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/

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• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
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• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
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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
• Twitter: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
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• 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
• Twitter: 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
• Twitter: twitter.com/GPEC
• Facebook: facebook.com/GreaterPHX
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• 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
• Twitter: twitter.com/GPEC
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• 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.

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• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
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• 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
• Twitter: twitter.com/GPEC
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• 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/

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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
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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
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• 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
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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:

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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:

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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
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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'. 

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
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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.

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/greaterphx
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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.

Follow GPEC for the latest Greater Phoenix news:

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