Local Legends with Jess: Arizona Edition

In this episode of Local Legends with Jess and Jason, we sit down with a true rising star—Kennedy Rettew, the creative force behind Kicks by Kenna.What started as a simple project at just 16 years old quickly turned into a thriving business built on passion, creativity, and word-of-mouth. From drawing as a child to picking up her first pair of paint markers at Home Depot, Kennedy shares how she turned a creative outlet into a brand recognized by Olympic athletes, NFL players, and high-profile clients.Kennedy opens up about the early days—charging just $20 for custom shoes, learning her value over time, and building confidence in her craft. With support from her family (and her “momager”), she leaned into social media and community connections to grow her business organically.Now graduating with a degree in graphic design, she reflects on balancing school and entrepreneurship, the importance of time management and attention to detail, and her plans to continue growing both her brand and career.This episode is a powerful reminder that big things can start small—and that passion, consistency, and community can take you further than you ever imagined.About the GuestKennedy Rettew, also known as Kicks by Kenna, is a custom sneaker artist known for her bold, detailed designs. She has worked with Olympic athletes, NFL players, and major clients, all while building her brand from the ground up. With a background in graphic design and a passion for creativity, she continues to grow her business and inspire others to turn their passion into purpose.Special thank you to Juston Lisk from State Farm— Juston’s mission is simple: treat customers like family, provide real solutions, and ensure every client feels confident, supported, and genuinely cared for. That level of intention and service is exactly why he’s considered one of our favorite Local Legends in Arizona.We’re grateful for the support and proud to highlight Juston and his team for truly making a difference in our community.This episode is Sponsored by Juston Lisk www.MyAgentJuston.com 480-983-0418These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

This episode of Local Legends with Jess – Arizona Edition brings the energy, the laughs, and the realness with Nina and Sheer in a fun, unfiltered “slumber party” style conversation. From building authentic connections in real estate to the unexpected power of social media (yes, even TikTok), this episode dives into how genuine relationships—not sales tactics—are what truly drive success. You’ll hear how one DM turned into a fast, seamless homebuying experience and why showing up as your real self is your biggest advantage.It’s a refreshing reminder that business can be fun, human, and full of personality. If you’ve ever wondered how to stand out, attract the right people, and create meaningful client relationships, this episode will leave you inspired, laughing, and maybe even rethinking how you show up online.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

In this episode of Local Legends with Jess, host Jessica Benevento sits down with Alicia Sweezer, founder of Who Knew Healing, for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional ideas about healing, intuition, and human potential.Alicia shares her unexpected journey from wildlife biologist working with endangered species to intuitive healer, and how her path evolved into helping people and animals connect, heal, and find clarity.She breaks down her work in a refreshingly clear way, blending intuitive life coaching, energy clearing, mediumship, and animal communication to help clients gain clarity, release emotional blocks, and reconnect with their path. Alicia also explains how energy influences decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being—and why learning to trust your intuition can be a powerful turning point.You’ll also hear how she works with animals, communicating with both living and passed pets to support behavior, trauma recovery, and even guide their owners through personal challenges. Her approach often uncovers deeper emotional patterns, creating transformation for both people and their animals.Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or already exploring personal growth, this episode offers a fascinating look at the unseen forces that may be shaping your life—and how to start tuning into them.Alicia Sweezer 623-670-2192 www.whoknewhealing.com                                   Hours: M-F 9am-6pm (MST)These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

What happens when you stop talking about ideas… and actually start bringing them to life?In this episode of Local Legends with Jess, Jessica Benevento sits down once again with returning guest Jason Cocuzza for a conversation that feels less like an interview and more like a real-life brainstorm session you wish you were part of. There’s laughter, a little chaos, and a lot of vision.From reflecting on childhood dreams, Jess opens up about the ideas that shaped her and the ones that still linger. It’s a reminder that sometimes the dreams we set aside never really leave us.Then the conversation takes a turn into something deliciously unexpected—a deep dive into building a deli concept from the ground up. Not just any deli, but one rooted in East Coast authenticity, fresh ingredients, and community pride. Think homemade chicken cutlets, fresh mozzarella, roasted peppers, and a space where customers don’t just order—they create.But beyond the food, this episode is really about something bigger:the difference between talking ideas out of existence… and talking them into reality.Jess and Jason challenge each other (and you) to stop overthinking, start taking action, and create space for ideas to actually grow. Because sometimes the best businesses, the best moments, and the best versions of ourselves come from simply starting.If you’ve ever had a “crazy idea,” this episode might just be the push you needed to take it seriously.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

