PODCAST · business
Guiding Growth
by Rocket SPACE
Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders So often, we define ourselves and others by a title or label. But, who is the person behind the success? Leaders are inspiring, memorable, and often a mystery to those whom they inspire. Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul.
Episodes
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Jim Torgeson - 2026 Candidate Edition
Jim Torgeson is running as an incumbent candidate for Gilbert Town Council with a background in public service and leadership. His campaign focuses on fiscal responsibility, infrastructure, and maintaining Gilbert’s high quality of life. Jim emphasizes the importance of experience, transparency,...
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Joel Coen - 2026 Candidate Edition
Joel Coen is a Gilbert Town Council candidate with experience in business and community leadership. His campaign highlights economic development, strategic growth, and supporting a strong local business environment. Joel brings a perspective shaped by his professional background and involvement…
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Bobbi Buchli - 2026 Candidate Edition
Bobbi Buchli is running as an incumbent candidate for Gilbert Town Council, with a background in community advocacy and public service. Her campaign centers on transparency, thoughtful development, and community engagement. Bobbi has been involved in local initiatives and emphasizes the…
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Bus Obayomi - 2026 Candidate Edition
Bus Obayomi is a candidate for Gilbert Town Council with a background in leadership, business, and community engagement. His campaign focuses on economic development, strategic growth, and fostering a strong, inclusive community. Bus emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and long-term planning as...
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Bill Spence - 2026 Candidate Edition
Bill is a candidate for Gilbert Town Council with a background in public service and community involvement. His campaign focuses on transparency, fiscal awareness, and maintaining Gilbert’s quality of life as the community continues to grow. Bill emphasizes thoughtful decision-making, public...
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Beth Goulden - 2026 Candidate Edition
Beth Goulden is a candidate for Gilbert Town Council with a background in public service and community involvement. Her campaign focuses on thoughtful growth, fiscal stewardship, and maintaining Gilbert’s quality of life. Beth emphasizes collaboration, long-term planning, and ensuring that...
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Chuck Bongiovanni - 2026 Candidate Edition
Chuck is running as an incumbent candidate for Gilbert Town Council with a professional background rooted in business ownership and community involvement. Through his campaign, he emphasizes fiscal responsibility, economic vitality, and maintaining Gilbert’s high quality of life. Chuck highlights...
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Jason France
Fitness professional, personal trainer, and gym owner. Former Marine Raider and current HYROX athlete. 44 years old and a Phoenix native. 9-year Marine combat veteran with multiple tours to Afghanistan and one to Iraq. I currently do lots of trail running, pumping up of my muscles, and doing my...
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Meg Stevens
Meg Stevens joined Arizona Athletic Grounds in July 2024, following an eleven-year tenure at Averett University (AU). At AU, she served as Vice President and Director of Athletics and Campus Operations, leading the institution to remarkable athletic and academic achievements. Stevens…
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Jen Wahl
Jen Wahl is a reporter, meteorologist, and traffic anchor for 12News. Jen joined 12News in February 2016. Prior to joining Team 12, Jen worked at KSNV, the NBC Las Vegas affiliate as a reporter and meteorologist. Earlier in her career, she worked as reporter and weather anchor at KBOI, the CBS...
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Gena Jones
A CPA and attorney dedicated to protecting taxpayers, a classically trained chef, and a devoted wife, mother of six, and grandmother of three. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, she learned resilience early. At just 15 years old, becoming a mother changed everything—instilling a deep sense…
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Daryl Chester
Daryl Chester (62), Owner Manager of Jester's Billiards (2010) and Rino D's Pizza and wings (2016). He has been in the Food and Beverage business since 1979. He is married to Kenda vonHamm for 19 years. They have raised 5 children and have 2 grandchildren. Daryl Was born in Tacoma Park Maryland…
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Dr. CJ Wurster
Dr. CJ Wurster is a first-generation college student who earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Master's in Administration/Project Management through Northern Arizona University. His Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice was earned through Rochester Institute of Technology, where he...
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Warde Nichols
Warde Nichols is a successful business entrepreneur who has owned and operated small businesses for over 30 years. He also served four terms in the Arizona House of Representatives. While in the House, he worked with many diverse groups to build consensus and pass legislation. He served as…
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Ryan Smith
Ryan Smith is the Director of Communications and Government Relations for Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. He oversees marketing and community relations and all government relations duties for the airport. Ryan graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Political Science, lives in Mesa...
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Dallas Sloan
Dallas Sloan is the Co-founder of Colair Beauty Lounge & Med Spa, where she has transformed her nearly 15 years of experience in the beauty and wellness industry into a thriving business. Beginning her journey as a Cosmetologist, Dallas later pursued Business Management at MacEwan University in...
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JW Rayhons
JW is often referred to as authentic, growth-oriented, and values-based. He is also a business owner, Financial Advisor, Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, and board leader. In these roles JW has had the opportunity to effectively coach clients by helping them discover, acknowledge, and embrace...
