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. MAY 13

    MTN 88 Gilbert | Brooklyn V’s | Self-Confidence, Mental Resilience, & Fitness Reimagined

    This week on Move the Needle, we’re back with Episode 88 featuring conversations about confidence, resilience, mentorship, mental health, leadership, and community! Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com/ • Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ • Amy Richardson– Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ First, we sit down with Chloe Heller, Miss Queen Creek, who shares her journey through pageantry, mentorship, and self-confidence. Chloe opens up about overcoming insecurities growing up, the impact her mother and mentors had on her life, and how organizations like Girls Rule Foundation helped shape her mission to empower young women. Through social media, mentorship, and speaking opportunities, Chloe is helping young girls find confidence and step fully into their greatness. Learn more HERE: https://www.instagram.com/missqueencr... Next, we’re joined by Jason Gillett, Marine veteran and founder of Guild Health Group. Jason shares his powerful story growing up in foster care and homelessness before serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. From navigating trauma and fatherhood to breaking generational cycles and advocating for mental health support, this conversation dives deep into resilience, purpose, and what it truly means to lead through adversity. Learn more HERE: https://www.guildhealthgroup.com/ Finally, we sit down with Carter Alcock, owner of Fitness 1440, to talk about building more than just a gym - creating a community. From youth hockey coaching and leadership to motivation, discipline, and helping people overcome intimidation in fitness spaces, this conversation highlights the importance of connection, consistency, and investing in yourself one day at a time. Learn more HERE: https://www.instagram.com/fitness1440... Timestamps: 00:07 Intro 02:07 Chloe Hiller – Miss Queen Creek 2026 23:29 Jason Gillett – Marine Veteran & Founder of Gilded Health Group 47:54 Carter Alcock – Owner of Fitness 1440 #movetheneedle #MTNPodcast #PhoenixAZ #ArizonaPodcast #GilbertAZ #QueenCreek #MissQueenCreek #MentalHealth #Leadership #Resilience #Veterans #Community #Fitness #PersonalGrowth #SelfConfidence #Entrepreneurship #Mindset #Motivation #MensMentalHealth #WomenEmpowerment #Podcast

    1h 6m

  2. MAY 6

    MTN 87 Ahwatukee | Vero Chicago Pizza | Handling Pressure, Finding Purpose, & Peak Performance

    This week on Move the Needle, we’re back at Vero Chicago Pizza in Ahwatukee for Episode 87. This episode is all about what happens when life resets you, and how you rebuild stronger. From managing pressure in high-stakes environments to finding your voice and rediscovering purpose, these conversations go deep into resilience, identity, and growth.   Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Amy Richardson – Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Contemporary Dental Concepts: https://cosmeticdentistryaz.com/ • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ • Vero Chicago Pizza (Ahwatukee): https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Duenas Edan Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ • Brewer’s Air Conditioning & Heating : https://www.brewersac.com/   First, we sit down with Kim Ready, a performance consultant and experimental artist who works with high achievers to understand how pressure impacts their decisions, behavior, and leadership. After experiencing her own life-altering moment, Kim developed a framework to help others recognize their triggers, regulate in real time, and realign with their values. Her work with executives, athletes, and founders offers a powerful lens into performing at your best when it matters most. Learn more HERE: https://www.kimreadydesign.com/   Next, we’re joined by Destiny Gee, Miss Phoenix and ASU student, who shares her inspiring journey from growing up in the foster care system to becoming a voice for those who feel unseen. Through pageantry, advocacy, and authenticity, Destiny is redefining what it means to lead with purpose—proving that your past doesn’t define your future, and that finding your voice can change everything. Connect with Destiny HERE: https://www.instagram.com/destinyy.ge...   Finally, we sit down with Brandon Day, Pain & Performance Coach and Founder of the Evolved Athlete method. After a Sports Illustrated cover moment and a personal rock bottom, Brandon rebuilt from the ground up. Today, he helps high performers eliminate pain, access flow state, and perform at their best by combining applied neurology, mindset, and physical training. Learn more about Evolved Athlete HERE: https://evolvedathlete.coach/   Timestamps: 00:06 Intro 02:57 Kim Ready – Performance Consultant 24:10 Destiny Gee – Miss Phoenix 2026 38:53 Brandon Day – Athlete & Performance Coach, Founder of Evolved Athlete   #movetheneedle #MTNPodcast #PhoenixAZ #Ahwatukee #ArizonaPodcast #EastValleyAZ #podcast #HighPerformance #Mindset #Pressure #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #Resilience #MentalHealth #FosterCareAwareness #WomensEmpowerment #Authenticity #SelfDiscovery #AthleteMindset #FlowState #PeakPerformance #EntrepreneurLife #Community