In this episode of Local Legends with Jess – Arizona Edition, Jessica Benevento sits down with Morgan Hawes, also known as Mrs. Wrighthouse, a dynamic force in Arizona real estate whose journey started at just 18.What began as curiosity quickly turned into a passion. Morgan shares how real estate felt less like work and more like a game—one where she could create, transform, and design spaces that evolve with every phase of life. From living through her own remodels to constantly refining her home to match her growth, she brings a unique perspective on how real estate can truly shape your lifestyle.Originally on a pre-med track at ASU, Morgan quickly realized that path wasn’t aligned. Instead of following a traditional route, she pivoted into real estate development and entrepreneurship—diving into hands-on projects, pitching investment ideas, and learning the business from the ground up.This conversation is all about trusting your instincts, pivoting with purpose, and building a life and career that actually fits who you are.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

In this episode of Local Legends, Jess reconnects with Brennan Taylor Forster for a full-circle conversation that starts back when he was in 8th grade and turns into a powerful story about choosing your own path.Brennan shares what it was like growing up, including his early connection with Jess and his experience in a small high school where he never quite felt like he fit in. After graduating, he briefly attended Arizona State University, but quickly realized traditional college was not the right path for him.That is when everything changed.Given a choice by his parents—to pay for school himself or travel the world—Brennan chose experience. He went on to visit over 30 countries across Asia, Europe, and beyond. During that time, he had a major shift in perspective, connecting with people, cultures, and ideas that helped him discover what truly interested him.That journey led him to real estate and marketing, where he began to see opportunities others often overlook. After returning home and moving back in with his parents, Brennan got his real estate license and started building a path that was anything but traditional.Today, he has expanded into video production, combining creativity with business strategy, and has built a career doing work he genuinely enjoys.Brennan credits much of his growth and success to his parents, who encouraged him to think differently, invest in experiences, and focus on his overall well-being along the way.This episode is a reminder that success does not always come from following the expected path. Sometimes it comes from taking risks, exploring the world, and trusting yourself enough to build something different.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

This week Jess sits down with a guest whose story leaves a lasting impression. Margaret Anderson shares the deeply personal journey that led her to the work she does today—helping others through grief, loss, and the emotional process surrounding death.Margaret’s story begins with unimaginable loss after the passing of her son. In the midst of her own grief, she began to see how powerful meaningful support can be during life’s most difficult moments. That realization led her to begin working in hospital transportation services, where she spent nearly ten years helping patients and families during vulnerable times. Through that work, she witnessed firsthand how important compassion, presence, and understanding can be when people are facing the unknown.Eventually Margaret felt called to support others in a deeper way. She enrolled in a course that would change her life and became a death doula, someone who helps individuals and families emotionally and spiritually prepare for the end-of-life journey. Today she also works as a grief educator, guiding caregivers and families through the complicated emotions that come with loss.During the conversation, Margaret explains that grief is not something to “fix,” but something to move through. Her work focuses on helping people process emotions, find closure, and create space for the conversations that often go unspoken. She shares stories of clients learning to say the things that matter most—expressing love, forgiveness, gratitude, and goodbyes that bring peace to both sides.Margaret also reminds listeners that while death is something many people avoid talking about, it is a natural part of life. By acknowledging it openly, families can reduce fear, strengthen connections, and allow healing to begin. Her message is simple but powerful: grief work helps people realize that love does not disappear with loss—it simply changes form.This moving episode invites listeners to look at grief through a different lens and offers a compassionate reminder that even in life’s hardest moments, support, understanding, and connection can make all the difference.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