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Matt Dallas
Professionally, Matt Dallas owns and operates three Stroll neighborhood newsletters in Gilbert. He and his team work with Agritopia, Seville, and Val Vista Lakes to help connect neighbors while introducing top local businesses and giving through partnerships with non-profits. Their mission is to...
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Deb Shapiro
For over 15 years, Deb has developed the talents and businesses of some of the top credentialed keynote and motivational speakers in the industry. In 2017, Deb created DEBx, a 90-day Speaker Development Experience designed to show emerging speakers how to use their voice as a powerful instrument…
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James DeVary
James DeVary is a dedicated US Army veteran who served in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). After a successful 17-year career on Wall Street, James transitioned to entrepreneurship, where he now leads Senior Helpers of Gilbert and Chandler, a thriving business…
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Jonathan Buford
Jonathan Buford is the CEO and founder of Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company. He grew up in Ohio and moved to Arizona in 2002, when he drove his rusted-out 1988 Chevy Nova out West to explore the vast Arizona landscapes. He launched his first business, a window cleaning company, out of his garage...
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Andi Ott
Raised in Gilbert, AZ, Andi Ott has established herself as a dynamic business leader, blending her experience in both the healthcare and restaurant industries. With studies in Nursing at Grand Canyon University, nearly a decade of experience in healthcare, and early career experience managing...
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Tony & Melody Rodarte
Dr Melody Medawar Rodarte is a double board-certified internist and obesity medicine specialist in Arizona. She was named one of Phoenix's Top Doctors in Obesity Medicine in 2017, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. She obtained her doctorate of osteopathic medicine from Midwestern University in...
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Fran Lowder
Fran is the appointed President of For Our Town Gilbert, an organization that brings together the leaders of government, education, faiths, businesses, charities and more to focus on the community social uplifting needs like domestic violence elimination, mental health awareness-improvement,...
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Lorraine Bergman
Lorraine Bergman is President and CEO of Caliente Construction, an award-winning, woman-owned company, continually recognized for its dedication to safety, exceptional construction services, and building strong relationships with clients. Under her leadership, Caliente has grown into Arizona’s…
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Cortnie Cozeck
Originally hailing from San Diego, Cortnie's career in the hospitality industry began with a remarkable 12-year tenure at Starbucks Coffee Company. It was here that she developed a profound passion for creating an incredible company culture. Leveraging this passion and knowledge, she embarked on…
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Cynthia Dunham
Cynthia Dunham grew up the daughter of a Green Beret, and her upbringing took her from Utah to North Carolina, to Germany, and then to Washington. She returned to Utah as a college dance major, but life and love led her to Arizona, where she transitioned into accounting, eventually founding her…
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Monte Lyons
2024 CANDIDATE EDITION Monte Lyons is a USAF veteran and has worked in the aerospace industry for over 40 years. He holds three degrees with a Masters in ADR. His career in aerospace included roles in manufacturing, quality, facilities, tooling, biz ops, flight test, and operations. Monte has been...
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Aaron Accurso
Aaron was born in Southern California and raised in a military family who was transferred around the country. He was primarily raised in Southeast Virginia and ended up attending the College of William and Mary. He graduated in 1995 with a Bachelor's of Business Administration, with an emphasis…
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Natalie DiBernardo
2024 CANDIDATE EDITION Natalie Di Bernardo, a proud Arizona native, epitomizes the spirit of community engagement and entrepreneurial drive. As a devoted mother to teens, she understands the importance of building a thriving environment for future generations. Natalie's journey in…
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Noah Mundt
2024 CANDIDATE EDITION With a dynamic career spanning over two decades in the energy, water, and infrastructure sectors, I currently lead as a Senior Engineer within the Electric Vehicle (EV) group at Salt River Project (SRP). At the forefront of SRP's managed charging initiatives, my role is...
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Scott Anderson
2024 CANDIDATE EDITION Scott Anderson, a dedicated Gilbert resident of over 30 years. Since settling in 1988 with his wife EJ Anderson and their five children, Scott has been deeply involved in town affairs. As the visionary behind the Gilbert Riparian Preserves, he is steadfast in his commitment...
