Join GPEC’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Logan Newman for a deep dive into one of Greater Phoenix’s most celebrated traditions, the Fiesta Bowl. In this episode, Logan sits down with Brad Smidt CEcD, GPEC’s Senior Vice President of Business Development and longtime member of the Fiesta Bowl Yellow Jacket Committee, to explore how this iconic event blends world class hospitality, economic impact and community pride. 

Listen as Brad shares the Bowl’s storied history, from its roots in showcasing West Coast teams to hosting national championships, and the behind-the-scenes coordination that makes it one of the nation’s premier sporting events. You will hear about the meticulous planning, memorable moments with players and coaches, and how the Fiesta Bowl’s charitable initiatives like Wishes for Teachers are making a lasting difference across Greater Phoenix. More than just a game, it is a celebration of sports, community and the unique spirit of the region. 

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About Brad Smidt, CEcD — Brad has been a member of the Fiesta Bowl Yellow Jacket Committee since 2015, supporting game-day operations, team hospitality and community programming for one of Greater Phoenix’s most iconic events. He currently serves as Senior Vice President of Business Development at GPEC, where he leads efforts to attract large industrial, office and data center projects to the region. 

A native Arizonan with nearly 30 years of experience in economic development, Brad has helped more than 250 companies relocate or expand in Greater Phoenix. He was awarded the prestigious William Lampkin Award for Long-Term Excellence in Economic Development by the Arizona Association for Economic Development in 2025 and serves on the University of Arizona Eller MBA Industry Advisory Board.  

Connect with Brad: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradsmidt  

About your host, Logan Newman — Logan has been with GPEC since 2020, leading media engagement, digital content strategy and website development. He’s contributed to award-winning initiatives like the #AZFreeToBe campaign, while also expanding the organization’s media reach across Arizona and the Asia-Pacific region. 

Prior to joining GPEC, he worked for USA Today Sports Media Group, KTAR News and ArizonaSports.com, and interned at the Arizona Republic and Jerusalem Post. An Arizona native, he graduated from ASU’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication in 2017 with a degree in journalism. 

Connect with Logan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/logan-newman-584022b5/  

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
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• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

GPEC’s Art Director, Stefanie Carson sits down with Megan Greenwood, owner and founder of Greenwood Brewing, for a fresh pour of inspiration. As a woman-owned microbrewery in Downtown Phoenix, Greenwood Brewing is redefining what it means to brew with purpose.

Listen in as Megan shares her unconventional journey from industrial engineer to beer entrepreneur, the challenges she faced as a woman in the brewing industry and how she’s created a welcoming, community-first space rooted in creativity, inclusivity and local pride. From infusing her beers with desert botanicals to launching art markets and trivia nights, Megan’s story goes beyond brewing — it’s about inspiring others to transform their passions into community-driven purpose.

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About Megan Greenwood — Founder and owner of Greenwood Brewing, Megan is an engineer-turned-brewer who left a decade-long career in manufacturing to pursue her passion for craft beer. What started with a homebrew kit in her garage has grown into a self-funded taproom and beer garden in Downtown Phoenix, now distributing to more than 300 locations across Arizona. Megan serves on the board at the Arizona Brewers Guild, as well as the Arizona Talks Foundation, and was named an Outstanding Woman in Arizona in 2024.

Connect with Megan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-greenwood001/ 

About your host, Stefanie Carson — Stefanie has been with GPEC since 2015, leading internal design, branding, and photography where her visionary event work has earned a Spectrum Award from the American Marketing Association, and a Gold MarCom Award. As a passionate advocate for the arts and local creative community, Stefanie curates GPEC’s rotating art exhibit, which showcases hundreds of regional artists each year and champions partnerships that strengthen the connection between arts and economic development. 

Connect with Stefanie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefanie-carson-a2b34350/

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

In this special episode of Arizona Through Their Eyes, we’re shaking things up! GPEC’s VP of Bioscience Business Development, Allie Bakovic, hands over the mic to her mentee and episode host, Kenzy Moustafa—a neuroscience undergraduate at ASU. Together, they explore Allie’s remarkable career journey, from conducting groundbreaking lab research to driving innovation in Greater Phoenix’s bioscience ecosystem.