The inspiration level jumps fast in this episode featuring entrepreneur Jaclyn Tromo. From the moment Jess discovered Jaclyn on social media, she was captivated. One connection quickly turned into a yes to the opportunity Jaclyn was promoting — proving that sometimes success simply starts with taking action.Jaclyn’s entrepreneurial spirit started young. At just five years old she wanted a cash register because she knew she wanted to work and run a business. After moving to Arizona at age ten, her creative path eventually led her to esthetician school and into the beauty industry. She assisted as a makeup artist at Arizona Fashion Week and soon began working with models and brides, building real experience behind the scenes.With a bigger vision in mind, Jaclyn took a bold risk and moved to Los Angeles to grow a makeup brand. Without a steady job, she took on odd work while building her dream. At one point she found herself staring at a $100,000 production bill while developing her cosmetics line — a moment that could have stopped everything. Instead, it became part of the story that pushed her forward.What started as a beauty career eventually evolved into something even bigger than she imagined. Jaclyn discovered her true superpower — helping entrepreneurs launch fast. Today she runs a thriving personal branding agency, coaches business owners, and is teaching industry leaders how to build authority-driven digital personal brands. Her journey is proof that when you keep showing up, take risks, and stay open to new opportunities, the path can grow into something far greater than you ever expected. This episode will leave you inspired to act on your vision and see what can change in a blink of an eye. These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

In this episode of Local Legends with Jess, meet Craig Matthew — a dynamic leader whose journey spans elite athletics, music, entrepreneurship, film, and now finance.Craig made history at The Ohio State University as the first golfer to earn both Athletic All-American and Academic All-American honors in consecutive years. He went on to compete professionally, becoming a champion on the PGA Tour’s Mackenzie Tour and winning the Canadian Amateur Championship. Jess dives into what it truly means to be an All-American — the discipline, emotional control, daily routines, and mindset that separate good from great, on and off the course.But Craig’s story doesn’t stop with golf.Music has always been woven into his life. A self-taught guitarist inspired by his father and close friends, early jam sessions planted the seed for something bigger. After stepping away from professional golf at 37, a key connection led to recording original music and music videos. Craig has owned and operated several coffee shops, expanded into creative projects, and stepped into acting in multiple independent films. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Movies Making A Difference, a nonprofit producing feature films that raise awareness and funds to combat human trafficking and support survivors.From championship golf to creative arts, business ownership, philanthropy, and now finance, Craig’s path reflects adaptability, courage, reinvention, and the willingness to evolve without losing his core identity.Golf. Music. Coffee. Film. Charity. Finance.What’s next for Craig Matthew?Tune in to hear how passion, discipline, and purpose continue to shape every chapter of his journey.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

In this special episode of Local Legends with Jess, the spotlight turns to the original legend herself — Jess, the Mortgage Matchmaker.From start to finish, this conversation centers around one powerful message: buying a home doesn’t have to be overwhelming, confusing, or out of reach.Jess breaks down common misconceptions about the mortgage process — especially the belief that you need more money, perfect timing, or flawless circumstances before starting. She explains why waiting often creates more uncertainty than clarity and how getting informed is the real first step toward homeownership.With years of experience helping individuals and families navigate the lending world, Jess shares how strategy, preparation, and the right guidance can make all the difference. Behind every mortgage is a real story — a family, a fresh start, an investment in the future — and her mission is to make that process feel clear and achievable.If you’ve ever wondered whether now is the right time, this episode will challenge you to rethink the narrative. The path may be more accessible than you realize — and the first move might simply be starting the conversation.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

