Karen, Author at Business RadioX ® Page

Mentoring Your Success Owner David Hepburn Big Zephyr Musician William Babin and Pastry Chef Laura Levine with Because Baked Goods

March 22, 2019 by Karen

Mentoring Your Success Owner David Hepburn Big Zephyr Musician William Babin and Pastry Chef Laura Levine with Because Baked Goods

Mentoring Your Success is a Professional mentoring and coaching business. Established in 1999 by David Hepburn Jr. after moving here from Silicon Valley, the Company has trained thousands of salespeople and business owners in the last 20 years and continues to do so with monthly workshops.

Our view is that “Personal Development Precedes Business Development” and “No thought lives in your mind rent-free.”

David Hepburn Jr. has degrees in English, Psychology, History and Education from Bethel University, as well as a Masters in English from the University of Minnesota. He moved to California and began working for Runner’s World Magazine. After 2 years as a salesman, he became the Director Of Sales and Marketing until the magazine was sold. In Silicon Valley David started and built 2 multi- million dollar businesses. Ace Promotions (2.6 Mill) and Ace Marketing (2 mill), which he sold prior to moving to Phoenix in 1996.

David has been trained by the top trainers in the worlds in both Marketing (by Jay Abraham and Dan Kennedy) and Sales Training (by Tom Hopkins, David Sandler, Xerox Sales Training and LMI Training) and is self trained in the art of thinking, questioning, irritating and life.He is also the Grand Inquisitor, a Dream Facilitator, a Thought Provacatuer and an Ideator. He is also an Irritator. Yes, he is an Irritator. And the reason that he is an Irritator is that you don’t grow unless you are irritated.

Connect with David on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

Big Zephyr is a flexible, live music company that provides a wide variety of live music for all types of events. The band can shrink to just one musician or expand to eight, depending on the client’s needs. Big Zephyr’s distinction is powerful vocal performances, supported by dynamic backup harmonies. The band performs rock, country, pop, RnB, Motown, disco, funk, and more, covering hits from 1950-present.

William Babin has been playing drums his entire life. He started at age 10 and quickly began playing professionally in New Orleans throughout high school and in college. After earning his M.A. in English and beginning a family in 1980, drumming took a back seat to martial arts. For over 40 years, he has trained in Taekwondo and currently holds the rank of 8th degree black belt, Chief Master Instructor. He never left drumming behind, and continued visiting jam sessions and subbing in bands that needed a drummer.

By 2005, the itch to get more serious took over and he started Big Zephyr. The band has played continuously since that time, performing at festivals, events, and resorts all over Arizona. Big Zephyr released its first cd, OUR CHRISTMAS, in 2017.

Connect with William on LinkedIn, and follow Big Zephyr on Facebook and Twitter.

Because Baked Goods, founded in 2012, is a home based bakery business under Arizona Cottage Law. The business focus is creating custom desserts for Food Gifting and Events. All items are made FRESH within 24 hours of delivery. Delivery is free for most of the metro Phoenix area. If you are going to gift food you want it to be MEMORABLE! Anyone can take donuts or bagels to a client. Why not send bite size mini caramel apples with your business logo on the toothpick flag?

Laura Levine is a farm girl from northeast PA that moved to AZ in 1979. She was one of the first two graduates from ASU with a degree in Supply Chain and Materials Management. Laura spent 25+ years in various management roles at Honeywell Aerospace and CIGNA HealthCare of AZ. She is a Six Sigma certified Lean Expert. Needing an outlet for creativity, she left Honeywell and went to Culinary School at Le Cordon Bleu for Patisserie. She interned for 6 weeks at the Hotel DuPont in Wilmington, DE, surviving both her first earthquake and hurricane. Back in AZ, Laura was a baker at Nibbler’s Catering, and worked in the bakeshop at The Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center prior to launching Because Baked Goods, LLC. The trademark blue and purple hair with the tie- dyed chefs jackets make her very memorable. Your food gifts should be just a memorable. Laura “wants to play with your food”!

Connect with Laura on LinkedIn and follow Because Baked Goods on Facebook and Instagram.

The Unapologetic Voice Founder Carrie Severson Business Coach Nathalie Ekobo and Mompreneur Alison Rand

March 22, 2019 by Karen

The Unapologetic Voice Founder Carrie Severson Business Coach Nathalie Ekobo and Mompreneur Alison Rand

The Unapologetic Voice is a storytelling brand that supports leaders who are on the road of uncovering their unapologetic message, story and voice. Come learn how to craft books, essays, speeches or even launch business with your voice at the foundation.

Carrie Severson is a storytelling coach and the visionary behind The Unapologetic Voice. She works with women locally as well as around the world who want to express themselves in new ways and make an imprint in the world with their zone of genius.