Listen in as they discuss pivotal career transitions, the bridge between biosciences and economic development, and the exciting opportunities emerging within the sector across Greater Phoenix. Whether you're a student, researcher or simply curious about where science meets business, this episode offers valuable insights on career growth, mentorship and making an impact beyond the lab.

About Allison (Allie) Bakovic, Ph.D. — Allie has been with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council since December of 2023 and serves as the Vice President of Bioscience Business Development. Allie earned her Ph.D. from George Mason University, where she conducted mutagenesis studies in biosafety level-3 laboratories. She holds a BioMolecular Engineering degree from the Milwaukee School of Engineering and is passionate about translating complex scientific principles for broad audiences.

Connect with Allie Bakovic

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bakovica/ 

About Kenzy Moustafa — Kenzy is a Neuroscience student in her senior year at ASU. Kenzy has been interested in the study of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, and hopes to build her career to aid in the development of cures for these diseases. Kenzy is currently an undergraduate research assistant in a Visual Cognition Laboratory, assisting in data collection and analysis, and identifying relevant research literature to contextualize findings. 

Connect with Kenzy Moustafa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenzy-moustafa-224029318/ 

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Learn how to experience Greater Phoenix like never before in this episode of Arizona Through Their Eyes. GPEC’s Senior Director of Business Development, Zach Venvertloh, sits down with outdoor enthusiast and longtime friend, Ari Harris, for a conversation about Arizona’s unmatched outdoor lifestyle and the diverse outdoor opportunities available both within the city and throughout the state.

Listen in as Zach and Ari discuss Ari’s adventures, his passion for fishing and hiking and what makes Arizona’s landscapes so unique. From hidden hiking gems to the best fishing spots in the state, Ari shares his firsthand experiences and expert tips for making the most of Greater Phoenix great outdoors.

Whether you’re an outdoor lover, a new resident or simply looking for inspiration to explore more of what Greater Phoenix has to offer, this episode is filled with insights, stories and recommendations to help you appreciate the state in a whole new way.

About Ari Harris – Ari holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and has conducted plant research in the Indiana Dunes as well as fisheries work in Yellowstone National Park. Currently, Ari is shooting videography for The Hook Up Tackle. An avid hiker and photographer, Ari is dedicated to capturing the beauty of the natural world through a scientific and artistic lens

Connect with Ari Harris

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ari-harris-907922177/ 

About Zach Venvertloh – Zach has been with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council since March of 2020 and serves as Business Development Senior Director. During his graduate studies he was awarded a Presidential Graduate Research Fellowship at the University of Iowa, where he researched innovative therapeutic options for the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease. Prior to joining GPEC, Zach spent three years living abroad and working in a variety of industries.

Connect with Zach Venvertloh

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-venvertloh/

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
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• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Join GPEC’s Digital Marketing Intern, Tatum Baxter, in the first of our new minisode series, Arizona Through Their Eyes, where GPEC team members will take you behind the scenes with their stories about life and work in Arizona. In this episode, Tatum shares a conversation with Thomas Maynard, Senior Vice President of Business Development at GPEC, exploring his inspiring career journey, from starting as an intern to becoming a key leader within the organization. 

Listen in as Tatum and Thomas dive into the pivotal moments that shaped his career, the skills that set him apart and practical insights for current interns eager to grow and succeed. Whether you're just beginning your professional journey or looking to make a lasting impact, this episode is packed with valuable advice and inspiration to help you chart your own path forward. 

About Thomas Maynard — Thomas has been with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council since August 2013 and in the role of SVP of Business Development since 2019. He is an Arizona native and graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in journalism with a focus in public relations. 

Connect with Thomas Maynard  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-maynard-b59b9747/  

About our host Tatum Baxter — Tatum is a Digital Marketing Intern within GPEC's Marketing & Communications team, where she produces and promotes podcast episodes, optimizes SEO, builds website content and assists with paid advertising campaigns and analytics. An Arizona native and passionate singer and songwriter, Tatum founded Music is Therapy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides music therapy and instruments to underprivileged schools, hospitals and nonprofits, reached #31 on the Billboard Adult Top 40 Chart and is currently pursuing a degree in Business Marketing at Arizona State University. 

Connect with Tatum Baxter 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tatum-baxter-732591291/  

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Join host Casey Gilchrist and respected guest Anthony Sharett as they explore the vital efforts to advance equity and support for Black business owners. This episode features a special appearance by Teniqua Broughton, CEO of the State of Black Arizona, who shares her insights on the current growth and opportunities in our community.  

