The Business of... podcast by the Tucson Metro Chamber

In this episode of The Business Of..., we hear from Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06), Arizona's only member of the House Appropriations Committee. Congressman discusses his efforts to secure funding for Arizona's priorities in the FY2024 appropriations package, including $26 million for his district. He also dives into his successful advocacy for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) VET-TEC program, which received $45 million in funding and recently passed the House thanks to his reauthorization bill.

This episode of The Business of Tucson features John Winchester, Senior Director of Government and Community Engagement at Arizona State University (ASU) and a member of the Tucson Metro Chamber Board. John discusses ASU's contributions to the Tucson community, highlighting its lesser-known 40-year history in the city.

The conversation starts with John revealing his background as a University of Arizona alumnus who eventually came to appreciate the value of ASU in the community. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration between universities for the betterment of Tucson.

John then dives into ASU's presence in Tucson, mentioning their social work program as the first and longest-running initiative. He details how the program serves the community by training social service providers and partnering with local government entities. Other ASU contributions highlighted include executive education programs for local governments, research projects focused on mental health and social services, and digital classes offered to Tucson school districts.

The second half of the episode explores ASU's role on a statewide level. John mentions the university's involvement in creating more healthcare professionals and physicians in Arizona. ASU's new medical school focuses on a marriage between engineering and medicine, aiming to make medical delivery more efficient and cost-effective. John concludes by emphasizing ASU's data-driven approach to creating medical professionals prepared for the future of medicine in the 21st century.

This episode of "The Business Of," focuses on the Chamber's advocacy efforts in the Tucson community.

Hosts:

• Zach Yentzer, Vice President of Business Advocacy
• Frank Velasquez Jr., Director of Workforce Advocacy

Discussion Topics:

• Workforce Development:
• Healthcare Roundtable discussion about collaborative efforts to address workforce shortages.
• Importance of addressing childcare options to improve workforce participation.
• Call to action for healthcare and health science businesses to get involved in the Chamber's roundtables.

• Fair Free Transit:

• The Chamber's advocacy around the City of Tucson's Fair Free Transit policy.
• A future member engagement campaign encouraging people to join the Chamber's efforts.

Key takeaways:

• The Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce actively addresses workforce development challenges in Tucson.
• Collaboration between businesses and educational institutions is crucial to address workforce shortages.
• Affordable childcare options are essential for supporting workforce participation.
• The Chamber advocates for common sense solutions to Fair Free Transit that benefit the Tucson community and businesses.

Call to Action:

• Healthcare and health science businesses are encouraged to participate in the Chamber's roundtables.
• Listeners interested in supporting the Chamber's advocacy efforts are invited to become members.

Additional Information:

• Contact Frank Velasquez Jr. for more information on workforce advocacy: FVelasquezJr@tucsonchamber.org

The Balancing Act: Mining and Sustainability in Arizona In this episode of the Tucson Metro Chamber podcast, we explore the often complex and misunderstood world of mining. Our guest, Misael Cabrera, brings a unique perspective having worked in both the field and policy making.

Misael dives into the realities of modern mining, highlighting its role in technological advancements and the creation of high-paying jobs. We also grapple with the environmental impact and community concerns often associated with mining.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in:

• The future of responsible mining practices in Arizona
• How mining supports our everyday lives
• Career opportunities in the modern mining industry

Tune in and learn how Arizona can strike a balance between a sustainable future and a thriving mining sector.

This episode of The Business Of dives into Tucson's beloved Sun Link streetcar system as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. Hear from the Tucson Metro Chamber and Sun Link representatives about the streetcar's impact on business development, connectivity, and the overall economic landscape of Tucson.

Key topics covered:

• Public Policy:

  • Coalition Against Retail Theft: This group focuses on coordinating efforts among businesses, government, and law enforcement to address organized retail theft. They advocate for information sharing, best practices, and legislative changes to increase crime detection and prosecution.
  • Example bill: HB 2435 which proposes to increase penalties for repeat offenders.

• Marketing & Communications: (mentioned later in the episode)

  • Partnership to be revealed later in the show.

• Workforce Development:

  • Roundtable discussions: The Chamber hosts quarterly roundtables with industry leaders, educators, and government representatives to discuss workforce development challenges and solutions.