Connect with Carrie on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

Nathalie Ekobo International is a ‘leading-edge’ boutique consultancy for high achievers — entrepreneurs and leaders– that are ready to have extraordinary impact.
Services such as Keynotes, Break Out sessions, Workshops, Conscious Leadership Training, Deep- coaching, are offered and customized to the clients’ needs.

For the past 20 years, award-winning intuitive, business and executive coach, thought leader, and speaker, Nathalie Ekobo, has helped more than 10,000 leaders and entrepreneurs across the globe increase their visibility, impact, and income, by removing their blocks, using vibrational marketing, and being aligned with their Expanded Self.

As a visionary CEO of a ‘leading-edge’ consulting and coaching company, Nathalie, takes (mostly) female leaders (and open-minded conscious men) to the highest levels of their success by helping them tap into their inner guidance to achieve their dreams with more ease.

She guides her high-achieving clients on their path of making a difference in the world through their conscious leadership and inspirational impact. Nathalie has shared the stage with Dr. Judith Orloff, Marianne Williamson, and Dr. Rev. Michael B. Beckwith, teaching time-tested tools and practical solutions to accelerate success and greatness.

Connect with Nathalie on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

Parenting takes a team and Alison Rand loves connecting with parents. If you are looking for additional tools to add to your parent tool belt she is available on an hourly consulting basis. Alison offers support to parents in the area of adoption, parenting, homeschooling and nutrition to achieve a happy, healthy and heart centered family.

As a mompreneur running a business and household, as well as homeschooling two children, Alison Rand is passionate about sharing insights about her journey maneuvering two adoptions of children with special needs. She hopes her story supports other parents in their heart centered journey.

Connect with Alison on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

Sun Devil 100 with Duffy Group CEO Kathleen Duffy and Trish Gulbranson with Derma Health

March 22, 2019 by Karen

Sun Devil 100 with Duffy Group CEO Kathleen Duffy and Trish Gulbranson with Derma Health

The Sun Devil 100 celebrates the achievements of Arizona State University alumni who own or lead successful, innovative businesses across the globe. Spanning industries and locations, ASU entrepreneurs possess a history of enterprise, vision and leadership. This special awards program was instituted to invite these innovative leaders back to campus for a celebration in their honor. The Sun Devil Class of 2018 represents an elite group of talented business leaders who exemplify the spirit of ASU as a New American University.

The ceremony is happening on April 29th and is attended by major CEOs, community leaders, etc. Companies can purchase seats or sponsor tables.

Duffy Group, Inc. is a global executive search and recruitment firm. Kathleen has been selected as a member of the Sun Devil 100 for the fourth year in a row and will be joined by the Board Chair of the ASU Alumni Association to talk about this year’s celebration of Sun Devils who impact the community and the economy like Kathleen.

Kathleen Duffy Ybarra is the founder and president of Duffy Group, Inc., a global recruiting firm. She imparts a strength of purpose to her entire staff, and the result is one of the strongest recruitment teams in the business. Her commitment to serving candidates and clients alike motivated Kathleen to develop the Recruitment Research model which enables Duffy Group to harness marketplace intelligence, work as a discrete (and transparent) partner and deliver quality candidates with up to 50 percent savings over traditional recruitment fees.

Kathleen currently serves as the Co-Chair on 2020 Woman on Boards and is Co-Chair of the No Longer Homeless Capital Campaign Cabinet. A founding member of the Arizona Human Resource Executive Forum, Kathleen was also Past Board Chair for the ASU Alumni Association, she served on the ASU Board of Trustees and Leadership Counsel and as National District Coordinator for the National Charity League. Kathleen is also an active member of the Kappa Delta Advisory Board. Recently Kathleen was honored for her leadership, community service, and dedication to mentorship by being awarded the 2018 ATHENA Business Woman of the Year Award in the private sector.

Kathleen earned a B.A. in Communications from Arizona State University and is a proud Sun Devil.

Follow the Duffy Group on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

Derma Health Skin & Laser is a top rated MedSpa in Arizona, specializing in laser skin treatments, skin care and facial fillers. We are a top 1% MedSpa in the nation for the volume of clients we serve. We are unique in our industry for our focus on internal health, which turns into external beauty and for our approach on the client-provider relationship. You won’t find a friendlier, more compassionate place for your skin care needs!

Accepting a job she didn’t want to take proved to be the catalyst for Derma Health Skin & Laser CEO Trish Gulbranson’s second career as an entrepreneur. Gulbranson credited her decision in 1995 to work for a small software company with giving her the confidence and vision to launch one of the Valley’s top med spas in 2005. Before entering this industry, Gulbranson was using her finance degree from the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University as an accountant. She spent her first 10 years after graduating working for a large firm doing audits on major companies. She was offered a job with a software company that had a staff of 12.

