Karen, Author at Business RadioX ® Page

Inspiring Future Environmental Leaders: Advice from Matrix New World’s Team

November 5, 2024 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

Inspiring Future Environmental Leaders: Advice from Matrix New World’s Team

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Inspiring Future Environmental Leaders: Advice from Matrix New World’s Team

On this Phoenix Business RadioX episode, host Karen Nowicki welcomes members of Matrix New World Engineering, including Laurie LaPat-Polasko, her daughter Alexandra Polasko, and Bridget Hoagland. Laurie, Matrix’s VP of remediation, shares her journey from marine biology to environmental engineering with career highlights like her work with Jacques Cousteau and on the Exxon Valdez oil spill, while Alexandra reflects on how her mother’s passion inspired her path in environmental science. Bridget, a project engineer, discusses her career shift from veterinary science to engineering and her commitment to environmental sustainability and water quality.

The conversation delves into Matrix’s innovative approaches, including microbial techniques for contaminant degradation and university partnerships for tackling emerging issues like PFAS and PCBs. Laurie also discusses Matrix’s expansion within the True Environmental platform, enhancing expertise in areas like air quality, while the team underscores the importance of protecting water resources for future generations. Laurie closes with advice for aspiring scientists and engineers to pursue hands-on learning, as Karen praises Matrix’s dedication to addressing environmental challenges.

Discover how Matrix is tackling today’s biggest environmental challenges—tune in now!

Matrix New World Engineering is a company of engineering and science experts who focus on some of the nation’s most pressing long-term challenges, including climate change, resiliency, ecological restoration, contamination studies, water supply, disaster response, and urban revitalization. Matrix believes solving environmental challenges through careful planning and engineering is an indispensable measure of success.

Matrix has offices in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Arizona, Louisiana, and Chicago, coupled with project experience throughout the United States and the Caribbean.

Known worldwide for her work developing innovative solutions to address water and soil contamination issues, Dr. LaPat-Polasko has a Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Maryland, a M.S. and Engineers Degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Stanford University, and a B.S. in Biology from Chatham University.

She has studied microbial pathogens around the globe, combining her knowledge of biology, environmental engineering, and microbiology to develop and design innovative “bioremediation” approaches to clean up contaminated sites, creating a green, cost-effective method to degrade diverse contaminants, such as chlorinated solvents, explosives, fuel compounds, and emerging contaminants.

Dr. LaPat-Polasko used qPCR to determine the source of a Naegleria fowleri impact in a drinking water source in the Phoenix, AZ area. Her many years of experience as a technical consultant, project manager, and chief science officer for efforts involving groundwater and soil remediation and wastewater treatment combined with her knowledge of microbiology and civil engineering, result in cost-effective remediation solutions for surface water, groundwater, soil, and sediments impacted by organic and inorganic compounds.

Dr. LaPat-Polasko has been the recipient of several prominent honors. In 2018, she received the GOLD International Stevie Award for Women in Business, Woman of the Year – Technology, and was selected as Outstanding Business Woman of the Year – 2018 by the Phoenix Business Journal for her community leadership, professional accomplishments, and personal achievements and in 2020 she received the Prism Award from the Society of Women, Engineers for Outstanding Leadership in STEM. In 2024, Dr. LaPat-Polasko was selected as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Arizona by Women We Admire.

Alexandra Polasko, Post Doctoral Researcher / Fellow

Bridget Hoagland, Project Engineer

Follow Matrix on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

Removing Barriers – Autonomous Vehicles E29

November 5, 2024 by Karen

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Changing the Perception of Blindness

Removing Barriers - Autonomous Vehicles E29

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Removing Barriers – Autonomous Vehicles E29

In this episode of “Changing the Perception of Blindness”, host David Steinmetz is joined by guests Amanda Ventura from Waymo and Steve Tepper from the Arizona Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired. They explore the pressing issues of transportation accessibility and the empowerment of those with disabilities. Amanda shares how Waymo is working to foster mobility equity through autonomous vehicles, providing newfound independence for those who have lost their vision. Steve highlights the trauma many individuals face after losing sight and the vital role of reliable transportation in helping them secure and maintain employment. They all agree that addressing transportation gaps and enhancing societal understanding of disabilities is essential for building a more inclusive world.

As the discussion continues, David stresses the importance of engaging end-users in product design, particularly in technology for the disabled community. He points out that companies often overlook valuable insights when they fail to gather input from those they aim to serve. Steve identifies access and cost as major hurdles in transportation for people with disabilities, sharing his concerns about inefficient dial-a-ride services. He envisions a future where autonomous vehicles offer more direct transportation options, a sentiment echoed by Amanda, who emphasizes the importance of partnerships and research in enhancing accessibility.