Tune in as Casey and Anthony break down the systemic challenges faced by minority-owned businesses involving capital access and discuss the impactful steps Pathward® is taking to drive progress and foster inclusivity within the financial sector. 

About Anthony Sharett - As President of Pathward®, N.A., Anthony oversees the organization which supports individuals and small to medium-sized businesses through its national bank charter, offering solutions across Banking as a Service (BaaS) and Commercial Finance. He is a recognized champion of diversity and inclusion and has held leadership roles with the Leadership Council for Legal Diversity and the ABA’s Consumer Financial Services’ Diversity and Inclusion Committee. Sharett also serves on various advisory boards and was named one of Phoenix's Most Admired Leaders in 2023. 

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anthonysharett 
Website: Pathward.com 
Black Chamber of Arizona: blackchamberaz.com 
Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: azhcc.com  

About Teniqua Broughton - Executive Director of the State of Black Arizona, Teniqua helps advance the organization’s mission of using data to drive community action and partnerships. Through her work in DEI, leadership development and community empowerment, she has earned multiple accolades including ASU's 2021 MLK Community Servant-Leader Award and Phoenix Business Journal’s Most Admired Leader. 

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/teniqua-broughton/ 

About Casey Gilchrist - Originally from Virginia Beach, VA, Casey moved to Greater Phoenix in January of 2022 to join the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) and now serves as the Vice President of International Business Development.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/caseygilchrist 

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Join host Tim Bourcet as he shares a conversation with one of the most influential figures in Arizona’s food and restaurant industry: Steve Chucri, President and CEO of the Arizona Restaurant Association.

Listen in as Tim and Steve break down what makes Arizona’s flourishing restaurant scene unique and how Steve’s family history defines his mission as an industry leader and businessman. From exploring the growth of Greater Phoenix’s national prestige in culinary circles to discussing his favorite restaurants in town, Steve’s work as an ambassador for our region’s food and restaurant scene plays a crucial role in the continued development of our cultural landscape.

About Steve Chucri— CEO of the Arizona Restaurant Association since 2002, Steve’s work in the public and private sectors is defined by his penchant for innovation and entrepreneurial growth. 

Learn more about the Arizona Restaurant Association:  https://azrestaurant.org/

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Join GPEC’s resident music enthusiast Tim Bourcet as he shares a conversation with two of the Arizona music scene’s most influential figures: Michelle Donovan, owner of The Nile Theater in Mesa, and Charlie Levy, owner of The Crescent Ballroom and Valley Bar in Phoenix.

Listen in as Michelle and Charlie take us behind the scenes of Arizona’s rich musical heritage through the lens of their own beginnings in the music promotion business. From the storied history of the century-old Nile Theater to the Crescent Ballroom’s role in the revitalization of Downtown Phoenix, both Michelle and Charlie have booked all-time greats before they were household names and have each played a pivotal role in shaping Greater Phoenix’s vibrant cultural landscape.

About Michelle Donovan — Co-owner of Upstage Labor, owner of The Nile Theater and the Nile Coffee Shop for over a decade whose work has made her one of the Arizona music scene’s leading figures.

About Charlie Levy — Originally from New Orleans, Levy is the founder of Stateside Presents, owner of Crescent Ballroom and Valley Bar with a longstanding history in Arizona’s music promotion business.

Support Greater Phoenix’s local venues:
The Nile Theater: https://www.theniletheater.com/
Nile Records: https://www.nilerecordsaz.com/
Crescent Ballroom: https://www.crescentphx.com/
Valley Bar: https://www.valleybarphx.com/
The Van Buren: https://www.thevanburenphx.com/

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Join host Casey Gilchrist and esteemed guests Oscar De las salas, Leonor Aispuro, and Angela Johnson as they dive into Greater Phoenix’s dynamic fashion scene and their goal to fashion a sustainable future. Delve into their inspiring stories of creativity and innovation, from their beginnings in the fashion industry to their vision for its future.

Discover the intersection of fashion and sustainability as they discuss where the industry is going, the business of fashion, and practical tips for embracing sustainability in your wardrobe. From reusing fabrics to uncovering the best vintage shops in Greater Phoenix, this episode offers invaluable insights for elevating your fashion while being sustainable. 