Ryan & Whitney Cole officially join the Local Legends lineup, and their story is one built on grit, heart, and lived experience.This husband-and-wife real estate team didn’t start in property — they started in people. Whitney’s background in social work and as a correctional officer gave her a front-row seat to the realities families face during their hardest seasons. Supporting others through instability and crisis shaped her compassion, resilience, and deep understanding of what “home” truly means. Once she became a mom, her priorities shifted — and real estate became the natural next chapter where she could continue serving families, just in a different way.Ryan’s journey began in the banking world, originally from Texas, bringing with him a strong work ethic and undeniable go-get-it attitude. Along the way, he experienced professional wins and hard lessons — including losses that tested him. But instead of backing down, Ryan leaned in. After experiencing burnout, he made a bold move: diving headfirst into a crash course in real estate. That decision changed everything — and he never looked back.At the foundation of Ryan & Whitney’s business is one core value: relationship first. They understand that buying or selling a home isn’t just a transaction — it’s emotional, personal, and sometimes overwhelming. Because they’ve navigated challenges themselves, they lead with empathy, strategy, and calm confidence. They believe every situation has a solution, and they show up determined to make the process not only successful, but supportive.In this episode of Local Legends with Jess, get to know the real story behind this dynamic duo — the lessons that shaped them, the risks they took, and why their clients feel more like family. Ryan & Whiney don’t just sell homes. They build trust, create stability, and stand beside their clients every step of the way.This is what legendary looks like.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

In this episode of Local Legends with Jess, the roles reverse—and Jess takes the hot seat.Jason, a seasoned mortgage professional with over 25 years in the industry, steps in as interviewer to have a candid, thoughtful conversation with the original Local Legend herself. Known as a true connector and rainmaker, Jess opens up about what it really took to grow into the industry—admitting it took nearly two years to fully find her rhythm in a competitive space.Jason brings forward four powerful questions for Jess —from what you’re truly comfortable paying, to what it means to offer the best deal while staying dedicated to the client’s long-term best interest. Together, they unpack authenticity in business, client-first decision making, and why caring about the long-term investment matters more than chasing quick wins.This episode is honest, insightful, and refreshingly real—perfect for anyone navigating the mortgage world, considering homeownership, or wanting a behind-the-scenes look at how integrity and trust shape lasting success.Pull up a seat—this is one conversation worth listening to.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

In this special and personal episode, Jess sits down with her husband, Jason—her favorite human, the love of her life, and the one person she can love hard and challenge hard all within minutes. What starts as a conversation about dreams quickly unfolds into a real, unfiltered discussion about marriage, purpose, responsibility, and the unexpected turns life brings.Together, they explore what it really means to live the dream. Sharing your talents with the world matters—but so does providing for your family, staying grounded, and navigating the tension between passion and responsibility. This episode dives into that balance, offering honest insight, laughter, and perspective that many couples quietly wrestle with.If you’ve ever wondered how to pursue your calling without losing sight of the people who matter most, this conversation will resonate deeply.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Loving hard, challenging each other, and growing togetherTurning dreams into reality while staying responsibleWhy sharing your talents is essential—but not the whole pictureFinding balance between passion, purpose, and providingThe real conversations couples don’t always have out loudThis episode is a reminder that living the dream doesn’t have to be all or nothing—and the solution might be closer than you think.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

Meet Pop, also known as Truman and lovingly referred to as Poppy Chuloo—a retired college football coach, self-proclaimed True National Legend, and full-time Arizona snowbird who has officially mastered the art of saying whatever he wants… because he can.Pop lives by one very simple rule: 👉 If you’re a 7 or lower, you’re not worth his time. Dead serious. Zero apologies.In this episode, Jessica Benevento (Arizona’s Mortgage Matchmaker) sits down with Pop for a conversation that’s equal parts legendary, unfiltered, and laugh-out-loud entertaining. From old-school coaching wisdom to life lessons only earned through decades of wins, losses, and locker room talks—Pop brings stories you won’t hear anywhere else.And just when you think it can’t get better… Pop shows up to the studio convinced he’s being arrested—only to realize he’s actually there to record a podcast. Classic Pop.This episode is packed with: 🏈 Coaching stories from a true football lifer 😂 Unfiltered opinions you may or may not agree with 🌵 Snowbird life in Arizona 🔥 Legendary confidence (borderline unbelievable) 🎧 A guest you’ll never forgetWhether you love him, question him, or laugh the entire way through—Pop is a Local Legend in every sense of the word.👉 Hit play and decide for yourself… Are you a 7 or higher?These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