A colleague convinced her that something called the internet was a game-changer on the horizon and that she’d miss the boat by not taking that job. She became the president and CEO of that software company and was with it for 12 years before it was sold. The founder of that company was a woman who inspired her to take a leap of faith. Working for a small and nimble company allowed Gulbranson to be more operational and get into every facet and department instead of being limited to her designated job title. There, a vibe that she described as “uplifting, inspiring and edgy” was something she wanted to replicate and built Derma Health around that goal.

Connect with Trish on LinkedIn and follow Derma Health on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

LEADERSHIP LOWDOWN Dawning Public Relations Owner Kendra Riley and Beyond Payments Founding Member Anna Lam

March 22, 2019 by Karen

LEADERSHIP LOWDOWN Dawning Public Relations Owner Kendra Riley and Beyond Payments Founding Member Anna Lam

Dawning Public Relations specializes in the development and implementation of public relations, community relations and social media campaigns for everyone from the small independent business owner to nationwide brands with storefronts from coast to coast. Services include everything from writing (be it press releases, press kits, newsletters, ad copy, and blogs) and establishing a brand presence within the community and key stakeholders to social media management and securing coverage for clients in media outlets across the globe.

With over 20 years of experience and long-standing contacts, Dawning Public Relations not only garners stellar publicity and unique marketing concepts for clients, but is also experienced in the planning and management of corporate parties, grand openings, fundraisers and events.

Kendra Riley founded Dawning Public Relations in 2013 with a focus on helping lifestyle brands elevate their exposure through comprehensive communications campaigns. She specializes in local and national public relations outreach and social media strategies and implementation.

Originally from Valparaiso, Indiana and with a degree in Media Arts from the University of Arizona, Kendra has taken her Midwest roots, Southwest education and 13+ years of experience to create a communications company that has helped businesses in every industry. Her work within the community has helped a variety of local non-profits, including Phoenix Children’s Hospital, PSA Art Awakenings, Childhelp, Scottsdale League for the Arts, Make a Wish Arizona and many more.

When not glued to her phone or laptop managing her clients’ brand presence in the marketplace, Kendra enjoys traveling, dining out, trying new wines, and spending time with her husband, two young daughters and their two French Bulldogs.

Connect with Kendra on LinkedIn and Twitter and follow Dawning Public Relations on Facebook.

Beyond Payments is a payments, business management and lending solutions company founded in 2017 by Robert O. Carr, a prominent businessman and philanthropist whose track record of success reflects his deep belief that “doing the right thing” for customers and advocates ultimately produces the best bottom-line results. Carr has brought on a team of seasoned experts in the payments industry committed to building a world-class company from the ground up.
Beyond designated the non-profit Give Something Back (Give Back) a founding partner and beneficiary as Give Back is 49% majority shareholder of Beyond Payments.

Established by Carr in 2003, Give Back provides college scholarships and mentoring to students who have faced economic hardship and other challenges such as foster care or the incarceration of a parent. So far, Give Back has prepaid over 1,500 scholarships for students at partner colleges and universities across the country—an upfront investment of more than $36 million. Carr’s motivation results from his desire to secure long- term funding for the Give Something Back Foundation long after his time.

By investing in the minds and futures of smart, capable young people, Beyond is building a well- prepared workforce and contributing to a growing economy – which creates greater opportunities for their business customers as well as for Beyond. In just under two years since its beginnings, they are rapidly growing and being noticed as one of the leading US companies changing the face of business simply by operating as a for-profit business with its core mission as a force for good.

Anna Lam spent most of her childhood and young adult life in Northern California where she graduated from University of California, Davis with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. She enjoyed studying political behavior but chose to pursue her strong interest in business within the eyecare industry. She became an optician licensed by the American Board of Opticianry and shortly thereafter, she was recruited by Sunglass Hut International Corporation in Coral Gables, Florida where she led buying and merchandising within their optical division. Due to her track record of success, she was invited to accept an opportunity by a prominent privately-owned landmark optical retailer in New York, New York to join their company as Director of Merchandising.

Anna quickly expanded her knowledge and experience within the multi-million dollar environment and rapidly moved upwards into various management roles ultimately culminating to Vice President of Sales. She focused on instilling a strong culture of empowerment and ownership for its employees company wide which resulted in 5 consecutive years of double digit record sales growth. Today, Anna still maintains her own retail optical consulting business serving small and medium sized retail optical offices.

Anna Moved to Arizona 7 years ago and made a conscious choice to take on a new venture. She joined the 5th largest and most respected payments company in the US, Heartland Payment Systems founded by Robert O. Carr in 1997, a deeply admired pioneer in the payments space. Anna now continues her journey with Mr. Carr and Beyond Payments, which began in 2017 shortly after his sale of Heartland Payment Systems for $4.3 billion. She is thrilled to be a Founding Member of Beyond as she is confident this company “will surpass Heartland Payment Systems in its legacy as a world class business by holding itself accountable to its values – honesty, transparency, and integrity as a for-profit business with a meaningful philanthropic focus.”

