In this episode of “Arizona Good Business” with host, Thomas Barr welcomes David Gressly and Isaac Dudley with Friends of the Verde River, discussing their work to protect and preserve the Verde River in Arizona. They shared how their organization employs a scientific approach, such as implementing a comprehensive water monitoring program, to inform better decision-making and resource allocation – as well as getting the community connected to the river. They also discuss the success of the River Friendly Living program, which encourages water conservation and habitat improvement by engaging a broad range of stakeholders, from homeowners to businesses.

In this episode of Arizona Good Business, host Thomas Barr sits down with Christin Marvin, the founder of Solutions by Christin, to discuss her inspiring journey from the restaurant industry to entrepreneurship. Christin shares her story, starting as a line cook at 15 years old and rising to managing partner in independent restaurants. After experiencing burnout, she and her husband moved to Tucson, where they redefined their lives, leading Christin to establish her own company focused on leadership development in the hospitality industry.

In this episode of AZ Good Business, Thomas Barr is joined by Whitney Yang, and Andrew Wong, co-founders of the Bambi Fund. They discuss the nonprofit’s mission to support historically excluded communities, including LGBTQ individuals and the formerly incarcerated, by providing them with opportunities and resources to start a successful business. They share their motivations, with Whitney focusing on the importance of understanding racial justice and the impact of mass incarceration in Arizona. Andrew is inspired to utilize his design background to help individuals succeed through the Bambi Fund’s Hustle House program, which provides entrepreneurship training for formerly incarcerated individuals.

In this episode of Arizona Good Business, host, Thomas Barr discusses with Andy Shirk, CEO of Educational Services, Inc., their mission to address staffing challenges in schools amidst teacher pay issues and shifts in teaching perception. They emphasize the need for more educators and ESI’s role in supporting HR managers. Shirk remains committed to ESI’s mission, while also exploring the complexities of operating in the education sector and bonding over shared interests like playing the bass guitar.

In this episode of Arizona Good Business, Thomas Barr engages in a comprehensive discussion with Cathleen Mitchell, the founder of Kaya Holistic. Explored are the store’s evolution from a focus on CBD products to a holistic botanical wellness approach, emphasizing education, sustainability, and advocacy for the entire hemp industry. Cathleen outlines the store’s expanded offerings, including plans for community events, creating a unique space for yoga, sound healing, and a demo kitchen. The interview underscores the store’s integral connection with the local community, Cathleen’s commitment to supporting local artisans, and the resilience of smaller businesses in delivering personalized and intentional retail experiences, especially in the face of pandemic challenges.

In this episode, Thomas Barr interviews Kyu and Brianna, founder and CEO of Conceptually Social, delving into their journey, philosophy, and community involvement in the Phoenix-based restaurant and catering company. The conversation highlights the company’s roots in downtown Phoenix, Brianna’s transition from corporate America, and the challenges of operating in today’s economy. Kyu and Brianna emphasize their commitment to local sourcing and community connections in their culinary approach, providing a vivid picture of Conceptually Social’s dedication to unique experiences.

In this episode, host Thomas Barr discusses Arizona’s childcare crisis, exploring its impact on small businesses and the local economy through an interview with Patrick Contrades and Ofelia Gonzalez from First Things First.

Local First AZ is back with another epsiode of Arizona Good Business with nonprofit leader and Executive Director of Million Dollar Teacher Project, Lloyd Hopkins. Thomas and Lloyd discuss their passion and care for teachers, why businesses who care about the well-being of our teachers, and how to get more deeply involved so we can build a better Arizona.

What is good business? What are local businesses doing to build a better Arizona? Join us as we discuss these questions with Kak Varley of Kak Varley Marketing