As the episode wraps up, David encourages collaboration among the government, transportation providers, and the community to create sustainable solutions.

Listen to this episode and contact Amanda and Steve to learn more about their impactful initiatives.

Waymo is an autonomous driving technology company with a mission to build the world’s most trusted driver — the Waymo Driver. Waymo launched the world’s first fully autonomous ride-hailing service, Waymo One, right here in Phoenix in 2020.

They operate a 24/7 service in 315 square miles of Metro Phoenix that includes terminal pickups and dropoffs at Sky Harbor International Airport. Waymo believes this technology has potential to save lives, increase independence and improve mobility access for millions who cannot drive themselves.

Amanda Ventura is a public affairs manager at Waymo, an autonomous driving technology company, at which she manages community outreach and public education initiatives in three of Waymo’s four markets and forges relationships with national safety, mobility, disability and accessibility advocates in DC and beyond.

For several years, she has led Waymo Serve and Waymo Gives Back initiatives, which encourage employees all over the world to volunteer and donate to important causes in their communities. Before joining Waymo, she was an editor, reporter, and a director at a public relations agency in Arizona.

Amanda is the vice chair of the Arizona Animal Welfare League’s board of directors and volunteer baker with For Goodness Cakes, which provides homemade birthday and celebratory treats to at-risk and foster youth. A proud Sun Devil, she lives in Phoenix with her AAWL alum, Dabo.

Her latest goal is to cook her way through nearly 200 countries’ national dishes.

Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn and follow Waymo on Facebook, X and Instagram.

ACBVI serves 300 adults a year who lose their vision through accident or illness and helps them achieve independence and return to work.

Steve Tepper has been a non-profit professional for 30 years and enjoys working with underserved populations.

Follow ACBVI on LinkedIn and Facebook.

About Your Host

As the manager of Community and Public Relations, David Steinmetz uses his expertise, education, and personal experiences to “change the perception of blindness.”

Diagnosed with RP, a blinding retinal disease, at the age of 19, David uses his personal story to drive change that leads to improved employment outcomes and community integration for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Mr. Steinmetz graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Economics. Additionally, Steinmetz has continued his education by graduating from the Business Management Training (BMT) program provided by Darden Graduate School of Business, University of Virginia.

In 2008, David was the national recipient of the National Industries for the Blind Milton J. Samuelson Career Achievement award. This prestigious award recognized Mr. Steinmetz for his career achievements and community service work.

David Steinmetz is a member of the Governors’ Council on Blindness & Visual Impairments, is a Board Member at the Arizona Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired (ACBVI) and serves his community through the Chandler Lions Club.

Connect with David on LinkedIn and Instagram.

About the Show

Changing the Perception of Blindness; One Conversation at a Time is dedicated to breaking down barriers, de-mystifying blindness and promoting real world solutions that empower people who are blind to live a full and inclusive life.

Host, David Steinmetz connects with organizations, industry professionals and thought leaders who are working to bridge the gap that creates a world accessible for all.

About Arizona Industries for the Blind

Arizona Industries for the Blind is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating employment opportunities for people who are blind. It’s employees, more than half of whom are blind, deliver a variety of products and services, including a full-service Warehousing and Distribution Center, confidential Digital Data Scan (DDS) services for private businesses and government and the operation of Base Supply Centers located at each of Arizona’s three military bases under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Labor’s AbilityOne program.

Follow AIFB on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Helping Businesses Thrive: Venture Employer Solutions’ Unique Approach to HR

November 4, 2024 by Karen

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Phoenix Business Radio

Helping Businesses Thrive: Venture Employer Solutions’ Unique Approach to HR

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Helping Businesses Thrive: Venture Employer Solutions’ Unique Approach to HR

In this episode of Phoenix Business Radio, Karen Nowicki chats with Walter Sabrin and Brandon Caltabiano from Vensure Employer Solutions, discussing the company’s expansion into Arizona with a new Chandler office that embodies their hands-on, in-office work philosophy. Walter highlights how this fosters collaboration and culture at Vensure, while Brandon shares how his consulting role empowers business owners to focus on growth, supported by Vensure’s comprehensive HR services. Together, they celebrate Vensure’s open, team-centered environment, which encourages employees to contribute ideas and feel genuinely valued.