About Oscar De las salas — An architect and interior designer with over three decades of global experience, also recognized as a prominent figure in the Greater Phoenix art community. His extensive involvement with the PHX Art Museum, Artlink, and ASU’s Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts reflects his active engagement and influence within the local art scene.

Check out the Art d’Core Gala here: https://artlinkphx.org/gala/

About Leonor Aispuro — Fashion designer who recently contributed to Ballet Arizona’s Moving Movies premiere, is a featured artist in the 2024 Art d’Core Gala, and is known for sustainable designs inspired by nature, traditional techniques, and the intricate construction of vintage clothing.

See Leonor’s designs here: www.leonoraispuro.com

About Angela Johnson — Co-founder of Arizona’s fashion incubator FABRIC known for her eco-friendly and award-winning fashion designs featuring upcycled ball gowns from “thrifted” T-shirts under her eponymous fashion brand Angela Johnson Design.

Check out FABRIC and Eco Fashion Week here: www.fabricincubator.com/community/eco-fashion-week/


About your host Casey Gilchrist — Originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia, Casey moved to Greater Phoenix in January of 2022 to join the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) as Senior Director of International Business Development. 

Connect with Casey on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/caseygilchrist/ 

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

GPEC’s Southern belles are back for part two of Arizona hot takes! Host Casey Gilchrist and guest Ashley Busada dive into more crowd-sourced opinions about Greater Phoenix and Arizona. 

What is a hot take? A hot take is a quickly produced, strongly worded and often deliberately provocative or sensational opinion or reaction.

Covering everything from Arizona’s iconic sunsets to the prevalence of speakeasies in the region, plus the local obsession with Dutch Bros and In-n-Out, Casey and Ashley bring their Southern perspective to the Southwest. Whether you're a local Arizonan or simply seeking insight into life in Greater Phoenix, this amusingly informative dialogue is a must-listen! 

About your host Casey Gilchrist — Originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia, Casey moved to Greater Phoenix in January of 2022 to join the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) as Senior Director of International Business Development.

Connect with Casey on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/caseygilchrist/

Episode guest and VP of Business Development at GPEC, Ashley Busada, is originally from Shreveport, Louisiana and moved to Greater Phoenix in July 2021 to join GPEC's team.

Connect with Ashely on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ashleybusada/

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Join co-hosts Tim Bourcet and Casey Gilchrist as they dive into the culture and community of Mesa's thriving Asian District.

First, we chat with Mesa Mayor John Giles, an accomplished leader and triathlete, who shares insights into the growth of Mesa's Asian district and his role in supporting development.

Then, we're thrilled to introduce muralist Kadhima Tung, a Chinese Muslim-American artist with a fascinating background. Born in Saudi Arabia and raised in Arizona, Kadhima brings a rich tapestry of experiences to her art, which we explore in depth.

This episode is a journey through community, culture, and creativity, highlighting the diverse and dynamic spirit of Mesa. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that celebrates the unique flavors, stories, and talents of this vibrant region.

Learn more about Mesa and Mayor Giles by tuning in to his podcast It's Always Cool in Mesa and learn more about the Asian District on their website.

Connect with Kadhima directly on Instagram @sloppy_brush to follow her current projects or commission new work.

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

This episode gets spicy! Listen in for a light-hearted discussion where self-proclaimed Southern girls Casey Gilchrist and Ashley Busada react to crowd-sourced "hot takes" on Greater Phoenix and Arizona.

What is a "hot take?" — A hot take is a quickly produced, strongly worded and often deliberately provocative or sensational opinion or reaction.

From the authenticity of Arizona's Mexican food to the intensity of its sun and the spirit of its sports fans, Casey and Ashley tackle it all with the charm of a Southern drawl and the boldness of a desert sun. Whether you're a Greater Phoenix local or simply curious for an insiders take on these controversial topics, this episode is enlightening and entertaining! 

About your host Casey Gilchrist — Originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia, Casey moved to Greater Phoenix in January of 2022 to join the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) as Senior Director of International Business Development.

• Learn more about Casey's background in her bio
• Connect with Casey on LinkedIn

Episode guest and VP of Business Development at GPEC, Ashley Busada, is originally from Shreveport, Louisiana and moved to Greater Phoenix in July 2021 to join GPEC's team.