Join us on this episode of The Business Of as we chat with Grant Krueger, owner and founder of Union Hospitality Group. Grant brings his expertise to the table to discuss the current challenges facing restaurant owners and operators in Tucson. We'll also delve into the Tucson Restaurant Advisory Council, a chamber initiative advocating for the local restaurant industry. Tune in for insights, challenges, and a glimpse into the future of Tucson's vibrant dining scene.

This episode of The Business Of explores the Institute for Better Education (IBE), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing school choice options for Arizona families. Host Melissa Rosciano interviews Kimberly Kirschner, Executive Director of IBE, to discuss how the organization uses tax credits to fund scholarships for students attending private schools.

Key points:

IBE is a school tuition organization (STO) that allows Arizona taxpayers to direct their state tax dollars towards scholarships for students in private schools.

• The program has been around for 27 years and prioritizes low-income families, vulnerable populations, and children with special needs.
• Families can easily apply for scholarships through IBE's website or by contacting the organization directly.
• IBE not only empowers families with school choice but also keeps tax dollars within the Tucson community.

Who should listen:

Parents interested in learning about private school options for their children

• Individuals curious about how tax dollars can be used to support education
• Anyone passionate about empowering families and improving educational outcomes

Listen to the episode to learn more about:

The specific process of applying for IBE scholarships

• The impact of IBE on Tucson families and the community
• The future of school choice in Arizona

Tune in to Arizona Lotus Corp stations every Sunday morning for new episodes of The Business of Tucson!

Guest: Amanda, Community Affairs Administrator at Pima Association of Governments (PAG) and key player in the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA)

Episode Summary:

This episode of The Business Of Radio explores the future of transportation in Tucson, Arizona, with a focus on the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and its 20-year plan. Host Melissa Rosciano interviews Amanda Bruno, from the RTA, to discuss the current state of the plan, the challenges involved in developing it, and how public input is incorporated.

Welcome to another episode of "The Business of," your go-to podcast for insights into the people and businesses shaping the vibrant community of Tucson.

In this episode, Krystal Popov, founder, and sole owner of the L offices and Proper Shops, joins us as a special guest. We explore the concept behind the L offices and Proper Shops, both spaces driven by Krystal's passion for supporting small business owners. Krystal shares her journey from a corporate job in Phoenix to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration for small business success.

Proper Shops, a unique venture, caters to retailers looking for low-risk, high-visibility spaces in downtown Tucson. Krystal provides a glimpse into the diverse offerings within Proper Shops, featuring local artists, a tattoo artist, a woodworking artisan, and even the University of Arizona store.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of workspaces, the support networks for small businesses, and the exciting ventures within Proper Shops. Don't miss this engaging conversation that sheds light on the future of work and community collaboration in Tucson.

Empowering Nonprofits and Building Community Through Storytelling: A Conversation with Brittany Battle

This episode of The Business Of, hosted by Melissa Rosciano, features a special guest: Brittany Battle, a community leader and the Fast Pitch Director at Social Venture Partners (SVP) Tucson.

Brittany shares her passion for Tucson and her dedication to supporting local nonprofits. She dives into the impactful work of SVP, a network of philanthropists focused on building the capacity of local nonprofits.

The conversation explores the organization's annual Fast Pitch program, which empowers nonprofits to amplify their fundraising and messaging skills through storytelling. Brittany highlights the importance of storytelling in connecting with donors and building community.

Melissa and Brittany discuss how SVP and the Tucson Metro Chamber can collaborate to further support nonprofits and businesses within the community. They emphasize the importance of creating spaces for businesses and nonprofits to connect and work together for a thriving Tucson.

Guest: Blake Eaker, Executive Director, Southern Arizona Sports Tourism & Film Authority (SASTFA)

Summary:

This episode dives into the heart of what makes Southern Arizona thrive, with a focus on four key areas: sports, tourism, film, and workforce development. Blake Eaker, Executive Director of SASTFA, joins the conversation to discuss:

• SASTFA's role in promoting and supporting these industries across six counties and tribal nations.
• Balancing the needs of large-scale events like the Arizona Bowl with grassroots initiatives like youth sports leagues.
• How SASTFA's "I love Southern Arizona" campaign and regional collaborations are boosting tourism.
• The exciting potential of the new film incentive program and its connection to workforce development.
• Partnerships with community colleges and tribal communities to build a skilled workforce for the future.

