In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, host Jose Acevedo sits down with Dr. Heather Saran—founder of Bright Endocrinology, Scottsdale’s first concierge endocrine practice—to uncover her journey from traditional medicine to launching a personalized, patient-focused model of care. Her story highlights the power of aligning care with compassion and dedication to helping patients actually shine bright and live well. Dr. Saran also shares her vision for continuing to grow the practice and en...
Jul 06, 2025•44 min•Ep. 464
Tanner Swanson – Communications Manager at A New Leaf – joins the Finding Arizona Podcast to share the impactful and heartfelt mission behind one of Arizona’s most vital nonprofit organizations. With over 50 years of community service, A New Leaf is known for its deep commitment to supporting families facing domestic violence, homelessness, and serious life challenges. Tanner walks us through how the organization uses communication and storytelling to raise awareness, build trust, and connect pe...
Jun 28, 2025•29 min•Ep. 463
Nathan Kropp — better known as Mr. AZ Sports — brings his trademark energy and local pride in this episode of Finding Arizona. He takes us through his wild journey from sports super-fan to viral content creator, from starting Twitter Spaces after Diamondbacks games to sharing wings with players in candid interviews. Nathan opens up about overcoming personal challenges like learning disabilities and sharpens the focus on the power of authenticity in today's digital sports landscape. Along the way...
Jun 21, 2025•56 min•Ep. 462
Before diving into this episode, take a trip down memory lane and revisit our first conversation with Marty at Saw & Steel. See how his journey has evolved from episode 12 to episode 461 by listening to our original conversation here: Finding Arizona Podcast - Saw & Steel In this special Rediscovering Arizona episode, host Jose Acevedo catches up with Marty Oelrich, owner of Saw & Steel, to take a look at his journey—from turning woodworking into a thriving manufacturing business to ...
Jun 14, 2025•56 min•Ep. 461
Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of mental health challenges and trauma. Listener discretion is advised.If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. Contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 , or visit 988lifeline.org . In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast Maria Ingalla, CEO and founder of Paper Flower Psychiatry shares her inspiring evolution from psychiatrist nurse practitioner to private practice owner. Tune in to hea...
Jun 10, 2025•57 min•Ep. 460
Meet Triggafish Crossman, a seasoned comedian hailing from New York. We explore his journey from military life to the comedy stage in Arizona. Triggafish shares the story behind his unique stage name, the cultural shifts he's experienced moving from the East Coast to the Southwest, and how fatherhood influences his comedic perspective. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Follow Triggafish Crossman on Instagram @ triggafishcrossman for updates on his upcoming comedy shows and performance...
Jun 01, 2025•58 min•Ep. 459
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, we sit down with David DeLorenzo—known to many as "DeLo"—to explore his unconventional journey from the glitz of the music industry to becoming a cornerstone in Arizona's hospitality insurance scene. David shares how his passion for essentialism, focus on the "3 Fs" (food, fitness, and focus), and deep love for the Arizona community have shaped his approach to business and life. Tune in to hear how this desert dweller turned rock 'n' roll dreams in...
May 25, 2025•40 min•Ep. 458
Welcome to the Finding Arizona Podcast! In this episode, host Jose Acevedo sits down with Tom Konkowski, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Conquer Padel, to discuss the exciting arrival of padel—a sport that's rapidly gaining popularity worldwide—to Arizona. Conquer Padel is set to open its flagship U.S. location in Tempe in summer 2025, featuring five state-of-the-art indoor courts and premium amenities. Resources Mentioned Conquer Padel Official Website Conquer Padel Franchise Informat...
May 11, 2025•41 min•Ep. 457
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, host Jose Acevedo welcomes Brian Ruffner, founder and CEO of NoLIMIT Performance , a Chandler-based consulting and coaching firm. With over 35 years of experience in business leadership, Brian shares his journey from leading high-performing sales teams to launching his own firm that empowers individuals and organizations through performance psychology and emotional intelligence. The Resources Mentioned in This Episode Are: Visit the NoLIMIT Perform...
May 03, 2025•55 min•Ep. 456
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, host Jose Acevedo sits down with the dedicated team from AILS Law Group, a Phoenix-based firm committed to guiding individuals and businesses through the complexities of immigration law. With a focus on visas, green cards, citizenship, and compliance, AILS Law Group stands out for its personalized approach and unwavering support for clients. Join us as we delve into their mission, services, and the impact they've made in the community. The Resource...