The conversation also delves into Vensure’s rapid growth, spotlighted by a Chandler job fair that drew over 350 attendees, as well as plans to expand further while preserving a strong corporate culture. Walter explains their Home Depot-like model, where acquired businesses retain unique identities within Vensure’s diverse portfolio across multiple industries. The episode wraps with Vensure’s tailored consultation approach, community engagement plans for January, and Walter’s new appreciation for Chandler’s pizza scene, all underscoring Vensure’s commitment to supporting both clients and the community.

Explore how Vensure can help your business thrive—listen to the full episode now!

Vensure Employer Solutions is the largest privately held organization in the HR technology and service sector, providing a comprehensive portfolio of solutions, including HR/HCM technology, managed services, and global business process outsourcing (BPO).

The company and its service providers collectively serve over 141,000 businesses and process over $158B in annual payroll. As a “One Employer Solution” headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Vensure helps thousands of businesses streamline and grow their operations with custom strategies that benefit both employers and employees.

Originally from New York City, Walter Sabrin lives in South Florida with his family, two cats, and a big German Shepherd dog named Frankie. He loves all sports, especially tennis, and hasn’t lost a ping pong match in over two years.Walter has over 20 years of recruiting experience in most of the hiring universe.

From contingent and retained searches and agency and corporate recruiting to temporary and direct hire, RPO, high volume, and highly specialized searches are just some areas of expertise he brings to Vensure Employer Solutions and Solvo.

Walter manages the internal and external recruiting processes for all Division Partners, clients, and companies based in the United States, and the 37 other countries we operate in. His Talent Acquisition team is responsible for finding and hiring the best talent in the PEO, HCM, BPO, and HR outsourcing industries.

With thousands of clients worldwide, Vensure changes how clients manage people, retain talent, accomplish goals, and improve company culture. Walter and his team combine cutting-edge technology with industry best practices to accelerate their clients’ businesses and regain organizational peace of mind.

Brandon Caltabiano is a Business Consultant with VensureHR in Chandler, AZ. Brandon has years of successful experience in the HR and Human Capital Management space.

Brandon works with business owners and C-Suite executives every day to tackle industry specific challenges that relate to their most important assets; their people. He believes that to succeed in this industry, it is vital to be a true consultant, and discover the needs of an organization to make a positive impact.

Follow Vensure on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Start With The End In Mind E15

November 4, 2024 by Karen

Financial Footsteps

Start With The End In Mind E15

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Start With The End In Mind E15

In this episode of Financial Footsteps, host Chad Dean explores the career journey of Ryan Boen, CFO EVP of Cambridge Investment Research, who grew up in a small South Dakota town and transitioned from his family’s lumber business to a successful finance career with top firms like Deloitte and Touche. Now a father, Ryan reflects on how parenthood mirrors a “startup,” filled with lessons that resonate with his professional experiences, as he shares insights on goal setting, adaptability, and the importance of having a long-term vision.

As the conversation progresses, Ryan discusses his shift from audit to strategic business roles, emphasizing the value of “starting with the end in mind” for young professionals. He highlights that energy and cultural fit can be more impactful than strict qualifications when landing roles and both he and Chad advocate for mentorship and continuous learning, providing listeners with actionable advice on self-awareness and genuine enthusiasm to share with a younger audience on platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts.

Ryan’s insights are compelling for not just students and those junior in their careers. His advice spans the entire spectrum of a career in accounting and finance.

Cambridge Investment Research is an independent broker-dealer and Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) that offers a flexible platform for financial professionals, allowing them to choose from a range of business models and support options. Based in Fairfield, Iowa, with another office in Phoenix, AZ, Cambridge provides financial advisors with access to an extensive array of investment solutions, including equities, fixed-income securities, mutual funds, and alternative investment products.

The firm prides itself on its advisor-centric approach, empowering advisors to operate as independent business owners while supporting them with robust technology, compliance assistance, and back-office services.

Cambridge is dedicated to supporting fee-based, fee-only, and commission-based advisors, making it a versatile partner for professionals looking to manage client portfolios with autonomy and control. Known for its commitment to integrity and flexibility, Cambridge Investment Research is frequently recognized as a leading independent broker-dealer, prioritizing advisor satisfaction and ethical business practices.

Ryan Boen serves as the Chief Financial Officer at Cambridge Investment Research. Boen’s expertise spans financial management and operations, underpinned by a background that includes roles in a Big 4 accounting firm, startups, Fortune 500, global businesses, fintech and executive leadership.

This experience enables him to drive Cambridge’s fiscal strategies, enhance operational efficiency, and support the firm’s adaptable platform for financial professionals. His leadership emphasizes sustainable growth, leveraging analytics, and aligning financial performance with long-term organizational goals.

Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

About Financial Footsteps

Financial Footsteps is dedicated to providing insider access to successful accounting and finance leaders thereby providing ideas, insights, and ‘secrets to success’ to those aspiring to be leaders themselves.

Interactive conversations with guests will reveal the genesis for a career in accounting and finance, the great (and not so great) decisions that were made along the way, and the advice that these leaders would give to their younger selves.

About Your Host

Chad Dean has been an executive recruiter since 1996. He currently is owner and CEO of a top-ranked national recruiting firm with a 33 year history servicing the Finance disciplines.

Chad Dean’s relaxed and authentic recruiting style combined with a relentless work ethic and dedication to ethical recruiting has propelled him to the highest levels of success in recruitment and career counseling. He has been sought after by CNBC, the Wall Street Journal, and numerous other publications for his expertise.

Chad Dean is a proud Arizona native, married for 21 years, with two second-generation native teenage sons. He has an MBA from Arizona State University and a BS in Biology from FHSU.

About Our Sponsor

Integrated Management Resources was founded in 1990 in Tempe Arizona. Starting with clients like Goldman Sachs (first client and still a client today) and top Wall Street hedge funds, IMR built a robust recruiting process that digs out the most desirable ‘passive’ candidates from our client’s competitors.

IMR’s Phoenix Accounting and Finance practice services large and medium sized organizations for mid-senior level full-time placement and interim staffing.

Achieving Rapid Growth During Challenging Times E1

October 21, 2024 by Karen

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Phoenix Business Radio

Achieving Rapid Growth During Challenging Times E1

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Achieving Rapid Growth During Challenging Times E1

In this episode of The Confidence Curve, hosts Ashley and Rick Bowers welcome Jenn Folk, of TriPointe Connect, who shares her 20-year journey in the mortgage industry and the importance of communication and trust in building a collaborative company culture. Jenn discusses the challenges of scaling a business, particularly during high-stakes moments, and emphasizes the significance of strong relationships in her leadership approach. The conversation also covers workplace flexibility post-pandemic and Jenn’s focus on nurturing leadership skills within her team, promoting lateral growth opportunities, and creating an environment where mistakes are viewed as chances for growth.

Every leader is facing challenges due to various things – economy, back to office, rapid growth. This episode covers it all.

Tri Pointe Connect® – Our mortgage company is designed to provide a simple and clear path to home ownership by offering a full range of competitive home financing options to Tri Pointe home buyers.

Jennifer Folk has spent more than two decades working in various successive roles in residential mortgage lending and has a wide range of experience in multiple channels of mortgage including wholesale, retail, reverse mortgage, and homebuilder business.

Her strategic, forward-thinking approach has been valuable in redesigning workflows, leveraging automation and technology to create operational efficiency and scalability, and in reducing loan manufacturing costs. Jennifer was recognized in the mortgage industry as a 2019 Women With Vision award winner.

Jennifer is a proven leader whose passion is focused on building high-performing teams designed to deliver exceptional customer service while fulfilling the borrower’s ultimate dream of homeownership.

Connect with Jenn on LinkedIn.

About The Confidence Curve

The Confidence Curve is a podcast that explores the dynamic journeys of successful professionals who have scaled organizations and left lasting legacies. Hosted by Ashley and Rick Bowers, each episode delves into the challenges, victories, and lessons learned.

Through engaging conversations with leaders across industries, this podcast offers listeners valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiration to confidently navigate their paths—whether in business, leadership, or personal growth. Join us as we uncover strategies that build successful careers and impactful legacies.

About Our Hosts

Rick Bowers, a native of Iowa and shaped by Midwest values, epitomizes the essence of hard work, determination, and delivering exceptional outcomes. Growing up in an environment that instilled the virtues of getting up early and putting in the effort, he fully comprehends what it takes for individuals and organizations to ascend to greatness and reach their Apex.

Throughout his career, Rick has dedicated himself to unraveling the intricacies of understanding each individual’s unique strengths and leveraging them to meet the needs and aspirations of the companies they serve. His journey began at Arizona State University, where he embarked on a path with TTI Success Insights, an organization specializing in assessments and talent development. Rick’s commitment and contributions propelled him through various roles within the company, ultimately culminating in his appointment as its president, overseeing consultants worldwide.

Inspired by his passion for personal and professional development, Rick actively engages in the industry. He is a valued member of multiple prestigious boards, including two advisory boards at HR.com and the Hartman Institute. In addition, Rick proudly holds a council position on the National Alumni Association at his alma mater, Arizona State University. Furthermore, he has had the privilege of presenting his esteemed Leadership Engagement workshop to numerous ASU Alumni Leadership Institute classes. Through these influential roles, Rick serves as a trusted ambassador and advisor, utilizing his expertise to propel the growth and success of these esteemed institutions and his clients.