• Learn more about Ashley and her work at GPEC in her bio
• Looking to fund Ashley's crawfish boil or send her your hot takes? Connect with her on LinkedIn here!

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

*Please note that there were some microphone issues in this episode, but the compelling dialogue remains rich and enlightening.

Host Tim Bourcet is joined by local expert Dr. Mathew Sandoval for an engaging discussion about the history, traditions and Greater Phoenix Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations. 

Dr. Sandoval is an Associate Teaching Professor at Barrett the Honors College in Downtown Phoenix, a Social Transformation Lab Fellow, a member of ASU's Chicano/Latino Faculty and Staff Association, and is currently researching the transborder holiday Dia de los Muertos — analyzing issues of performance, transnationalism, interculturalism, race, hybridity, indigeneity, spirituality, and cultural appropriation and commodification.

In this conversation, Dr. Sandoval shares background on the origins and cultural significance of the holiday, and how these commemorations represent connections between past, present, and future generations. 

Whether you want to better understand the importance of this holiday or join in the local festivities, this lively conversation captures the spirit and community of Día de los Muertos and explores the holiday's symbols, customs, and meaning.

Connect with Dr. Sandoval on instagram @mathewsandoval.

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

At GPEC, we talk a lot about how Greater Phoenix is addressing climate action and sustainability goals, from water solutions and alternative energy generation and storage to other novel technologies, but in this episode, we focus on another aspect of sustainability essential to progressing long-term goals in this space —  the reuse and regeneration of materials and products.
Host Casey Gilchrist talks to two local experts, Amanda Jordan, the Circular Economy Project Manager at the City of Phoenix, and Rose King, Co-founder of GlassKing Recovery & Recycling, about what the circular economy is and how it's being practiced in Greater Phoenix.
These guests share a wealth of knowledge and insights on how the region is taking bold steps towards a greener and more eco-conscious future. Tune in to gain a better understanding of how recycling and reuse are improving and evolving, plus how you can get involved in creating a more sustainable and circular future for our community.

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Published in partnership with The State of Black Arizona, this special report covers the thriving landscape of Black entrepreneurship in Arizona and shines a spotlight on Black-owned firms, the rise of women-owned enterprises and the role venture capital and microlending play towards an equitable market.
From innovative incubators to collaborative initiatives, hear how these game-changing strategies are fostering an environment of growth, equity, and lasting change.

{Speakers/Guests}
Black Chamber of Arizona President & CEO Robin S. Reed, State Of Black Arizona CEO Teniqua Broughton, GPEC Research Analyst Fiona Onyango, JPMorgan Chase & Co. Managing Director & Head Of Diverse Strategies Mikal Quarles, Thinkzilla Consulting Group CEO & Millionaire Mastermind Academy Founder Dr. Velma Trayham and Immersion General Partner & Ease CEO Nathan Harris

Report link: https://www.gpec.org/services/research-reports/2023-state-of-black-business/

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
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• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

In this episode we sit down with local legend, U.S. Navy Reserve Aviator and American Airlines Regional Director of Government Affairs, Jack McCain to chat everything from his favorite movie, pinball obsession, and go-to restaurants, to the experience of coming home to fundamental changes in the character, makeup and political landscape of Greater Phoenix.

Mentions include:

• U.S. Navy
• U.S. Naval Academy
• U.S. Airforce
• Falcon Field Airport
• Cobra Arcade
• Downtown Phoenix
• Paige Springs Winery
• Sky Harbor Airport
• Fry Bread House
• Chars House of Blues
• Phở Thành Restaurant
• Little Saigon
• Jordan's Mexican Food
• AZ Wilderness
• Bianco
• Francine's
• Kaz (Kazmere)
• Persian Room
• Khyber Halal
• Green Corner
• Chevrolet, Dodge, Jeep
• F1, Mercedes & Ferrari
• Phoenix Suns
• Diamondbacks
• Barbie vs. Oppenheimer (spoiler: it's Dune 2)
• AMC Esplanade

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Join host Casey Gilchrist as she sheds light on the overwhelming challenges faced by Greater Phoenix residents in their pursuit of affordable housing.