Anna also enjoys being involved in her community. She takes an active role in the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce and in the U & Improved Leadership Foundation as a Board Member. She is also an active member of the Greater Phoenix Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, the Executive Association of Greater Phoenix, and Arizona Business Leadership. She recently became a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) of Arizona to contribute in helping foster kids succeed.

Anna enjoys taking time traveling, hiking, exploring new restaurants, and immersing in self- development and spiritual activities. Most of all, she loves spending time with her family and friends, especially with her two beautiful 5-year old twin daughters, Tori and Talia.

Follow Beyond Payments on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

ABOUT YOUR HOST

Jodi Low is an accomplished corporate trainer, inspirational speaker, and the Founder and CEO of U & Improved. Jodi has trained thousands of entrepreneurs and executives on how to build a booming business, master a mindset for success, and achieve the lifestyle they desire through heart-fueled leadership.

Through U & Improved—an award-winning personal and professional leadership development company based in Scottsdale—Jodi has redefined traditional leadership training by creating a sustainable and actionable model that is personal, challenging and meaningful to each and every individual who enrolls in any of the two-and-a-half-day experiential training classes. She and her elite training team have advanced the charge in heart-based leadership
development and empower U & Improved graduates with knowledge, tools and awareness to immediately be more effective and responsive leaders at work, home and within their communities.

Among her many accomplishments as a Valley leader, Jodi launched a teen leadership program in 2014 to empower young adults to become more confident, motivated and focused stewards of our future. In 2016, she founded a non-profit arm of the company—the U & Improved Leadership Foundation—that makes the program more accessible to deserving teens.

Jodi has been recognized by industry publications and organizations for her work in leadership development and serves as a source of inspiration within the community. In 2015, she was honored as an “Outstanding Women in Business” by the Phoenix Business Journal and by the Phoenix Suns and National Bank of Arizona with the “Amazing Women” award. She has received both the prestigious “Diversity Leader of the Year” and the Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce’s “Sterling Award.” She was also awarded a Silver Stevie Award for Female Entrepreneur of the Year 2015 and was a finalist for the Junior League of Phoenix’s Valley Impact Award. Jodi is a devoted single parent who volunteers her time at her daughters’ school programs and with organizations such as Angel Mamas, where she’s served on the board for three years.

PHX Startup Week

March 22, 2019 by Karen

PHX Startup Week

Thrive Together Podcasts

PHX Startup Week is a six-day event, which takes place in three different locations across the Valley, providing education, connection, and support to entrepreneurs. With over 50 sessions, daily happy hours and countless networking opportunities, it’s the place for PHX entrepreneurs to be.

PHX Startup Week is an all volunteer and community run event. All funds are used to put on the event and build PHX into an awesome entrepreneurship hub. Phoenix Business RadioX had the privilege of shining the spotlight on several sponsors and volunteers who made the 2019 event possible.

Here are the mastered PHX Startup Week “Thrive Together” Podcasts, in order of appearance, from our LIVE on-location broadcast at Park University in Gilbert, AZ:

Laurel Pendle with LPBC and Vincent Serpico with SepricoDEV

SerpicoDEV builds software for entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses. We have been around for 10 years, have nearly 25 people, and helped over 100 businesses.

LPBC Services offers creative solutions and strategies to help grow and promote your brand. Our goal is to help shape and share your story! We can help fill the gap in your business, so you can focus on the things YOU want to do. Think of our team as an extension of your organization. We offer Business Strategy & Consultation. Have you struggled trying to gain additional exposure? We provide targeted
Marketing, Media Relations, Community Outreach and Business Development Strategies to propel your organization and brand to the next level.

LPBC Services and SerpicoDEV – DOWNLOAD HERE

Tari Thomas with There’s Room and Ryan Sanford with Kozee

At There’s Room, we believe in win-win solutions to help both renters and homeowners achieve their goals. We do this by connecting homeowners who have extra room in their homes and hearts with verified tenants in need of room to pursue their life goals.

Kozee is an intelligent on-demand home services application. We provide a unique mobile platform to seamlessly connect homeowners and home service providers.

There’s Room and Kozee Interview – DOWNLOAD HERE

Jack Dorney with Jack & Bean and Pearl Filani with Lady Jewel

Jack & Bean is a growth marketing agency providing internet marketing and digital advertising solutions to help their clients grow revenues online. A Phoenix-based agency, they also specialize in strategy, branding, web design and development.

Lady Jewel, LLC is your source for Storytelling, Planning, Marketing. Our mission is to bring out the originality of each individual, company, or brand.