This episode is perfect for listeners who are:

• Interested in learning more about Southern Arizona's economy and its potential for growth.
• Passionate about sports, tourism, film, and education.
• Looking for ways to get involved in their local community.

Tune in to hear Blake Eaker's insights on how SASTFA is working to build a bright future for Southern Arizona!

In this edition of The Business Of, we welcome Michael Guymon, President and CEO of the Tucson Metro Chamber, for a candid reflection on 2023 – a year of strategic shifts and impactful achievements. Join hosts Melissa Rosciano and Zach Yentzer as they delve into:

• Redefining Engagement: Discover how the Chamber's internal restructuring empowered dedicated teams to drive membership growth and deliver targeted advocacy for diverse business needs.
• Solidifying Partnerships: Witness the doubling of Keystone Investors, reflecting their unwavering commitment to the Chamber's vision of a thriving regional economy.
• Leadership Recognized: Celebrate Michael Guymon's prestigious "Public Policy Leader of the Year" award, underscoring the Chamber's effective advocacy on critical issues like retail theft, education funding, and public health initiatives.
• Forging Regional Unity: Explore the creation of the Tucson Business Alliance, a historic collaboration between seven major organizations, solidifying a united front for business prosperity.
• Promoting Inclusive Growth: Dive into the Chamber's renewed focus on workforce development and the establishment of the Chamber of Lions in Southern Arizona, highlighting their commitment to fostering equity and inclusion within the business community.

This episode offers a compelling narrative of the Chamber's strategic navigation in 2023, showcasing its unwavering dedication to building a robust business environment and fostering a prosperous community for all.

Tune in to The Business Of on Arizona Lotus Corp stations or listen to the podcast on your preferred platform.

The health and vibrancy of our Tucson workforce lies at the heart of our community's success. In this episode, Frank Velasquez Jr., Director of Workforce Advocacy at the Tucson Metro Chamber, joins host Melissa Rosciano and Zachary Yentzer to delve into the challenges and opportunities within our workforce landscape.

Frank, fresh from the National Skills Coalition Forum in Baltimore, brings sobering insights into the realities facing our employees.

We'll dissect:

This episode is not just an informative analysis; it's a call to action for a collective effort. Whether you're an employer, an employee, or simply a concerned Tucson resident, you have a role to play in building a robust and thriving workforce.

Tune in now and embark on a journey towards a healthier, more prosperous Tucson. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter future.

Join Melissa Rossiano and Zach Yenser for another exciting episode of The Business Of, the podcast that highlights the people and businesses making Tucson great!

This week, we're celebrating a flurry of recent wins for the Tucson Metro Chamber and its members.

• Media Mentions Galore: The Chamber's work on combating retail theft is gaining traction, with coverage in the Arizona Daily Star, KOLD, and even a national recognition from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. We'll delve deeper into the Chamber's Coalition Against Retail Theft and its impact on our community.
• My Place Hotel Grand Opening: Zach shares his experience at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for My Place Hotel, a new extended-stay hotel in the booming southside of Tucson. He'll explain how this development is not just boosting tourism and accommodation options, but also generating a ripple effect of positive impacts for local businesses and jobs.
• Festive Holiday Reception: We'll get a glimpse into the Chamber's annual holiday reception held at the Desert Diamond Casino. This special event brings together Chamber members with legislators and policymakers from across the region, fostering dialogue and building bridges between the business community and elected officials.

Plus, Melissa and Zach will share some additional exciting news and upcoming events from the Chamber. Don't miss out on this episode packed with insights, celebrations, and holiday cheer!

Tune in to The Business Of and stay tuned for the latest developments in Tucson's thriving business landscape!

In this week's episode of The Business Of, we're sitting down with our very own Director of Workforce Advocacy, Frank Valasquez Jr.

In our discussion, Frank will provide listeners with a general overview of the Chamber's recent workforce roundtable discussions with leaders from the mining and health sciences industries.