Sophia: my favorite daughter. A real old soul 9yrs old and legit gets me through life everyday with wisdom and calmness. Doesn’t take shit. Episode: Sophia — My Favorite Daughter (Yeah that’s right)Meet Sophia—my favorite daughter (yes, we said it), a 9-year-old old soul, and quite possibly the calmest, wisest human in the room… even when surrounded by adults who should know better.Sophia is the kind of kid who gets you through life one grounded sentence at a time. She brings wisdom beyond her years, a peaceful presence you can’t teach, and a confidence that says “I know who I am, and I’m not here for nonsense.”Translation? She doesn’t take shit—and we fully support it.In this heartwarming and hilarious episode, Jessica Benevento sits down with Sophia to uncover:✨ Where her calm confidence comes from✨ How a 9-year-old sees the world (and adults)✨ Why wisdom has nothing to do with age✨ Life advice you didn’t know you needed—from someone who means itSophia proves that legends aren’t always the loudest, the oldest, or the most decorated. Sometimes, they’re the quiet strength, the steady voice, and the reminder that boundaries and kindness can exist at the same time.This episode will make you laugh, pause, and maybe rethink who the real grown-ups are.👉 Press play and meet a Local Legend in the making.Age: 9.Soul: Timeless.Tolerance for nonsense: Zero.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

In this extra special episode of Local Legends, Jess sits down with the youngest (and cutest) guest yet, her daughter, Sophia Cocuzza, and the real star of the show: her pet hedgehog, Boba T. 🦔💬Get ready for giggles, animal facts, and heartwarming moments as Sophia shares what it’s like to care for a hedgehog, why she named him Boba T, and what being a kid in a creative, entrepreneurial family is all about. From snack time to snuggle time, this episode is a reminder that legends come in all sizes...spikes and all.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

In this episode of Local Legends: Arizona Edition, I sit down with my Jersey girl turned Arizona queen, Alex “Rock” Murphy, aka Blondie. We laugh, reflect, and get real about everything from her booming hair business to getting married, raising kids, and navigating the raw, unfiltered reality of postpartum life. It’s heart, hustle, and a whole lot of laughs. Don’t miss it!These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

Mike Santini (Personal and athletic trainer here is Scottsdale AZ) joins Local Legends to share how his “machine mentality” transforms athletes into unstoppable forces and how setting positive intentions fuels success in sports, business, and life. We also hear real testimonials from some of Mike’s current and past clients who share how his training changed their performance and mindset.  @locallegendsaz @mentalityperformance.comThese are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

Join us for a sneak‑peek with Luis Gonzalez, he went from dreaming in the stands to stepping onto an MLB diamond. Hear how he turned what millions imagine into his everyday reality, and discover the grit, belief, and unexpected moments that made it possible.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

Welcome to the debut episode of our podcast! In this short video, we’re excited to introduce our very first guest, Brandi Powell, the heart and soul behind Village of the Valley. Brandi shares her powerful journey, the vision that led to the creation of her nonprofit, and how she’s dedicated to empowering abused women and transforming lives. Join us as we dive into an inspiring conversation about healing, hope, and community support. Subscribe now and be part of a movement that turns trauma into triumph @villageofthevalley8374 ​These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

In this episode of Local Legends: Arizona Series, we sit down with Arizona Diamondbacks legend Luis Gonzalez, not just to talk baseball, but to explore the heart behind the hero. From his unforgettable game-winning hit in the 2001 World Series to his ongoing commitment to the Arizona community, Gonzo opens up about what it truly means to give back, stay grounded, and lead with purpose.We dive into the power of showing up, the role of family, and how he’s using his platform to make a lasting impact in the Valley. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just love stories of real leadership and heart, this conversation will leave you inspired.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

In this powerful first episode of Local Legends: Arizona Edition, I sit down with Brandi Powell, founder of Village of the Valley—an Arizona-based nonprofit committed to helping women heal and rebuild after experiencing abuse. Brandi opens up about her own journey, the moment she knew she had to create something bigger than herself, and how Village of the Valley became a safe haven for women seeking hope, healing, and community.This conversation is raw, emotional, and deeply inspiring. Brandi’s heart for women and her passion for change will leave you moved and motivated to support the mission.If you’ve ever wondered how purpose is born from pain, this episode is for you.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.