Jack & Bean and Lady Jewel Interview – DOWNLOAD HERE

Johnny Hanna with Homie and LT Ladino Bryson with vCandidates.com

Homie is a tech-first brokerage building software to streamline home buying and selling with a mission is to eliminate unnecessary fees and commissions. We’re building a full-stack platform to simplify the entire process from contract to close – including home loans, title, escrow, and home insurance.

vCandidates.com is a cloud-based career platform, mobile app, and dual CRM system for candidates and recruiting professionals. vCandidates.com helps candidates get past gatekeepers and allows them to take control of the submission process; while recruiting professionals are able to source pre-screened candidates and use enterprise-like solutions that help make them more competitive in the marketplace.

Homie and vCandidates Interviews – DOWNLOAD HERE

Curt Cornum with Insight Enterprises and Ryan Quinn with BrightGuest

BrightGuest makes it easy for nonprofits to create smart microsites and deliver through frictionless channels—text messaging and social chat. With real-time insights that personalize messaging and content to the individual, nonprofits are able to drastically increase engagement and fundraising with BrightGuest.

Insight Enterprises Inc. is an Arizona-based publicly traded global technology company that designs and delivers business-to-business information technology (IT) solutions. The company is listed on the Fortune 500 and has offices in 20 countries with operations in 200 countries and territories.

BrightGuest and Insight Enterprises Interview – DOWNLOAD HERE

Amber Pechin with Amplitude Media and Tim Tiller with MYTEK

Amplitude Media is a creative agency that builds brands and tells stories for businesses.

MyTek partners with growing businesses by providing comprehensive information technology solutions. MyTek believes that, when properly optimized, technology enables businesses to scale, compete, communicate, and collaborate in ways that drive a business to new heights.

Amplified Media and MYTEK – DOWNLOAD HERE

Naveen Sydney with hyperFIELD and Freelance Writer, Forbes Shannon

hyperFIELD is a software company focusing on maintenance in field-deployed, high-value asset industries (oil/gas, utilities, fleet, defense). They specialize in solutions using emerging technologies (blockchain, AI, AR) to suit each client’s needs.

Forbes Shannon is a freelance writer, editor, student of innovation, and proud ambassador of the #PHX entrepreneurship and innovation community.

hyperFIELD and Forbes Shannon Interview – DOWNLOAD HERE

Aaron Kilby with Artisan Colour and Michael Kurtz with Designed From Scratch

As a print shop, Artisan offers large and small format printing, but our capabilities extend beyond print. We also provide pre-press, professional photography, product management, and in-house creative services to make your marketing plan a one-stop project.

Designed from Scratch Concepts helps small businesses with a small budget to look they have a large budget, and to be seen as professional.

Aritisan Colour and Designed From Scratch Interview – DOWNLOAD HERE

MWI is a digital marketing agency with offices in the US and throughout Asia. Simply put, they build and perfect their client’s online presences, and make sure they are reaching their goals and growing as a result.

MWI Interview – DOWNLOAD HERE

Palm Valley Church and Community Impact with Tere Tucker and Agua Fria Food and Clothing Bank with Leanne Leonard E17

March 21, 2019 by Karen

Palm Valley Church and Community Impact with Tere Tucker and Agua Fria Food and Clothing Bank with Leanne Leonard E17

Palm Valley Church created a non-profit entity, Community Impact. Community Impact exists to work together with their neighbors, local government, businesses and schools to build relationships by bringing all together for the good of the community. Their goal is to discover the assets, talents, gifts and passions in the community to meet the needs for transformation and hope by creating those partnerships. Palm Valley Church is a PEACE Plan Church which means that there are five giants that bring chaos in the world in various degrees locally and globally; they are spiritual emptiness, corrupt leadership, poverty, disease and illiteracy. If the Church can begin to take steps in addressing these giants it will bring peace to the world and will bring about a servants heart, actions and the important of serving others.

Tere Tucker has been a member of Palm Valley Church for over 6 years and the Director of Local Missions and Community Impact for 2 years. She comes from a background of owning her own software business where she has semi-retired and is now more available for volunteer work. Her passion is helping to make life a little easier and giving hope to those struggling, by looking at what the specific needs are in the community, and working with the community partners to bring about sustainable change. Since Palm Valley Church is a “PEACE Plan” Church it gives her this chance to be used by God to make these changes.

Follow Palm Valley Church on Facebook and Twitter.

For the past 23 years the Agua Fria Food and Clothing Bank has been faithfully serving the people of the southwest valley. Their mission, as a faith based non-profit organization, is to provide services to families and individuals in the southwest valley who are hungry, in need, or facing crisis. AFFCB has two locations, Avondale and Tonopah, with a variety of programs and services, some shared, some unique. At each location, they offer monthly emergency food boxes and access to their clothing bank. In Avondale, they also provide monthly food boxes for seniors and infants, they have a shower on site for bathing, and they offer hygiene products and daily lunches for
individuals.