In this episode of The Business Of, Zach chats with special guest, Jeremy Sharpe, President of Sharpe and Associates Inc (Rancho Sahuarita), about his family's four-decade multigenerational operation.

Jeremy and Zach dig deep into Tucson's current housing crisis and what we can hope to see in the future. This is a discussion you definitely don't want to miss!

In this episode of The Business Of, hosts Melissa and Zach delve into the crucial role of supporting local businesses, particularly during key shopping events like Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday. They emphasize the importance of keeping spending within the community to foster economic growth and strengthen the local business ecosystem.

Melissa and Zach also provide an update on the latest developments in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), also known as granny flats or casitas. They discuss the growing popularity of ADUs and their potential impact on housing affordability and neighborhood dynamics.

Tune in to this informative episode to gain insights into the importance of local shopping, ADU trends, and the role of city planning in Tucson's business success.

In this week's episode of The Business Of, we're discussing the recent Tucson election results and it's potential impact on Tucson.

We also are touching on some fun updates such as Tucson's recognition by Conde Nast!

In this week's episode of The Business Of, we're joined by Zach Yentzer, the Chamber's Vice President of Business Advocacy. Zach shares insights from the Chamber's Business Listening Tour, a regional initiative to hear from businesses about their challenges and priorities. He discusses the importance of the tour and how the Chamber plans to use the feedback to inform its public policy guide.

In this week's episode of The Business Of, we're sitting down with our very own Director of Workforce Advocacy, Frank Valasquez Jr.

In our discussion, Frank will provide listeners with a general overview of the Chamber's recent workforce roundtable discussions with leaders from the mining and health sciences industries.

In this episode of The Business Of, we're sitting down with StepStone Youth and Family Services. Listen in to learn more about how you can give support to children and adults with special needs by becoming a foster parent.

During this week's The Business Of, we're chatting with Ryan Anderson from Tucson Electric Power (TEP).

During this discussion you'll get to hear all about the incentives and rebates offered to TEP customers, and how business owners can save thousands of dollars by using these resources.

In this episode of the Tucson Metro Chamber podcast, host Zach gets the inside scoop from special guest, Michael Guymon, President and CEO of the Chamber, on the recent Mayoral Candidate Forum. They dive deep into the topics and questions that were asked of each candidate and offer easy-to-understand explanations on the community impact of each topic.

Whether you're a business owner, resident, or simply curious about the future of Tucson, this episode is a must-listen. Zach and Michael provide insightful, bipartisan analysis of the candidates' positions on key issues such as the economy, safety, and transportation. They also discuss the Chamber's candidate evaluation guide and how it can help voters make informed decisions.

Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to learn more about the Mayoral Candidate Forum and the candidates' positions on key issues. Listen to the podcast episode today and make sure to vote in the upcoming election!

On this week's The Business Of... we're chatting with our resident Public Policy Wiz, Zach Yentzer (VP of Business Advocacy at The Chamber).

We'll be discussing ballot initiative, Proposition 402. Zach will help us break down what this prop means and how it will impact our community.

Additionally, he's highlighting some great resources to check out. Use these resources to do your own research and understand both sides of proposition 402.

This is definitely an episode you won't want to miss!

Voting day is November 7th!

In this week's episode of The Business Of, we're chatting with VP of Business Advocacy, Zach Yentzer about the details and impact of Proposition 496.

This discussion serves as a brief and easy-to-understand breakdown of the proposition and it's impact on the Tucson Business Community.

In this week's episode of The Business Of... We're talking with Leah Schwersinske from Playground Bar and Lounge about the beauty in community and its integration into local hospitality. Plus, hear more about the changes facing hospitality businesses and what they're doing to thrive in the Tucson economy.

In this episode of The Business Of, we talk to Chad Herzog, Executive Director of Arizona Arts Live, about the economic benefits of the arts. Arizona Arts Live is a non-profit organization that produces and presents a variety of performing arts events in Tucson. Chad discusses how the arts can attract visitors, create jobs, and boost economic development. He also talks about the importance of investing in the arts for the future of our community.

In this episode of the The Business Of, we interview Pi Polletta, Community Engagement Manager of Gabriel's Angels, a non-profit organization in Tucson, that provides pet therapy services to vulnerable children.