In 2022, Rick established Apex GTS Advisors by drawing upon his wealth of experience assisting consultants and organizations. With a firm belief in helping organizations discover and ascend to their Apex, he guides organizations through growth, transformation, and unparalleled success. By crafting tailored strategies and solutions, Rick empowers organizations to unlock their full potential, exceed their goals, and create a lasting impact.

While Rick dedicates himself to his work, he also understands the importance of playing hard. He cherishes the time spent with his wife and two sons. Embracing his love for the water, Rick finds solace and excitement in boating, water-skiing, wakeboarding, and wake-surfing.
Additionally, he seeks thrills on the slopes while skiing and snowmobiling.

Connect with Rick on LinkedIn and X.

Ashley Bowers is a distinguished expert with over 25 years of experience in talent management, operational excellence, and organizational growth. Her career began in organizational development and talent assessments, where she devised a strategic planning process to unify organizations towards achieving peak results.

Ashley’s expertise encompasses strategic planning, mergers & acquisitions, organizational structure & culture, change management, hyper-growth operational planning, and executive coaching & development. Her remarkable track record includes integrating acquisitions, preparing companies for IPOs, and developing proprietary strategies like the “Messy Strategy” for business advancement.

Ashley champions a culture of transparency and accountability, emphasizing the critical role of people in business success.

About Our Sponsor

Apex GTS Advisors is recognized as a beacon of strategic guidance and operational finesse in organizational development. Owing to decades of collective experience, the team at ApexGTS has established a sterling reputation for excellence in talent management, operational strategy, and driving sustained growth. The firm is convinced that every organization is unique and deserves a bespoke approach tailored to its distinct challenges and opportunities.

ApexGTS Advisors empowers leaders to navigate the complexities of organizational dynamics with clarity and purpose by employing a blend of objective analysis and innovative thinking. By offering fresh perspectives and unveiling untapped potential, the firm illuminates a clear path forward, guiding clients toward their apex of achievement. With ApexGTS as a trusted ally, organizations embark on a transformative journey, poised to unlock their full potential and thrive.

Follow Apex GTS on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Connecting with the Compost Crowd E53

October 18, 2024 by Karen

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Arizona Good Business

Connecting with the Compost Crowd E53

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Connecting with the Compost Crowd E53

In this episode of Arizona Good Business Radio, Thomas Barr chats with Kathleen Ventura, founder of Compost Crowd, about her journey from seeing compost pickup services in Columbus, Ohio, to launching a similar service in Northern Arizona in 2018. She shares how she and her husband started with just ten buckets, growing their business across Sedona and Flagstaff, and achieving the impressive milestone of diverting over 600 tons of waste from landfills, underscoring their commitment to sustainability.

Kathleen explains the community focus of Compost Crowd, from educating residents on waste reduction to engaging in local initiatives like pumpkin drop-offs and watershed cleanups. Highlighting partnerships with groups like Local First Arizona’s Green Business Boot Camp, Kathleen emphasizes that Compost Crowd is a collective movement for change, while also celebrating recognitions as a green business leader and sharing plans for expansion into Prescott Valley, a vision Thomas applauds for its positive impact on Arizona.

About ten years ago Kathleen Ventura visited her childhood friend in Columbus, Ohio, who happened to be a subscriber of a residential compost collection service. Kathleen was fascinated by the business model and always had it in the back of her mind that Northern Arizona needed a service like that.

About seven years ago, all the stars aligned to give it a go. Compost Crowd was launched in January of 2018 with a big idea out of the back of a Mini Cooper with 10 buckets, 10 lids, a basic website, an LLC, and a payment processing software! Once there was proof of concept in West Sedona, Compost Crowd expanded collection services to the Village of Oak Creek, then restaurants, and, ultimately, to events with zero waste goals.

In the spring of 2019 Compost Crowd announced a pilot for residential collection in Flagstaff that was met with tremendous reception from the community. To date, the Crowd has diverted nearly 600 tons of organic material from the landfill.

Brock Delinski and Kathleen Ventura are the husband/wife team that co-founded, own, and operate Compost Crowd. They collect and wash the buckets, answer the emails, run social media, staff their booth at the farmers market, and everything in between. They feel honored to be doing meaningful work that contributes positively to their community and the climate crisis.