Each year, AFFCB partners with other local agencies and churches to collect and distribute school supplies (Backpacks & More) in July, Thanksgiving meals in November, and Christmas food and gifts (Toys & More) in December. All their programs and services are only contingent on need and residency. Individuals seeking assistance at the Avondale or Tonopah location must have proof of residence in a neighboring city (Avondale, Goodyear, Buckeye, Tolleson, Cashion, or Litchfield Park – or – Tonopah, Arlington, Palo Verde, or Harquahala, respectively).

The Agua Fria Food & Clothing Bank is a community supported organization. They rely heavily on in-kind and monetary donations, as well as grants. They are also an approved AZ charitable tax credit organization. Their day to day operations are possible only through the thousands of generous hours served by volunteers.

Leanne Leonard has served as the Executive Director of the Agua Fria Food & Clothing Bank since August of 2015. Prior to coming to AFFCB she worked for Ottawa University’s Arizona campus for eight years. She was serving as the Director of Business Program’s for their four Arizona locations, and was a full time faculty member teaching courses in business, communications, and liberal arts.

Leanne earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and Psychology from Ottawa University, and a Master of Science in Leadership from Grand Canyon University.

Follow AFFCB on Facebook.

THE NAKED TRUTH Maduros Fine Cigars and Tobacco with Owner Ron Hardin

March 21, 2019 by Karen

THE NAKED TRUTH Maduros Fine Cigars and Tobacco with Owner Ron Hardin

Maduro’s Fine Cigars and Tobacco is Chandler’s oldest premium cigar bar and lounge nestled in the heart of the beautiful community of Ocotillo. Maduro’s offers both the afficionado and novice cigar lover an experience like no other.

Our story began in 2010 with the launch of the retail store, in 2011 we opened the Perdomo Lounge, a speakeasy-inspired atmosphere with plush leather furnishings, at screen TV’s and over 90 private lockers. Our 500 square foot humidor boasts one of the best-in-class representing top-rated cigar lines from around the world for every
palette. The party-spot is the front lounge community where lasting friendships are made while listening to jazz & blues.

A locally owned and operated tobacconist, coming into Maduro’s is a lifestyle experience for cigar enthusiasts, a place to network for business or a hang-out spot to simply relax with a stoagie in your paw.

Ron Hardin is a corporate executive, small business owner, unapologetic entrepreneur, and proud father. A native of Kansas City Kansas, Ron is a 30-year technology, advisory, start-up, sales and business operations veteran. After graduating high school in 1983, Ron attended the University of Kansas for the first three years of his collegiate experience where he majored in computer science and became a member of the distinguished fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha. Transferring in 1986, he went on to receive an Associate degree from Donnelly College, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Rockhurst University, and a Master’s in Information Management from Arizona State University. He began his career in computer system operations, advanced to software architecture and development, and later transitioned to management consulting at the firm Ernst & Young.

In 1999, he became one of four co-founders of Ockham Technologies. After his exit in 2002, he founded Desert Moon Technologies where he acquired Canadian laboratory software company LabPlus+ Technologies. In 2008 he founded LMR Holdings, a holding company for Maduro’s Fine Cigars located in Chandler Arizona which he still owns and operates today. Accomplished in strategic visioning and technology investment, Ron leverages many of the principles and techniques that has led to a successful corporate career to his personal journey through life. A man of faith, Ron leads with humility, is an active stakeholder in the Chandler community, and enjoys spending quality time with family and friends.

Connect with Ron on LinkedIn, and follow Maduro’s on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

ABOUT THE NAKED TRUTH SHOW

The Naked Truth, hosted by Lori Corrigan and sponsored by Snake Charmer Men’s Body Waxing, pays tribute to the valuable contributions men make both personally and professionally. The show is a safe zone for guys to speak their minds amidst the current social climate where they struggle to be heard.

ABOUT YOUR HOST

Within the first 3 minutes they meet, The Snake Charmer (aka Lori Corrigan) persuades her men’s body waxing clients to be 100% physically and emotionally vulnerable to her.

Guys willingly sign over their modesty, fear, intimidation, and genitalia in exchange for a promise of enhanced comfort and prowess.

Because she’s 1/2 Goddess and 1/2 Good Witch on her mom’s side, Lori quietly performs mental hocus-pocus to magically melt away social stigma and industry hype.

The trust clients willingly lay at her altar is something Lori treats with great respect and gratitude.

ABOUT OUR SPONSOR

Thanks to Steve Carell’s “40-Year-Old Virgin,” the social stigma of men’s body waxing holds you gentlemen hostage, keeping you from enjoying this game-changing life hack.

