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Guiding Growth

Arts & Culture Podcasts

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...

Location:

United States

Description:

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.

Language:

English


Episodes
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Joel Coen - 2026 Candidate Edition

4/24/2026
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 in the community, with a focus on ensuring Gilbert remains a competitive and thriving place to live and work. He emphasizes collaboration, infrastructure investment, and maintaining public safety as key priorities. Joel’s platform reflects an interest in balancing growth with preserving the qualities that make Gilbert unique. In this discussion, we’ll learn more about Joel’s background, his motivations for running, and how he approaches the opportunities and challenges facing the town. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

Duration:00:22:56

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Jim Torgeson - 2026 Candidate Edition

4/24/2026
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, and thoughtful decision-making as the town continues to grow. His platform reflects a commitment to balancing development with community priorities, including public safety and economic stability. Jim brings a perspective shaped by years of involvement in governance and community issues. In this episode, we’ll discuss his professional background, what inspired him to run, and how he views the key issues and opportunities facing Gilbert moving forward. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

Duration:00:31:25

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Bus Obayomi - 2026 Candidate Edition

4/24/2026
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 Gilbert continues to evolve. He brings a perspective shaped by both professional experience and a commitment to public service, with priorities that include supporting local businesses, maintaining public safety, and ensuring responsible development. Bus’s approach reflects a focus on balancing opportunity with sustainability while preserving Gilbert’s quality of life. In this episode, we’ll explore his journey to candidacy, the experiences that have shaped his leadership, and his perspective on the key issues facing Gilbert today. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

Duration:00:39:38

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Bobbi Buchli - 2026 Candidate Edition

4/24/2026
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 importance of listening to residents while balancing growth and infrastructure needs. She is focused on issues such as responsible planning, maintaining Gilbert’s family-friendly environment, and ensuring long-term sustainability. Bobbi’s approach reflects a desire to represent the voices of residents while navigating the complexities of a growing community. In this episode, we’ll discuss her path to candidacy, the values that guide her, and her perspective on the key issues impacting Gilbert today. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

Duration:00:20:43

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Beth Goulden - 2026 Candidate Edition

4/24/2026
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 development aligns with community needs. She has been engaged in local initiatives and brings a perspective centered on balancing progress with preservation. Her priorities include infrastructure, public safety, and fostering a strong sense of community. Beth’s approach reflects a commitment to informed decision-making and community engagement. In this episode, we’ll explore her journey to candidacy, her experience, and her views on the issues shaping Gilbert’s future. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

Duration:00:15:38

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Bill Spence - 2026 Candidate Edition

4/24/2026
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 safety, and ensuring that residents remain informed and engaged in local government. He brings a perspective shaped by prior experience and ongoing involvement in community issues, with an interest in balancing growth with long-term sustainability. His approach reflects a focus on accountability and responsiveness to residents. In this episode, we’ll explore his journey to candidacy, the experiences that have shaped his perspective, and how he views the key issues facing Gilbert today. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

Duration:00:32:05

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Chuck Bongiovanni - 2026 Candidate Edition

4/24/2026
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 his experience working within the private sector and his understanding of the challenges local businesses face, which informs his approach to decision-making and policy. His platform reflects a focus on responsible growth, infrastructure planning, and public safety, while also preserving the character of the community. In this conversation, we’ll explore Chuck’s professional journey, what led him to run for office, and how he views the opportunities and challenges facing Gilbert’s future. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

Duration:00:17:33

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Jason France

5/21/2025
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 best to stay in tip top shape for HYROX World Championship glory! ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:01:01:55

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Meg Stevens

5/5/2025
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 significantly enhanced the student-athlete experience, spearheaded major capital improvements, and elevated the university's regional and national profiles. During her time at Averett, Stevens introduced the “3-2-1” philosophy, which aimed for all teams to achieve a 3.0 GPA, finish in the top two in their conference, and work together as "one team." This philosophy fostered a culture change that spread across the entire university. Before Averett, Stevens held multiple roles at Buffalo State, including Assistant Director of Athletics, Director of the CHAMPS/Life Skills Program, and advisor for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). She also served as the Senior Woman Administrator and head lacrosse coach for 11 seasons. Under her leadership, Buffalo State’s women’s lacrosse program became a consistent contender, achieving a 109-65 (.626) record, six conference tournament appearances, a 2012 NCAA Tournament appearance, and a top 20 ranking. Stevens was named SUNYAC Coach of the Year twice and U.S. Lacrosse Regional Coach of the Year in 2004. Stevens has also been active in leadership roles beyond her university positions. She served on the board of directors for Women Leaders in Sports, including a term as president from 2023-24, and on the board for the Boys and Girls Club of Danville. She is a strong advocate for women and minority leaders in sports. A native of Delmar, N.Y., Stevens earned her bachelor’s degree in recreation and leisure management with a minor in sports management from SUNY Cortland and a master’s degree in student personnel administration from Buffalo State. As a student-athlete, she helped the Red Dragons’ lacrosse team win three conference championships and make three NCAA Tournament appearances. In 2024, Stevens was inducted into the Western New York Chapter of the USA Lacrosse Hall of Fame. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:00:40:49

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Jen Wahl

4/21/2025
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 affiliate in Boise, Idaho and morning weather anchor at KRNV, the NBC affiliate in Reno, Nevada. Over the years, Jen has covered everything from immigration and drug smuggling stories at the Arizona-Mexico border to wildfires raging across Arizona and Nevada. She was also recognized with Emmy Awards for her reporting and producing roles in a documentary on border and immigration issues in South Africa, breaking news coverage at 12News and reporting on the 12News morning newscast. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:00:33:04