Sustainability efforts of the business, of course, include diverting food scraps from the landfill – which avoids the anaerobic breakdown of organic matter in the landfill that leads to the emission of methane, a Greenhouse Gas with 87x the warming potential of CO2 on a 20-year timeline, plus returning these valuable nutrients to the earth decreases the need for synthetic fertilizer, erosion, and water use in agriculture.

Beyond that, within the business they reclaim water used to wash buckets and use eco-friendly soap, optimize collection routes for fuel efficiency, choose used vehicles rather than brand new in their operations, and partner with a local farm striving for an organic certification.

Follow Compost Crowd on Facebook and Instagram.

About Arizona Good Business

What is good business? What are local businesses doing to build a better Arizona?

Join Arizona Good Business to hear from local companies who are:

Centering purpose at the forefront of business
Creating social well-being for the community
Prioritizing sustainability and positive environmental practices
Growing strong company cultures through building authentic teams
Ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion are involved in all business decisions

Arizona Good Business features local business leaders that are redefining what it means to do good business.

About Your Host

Thomas Barr is the Vice President of Business Development for Local First Arizona, the largest coalition of local businesses in North America. He advocates for a strong local business community that contributes to building vibrancy, equity, and prosperity across the state.

A proud Arizona native and graduate of Arizona State University, Thomas leads the strategic partnerships and business development at Local First through advancing the organization’s statewide business coalition and technical assistance resources deployed to entrepreneurs.

As the Vice President of Business Development, Thomas guides the direction and execution of Local First’s key initiatives and partnerships, as well as the collaboration of 60+ staff implementing work in entrepreneurship programs and access to capital, rural and tribal community development, and local food economic development. He speaks to groups both locally and nationally, presenting the impact of Local First through demonstrating the organization’s effectiveness in building economic opportunity for more than 20 years.

Outside of Local First Arizona, Thomas has contributed his time throughout his career to many causes and organizations including the American Independent Business Alliance, Arizona Commission on the Arts, Equality Arizona, Heritage Square Foundation, Phoenix Legal Action Network, and Young Nonprofit Professionals. He currently serves on the small business advisory council for Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, as a member of the multicultural advisory board for ONE Community, and as a member of the board for Tempe Tourism.

Thomas is a 2018 Phoenix Magazine and 2020 Phoenix Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree, alumni of Arizona Leading for Change, and alumni of Valley Leadership Institute’s 40th cohort.

Connect with Thomas on LinkedIn and Twitter.

The Stages of Success E7

October 15, 2024 by Karen

Phoenix Business Radio

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The Stages of Success E7

In this episode of The Future of Work, hosts Al Loveland and Kyle McIntosh explore the “Stages of Success” with guests Julie Martin, Vee Luna, and Claudia Moreno. Julie discusses her experience purchasing an insurance agency, while Vee and Claudia share the challenges of growing their business, Moxie Girl, all crediting MAC 6’s strategy sessions for helping them manage relationships and business growth.

The conversation shifts to leadership and people management, with Julie reflecting on teamwork, and Vee and Claudia discussing improved communication and accountability within their teams. The guests also touch on balancing personal and professional responsibilities, emphasizing the value of leadership and mentorship in navigating the complexities of business growth.

As your local Farmers® agent in Tempe, AZ, Julie and her team help customers like you identify the insurance coverage that best fits your needs. This process is straightforward and personalized to help make you smarter about insurance. They have the knowledge and experience to help you better understand your coverage options–whether that’s auto, home, renters, business insurance and more.

Julie Martin is an experienced insurance agent, passionate about helping people and businesses understand their insurance coverages, needs and gaps.

Julie is experienced in business development and served as a Chamber of Commerce Executive. She has a history of working in the non-profit organization management industry. Strong marketing professional skilled in Nonprofit Organizations, Event Management, and Media Relations.

Connect with Julie on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

Vee Luna and Claudia Moreno are owners of Moxie Girl. Moxie Girl was born in Phoenix, Arizona in 2007 on the idea that your home should be your haven. At the end of a long day or a hectic week, we should all be able to relax, unwind, and recharge.

Moxie Girl brings together the services of a house cleaner or home organizer, with the benefits of a personal assistant to help our clients do just that.

While each family we help is unique, we always agree that the best part is completing the project and literally watching the stress go out the door with us when we leave.

ABOUT THE FUTURE OF WORK

Welcome to Future of Work Radio Show and Podcast – where business leaders share how they integrate humanity and technology through innovative approaches, healthy culture, flexible workspaces and seamless virtual technology.

ABOUT YOUR CO-HOSTS

With a focus in marketing and a background in various for profit and not for profit companies, including much professional and volunteer work, Kyle McIntosh wondered, “How can I pair the passion and commitment to community progress of a non-profit with the sustainability and reach of a for profit company?”