There’s a reason why so few waxing studios offer men’s services, and many that do shouldn’t.

Bottom line is Snake Charmer Men’s Body Waxing is not the norm, which means a much better experience for you. Not only are you within a 100% physical and emotional safe zone, but you’re the focus instead of an afterthought.

Head over to snakecharmeraz.com where you can watch how a men’s Brazilian wax is done from start to finish.

Susan and Jake Potje with Celebration of Fine Art and Artist Kirk Randle

March 21, 2019 by Karen

Susan and Jake Potje with Celebration of Fine Art and Artist Kirk Randle

Nearly 30 years ago, the Celebration of Fine Art transformed the way people experience art when it debuted in downtown Scottsdale. Now a linchpin in Arizona’s art, culture and tourism scene, this 10- week-long hosts 100 of the country’s top artists and sees nearly 50,000 visitors from around the globe on average each year.

The Celebration of Fine Art takes place in north Scottsdale under the signature “big white tents” and features 40,000-square-feet of working artist studios and works of art. The juried, invitational show has come to be recognized not only for its exceptional art, but also its welcoming experience and interactive atmosphere.

The show, where art lovers and artists connect, is open daily through Sunday, March 24 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Since 2004, Susan Morrow Potje and her husband, Jake Potje have helmed the Celebration of Fine Art show and in 2014, they assumed full ownership. They always ensure a full spectrum of fine art and craft is represented, and they continue to support the Celebration of Fine Art’s culture as a place where art lovers and artists connect.

With an annual average attendance of more than 50,000 and revenue of more than $5 million, this remarkable show has grown to reach far beyond the city limits, attracting visitors from around the world and artists from throughout the country.

Connect with Susan on LinkedIn, and follow Celebration of Fine Art on Twitter and Facebook.

Kirk Randle is an oil and watercolor painter from Bountiful, Utah who has been participating in the Celebration of Fine Art since its beginning in 1991. Kirk studied art at the University of Utah as the recipient of a Presidential Scholarship in 1971 and is known for his impressionist landscapes, country homesteads, Rocky Mountain vistas and Native American subjects.

Follow Kirk on Instagram.

RHINO NATION Baby Bloom Nutrition with Yaffi Lvova RDN and Pro Shot Doc CEO Nicole Spracale

March 17, 2019 by Karen

RHINO NATION Baby Bloom Nutrition with Yaffi Lvova RDN and Pro Shot Doc CEO Nicole Spracale

Baby Bloom Nutrition provides nutrition education to help smooth the transition to parenthood. This time is rife with confusion and guilt. By providing easy-to-digest and up-to-date scientific information to the pregnant or postpartum woman, parent with a colicky or fussy baby, or parent who needs assistance with initial food introduction, I can help parents and caretakers boost confidence in the decisions they make for heir families. I provide personal or small group counseling, public speaking, and writing to assist in the following areas:

Pregnancy Nutrition
Nutrition During Breastfeeding
Nutrition for the New Mom
Colic and Fussiness
Initial Food Introduction
Selective (Picky) Eating
Allergy Management

Toddler Test Kitchen is a unique, hand-on experience. Frustrated parents can have a blast with their child while increasing confidence in both the child and the parent. This builds an important skill, while helping with selective “picky” eating tendencies! Toddler Test Kitchen geared towards, kids ages 2 to 6 years of age (recommended).

Toddler Test Kitchen will increase food acceptance for your selective eater and boost excitement for your adventurous child.

Yaffi Lvova is an experienced Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and a proud mom of twins, plus one. She created Toddler Test Kitchen as a way to introduce children to unfamiliar foods in a safe way—a way that builds confidence and self-reliance, while spending quality time with parents.

As the owner of Baby Bloom Nutrition, she works with pregnant women and new parents to increase their nutritional confidence and help smooth the transition into parenthood. Yaffi is available for public speaking and workshops, both virtual and in person. She can be reached at yaffi@babybloomnutrition.com.

Follow Baby Bloom Nutrition on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Pro Shot Doc is getting your junior high and high school athletes off the bench and into the game. We’re making sports fun again with easy to follow programs that work for any level of player. Your child will gain confidence and leadership skills while participating in an interactive community. Join us in building tomorrow’s leaders!

Nicole Spracale has over 25 years of experience in the services and technology space, focused primarily on operations, marketing and human resources. After an extensive career in corporate America which culminated with her role as the Senior Vice President of People, she decided to explore her own entrepreneurial spirit. She started her first consulting practice focused on Executive Coaching and Business Strategy, then co-launched a retail bakery before moving onto her current adventure working with early stage companies and their founders.

Today, Nicole wears two hats. In her consulting practice she serves as the Chief Strategy Officer of PowerVIsion, a firm which works with early stage businesses and their owners to put in the systems and process to grow and scale. She is also the CEO and Co-Founder of a startup, Pro Shot Doc, which is focused on helping kids get off the couch and back playing sports …. ultimately becoming more engaged and involved in their community and as future leaders.