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Gena Jones

3/31/2025
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 of responsibility and purpose. She and her husband, Gerald, are on a mission to see the world with their family while building a legacy together. She is full of wisdom, and her journey has provided her with lessons and insights. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:00:40:07

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Daryl Chester

3/17/2025
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 in 1962 and Moved with his family to College Station, Texas in 1965. H graduated from A&M Consolidated High School in 1981 and Texas Lutheran College in 1987. His BA degree is in Biology. Daryl Moved to Arizona in 1990 to open a new Clicks Billiards. He was awarded Manager of the year in 1994. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:00:37:57

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Dr. CJ Wurster

3/3/2025
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 was also captain of the men’s basketball team. He is a graduate of The Chair Academy and the AACC John E. Roueche Future Leaders Institute. CJ has been with the Maricopa County Community College District since 2010, and he currently serves as the Interim President at Chandler-Gilbert Community College. Prior to his current role, he has served MCCCD in various leadership roles such as Vice President of Academic Affairs at Phoenix College; and Executive Director, Associate Dean, and Dean at GateWay Community College. CJ is also an active Adjunct Faculty at Phoenix College and GateWay Community College, and a Faculty Associate at Arizona State University. CJ is originally from central New York, and has lived in the Phoenix area for over 20 years, and over 10 of those years have been spent living in Gilbert. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife Kara and daughters Grace and Reagan. He also enjoys participating in endurance sports, such as distance running and triathlons ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:00:44:28

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Warde Nichols

2/17/2025
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 Chairman of the Homeland Security Committee and Rules Committee and had bills signed by Governor Janet Napolitano and Governor Jan Brewer. Warde has the proven ability to successfully bring groups together to focus on solutions to current challenges we face. At Arizona State University, Warde works closely with various business and civic organizations throughout the East Valley and Pinal County and acts as a liaison with state and local governments. He is a lifelong learner and loves learning and growing with his work at ASU. He volunteers at his local church and serves as a reserve EMT-Firefighter when needed in rural Arizona. Warde is a fifth-generation Arizona native who grew up in the East Valley and currently lives in Queen Creek with his wife, Paula, and their children. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:00:41:09

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Ryan Smith

1/27/2025
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 with his wife and kids, and is a fifth-generation Arizonan. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:00:42:06

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Dallas Sloan

1/6/2025
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 Canada, blending her artistic skills with business acumen. Since its founding in 2016, Colair Beauty Lounge & Med Spa has become a standout in the industry, recognized for its dedication to enhancing natural beauty and creating an exceptional experience for clients. Beyond her professional achievements, Dallas is deeply committed to community engagement and empowerment. She participates in her church’s youth group and passionately supports a range of charitable and philanthropic organizations. A dedicated advocate for women in business, she has been a member of the Women Empowered Committee since 2020, serving as Chair from 2023 to 2024. Dallas’s leadership and professional excellence was honored with a nomination for Business Woman of the Year 2020. She continues to contribute to her community’s growth and drive positive change by serving on the Board of Directors for the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:00:45:00

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JW Rayhons

12/16/2024
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 their deepest drivers of success; in other words, their strengths. JW is the founder and president of Rayhons Financial. It has been his life’s work to help others both embrace their current place in time and to proactively plan for their future happiness. Experience has confirmed that JW’s coaching and career expertise lends itself well to business owners, executives, professionals, community leaders, and other individuals looking for guidance and training in their pursuit of a values and strengths-based approach to their well-being. Rayhons Financial is consistently ranked in the top 7% of investment firms within Cetera Financial, one of the largest investment advisor networks in the U.S. Gilbert, Arizona, is a community with over 260,000 residents. He has served as Chairman of the Board for three organizations and has enjoyed coaching basketball for over 450 young athletes. JW’s ‘Gallup Top 5 Strengths’ are Achiever, Developer, Positivity, Responsibility, and Empathy. “When you look for the good in someone; you’ll find it.” ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:00:44:06

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Matt Dallas

11/25/2024
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 make a positive difference in Gilbert through the work they do serving these communities. He is obsessed with constant improvement in his business, hates email, and loves the challenge of running and growing his business in an industry that some people said was dead before he even started 10 years ago. Personally, Dallas lives his life with his faith as his top priority, followed by his marriage and daughters. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:00:36:36

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Deb Shapiro

11/11/2024
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 of change. Through onstage appearances and professional recordings, DEBx has touched tens of thousands… and counting. In 2020, leveraging the tools and learnings from DEBx, Deb founded the award-winning Amplify Voices, a nonprofit advocacy incubator, helping historically marginalized communities discover, develop, and amplify their voices to empower systemic change. Through stage events, speaker circles, and a compelling documentary, The Journey, Amplify Voices has become a space of empowerment and change for survivors of sex trafficking and assault, those formerly incarcerated, and women touched by breast cancer. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:00:48:15

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James DeVary

10/28/2024
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 with a team of 60-plus employees. James was the 2024 GilbertChamber Emerging Business Leader Of The Year. A devoted husband and father of two, James enjoys taking on endurance challenges and races as a personal pursuit. In addition to professional and personal achievements, James serves as a passionate board member of veteran charity, reflecting a deep commitment to supporting fellow veterans and their communities. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders 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. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

Duration:00:25:36