From this question and perspective a mission evolved to tear down the false distinction between the two sectors and to promote companies with Conscious Capitalism® business models through MAC6.

Albert Loveland has joined the MAC⁶ Team full-time. Al will be helping us to takeMAC⁶ to the next level as Vice President of Operations(and, for all of you who are familiar with EOS, as the MAC⁶Integrator).

Al brings over 25 years of experience in leadership and operational efficiency, first working for JPMorgan Chase for fifteen years and then, for the past decade, with his own consulting business working with small businesses, non-profits, and entrepreneurs.

Al has been working from MAC⁶ as a community member for five years now, acting as the unofficial ‘Mayor of MAC⁶’and helping every day to make this community a great place to be. Please join us in congratulating him as the now Official Mayor of MAC⁶ and as an integral new part of our team!

To learn more about MAC6 Communities, call 480-293-4075 or find them on LinkedIn and Facebook.

ABOUT OUR SPONSOR

MAC⁶ offers flexible spaces and programs to help your team grow, and a community of thriving businesses, just like yours. Advocating Capitalism as a Force for Good, MAC6 is Accelerating the shift to Conscious Capitalism (where Purpose and Profit Unite) through Creativity, Collaboration, Community and Change.

Empowered Workplace: Career Insights and Culture Boosts E44

October 11, 2024 by Karen

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Phoenix Business Radio

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In this episode of the Culture Crush Business Podcast, host Kindra Maples and co-host James Christensen engage with career transition coach Brenda Mariah in a discussion about leadership, employee investment, and proactive career management. They explore the significance of supporting employees, even during transitions, and the importance of clear communication and setting measurable goals to avoid underperformance and layoffs.

The conversation also touches on the broader impact of empathetic leadership on company culture, with James and Brenda reflecting on personal experiences that emphasize the value of recognizing one’s worth beyond a specific job. They stress the importance of networking, being proactive in career management, and maintaining connections, concluding with advice for those facing layoffs to seek outplacement support and the benefits of Brenda’s books on navigating career transitions.

Unlock the secrets to thriving in your career and transforming your company culture—tune in now for insights that could redefine your professional journey!

Push Career Management, LLC, is a Career Transition firm that works with professionals who are ready for promotion or who are eager to get back into quality positions in the workforce. They provide corporate outplacement services, 1:1 portfolio development (resume, LinkedIn profile, cover letter, etc…), and job search/interview coaching.

Their clients get a huge surge of confidence after working with them. Their signature Discovery Process helps to extract the things that make their clients marketable so they can accelerate their transitions and get paid what they’re worth.

Specializing in boosting confidence for those facing discrimination and going to battle emotionally in their careers or job transitions, Brenda Mariah of Push Career Management, is a career-focused speaker, wordsmith, career storyteller, encourager, author, and strategist.

Brenda’s engineering and project management background uniquely qualifies her to help even the most technical professionals. She is the president of the National Resume Writers’ Association and is certified in Interview Coaching, Compensation Negotiation, Job Search Strategy, Resume Writing, Career Management, LinkedIn Profile Development, and Employment Law.

Her insights have been featured across numerous media outlets, including CNN.

Connect with Brenda on LinkedIn and follow Push Career Management on Facebook.

About Our Guest Host

James Christensen is the President of Gateway Bank, the only community bank in Mesa, Arizona. Under his leadership, Gateway has thrived through multiple economic downturns and grown
to consistently be one of the strongest performing financial institutions in its peer group.

James has worked in the banking industry for over 35 years, mostly in commercial lending and management. Hailing from the Midwest, he was President of a community bank in Kansas for a decade before joining Gateway Bank’s founding team in 2007.

James is very active in the local community and a fierce advocate for small businesses, groups that have been marginalized, and people in need. He enjoys educating and inspiring people to improve their financial health and overall well-being.

Connect with James on LinkedIn.

About Culture Crush

At Culture Crush, culture isn’t just a corporate buzzword. It’s a key factor that can either boost your company or lead to its failure.

We’re culture consultants, with a focus on leadership, appreciation, communication, processes, accessibility, mental health, diversity, inclusion, and creating a dynamic workplace.

As a growing company:

Culture Crush Business is your hub for company culture resources. With deep cultural insights and years of expertise, we evaluate your company’s needs and connect you with the precise resources to cultivate a thriving culture.

We work with CEOs, founders, HR Directors, or Culture Leaders of companies or teams, who value company culture and understand its impact on their business success.With Culture Crush you’ll learn how to transform your workplace into a place of unity, efficiency, and growth. Don’t just fix your company culture – transform it with Culture Crush Business.