Nicole’s personal mission is to help one-million people connect with their purpose, and then execute on their goals to create amazing organizations and communities. As a frequently requested speaker and facilitator, she is actively working each day to make her mission a reality!

Nicole holds various advanced degrees including her MBA from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University. She also holds several certifications including: Strategic Workforce Planning (HRCI), Senior Human Resources Professional, (HRCI) and the Certification for Internal Coaches (Babson
College). Additionally, she has attended the Kellogg Graduate School of Management for executive education, focusing her coursework on sales force performance, negotiation and integrated marketing communications.

She and her husband live in Tempe, Arizona with their now College-bound daughter.

Connect with Nicole on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

ABOUT RHINO NATION

Rhino Nation is a growing community of influential entrepreneurs and small business owners that share a common trait, they don’t walk, they don’t run, they CHARGE to their destiny. We acknowledge and celebrate their business expertise, leadership and fearless attitude to be victorious in their goals. Rhino Nation is committed to making powerful connections and providing enhanced exposure to broaden the reach and promote the extraordinary talents of our community members.

ABOUT YOUR SPONSOR

Rhino Online Strategies & eCreativity helps you free up your precious and limited time as a business owner, to do what you do best….running and growing your business. Michelle Faust and her partner, Jacob Fann, work with you to identify your content and marketing needs and provide you with fresh, innovative, dynamic copy that will effectively reach your target market, leading to increased customer engagement, a higher conversion rate, and increased sales.

Great content becomes the seeds of a bountiful business harvest, so you can cultivate and grow your business. We take the time to personally understand you and your company’s purpose, so your marketing message reflects who you are and speaks directly to your target market. For good content to be truly effective you need it to reach your ideal audience. A great strategic marketing plan includes the ability to target selectively and capture those targets for increased engagement which results in greater revenue generation. We’ll partner with you to develop powerful messaging strategies that work.

Michelle has an extensive background in sales, marketing and public speaking, primarily in the pharmaceutical industry. When she left her corporate career, she shifted into the entrepreneurial world, combining her experience, talents and passions to reinvent herself. As a marketer and content writer, Michelle thrives on discovering what motivates people into action and what their key emotional triggers are. Michelle and her team create powerful and targeted messaging that improve conversion rates and increase sales. Michelle loves to connect people through the power and beauty of the written word. Her passion is helping people create a road-map to success, so they can fulfill their dreams and live their destiny.

For more about Rhino Online Strategies & eCreativity find them at www.rhinostrategy.com, on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Jacob Fann is the CEO and Founder of Fanntastic Media, which has elevated over 90 businesses to a greater level of success. Gross revenues from his combined clients total over 32 million and that number continues to grow with his customized marketing strategies. He specializes in social media marketing; creating powerful brand presence, capturing new customers and finding untapped markets by optimizing target marketing and social media algorithms that results in higher conversion rates and increased sales.

Jacob first spread his entrepreneurial wings when he set up a lemonade stand in front of his home close to a popular hiking trail. Location, demand and an inherent business savviness netted him enough money to solidify his desire to be a future business owner and master of his own destiny. In 1963 Jacob’s grandfather Floyd and uncle Don founded Fann Toyota. The Fann legacy holds tradition for respected ethical practice, trust, and valued work. As a 22-year-old college graduate from Northern Arizona University, Jacob founded Fanntastic Media based on those same principles, which he learned first-hand by working in the family business.

After graduation he expanded his business knowledge and experience by getting his real estate license and working as a day trader. Since then he has built up an
impressive list of clients, connections, and relationships doing what he loves; helping people thrive in life and in business.

Mentoring Your Success Owner David Hepburn Big Zephyr Musician William Babin and Pastry Chef Laura Levine with Because Baked Goods

The Unapologetic Voice Founder Carrie Severson Business Coach Nathalie Ekobo and Mompreneur Alison Rand

Sun Devil 100 with Duffy Group CEO Kathleen Duffy and Trish Gulbranson with Derma Health

PHX Startup Week

PHX Startup Week

Thrive Together Podcasts

Palm Valley Church and Community Impact with Tere Tucker and Agua Fria Food and Clothing Bank with Leanne Leonard E17

Palm Valley Church and Community Impact with Tere Tucker and Agua Fria Food and Clothing Bank with Leanne Leonard E17

THE NAKED TRUTH Maduros Fine Cigars and Tobacco with Owner Ron Hardin

Susan and Jake Potje with Celebration of Fine Art and Artist Kirk Randle

RHINO NATION Baby Bloom Nutrition with Yaffi Lvova RDN and Pro Shot Doc CEO Nicole Spracale

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