Let's Talk Business Phoenix

To kick off Season 5 of the Let’s Talk Business Phoenix Podcast, we are hosting the “Candidate Conversations" mini-series, featuring leading candidates in Arizona’s 2026 gubernatorial race. Through these conversations, candidates will share their vision for the state's future and the leadership priorities they would bring to the governor’s office. Each episode explores key issues shaping Arizona’s econ...

In this episode of Let’s Talk Business Phoenix, Chad Makovsky, Aviation Director for the City of Phoenix, discusses how Phoenix Sky Harbor is preparing for the future through major infrastructure investments, new technology, enhanced safety initiatives, and expanded air service. He also shares how the airport is balancing rapid regional growth with sustainability, workforce development, and an improved passenger experience. T...

In this episode, Mark-Taylor CEO John Carlson shares his path to leadership and the principles he believes create enduring trust in a service business—especially listening first and building credibility before pushing change. He reflects on the leadership skills he’s built throughout his career, from earning credibility through internal progression to balancing analytical discipline with people-first cultural stewardshi...

In this episode, Mary Foote, Director of Arizona’s Office of Economic Opportunity, shares her career path and a clear-eyed read on where Arizona’s economy stands heading into 2026. She breaks down the indicators that best reflect real business conditions—jobs, participation, wages, openings, and new business formation—and what employers are reporting most often, from hiring constraints to cost pressures and ...

In this episode, ASU President Dr. Michael Crow reflects on how higher education—and Arizona itself—has changed over the past two decades, and what those shifts mean as the state’s economy accelerates. He shares how universities, employers, and civic leaders can work together to build talent pipelines for advanced manufacturing, health care, and a future shaped by AI and automation, while expanding access without ...

Ahead of the Valley hosting the 2026 NCAA Women’s Final Four for the first time, April 3rd-5th, we’re joined by Jay Parry, CEO of the Phoenix Final Four Local Organizing Committee, for an inside look at what it takes to bring this national sporting event to Phoenix. Jay shares how the event will elevate the city’s national profile, drive economic impact across key industries, and create opportunities for local bus...

In this episode of Let’s Talk Business Phoenix, Barbara Barrett, former U.S. Secretary of the Air Force, shares insights from her remarkable career spanning diplomacy, aerospace, philanthropy, and national service. She reflects on the moments that shaped her leadership philosophy, the global experiences that influence her vision for Arizona, and the opportunities she sees ahead for Phoenix as a hub of innovation and economic ...

In the next episode of Let’s Talk Business Phoenix, Dr. Douglas Ross, President of Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, shares what inspired his journey into healthcare leadership and why Phoenix remains a uniquely strong community for medical innovation. He discusses his priorities for strengthening workforce culture, advancing strategic innovations, and shaping the future of healthcare in Arizona.&...

In this episode of Let’s Talk Business Phoenix, Congressman Greg Stanton shares his journey from leading the City of Phoenix to representing Arizona in Congress, offering insight into federal priorities that impact the region’s economic future. He weighs in on workforce development, advanced manufacturing, water stewardship, and infrastructure—highlighting how business leaders can engage more effectively with fede...

In the next episode of Let’s Talk Business Phoenix, we sit down with Dan Costello, Suns and Mercury Executive Vice President and Chief Business Officer, to explore how the teams are shaping the Valley’s business landscape, driving major partnerships, and elevating the region’s global profile. From billion‑dollar economic impacts to international expansion and marquee sporting events, Costello shares how Phoenix is...

To kick off 2026, this episode of Let’s Talk Business Phoenix explores Mayor Kate Gallego's vision for Phoenix, highlighting her priorities for the remainder of her term and the city's innovative approaches to infrastructure and economic growth. Mayor Gallego also discusses Phoenix’s role in major regional events, international expansion, trade partnerships, and emerging industries such as semiconductors, bioscience, an...

This episode of Let’s Talk Business Phoenix explores Valley of the Sun United Way’s President & CEO, Carla Vargas Jasa’s, strategic priorities of Valley of the Sun United Way, and how the organization is addressing critical issues like education, housing, health, and workforce development in Greater Phoenix. The conversation highlights innovative approaches to strengthening the social safety net, the intersect...

This episode of Let’s Talk Business Phoenix explores Executive Director Craig Culy’s journey to leading the MIM, the museum’s innovative approach to immersive exhibits, and its strategic role in the Phoenix community. Listeners will learn how new exhibitions are developed, how MIM adapts to trends in tourism and education, and the impact of partnerships with local organizations. The conversation also highlights MI...

In this episode of Let’s Talk Business Phoenix, we explore Superintendent Dr. Curtis Finch’s leadership journey and vision for the Deer Valley Unified School District (DVUSD), highlighting priorities such as expanding Career and Technical Education (CTE), ensuring equitable access to workforce development, and adapting to technological advances like AI. The conversation also covers the impact of partnerships with Elevat...

This episode of Let’s Talk Business Phoenix features Phoenix Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien, exploring her journey into public service, her leadership in building consensus on the city council, and her commitment to expanding housing options. The conversation highlights Phoenix’s rapid growth in biosciences and advanced manufacturing and discusses how infrastructure and workforce development shape the city’s future....

This episode of Let’s Talk Business Phoenix explores Arizona Humane Society’s President & CEO Dr. Steven Hansen's journey to leading the organization, his evolving leadership philosophy, and how AHS adapts to meet the changing needs of pets and people in the community. The conversation highlights impactful stories, innovative programs, and strategic partnerships that set AHS apart, while also discussing how success ...

This episode of Let’s Talk Business Phoenix explores Dr. Nader Sanai's journey into neurosurgical oncology, his leadership at the Ivy Brain Tumor Center, and the innovative clinical trial approaches that are transforming brain cancer treatment by dramatically shortening drug development timelines. Dr. Sanai highlights the significance of the Ivy Center’s new building in Phoenix, its impact on medical innovation, and the...