    1h 6m

  3. APR 30

    MTN 86 Chandler | Bottle & Bean | Somatic Breathing, Downtown Ocotillo, & Purpose-driven Leadership

    This week on Move the Needle, we’re in Chandler at Bottle & Bean with conversations centered around purpose-driven leadership, personal transformation, and the power of building community. Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://www.brooklynvspizza.com/ • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ • Von Hanson’s Meats & Spirits: https://vonhansons.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Amy Richardson – Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ First, we sit down with James Madison, Founder and CEO of OnPurpose Life, where he works with high-achieving executives and leadership teams to unlock clarity, confidence, and purpose. With a background leading soldiers as a U.S. Army Captain and later guiding teams in Fortune 500 companies, James brings a unique perspective on what it means to lead when the stakes are high. Known for his reputation-driven business built on results and referrals, he shares how elite performers can elevate their leadership, build deeper trust, and create lasting impact. Learn more HERE: https://www.onpurpose-life.com/ Next, we’re joined by Linzee Belle, an embodiment coach, motivational speaker, and spiritual mentor dedicated to helping women reconnect with themselves on a deeper level. As co-owner of Align and Allow retreats, Linzee creates transformative experiences around the world focused on healing, alignment, and self-discovery. Through her own journey of overcoming trauma and personal struggle, she now guides others using breathwork, somatic practices, and mindfulness techniques to turn pain into purpose and unlock true inner power. Learn more HERE: https://www.linzeebelle.com/align-all... Finally, we sit down with Jenny Bryan, who stepped in to share a behind-the-scenes look at what’s happening in Downtown Ocotillo. As Chief of Operations, she works closely with Spike Lawrence and has been part of the area’s growth over the past four and a half years. From the evolution of Bottle & Bean to new concepts like Luca Coastal and updates to The Living Room and Bonsai, Jenny breaks down the changes, the vision behind them, and what guests can expect as the Ocotillo dining scene continues to grow. Learn more about Downtown Ocotillo HERE: https://www.dtocotillo.com/ 00:07 Intro 02:38 James Madison – Founder & CEO of OnPurpose Life 25:50 Linzee Belle – Embodiment Coach & Retreat Leader 50:29 Jenny Bryan – Event Director, Downtown Ocotillo #movetheneedle #MTNPodcast #ChandlerAZ #PhoenixAZ #ArizonaPodcast #EastValleyAZ #podcast #Leadership #ExecutiveCoaching #PurposeDriven #HighPerformance #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessGrowth #HealingJourney #MindBodyConnection #Breathwork #WomensEmpowerment #SpiritualGrowth #SelfDiscovery #CommunityMatters #EventPlanning #LocalBusiness #Networking #DowntownOcotillo #EntrepreneurLife