Apr 26, 2025•46 min•Ep. 455
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, host Jose Acevedo sits down with Alicia Barker, President of Organizers Direct Industries (ODI), to explore her remarkable journey from a childhood immersed in architectural blueprints to leading one of the nation's premier home organization companies. Alicia shares how her unique blend of technical expertise and passion for design has propelled ODI to new heights, fostering innovation and empowering a vast network of independent dealers. Join us a...
Apr 20, 2025•38 min•Ep. 454
In this episode we sit down with Tempe-based comedian and disability coach, Phillip Bramwell. With a sharp wit and unstoppable spirit, Phillip shares how he’s using comedy and lived experience with cerebral palsy to change the way pediatric medical professionals approach patient care. From the stage to the classroom, Phillip is not only making people laugh—he’s teaching valuable lessons on empathy, communication, and inclusion. As a speaker, coach, and performer, he’s creating safe spaces for im...
Apr 12, 2025•43 min•Ep. 453
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast we sit down with Phoenix native and founder of Affinity Collaborations , Kelly Bernardi , to explore how a remote role after becoming a mom led her to carve out a niche in the real estate world. With a background in hospitality and a natural talent for problem-solving, Kelly discovered a passion for supporting real estate agents through marketing and admin services. What began as word-of-mouth gigs evolved into a full-fledged business, empowering ag...
Apr 05, 2025•57 min•Ep. 452
Greg Forzani, international business coach and speaker, joins the Finding Arizona Podcast to share his journey from growing up in a pro sports family to building a successful career in business coaching. With experience in a family-owned sporting goods business, Greg discusses the transition to coaching, the biggest challenges small businesses face today, and why financial management is key to long-term success. He provides actionable strategies to help entrepreneurs boost profitability and incr...
Mar 29, 2025•1 hr 4 min
Kelsey Cook, a former teacher turned entrepreneur, saw a need for hands-on, engaging educational materials for preschoolers. During the pandemic, she turned her passion into Learning with Kelsey, an educational subscription box service that has since grown from a home-based venture into a thriving business. In this episode, Kelsey shares how she transitioned from teaching to entrepreneurship, balanced business growth with family life, and embraced social media and AI to expand her brand. The Key...
Mar 22, 2025•41 min•Ep. 450
On this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, Dr. John A. Robinson and Dr. Cristina Romero-Bosch, known as @TheSexDocs, dive into their expertise in holistic wellness, longevity medicine, and naturopathic care in Arizona. Their partnership at The Hormone Zone reflects a shared commitment to patient-centered care, blending cutting-edge medical practices with a personal touch. The Key Moments in This Episode Are: 00:07:55 - Finding a Unified Front 00:10:12 - Dr. John's Aha Moment 00:15:07 - The ...
Mar 15, 2025•58 min•Ep. 449
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, we explore how Savannah Pagnozzi turned her passion for making people laugh into a thriving comedy career. From overcoming stage fright to producing sold-out shows and taking her act on the road, she shares the lessons learned and dreams realized along the way. Whether she’s tightening up her act or finding her comedic voice, Savannah’s story proves that persistence and passion can turn childhood aspirations into reality. The Key Moments in This Ep...
Mar 08, 2025•44 min•Ep. 448
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, we dive into the world of futures and commodities trading through the inspiring stories of Delvin Wright, Melba Bonelli-Henderson, and Barbara Warren. Melba’s journey stands out as she transitioned from a career in dentistry to the intricate world of financial markets during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her leap of faith and passion for learning led her to discover a new calling in trading, proving that embracing change can lead to incredible growth and ...
Mar 01, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 447
Before diving into this episode, take a trip down memory lane and revisit our first conversation with Mane Attraction Salon. See how their journey has evolved by listening to our original episode here: Finding Arizona Podcast - Mane Attraction Salon .Our producer got the full high-touch experience at Mane Attraction Salon, walking in with grown-out, sun-fried strands and walking out with a transformation worthy of the Arizona spotlight from the master himself Chris Knudsen. Chris the owner of Ma...
Feb 22, 2025•1 hr 22 min•Ep. 446
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, we sit down with Oscar Granados, owner of Scottsdale Collision Center, to discuss his journey from watching his father work in a body shop to building a thriving business of his own. Raised with a strong work ethic, Oscar shares how the values of perseverance and dedication shaped his path as an entrepreneur. He reflects on the challenges of business ownership, the pride of earning his U.S. citizenship, and the responsibility of creating opportunit...
