Amazing Arizonans

I met one of the most interesting and inspirational people for this episode of Amazing Arizonans. Her name is Barbara Barrett. She is an ASU graduate. She has been an ambassador, Secretary of the Air Force and started the U S Space Force. She’s worked for two U S Presidents and continues to impact American policy. She talks about being inspired by her friend Sandra Day O’Connor. Raised on a farm and rising to the high positions in American government. I think you’re going to be inspired by her.   

I love Amazing Arizonans because we can take the time to learn more about the people that make our community better. Peoria mayor Jason Beck definitely qualifies. Jason is a very successful businessman. He has built a multimillion dollar company called TYR Tactical. Building body armor and armor plating for military and police departments all over the world. He brings his business mind to leading the city as well. His story is so inspirational when you hear of his humble beginning. I hope you enjoy the discussion.

What would you do if you found yourself in a life or death situation? My guest this week on Amazing Arizonans found himself in that situation. His name is Thomas Yoxall. Driving to California very early one morning he drove past an accident scene on the I10. He saw a suspect brutally beating a DPS Trooper. Thomas was forced to shoot the suspect to save the troopers life. He describes that day and how it changed his life. He is a humble man of deep faith. I hope you love this episode.

I love meeting people with amazing stories. It is why Amazing Arizonans is such a fun podcast to do. In this episode I talk with Bobb Cooper. Bobb spent 27 years as the Executive Director of the Valley Youth Theater. There have been many well know stars of stage and screen that had their careers launched at the Valley Youth Theater. Bobb talks about his love for the theater and his love for investing in the lives of young people. We had never met before. But by the end of the podcast, I felt like I was talking with an old friend. I hope you love this conversation.

I love to hear when someone gets to live their dream. Our goal with Amazing Arizonans is to hear amazing stories from right here in the Grand Canyon state. This episode checks both boxes. I talk with Ralph Velez Jr. Known internationally as Ramblin’ Ralph. He is a world-famous boxing ring announcer. He’s worked some of the biggest fights in the world on some of the biggest platforms. He is a humble and gracious man that gives back generously in his community. His positive energy is contagious. I hope you like the conversation.

In this powerful episode of Amazing Arizonans, I sit down with Dr. Zuhdi Jasser, a man whose life and work embody courage, conviction and an unwavering commitment to both faith and country. Dr. Jasser is no stranger to the spotlight. A respected physician, U.S. Navy veteran and outspoken advocate for reform within the Muslim faith, he has spent the past two decades challenging extremism. Since the attacks of 9/11, Dr. Jasser has been a leading voice against radical ideologies.

Steven Brophy, the president and CEO of the Aztec Land and Cattle Company, joins Amazing Arizonans. It's one of our biggest private landowners.Amazing Arizonans is presented by Resolution Copper.

This week I sit down with the head of Arizona Public Service, Ted Geisler. Ted is an Arizona native and grew up working for APS. We discuss the balance between the cost of building and maintaining a reliable power grid and the cost to APS customers. We talk about the different ways that electricity is made and delivered in Arizona. From traditional power generation, to solar, wind, hydro electric and the Palo Verde Nuclear power plant in the west valley. Ted is a very interesting person. It is obvious from our conversation that he has a deep love for Ariona and great pride in the people at APS. I hope that you enjoy the conversation.

I have had the privilege of talking with so many great people on Amazing Arizonans. But I have never had a bigger response to a guest than in this episode. My guest is Frank Sloup. You know him as “Fridays with Frank” on social media. Frank is arguably the most recognizable cop on social media. Almost a half dozen people in our building waited to meet him and get photos. He's a deputy in Pinal County and is known for his interactions with people during traffic stops. We talk about his rise in popularity and what it is like getting recognized everywhere he goes. He has a long and very accomplished career in law enforcement. He is a fascinating person and a great storyteller. I hope you enjoy the conversation.

We kick off the new season of Amazing Arizonans with a legitimate superstar! Amy Van Dyken is an Olympic record holder in swimming. She is still active as a commentator and ambassador for the sport. We talk about her career in swimming and in broadcasting. We also talk about the accident that changed her life. An ATV accident rendered her paralyzed from the waist down. But her attitude is remarkable. You’ll learn how she’s taken the accident and used it as an opportunity to influence a different group of people. I think this is the perfect way to start the new season.