    1h 2m

  4. APR 22

    MTN 85 Scottsdale | HomeSmart | 12-Year-Old Entrepreneur & Family Fun in Arizona

    This week on Move the Needle, we’re featuring incredible stories from right here in the East Valley—highlighting young entrepreneurship, family-driven content, and building community in Arizona. Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Amy Richardson – Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ • PlumbSmart: https://itsjustplumbsmart.com/ First, we sit down with Lejla Albert, the 12-year-old founder of Little Sweets Big Heart. Lejla shares how she turned her love for baking and chocolate-making into a growing business—starting with Facebook mom groups and expanding into custom orders, unique flavors, and even her own website. Despite facing medical challenges, she continues to pursue her passion and bring joy to others through her desserts. Recently featured on the cover of Gilbert Lifestyle Magazine, Lejla is a true example of resilience, creativity, and what’s possible at any age. Learn more HERE: https://www.littlesweetsbigheart.com Next, we’re joined by Jana Tingom, founder of Phoenix With Kids, alongside her husband Chris. Jana shares how she built a trusted resource for Arizona families by providing real reviews, hidden gems, and curated ideas for things to do with kids across the Valley. With over 85,000 followers, Phoenix With Kids has become a go-to platform for parents looking to save time, reduce stress, and create meaningful experiences with their families. From weekend adventures to seasonal guides, Jana’s mission is simple—help families make the most of their time together. Follow along HERE: https://arizonawithkids.net/ 00:07 Intro 01:17Lejla Albert - Founder of Little Sweets Big Heart 22:50JanaTingom - Founder of Phoenix With Kids 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 #MoveTheNeedle #MTNPodcast #MTN85 #ArizonaPodcast #PhoenixPodcast #EastValleyAZ #scottsdale #YoungEntrepreneur #Kidpreneur #WomenInBusiness #SmallBusinessOwner #StartupStory #EntrepreneurLife #BusinessInspiration #FemaleFounder #NextGenLeaders #InspirationDaily #OvercomingChallenges #DreamBigStartSmall #Resilience #FeelGoodStory #CommunityMatters #PurposeDriven #MakeAnImpact #ChocolateLover #DessertBusiness #CustomTreats #BakingFromHome #SweetTooth #SupportSmallBusiness #ShopLocalAZ #PhoenixWithKids #ThingsToDoInPhoenix #ArizonaFamilies #FamilyFunAZ #PhoenixKids #ArizonaLife #AZLiving #VisitArizona #WeekendInPhoenix #HiddenGemsAZ #ViralContent #PodcastClips #ReelsInstagram #TikTokBusiness #ContentCreators #GrowYourBrand #SocialMediaStrategy

    41 min

  5. APR 15

    MTN 83 Ahwatukee | Foothills Golf Club | Breaking Stigma, Pain-free Dentistry & Women Who Lead

    This week on Move the Needle, we’re filming on location in Arizona, featuring conversations around mental health advocacy, purpose-driven leadership, and creating impact through business and community. Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Amy Richardson – Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ • Brewer’s A/C & Heating: https://www.brewersac.com/ • Vero Chicago Pizza: https://www.verochicagopizza.com/rest... • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ First, we sit down with Francine Sumner, founder and CEO of Kid in the Corner, a nonprofit dedicated to shattering the stigma around mental illness. After losing her son Zach to suicide in 2017, Francine turned her grief into purpose—building an organization that has now reached over 30,000 people nationwide. She also serves on the board of Mental Health America of Arizona and is a certified Youth Mental Health First Aid Trainer. Learn more HERE: https://www.kidinthecorner.org/ Next, we’re joined by Dr. Trent Smallwood, founder of Contemporary Dental Concepts and a leader in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry. He shares his approach to modern, patient-focused care, combining advanced technology with a conservative, education-first philosophy. Dr. Smallwood is also an internationally recognized speaker and author of the best-selling book Platinum Paradigm. Learn more HERE: https://cosmeticdentistryaz.com/ Finally, we sit down with Michelle Cirocco, a purpose-driven executive, nonprofit leader, and public speaker known for her work with 100+ Women. Michelle shares her perspective on leadership, growth, and using business as a force for good. With a career spanning management, sales, marketing, and operations, she has built a reputation for turning vision into execution while driving meaningful impact. Recognized as a Most Admired Leader, World Changing Woman, and WP Carey Hall of Fame honoree, Michelle is dedicated to creating opportunities, fostering collaboration, and helping others step into their full potential. Connect with Michelle HERE: https://www.instagram.com/mlcirocco?u... 00:07 Intro 02:21 Francine Sumner - Founder of Kid in the Corner 23:16 Dr. Trent Smallwood - Founder of Centre for Contemporary Dental Concept 45:52 Michelle Cirocco - Purpose Driven Growth & Strategy Executive #movetheneedle #MTNPodcast #Ahwatukee #PhoenixAZ #ArizonaPodcast #GilbertAZ #EastValleyAZ #MentalHealthAwareness #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthMatters #SuicidePrevention #CommunityImpact #WomenWhoLead #WomenInBusiness #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDriven #SecondChances #NonprofitLeadership #CriminalJusticeReform #Dentistry #CosmeticDentistry #HealthcareInnovation #BusinessLeadership #Entrepreneurship #podcastepisode