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Kenny Buckland
2024 CANDIDATE EDITION Kenny Buckland has spent the last 40 years refining his leadership skills. He began as a teenager managing the family business, progressed to become the second in command of a large police department, became a leader in long-range surveillance technology focusing on…
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Pearlette Ramos
Pearlette J. Ramos, Ph.D., J.D. is a lawyer, transformational leader, social justice advocate, and entrepreneur with more than 25 years’ experience in activism, change and strategic management, and DEI consultation. Born in Youngstown, Ohio and raised in the housing projects, Pearlette’s…
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Sharon Kotsonas
Sharon Kotsonas is very active in her town of Gilbert, AZ where she is considered a social entrepreneur and a community leader. In 2019 Sharon launched her nonprofit, Weekly Collective Volunteers Inc., which provides various support services to people facing economic adversity, physical and…
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Damir Ljubovic
Damir Ljubovic grew up in Bosnia and Saraeeayvo and moved to America in 1995 as a refugee of the Civil War. Starting over in America, he moved to Arizona in 2002 and, in 2014, chased the American dream by starting his own business alongside his wife while raising three children. 365 Mechanical…
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Ellen Marrs
Ellen Marrs, a three-time Boston Marathon finisher and mother of seven, is a seasoned entrepreneur, renowned author, record-breaking fundraiser, and sought-after speaker. Her journey reflects a life dedicated to setting and achieving audacious goals, a commitment exemplified by accomplishments…
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Howard Morrison
A native of Gilbert - who was born to a native of Gilbert - this guest has both roots and recognition in the Town as the third son of Marvin and June Morrison. Alongside his siblings and cousins, he has actively engaged in the development of the master-planned community known as Morrison Ranch....
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Tiffany Shultz
Tiffany Shultz is a seasoned professional with a diverse background and a strong commitment to her community. A proud graduate of Arizona State University, Tiffany has called Arizona home throughout her life. Her journey began in broadcast journalism before transitioning to a successful career in...
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Dania Blanco
This podcast recording includes subject matter regarding acts against children that some may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised. Dania Blanco founded Cosmiix Artistry in 2010. She was still working full-time as an investigator for the Town of Gilbert and raising three...
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Jolean Fleck
Jolean Fleck, vice president of people and organizational development, joined Delta Dental of Arizona in 2019. In this role, she works to shape the company’s culture and create an enriching experience for employees. With a focus on building a strong, high-performing team, Fleck is also…
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Cindy Packard
Cindy Packard and her husband Blair are the founders of Care for Life, an NGO in Africa that, for the past 24 years, has seen unprecedented success in alleviating suffering, promoting self-reliance, and instilling hope for those families and villages living in extreme poverty. Cindy helped…
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Yira Brimage
Brimage holds the top leadership position for the University’s Gilbert Campus and is a member of the University’s executive leadership team. She is responsible for leading the strategic growth and operations of the campus, including academic programming, market development, community relations,...
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Tim Hovik
Tim Hovik is an Executive and Philanthropist residing in Arizona. He’s the Owner & Operator of San Tan Ford in Gilbert, Arizona. Mr. Hovik is the leader among his colleagues. Tim’s greatest asset is his ability to make the right decisions at the correct times. The evidence is in the results. He’s...
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Brian Ruffentine
Owner of Garage-East Winery here in Gilbert, Arizona, since 2016. Married with three children living in Gilbert, the best town ever. Retired hero. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of…
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Maria Hesse
Dr. Maria Hesse serves as a Professor of Practice in the higher education program at Arizona State University. She was Vice Provost for Academic Partnerships at Arizona State University for a decade. Prior to joining the ASU administration in 2009, Dr. Hesse served as President and CEO for...
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David Scott
David is the Arizona Regional President for Meadows Bank, a community bank specializing in financial services for businesses and real estate. He was born and raised in Louisiana and moved to Arizona in 2004. David previously served as a Director in Bank of the West/BNP Paribas’ commercial banking...
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Dana Berchman
Dana Berchman is the Chief Digital Officer in Gilbert, Arizona, where she manages all internal and external communications, public relations, marketing and digital government initiatives, government innovation, and open data and storytelling efforts. She leads a digital team responsible for...
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Leticia Barwick
Leticia Barwick, with an illustrious 35-year career in the industry, is the owner of Meritum, a credit card processing company. Proud to be a local and family-owned business, Meritum stands as a testament to her commitment to her community. Beyond her professional success, Leticia's heart belongs...
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Andrew Augustyniak
Meet Andrew Augustyniak: a guy who wears many hats and owns them all with a smile. Dad to four awesome kiddos, partner-in-crime to his amazing wife, and once upon a time, a golf pro turned loan magician. He’s the brain behind the Augustyniak Lending Team and the top 1% of the nation, according to...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders
So often, we define ourselves and others by a title or label. But, who is the person behind the success? Leaders are inspiring, memorable, and often a mystery to those whom they inspire.
Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners.
We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul.
HOSTED BY
Rocket SPACE
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Guiding Growth have?
Guiding Growth currently has 92 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Guiding Growth about?
Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders So often, we define ourselves and others by a title or label. But, who is the person behind the success? Leaders are inspiring, memorable, and often a mystery to those whom they inspire. Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore...
How often does Guiding Growth release new episodes?
Guiding Growth has 92 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Guiding Growth?
You can listen to Guiding Growth on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Guiding Growth?
Guiding Growth is created and hosted by Rocket SPACE.
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