Pi shares the impact the organization has had on the Tucson community. She also discusses the challenges and rewards of working with vulnerable children and the power of pet therapy to help them heal and thrive.

Gabriel's Angels pet therapy teams visit crisis nurseries, domestic violence and homeless shelters, and Title One schools to provide comfort and support to children who have experienced trauma or are facing difficult challenges. The program is designed to help children develop core behaviors such as attachment, confidence, self-regulation, affiliation, empathy, tolerance, and respect.

If you're interested in learning more about Gabriel's Angels and the important work they do, please visit their website at https://www.gabrielsangels.org/: https://www.gabrielsangels.org/.

In this episode of the Business of Tucson, we talk to Renee Stockland, owner and licensed acupuncturist of Tucson Acupuncture and Wellness. Renee shares her passion for Chinese medicine and how it can be used to treat a variety of health conditions, including pain, anxiety, and depression. She also discusses the importance of employee wellness and how acupuncture can help businesses improve the health and productivity of their employees.

If you're interested in learning more about acupuncture or how it can help you improve your health, listen to this episode of the Business of Tucson.

Tune in to 'The Business Of: Tech Parks Arizona' podcast episode hosted by Michael Guymon, CEO of Tucson Metro Chamber. Discover the dynamic world of Tech Parks Arizona with Ken Marcus, EVP and CFO. Explore the history and evolution of this innovative hub that fosters collaboration between universities, industries, and communities. From purpose-built environments to sustainable practices and global partnerships, learn how Tech Parks Arizona empowers businesses and drives economic growth. Don't miss this insightful conversation on innovation, talent, and the economic impact on the region. Listen now for a glimpse into the future of technology and business in Tucson!

Join hosts Zach Yentzer and Frank Velasquez Jr. from Tucson Metro Chamber as they dive into the critical topic of workforce development and advocacy in Tucson. Discover the challenges and opportunities surrounding building a strong workforce for the present and future and explore how businesses and organizations are working together to shape the region's economic landscape. Don't miss this insightful conversation on accessing talent, breaking down barriers, and fostering a thriving workforce community. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

GUEST: Chris Sapp Assistant General Manager of Doubletree by Hilton Downtown Tucson

GUEST: Rob Tull | Elements

GUEST: Doug Hockstad and Paul Tumarkin | Tech Launch Arizona

Kat Robey | Thriveworks Counseling

The Business Of…Tucson Pops!

Guest:

TAYA POCOCK

Executive Director

TUCSON POPS ORCHESTRA

The Business Of...Access to SBA Loans

GUEST: Dre Thompson | CEO of Tucson Industrial Authority (Tucson IDA)

Ms. Thompson shares how the Tucson IDA funds community projects, small businesses, and first-time homebuyers with a variety of opportunities including the Avanza Empowerment Fund, the Community Catalyst Project, Groundswell Capital, and more. Visit TucsonIDA.org to learn more. 

For more than 125 years, the Tucson Metro Chamber has been the voice of business. This year, the Chamber is focused on showcasing candidates who not only understand the needs of businesses but will also work to introduce and support local policies that address and solve challenges businesses face. The Chamber's Candidate Evaluation Committee interviewed candidates running for the City of Tucson mayor and City Council, gathering their thoughts and perspectives on issues important to the Chamber membership and creating a pro-business environment. Our Candidate Evaluation Committee, comprised of business owners, executives, major employers, and community partners, crafted five questions focusing on key business issues. We invite you to visit our candidate evaluation page on our website at tucsonchamber.org. Review the scorecard, listen to the interviews, read the questionnaires submitted by many of the candidates, and share with your colleagues and neighbors those who you think will support a pro-business environment in Tucson.

For more than 125 years, the Tucson Metro Chamber has been the voice of business. This year, the Chamber is focused on showcasing candidates who not only understand the needs of businesses but will also work to introduce and support local policies that address and solve challenges businesses face. The Chamber's Candidate Evaluation Committee interviewed candidates running for the City of Tucson mayor and City Council, gathering their thoughts and perspectives on issues important to the Chamber membership and creating a pro-business environment. Our Candidate Evaluation Committee, comprised of business owners, executives, major employers, and community partners, crafted five questions focusing on key business issues. We invite you to visit our candidate evaluation page on our website at tucsonchamber.org. Review the scorecard, listen to the interviews, read the questionnaires submitted by many of the candidates, and share with your colleagues and neighbors those who you think will support a pro-business environment in Tucson.