Guest speakers include Steve Betts, managing director of development at Holualoa Companies, Gregg Ghelfi, business development officer for the Maricopa County IDA, and Jessica Daley, GPEC's digital marketing director. Listen in as they peel back the layers of this complex problem, revealing the stark realities faced by individuals and families who struggle to find a safe and affordable place to call home.

But it's not all doom and gloom. Along our journey, we shine a spotlight on the inspiring grassroots initiatives and innovative strategies that are making a tangible difference and alternative housing models that are redefining what it means to build inclusive communities.

Gregg Ghelfi, Business Development officer for the Maricopa County IDA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggghelfi/
Steve Betts, Managing Director of Development at Holualoa Companies: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-betts-91a3b422/

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Join host Casey Gilchrist and GPEC Data Scientist Albert Stanton in this exhilarating episode as they dive deep into the vibrant AI landscape of Greater Phoenix!

Guest speaker Rebecca Clyde, the Co-Founder, and CEO of Botco.ai, a trailblazing company at the forefront of conversational AI.

Tune in and be captivated by the boundless possibilities of AI in the desert oasis of Greater Phoenix!

Rebecca Clyde: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccaclyde/

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

This special episode brought to you by the GPEC team was originally recorded as a panel conversation. In conjunction with the launch of a captivating GPEC art exhibit, the discussion focused on the influence of arts and culture on the growth of Greater Phoenix.

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

What a conversation! Host Casey Gilchrist is joined by David Shilliday, Vice President and General Manager of Urban Air Mobility and Unmanned Aerial Systems at Honeywell, and GPEC's Thomas Maynard to talk about flying electric vehicles, also known as electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOL). Maybe not The Jetsons (YET), but we're not far away as this technology is evolving fast, and much of that evolution is taking place right here in Greater Phoenix. 

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Roosevelt Row harnessed its history while prioritizing local growth to become one of Greater Phoenix's most popular neighborhoods. Now an example of planning perfection, Cindy Dach and Ruben Alonzo join Tim Bourcet to share stories on how Roosevelt Row has evolved into what it is today.

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
• X: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
• Instagram: instagram.com/GreaterPHX
• YouTube: youtube.com/GreaterPHX
• LINE: https://bit.ly/49mMBd2

Greater Phoenix is home to a diverse population of entrepreneurs, leaders and thinkers. Shifting demographics in this region have helped to elevate its industries and accelerate growth. The fourth episode of Greater Phoenix A to Z, is all about Black excellence. Host Casey Gilchrist is joined by GPEC Research Analyst Fiona Onyango, State of Black Arizona Executive Director Teniqua Broughton, Thinkzilla Consulting Group CEO Velma Trayham, Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton, and Phoenix Raceway President Latasha Causey, to discuss the importance of a diverse workforce, managing through adversity and being 'one of'. 

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From a morning cup of coffee and the commute into work to connecting with loved ones across the country over the phone or on a flight, chips quietly impact every aspect of life. Greater Phoenix is a leading market for developing this global technology, with legacy contributors like Intel and the world's largest chip producer TSMC both making multi-billion dollar investments in the region over the last five years. GPEC Vice President of International Development Sean Fogarty and Vice President of Business Development Samantha Pinkal join Greater Phoenix A to Z host Tim Bourcet for a conversation around semiconductors — a key component to chip manufacturing — and the importance of this Greater Phoenix industry. Tim is also joined by Joe Russell, Legislative Assistant for Senator Mark Kelly, discussing the CHIPS and Science Act, and how that will create growth opportunities in Greater Phoenix.

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Super Bowl LVII comes to Greater Phoenix on Sunday, February 12, but this isn’t the first major event this region has hosted. In this episode, Casey Gilchrist is joined by Super Bowl Host Committee Chairman David Rousseau and GPEC Marketing & Communications Specialist Logan Newman to talk about the real impact sports have on the region. Greatest sports moments? Best Super Bowl halftime guest? What’s next for Greater Phoenix sports? We discuss it all in the second episode of Greater Phoenix A to Z.

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Greater Phoenix A to Z hosts Casey Gilchrist and Tim Bourcet are joined by Greater Phoenix Economic Council President & CEO Chris Camacho for the first episode of the GPEC podcast. The focus of the episode is growth in Greater Phoenix — economic, geographic and cultural. Conversations span a wide array of subjects including misconceptions that might actually be true, why Greater Phoenix is growing at such a substantial pace and a look at what the future might hold for this region.

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