Guiding Growth

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Apr 2026

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Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders So often, we define ourselves and others by a title or label. But, who is the person behind the success? Leaders are inspiring, memorable, and often a mystery to those whom they inspire. Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul.

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April 24, 2026Episode 732 min

Bill Spence - 2026 Candidate Edition

Bill is a candidate for Gilbert Town Council with a background in public service and community involvement. His campaign focuses on transparency, fiscal awareness, and maintaining Gilbert’s quality of life as the community continues to grow. Bill emphasizes thoughtful decision-making, public safety, and ensuring that residents remain informed and engaged in local government. He brings a perspective shaped by prior experience and ongoing involvement in community issues, with an interest in balancing growth with long-term sustainability. His approach reflects a focus on accountability and responsiveness to residents. In this episode, we’ll explore his journey to candidacy, the experiences that have shaped his perspective, and how he views the key issues facing Gilbert today. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

April 24, 2026Episode 631 min

Jim Torgeson - 2026 Candidate Edition

Jim Torgeson is running as an incumbent candidate for Gilbert Town Council with a background in public service and leadership. His campaign focuses on fiscal responsibility, infrastructure, and maintaining Gilbert’s high quality of life. Jim emphasizes the importance of experience, transparency, and thoughtful decision-making as the town continues to grow. His platform reflects a commitment to balancing development with community priorities, including public safety and economic stability. Jim brings a perspective shaped by years of involvement in governance and community issues. In this episode, we’ll discuss his professional background, what inspired him to run, and how he views the key issues and opportunities facing Gilbert moving forward. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

April 24, 2026Episode 520 min

Bobbi Buchli - 2026 Candidate Edition

Bobbi Buchli is running as an incumbent candidate for Gilbert Town Council, with a background in community advocacy and public service. Her campaign centers on transparency, thoughtful development, and community engagement. Bobbi has been involved in local initiatives and emphasizes the importance of listening to residents while balancing growth and infrastructure needs. She is focused on issues such as responsible planning, maintaining Gilbert’s family-friendly environment, and ensuring long-term sustainability. Bobbi’s approach reflects a desire to represent the voices of residents while navigating the complexities of a growing community. In this episode, we’ll discuss her path to candidacy, the values that guide her, and her perspective on the key issues impacting Gilbert today. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

April 24, 2026Episode 417 min

Chuck Bongiovanni - 2026 Candidate Edition

Chuck is running as an incumbent candidate for Gilbert Town Council with a professional background rooted in business ownership and community involvement. Through his campaign, he emphasizes fiscal responsibility, economic vitality, and maintaining Gilbert’s high quality of life. Chuck highlights his experience working within the private sector and his understanding of the challenges local businesses face, which informs his approach to decision-making and policy. His platform reflects a focus on responsible growth, infrastructure planning, and public safety, while also preserving the character of the community. In this conversation, we’ll explore Chuck’s professional journey, what led him to run for office, and how he views the opportunities and challenges facing Gilbert’s future. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

April 24, 2026Episode 315 min

Beth Goulden - 2026 Candidate Edition

Beth Goulden is a candidate for Gilbert Town Council with a background in public service and community involvement. Her campaign focuses on thoughtful growth, fiscal stewardship, and maintaining Gilbert’s quality of life. Beth emphasizes collaboration, long-term planning, and ensuring that development aligns with community needs. She has been engaged in local initiatives and brings a perspective centered on balancing progress with preservation. Her priorities include infrastructure, public safety, and fostering a strong sense of community. Beth’s approach reflects a commitment to informed decision-making and community engagement. In this episode, we’ll explore her journey to candidacy, her experience, and her views on the issues shaping Gilbert’s future. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

April 24, 2026Episode 222 min

Joel Coen - 2026 Candidate Edition

Joel Coen is a Gilbert Town Council candidate with experience in business and community leadership. His campaign highlights economic development, strategic growth, and supporting a strong local business environment. Joel brings a perspective shaped by his professional background and involvement in the community, with a focus on ensuring Gilbert remains a competitive and thriving place to live and work. He emphasizes collaboration, infrastructure investment, and maintaining public safety as key priorities. Joel’s platform reflects an interest in balancing growth with preserving the qualities that make Gilbert unique. In this discussion, we’ll learn more about Joel’s background, his motivations for running, and how he approaches the opportunities and challenges facing the town. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

