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 businesses and the broader community. The conversation also explores the rapid growth of women’s sports and how Phoenix can leverage this moment to position itself as a long-term hub for major sporting events and leadership.

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 growth. Barrett also discusses the legacy of the USS Arizona and how its story continues to inspire service and community leadership today.

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 federal policy. The conversation also looks ahead, exploring his long‑term vision for Greater Phoenix’s growth and competitiveness.

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 becoming a premier destination for sports, entertainment, and business growth.

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, and advanced air mobility. Don’t miss this informative episode to kick off the new year!

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 intersection of social challenges with economic growth, and the vital role of local businesses and community action in driving measurable, long-term impact—especially as VSUW celebrates its 100th anniversary and launches the Valley 100 initiative.

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 MIM’s economic and cultural contributions to the Valley, as well as Craig’s vision for the museum’s future goals.