    1h 8m

  6. APR 15

    MTN 82 Gilbert | Brooklyn V's | Do More, Miss Gilbert, & Criminal Justice Reform

    This week on Move the Needle, we’re filming on location at Brooklyn V’s Pizza in Gilbert, AZ! Featuring conversations around leadership, personal growth, advocacy, and building impact-driven lives. Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Amy Richardson – Savvy Realty Group: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ • 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 Dr. Will Moreland, Army veteran turned serial entrepreneur and Founder & CEO of Moreland Training & Associates. Dr. Moreland shares his approach to leadership development, culture transformation, and what he calls “work-life harmony.” Recognized as a Top 30 Speaker in the World and a Titan 100 honoree in the Phoenix business community, he has authored over 40 books—including Leading With Civility and Happy People, Happy Culture. Through his work, he helps organizations strengthen leadership, improve engagement, and build high-performing teams using his signature frameworks, The Civility Advantage™ and CHAMPS Leadership System™. Learn more HERE: https://www.morelandtraining.com/#/ Next, we’re joined by Rebecca White, Miss Gilbert 2026, an Exercise Physiology student and founder of B Fit (@letsbfitnow). Rebecca shares her passion for helping others build strength, health, and confidence from the inside out. Currently pursuing her goal of becoming a Physician Assistant at Northern Arizona University on a full-ride scholarship, she’s also contributed to NASA-funded research studying how the body adapts to stress. Through her platform and advocacy, Rebecca is committed to empowering others while supporting causes close to her heart, including veteran initiatives. Connect with Rebecca HERE: https://www.instagram.com/becca.white... Finally, we sit down with Kat Jutras, Arizona State Director for the Alliance for Safety and Justice. Kat shares her work advocating for criminal justice reform and supporting individuals as they rebuild their lives after incarceration. With over a decade of experience in civil rights restoration, she has helped countless individuals regain access to voting, housing, education, and employment opportunities. Through her leadership and advocacy, Kat is working to drive systemic change and create safer, more equitable communities across Arizona. Learn more HERE: https://allianceforsafetyandjustice.o... 00:07 Intro 02:20 Dr. Will Moreland - Founder/CEO of Moreland Training & Associates 27:20 Rebecca (Becca) White - Miss Gilbert 2026 47:44 Kat Jutras - Arizona State Director of Alliance for Safety & Justice

    1h 7m

  7. MAR 25

    MTN 81 Chandler | Bottle & Bean | Hot Coals, Community College, & 14-year-old Entrepreneur