April 24, 2026Episode 139 min

Bus Obayomi - 2026 Candidate Edition

Bus Obayomi is a candidate for Gilbert Town Council with a background in leadership, business, and community engagement. His campaign focuses on economic development, strategic growth, and fostering a strong, inclusive community. Bus emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and long-term planning as Gilbert continues to evolve. He brings a perspective shaped by both professional experience and a commitment to public service, with priorities that include supporting local businesses, maintaining public safety, and ensuring responsible development. Bus’s approach reflects a focus on balancing opportunity with sustainability while preserving Gilbert’s quality of life. In this episode, we’ll explore his journey to candidacy, the experiences that have shaped his leadership, and his perspective on the key issues facing Gilbert today. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com. View our Privacy Policy at https://guidinggrowthpodcast.com/privacy

May 21, 2025Episode 201 hr 2 min

Jason France

Fitness professional, personal trainer, and gym owner. Former Marine Raider and current HYROX athlete. 44 years old and a Phoenix native. 9-year Marine combat veteran with multiple tours to Afghanistan and one to Iraq. I currently do lots of trail running, pumping up of my muscles, and doing my best to stay in tip top shape for HYROX World Championship glory! ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

May 5, 2025Episode 1940 min

Meg Stevens

Meg Stevens joined Arizona Athletic Grounds in July 2024, following an eleven-year tenure at Averett University (AU). At AU, she served as Vice President and Director of Athletics and Campus Operations, leading the institution to remarkable athletic and academic achievements. Stevens significantly enhanced the student-athlete experience, spearheaded major capital improvements, and elevated the university's regional and national profiles. During her time at Averett, Stevens introduced the “3-2-1” philosophy, which aimed for all teams to achieve a 3.0 GPA, finish in the top two in their conference, and work together as "one team." This philosophy fostered a culture change that spread across the entire university. Before Averett, Stevens held multiple roles at Buffalo State, including Assistant Director of Athletics, Director of the CHAMPS/Life Skills Program, and advisor for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). She also served as the Senior Woman Administrator and head lacrosse coach for 11 seasons. Under her leadership, Buffalo State’s women’s lacrosse program became a consistent contender, achieving a 109-65 (.626) record, six conference tournament appearances, a 2012 NCAA Tournament appearance, and a top 20 ranking. Stevens was named SUNYAC Coach of the Year twice and U.S. Lacrosse Regional Coach of the Year in 2004. Stevens has also been active in leadership roles beyond her university positions. She served on the board of directors for Women Leaders in Sports, including a term as president from 2023-24, and on the board for the Boys and Girls Club of Danville. She is a strong advocate for women and minority leaders in sports. A native of Delmar, N.Y., Stevens earned her bachelor’s degree in recreation and leisure management with a minor in sports management from SUNY Cortland and a master’s degree in student personnel administration from Buffalo State. As a student-athlete, she helped the Red Dragons’ lacrosse team win three conference championships and make three NCAA Tournament appearances. In 2024, Stevens was inducted into the Western New York Chapter of the USA Lacrosse Hall of Fame. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy

April 21, 2025Episode 1833 min

Jen Wahl

Jen Wahl is a reporter, meteorologist, and traffic anchor for 12News. Jen joined 12News in February 2016. Prior to joining Team 12, Jen worked at KSNV, the NBC Las Vegas affiliate as a reporter and meteorologist. Earlier in her career, she worked as reporter and weather anchor at KBOI, the CBS affiliate in Boise, Idaho and morning weather anchor at KRNV, the NBC affiliate in Reno, Nevada. Over the years, Jen has covered everything from immigration and drug smuggling stories at the Arizona-Mexico border to wildfires raging across Arizona and Nevada. She was also recognized with Emmy Awards for her reporting and producing roles in a documentary on border and immigration issues in South Africa, breaking news coverage at 12News and reporting on the 12News morning newscast. ---------- Guiding Growth: Conversations with Community Leaders Join our hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as we explore the human journey of leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - as they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners. We'll take away the title, just for a moment, and enjoy a connection with the soul. Be sure to subscribe to our show for more interviews with community leaders. This podcast is brought to you by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and Modern Moments. Learn more about our show at https://guidinggrowth.co. View our Privacy Policy at https://modernmoments.com/privacy