For more than 125 years, the Tucson Metro Chamber has been the voice of business. This year, the Chamber is focused on showcasing candidates who not only understand the needs of businesses but will also work to introduce and support local policies that address and solve challenges businesses face. The Chamber's Candidate Evaluation Committee interviewed candidates running for the City of Tucson mayor and City Council, gathering their thoughts and perspectives on issues important to the Chamber membership and creating a pro-business environment. Our Candidate Evaluation Committee, comprised of business owners, executives, major employers, and community partners, crafted five questions focusing on key business issues. We invite you to visit our candidate evaluation page on our website at tucsonchamber.org. Review the scorecard, listen to the interviews, read the questionnaires submitted by many of the candidates, and share with your colleagues and neighbors those who you think will support a pro-business environment in Tucson.

For more than 125 years, the Tucson Metro Chamber has been the voice of business. This year, the Chamber is focused on showcasing candidates who not only understand the needs of businesses but will also work to introduce and support local policies that address and solve challenges businesses face. The Chamber's Candidate Evaluation Committee interviewed candidates running for the City of Tucson mayor and City Council, gathering their thoughts and perspectives on issues important to the Chamber membership and creating a pro-business environment. Our Candidate Evaluation Committee, comprised of business owners, executives, major employers, and community partners, crafted five questions focusing on key business issues. We invite you to visit our candidate evaluation page on our website at tucsonchamber.org. Review the scorecard, listen to the interviews, read the questionnaires submitted by many of the candidates, and share with your colleagues and neighbors those who you think will support a pro-business environment in Tucson.

For more than 125 years, the Tucson Metro Chamber has been the voice of business. This year, the Chamber is focused on showcasing candidates who not only understand the needs of businesses but will also work to introduce and support local policies that address and solve challenges businesses face. The Chamber's Candidate Evaluation Committee interviewed candidates running for the City of Tucson mayor and City Council, gathering their thoughts and perspectives on issues important to the Chamber membership and creating a pro-business environment. Our Candidate Evaluation Committee, comprised of business owners, executives, major employers, and community partners, crafted five questions focusing on key business issues. We invite you to visit our candidate evaluation page on our website at tucsonchamber.org. Review the scorecard, listen to the interviews, read the questionnaires submitted by many of the candidates, and share with your colleagues and neighbors those who you think will support a pro-business environment in Tucson.

For more than 125 years, the Tucson Metro Chamber has been the voice of business. This year, the Chamber is focused on showcasing candidates who not only understand the needs of businesses but will also work to introduce and support local policies that address and solve challenges businesses face. The Chamber's Candidate Evaluation Committee interviewed candidates running for the City of Tucson mayor and City Council, gathering their thoughts and perspectives on issues important to the Chamber membership and creating a pro-business environment. Our Candidate Evaluation Committee, comprised of business owners, executives, major employers, and community partners, crafted five questions focusing on key business issues. We invite you to visit our candidate evaluation page on our website at tucsonchamber.org. Review the scorecard, listen to the interviews, read the questionnaires submitted by many of the candidates, and share with your colleagues and neighbors those who you think will support a pro-business environment in Tucson.

For more than 125 years, the Tucson Metro Chamber has been the voice of business. This year, the Chamber is focused on showcasing candidates who not only understand the needs of businesses but will also work to introduce and support local policies that address and solve challenges businesses face. The Chamber's Candidate Evaluation Committee interviewed candidates running for the City of Tucson mayor and City Council, gathering their thoughts and perspectives on issues important to the Chamber membership and creating a pro-business environment. Our Candidate Evaluation Committee, comprised of business owners, executives, major employers, and community partners, crafted five questions focusing on key business issues. We invite you to visit our candidate evaluation page on our website at tucsonchamber.org. Review the scorecard, listen to the interviews, read the questionnaires submitted by many of the candidates, and share with your colleagues and neighbors those who you think will support a pro-business environment in Tucson.