On this podcast: We focus on everything surrounding businesses with good company culture. We will talk with company leaders to learn about real-life experiences, tips, and best practices for creating a healthy work environment where employees are finding joy and satisfaction in their work while also striving and growing within the company. We share the resources to help improve company culture and showcase them on the podcast with their tips and tricks for growing culture.

About the Host

Kindra Maples is spartan racer, past animal trainer, previous magician’s assistant, and has a weakness for Oreo cookie shakes. Her journey working with people actually started working with animals as a teenager (don’t worry we won’t go that far back for her bio).

She worked for over 15 years in the zoo industry working with animals and the public. Her passion of working with animals shifted into working with people in education, operations and leadership roles. From there her passion of leadership and helping people develop has continued to grow.

Then came the opportunity for leading the Culture Crush Business Podcast and she jumped on it. Leadership, growth, and strong company cultures are all areas that Kindra is interested in diving into further.

Thank you for our Sponsor!

This episode is sponsored by Gateway Bank, a community bank in Arizona that specializes in serving small businesses across the Valley and the country.

When you work with Gateway, you don’t have to call an 800 number for support, or submit your loan application and wait weeks or months for an answer. You get fast, personal service from a team who knows you and cares about you.

When Gateway was founded in 2007, the team had a vision of building a hometown bank that prioritizes people over profits. Over 15 years later, they’re proud to still be one of the highest-performing AND highest-rated community banks around.

Whether you need a loan or banking services for your business, Gateway is here to help. Visit gcbaz.com/culturecrush for details and a free consultation with bank President James Christensen.

All loans subject to approval. Member FDIC.

Preserving Arizona’s Future through the Verde River E52

September 30, 2024 by Karen

Preserving-Arizonas-Future-through-the-Verde-River-feature

Arizona Good Business

Preserving Arizona's Future through the Verde River E52

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Preserving Arizona’s Future through the Verde River E52

In this episode of “Arizona Good Business” with host, Thomas Barr welcomes David Gressly and Isaac Dudley with Friends of the Verde River, discussing their work to protect and preserve the Verde River in Arizona. They shared how their organization employs a scientific approach, such as implementing a comprehensive water monitoring program, to inform better decision-making and resource allocation – as well as getting the community connected to the river. They also discuss the success of the River Friendly Living program, which encourages water conservation and habitat improvement by engaging a broad range of stakeholders, from homeowners to businesses.

The conversation includes personal testimonies from both guests as they reflect on their deep connections to Arizona and the Verde River. Emphasizing the importance of community engagement, especially through educational outreach programs. Their shared passion for protecting this unique natural resource is evident throughout the discussion, making it clear that their work is not just professional but deeply personal.

Friends of the Verde River is a local non-profit based in Cottonwood, Arizona, which implements on-the-ground projects, facilitates regional coordination, and informs statewide policy from the local perspective. Over the past decade, Friends has grown into an organization with professional staff implementing conservation in the Verde River Watershed at a landscape scale.

David Gressly joined Friends after retiring from the United Nations as its Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Yemen. He has held many positions with the United Nations, most recently working collaboratively to prevent what could have been the world’s largest oil spill in the Red Sea.

David has worked extensively in Africa and Asia, building teams to effect positive goals in the world.

David grew up working on the family farm. He stated that his initial desire was to become an environmentalist and is looking forward to working in that milieu with Friends of the Verde River.

Isaac Dudley is a Verde Valley local, with a degree in Spanish and Journalism from Northern Arizona University, Isaac is an avid lover of the outdoors.

After finding rock climbing as a sophomore in high school, Isaac immersed himself in the wild places of Arizona. Passionate about conservation and the sustainable growth of the Verde Valley, Isaac hopes to use his voice as a storyteller to help his community grow like every healthy community should.

Follow Friends of the Verde River on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

About Arizona Good Business

What is good business? What are local businesses doing to build a better Arizona?

Join Arizona Good Business to hear from local companies who are:

Centering purpose at the forefront of business
Creating social well-being for the community
Prioritizing sustainability and positive environmental practices
Growing strong company cultures through building authentic teams
Ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion are involved in all business decisions

Arizona Good Business features local business leaders that are redefining what it means to do good business.

About Your Host

Thomas is a 2018 Phoenix Magazine and 2020 Phoenix Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree, alumni of Arizona Leading for Change, and alumni of Valley Leadership Institute’s 40th cohort.

Connect with Thomas on LinkedIn and Twitter.