaped her perspective, how movement can support healing, and why students should not feel forced to choose between creativity and practicality. She also talks about teaching and mentoring future nurses at GCU, working in family practice, and the importance of helping people feel seen, heard, and valued. Next, we sit down with Brady Wald, educator, author, and principal at Summit School. Brady shares what keeps him passionate after more than 25 years in education, why school culture matters, and how Summit is creating a strong sense of community for students and families. He also discusses his book, The Principal Diaries, the personal story behind writing it, and why education needs to evolve with today’s students. Find Brady’s book on Amazon: The Principal Diaries Finally, we sit down with Shetal Walters, founder of Desert Garden Montessori, to talk about building a school from her living room and growing it into a lasting community. Sheetal shares her perspective on purpose-driven education, partnership with families, student independence, creativity, and preparing children for a rapidly changing future. She also discusses what makes Desert Garden Montessori unique and her vision for what’s next. Learn more HERE: https://desertgardenmontessori.org/ 00:07 Intro 02:51 Jessica Symmes – Family Nurse Practitioner & Educator 20:17 Brady Wald– Author & Principal at Summit School 37:41 Shetal Walters – Founder & Executive Director- Desert Garden Montessori #MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #ArizonaPodcast #PhoenixAZ #Ahwatukee #Education #ArizonaEducation #Leadership #Mentorship #Nursing #Dance #HealthcareLeadership #GCU #GrandCanyonUniversity #FamilyPractice #SummitSchool #ThePrincipalDiaries #SchoolCulture #CommunityLeadership #DesertGardenMontessori #MontessoriEducation #PurposeDriven #StudentLeadership #Podcast #LocalLeaders

  7. Jun 3

    MTN 91 Scottsdale | Craft 64 | Financial Freedom, Innovative Restaurants, & Youth Leadership

    This week on Move the Needle, we’re talking restaurants, community, youth philanthropy, design, resilience, financial freedom, and creating impact through purpose-driven work! Special thanks to our partners for this episode: PlumbSmart: https://itsjustplumbsmart.com/ Amy Richardson, Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/   First, we’re joined by John Banquil, CEO of Ling & Louie’s, to discuss his journey through the restaurant industry, from starting as a host at 16 years old to leading one of Arizona’s most recognizable restaurant brands. John shares lessons on hospitality, leadership, company culture, innovation, and how community support helped his business navigate the challenges of 2020. He also discusses what makes great restaurants memorable, the importance of taking care of employees, and plans for future growth. Learn more about Ling & Louie’s HERE: https://lingandlouiesrestaurants.com/ Next, we sit down with Atllas Hopkins, Architectural Designer and Founder of SEED (Students Engaged for the Nation). Atllas shares how he launched a nonprofit organization at just 19 years old to connect young people with opportunities to serve their communities. He discusses leadership, architecture, urban design, philanthropy, and why young people shouldn't wait until they have wealth, influence, or status to start making a meaningful impact. Learn more about Atllas HERE: https://phxarch.com/blog/special-sect... Finally, we sit down with Catherine Bell, CEO of The Titan Group, for a powerful conversation about resilience, financial literacy, investing, foster care, adoption, entrepreneurship, and building wealth with purpose. Catherine shares her incredible journey from growing up in foster care and being adopted at 16, to building successful businesses, overcoming devastating setbacks, and helping families create financial freedom through education and passive income strategies. She also discusses her passion for supporting foster youth and creating lasting impact beyond financial success. Connect with Catherine HERE:   / catherinebell10   00:07 Intro 01:20 John Banquil – CEO, Ling & Louie’s 21:17 Atllas Hopkins – Founder, SEED Philanthropy 32:33 Catherine Bell – CEO, The Titan Group   #MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #ArizonaPodcast #PhoenixAZ #ScottsdaleAZ #CatherineBell #TitanGroup #FinancialFreedom #FinancialLiteracy #PassiveIncome #FosterCare #Adoption #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #LingAndLouies #Hospitality #RestaurantLeadership #CommunityImpact #SEEDPhilanthropy #YouthLeadership #Architecture #UrbanDesign #PurposeDriven #BusinessLeadership #Podcast #ArizonaBusiness #CommunityLeadership

  8. May 29

    MTN 90 Ahwatukee | Vero Chicago Pizza | Brain Training, Art with Purpose, & Accountability

    This week on Move the Needle, we're at Vero Chicago Pizza in Ahwatukee, we’re talking neuroscience, leadership, resilience, accountability, and finding purpose through unexpected moments! Special thanks to our partners for this episode: Amy Richardson, Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ Coulter INFINITI: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ Contemporary Dental Concepts: https://cosmeticdentistryaz.com/ Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... Brewer’s Air Conditioning & Heating: https://www.brewersac.com/ Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... First, we sit down with Matt Bush, founder of Next Level Neuro, to talk about the connection between the brain, pain, and nervous system regulation. Matt explains how injuries impact the brain’s internal “map” of the body, why chronic pain can linger long after healing, and how simple neurological exercises can improve performance, reduce stress, and build resilience. Learn more about Matt and Next Level Neuro HERE: https://nextlevelneuro.com/ Next, we’re joined by Sandra Marshall, artist, entrepreneur, and animal rescue advocate. Sandra shares the emotional story of Theodore, the pitbull who unexpectedly appeared on her doorstep and completely changed the direction of her life. From nationally recognized food art and creative events to raising awareness for rescue animals, Sandra opens up about purpose, compassion, and using creativity to inspire connection and community. Learn more about Sandra HERE: https://sandramarshallart.com/ Finally, we sit down with Demetris Love, founder of M^NUP, to discuss personal responsibility, accountability, leadership, and mindset. Centered around the mission of raising awareness about accountability in every area of life, Demetris shares powerful insights on growth, ownership, perseverance, and the importance of keeping things personal. Connect with Demetris HERE: https://www.instagram.com/manup4life?... Timestamps: 00:07 Intro 03:07 Matt Bush – Founder of Next Level Neuro 23:16 Sandra Marshall – Artist & Author 38:10 Demetris Love – Principal, Founder of M^NUP #MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #ArizonaPodcast #PhoenixAZ #ScottsdaleAZ #Neuroscience #BrainHealth #NervousSystem #Mindset #Leadership #Accountability #KeepItPersonal #MNUP #PersonalGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Community #AnimalRescue #Creativity #MentalHealth #podcast #Biohacking

See All (97)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 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
    97
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Move the Needle