    This week on Move the Needle, we’re filming on location at Bottle & Bean in Chandler! Featuring conversations around personal transformation, community impact, and young entrepreneurship. Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Brooklyn V’s Pizza: https://brooklynvspizza.com/ • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Von Hansons Meats & Spirits: https://vonhansonsmeats.net/ • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com/ • Savvy Realty Group – Amy Richardson: https://www.savvyrealtyaz.com/ • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ First, we sit down with Jeff Lobeck, Assistant Fire Captain and coach with Robbins Research International. Jeff shares how his work with Tony Robbins’ organization has shaped his approach to leadership, health, and personal development. Through his work with Healthy Once and For All, he helps overwhelmed, stressed parents reclaim their energy, improve their health, and become strong, present role models for their families. His mission centers on creating lasting transformation that impacts not just individuals—but generations to come. Connect with Jeff HERE: https://www.instagram.com/lobeckjeff?... Next, we’re joined by Lisha Dunlap, PR & Marketing Director with Maricopa Community Colleges and a representative of the East Valley Giving Circle. Lisha shares her background in public relations and communications, along with her passion for storytelling and community outreach. She also highlights the impact of the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation, including support for GateWay Community College’s Student Emergency Fund—providing critical assistance to students facing unexpected financial hardships so they can stay on track with their education. Learn more HERE:  https://directory.maricopa.edu/person... Finally, we sit down with Mariana McWilliams, a 13-year-old CEO and founder of Mari’s Gold. Mariana shares how she started her business at just 12 years old, inspired by local vendor markets and a desire to create something of her own. Today, Mari’s Gold brings fun and flavor to events across the Valley with snow cones, popcorn, and custom experiences. Beyond her business, Mariana is passionate about empowering other young entrepreneurs—hosting youth markets and even publishing her own books, inspiring kids to dream big and take action early. Learn more about Mari's Gold HERE: https://shopmarisgold.com/ 00:07   Intro 02:12   Jeff Lobeck - Assistant Fire Captain at Robbins Research                 International  28:30   Lisha Dunlap - PR Marketing Director at Maricopa Community College 50:45   Mariana McWilliams -  Founder of Mari’s Gold #MoveTheNeedle #PodcastEpisode #ChandlerAZ #PhoenixAZ #ArizonaBusiness #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessLife #WomenInBusiness #YoungEntrepreneur #Kidpreneur #TonyRobbins #PersonalDevelopment #HealthAndWellness #LeadershipDevelopment #CommunityImpact #GiveBack #NonprofitSupport #EducationMatters #MaricopaCommunityColleges #LocalBusinessAZ #SupportLocalAZ #CreativeEntrepreneur #BusinessPodcast #InspirationDaily #successmindset

    1h 9m

  8. MAR 11

    Episode 79- AHWATUKEE - Lawyer “Rizz,” STEM Kids & Business Exits.

    This week on Move the Needle, we’re filming on location at Vero Chicago Pizza in Ahwatukee, Arizona, featuring conversations with a community STEM leader, a marketing strategist helping attorneys grow their practices, and a business brokerage expert who helps entrepreneurs buy and sell companies. Special thanks to our partners for this episode: • Savvy Realty Group – Amy Richardson: https://savvyrealtyaz.com • Vero Chicago Pizza: https://verochicagopizza.com • Coulter Infiniti: https://www.coulterinfiniti.com • Tutor Doctor Chandler Gilbert Ahwatukee: https://www.tutordoctor.com/chandler-... • Duenas Eden Cravatta: https://www.duenasedenlaw.com/ • Belle Lacet Lingerie: https://bellelacetlingerie.com First, we sit down with Shereka Jackson, STEM educator, speaker, and founder/CEO of Future Stars, Inc. Shereka shares her mission to expand opportunities for inner-city youth through technology education and hands-on learning. As project manager for the City of Phoenix’s codePHX program, she helps bring free coding classes to communities across the Valley. She also discusses the growth of the Hands-On STEM Fair, which now attracts around 1,000 attendees each year and inspires students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. Learn more about Future Stars HERE: https://futurestarsaz.org  Learn more about Shereka HERE: https://sherekajackson.com Next, we’re joined by Gary Johnson, a marketing strategist who helps attorneys grow their book of business through clearer branding, messaging, and relationship-driven marketing. Gary explains why many lawyers struggle with marketing and how storytelling, personality, and consistent outreach can help them attract more ideal clients. As the Co-Founder of LinkedIn for Lawyers, he also shares how attorneys can better position themselves online to build stronger referral networks. Connect with Gary HERE: https://www.instagram.com/garyj2marke... Finally, we sit down with Ryan Armstrong, President and Owner of Transworld Business Advisors Phoenix. With more than 20 years of experience in business brokerage and ownership, Ryan helps entrepreneurs buy, sell, and value businesses. He discusses why early planning is critical when selling a business and what both buyers and owners should understand before entering the market. Learn more about Transworld Business Advisors Phoenix HERE: https://www.tworld.com/locations/phoenix 00:07   Intro 02:02   Shereka Jackson - Founder/CEO Future Stars 24:49   Gary Johnson - Co-Founder of LinkedIn for Lawyers  49:25   Ryan Armstrong - President of Transworld Business Advisors Phoenix

    1h 12m
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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
    88
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Move the Needle