Feb 15, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 445
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, host Jose Acevedo talks with identical twins Stephanie and April Schaffroth, who each run their own Farmers Insurance agency. They share how they transitioned from different industries—April with a mortgage background and Stephanie with little insurance experience—to building successful businesses. The conversation explores insurance industry shifts, the impact of wildfires on rates, the power of community engagement, and why life insurance is esse...
Feb 08, 2025•49 min•Ep. 444
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, host Jose Acevedo sits down with Beth McRae, the founder of McRae Agency and owner of High Society Resale Boutique. Beth shares her inspiring journey from working in PR with global brands like Tiffany & Co. to launching her own agency and stepping into the world of consignment fashion. She discusses the power of social media, the importance of sustainability in retail, and how TikTok has changed the game for small businesses. Beth also dives in...
Feb 01, 2025•54 min•Ep. 443
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, Jesse Fisher and Philip Gleason share their inspiring journey toward creating sustainable, off-grid communities. Jesse recounts a life-changing night when a power outage in their RV spurred his commitment to self-reliance, ultimately leading to the founding of the OSR Initiative. Together, Jesse and Philip discuss the principles of cooperative land ownership, sustainable living practices, and the importance of building resilient, like-minded commun...
Jan 18, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 442
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, host Jose Acevedo interviews John Wake, CEO of Axiom Care, a leading provider of substance use treatment services and prison reentry programs in the Phoenix metro area. John shares his personal journey from HR Director to CEO, openly discussing his own struggles with addiction and the pivotal role of empathy and personalized care in the treatment industry. The conversation explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Axiom Care, highlighting the...
Jan 11, 2025•42 min•Ep. 441
In this year-end review, Jose and Brittany Acevedo reflect on the moments and guests that made this year’s Finding Arizona Podcast truly unforgettable. From celebrating inspiring nonprofits to featuring unique experiences and vibrant personalities, they highlight the episodes that left a lasting impression. Jose’s heartfelt enthusiasm is balanced by Brittany’s witty roasts, keeping things equal parts sentimental and hilarious. Together, they share their gratitude for the community that continues...
Jan 11, 2025•35 min•Ep. 440
In this episode, we dive into the inspiring story of Kristina Swift, co founder of the matchmaking community Like Love, as she shares her journey from corporate sales executive to entrepreneur. After navigating her own post-divorce dating challenges, Kristina identified the need for a more personalized and authentic approach to dating. Like Love was born from her vision to create curated events, meaningful experiences, and a supportive community where individuals can foster genuine connections.I...
Dec 29, 2024•46 min•Ep. 439
On the Finding Arizona Podcast, Tracy Baynes shares how the STEP Program is transforming college access for low-income students. With a background in oceanography and experiential education, Tracy created a program that combines leadership expeditions and workshops to guide families through the college process. Her approach emphasizes early intervention and the power of hands-on learning to close the achievement gap. The Key Moments in This Episode Are: 00:01:31 - Tracy's Background and Inspirat...
Dec 21, 2024•1 hr•Ep. 438
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of Lindsay Kirsh, founder of Slayer PR. From her beginnings in Canada to embracing Seattle's grunge music scene and then making a bold move to Phoenix, Lindsay shares how she rebuilt her PR career in a new country and navigated cultural differences with resilience and passion. Inspired by the spirit of Thelma and Louise and captivated by Phoenix’s landscapes, Lindsay turned challenges into opportunities. Through S...
Dec 18, 2024•52 min•Ep. 437
Sabrina Guler's journey from the financial crash of 2008 to becoming a successful entrepreneur is a testament to resilience and transformation. In this interview, Sabrina shares how growing up in New Jersey during the financial crisis shaped her view of money and safety. She talks about her career path, from working as a project manager for tech giants like Apple to making a career shift during the 2020 pandemic. Sabrina discusses how she found success in real estate, particularly Airbnb investm...
Dec 07, 2024•43 min•Ep. 436
In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, Lesley Logan, and Brad Crowell join hosts Jose Acevedo to dive into the journey of building a supportive partnership within the Pilates industry. Lesley and Brad, co-hosts of the "Be It Till You See It" podcast, share their experiences—from meeting and starting a relationship to growing their Pilates business and launching physical products. They reveal the importance of having a partner who encourages growth, embraces vulnerability, and helps brin...
Nov 30, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 435
