In B2B services, the ability to move fast and smart is more than a competitive advantage; it has become a necessity. Operational agility is what allows service providers to meet shifting client priorities, respond to real-time changes, and deliver consistent outcomes without getting stuck in process quicksand. Agility is often discussed in the context of product development … [More]
How to Groom Good Leaders: A Pathway to Effective Leadership
In every organization, community or team, leadership plays a critical role in determining success. Good leaders inspire, guide and elevate those around them, creating environments where people and projects thrive. But leaders are not merely born — they are cultivated. Grooming good leaders is a deliberate and strategic process that involves identifying potential, fostering key … [More]
WESTMARC Elevates 2025 Emerging Leaders Impact Program
The Western Maricopa Coalition (WESTMARC), in collaboration with Leadership West and the Center for the Future of Arizona, is proud to launch the 2025 West Valley Emerging Leaders Impact Program—a regional initiative recognizing exceptional young professionals driving positive change across the West Valley. The program honors professionals under the age of 40 who live or … [More]
Arizona Leadership Network Launches, New Era for Transformational Leaders
Arizona has a new home for values-driven leaders ready to grow, connect, and make an impact. The Arizona Leadership Network is proud to announce its official launch—creating a dynamic space for connection, collaboration, and purposeful growth. At its core, ALN is more than a network—it’s a movement. Designed for experienced leaders who are seeking authentic connection, … [More]
Feedback Loop: Building a System for a Thriving Workforce
Creating a communication system that encourages input and interaction
A strong workforce thrives on communication. When employees feel heard and valued, they’re more engaged, productive and invested in their work. However, according to Gallup, only 33% of the American workforce feels actively engaged at work, while 16% are actively disengaged. This gap highlights the need for stronger communication and feedback systems that encourage and nurture … [More]
They Built Their Family Business by Leading with Trust, Not Title
Chef Rocco and Marco Pezzano of Sfizio Modern Italian Kitchen on building a family business, one decision at a time
Tucked into a busy corner of north Phoenix, Sfizio Modern Italian Kitchen is more than just a neighborhood favorite, it’s a family dream realized through mutual respect, evolving roles and shared leadership. Founded by Chef Rocco Pezzano and his son Marco, Sfizio pairs authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist and a philosophy rooted in trust over titles. But the road to … [More]
Optimize Your Business: Time Milestones for Your Business Exit
Selling your business is a milestone, both personally and financially—but it also takes a well thought out plan to maximize the sale proceeds and to prepare yourself personally for the business exit. The more time the business owners have in crafting and executing their business exit plan will result in a higher probability of them to achieve their desired outcomes. … [More]
Shining Light on American Solar’s People-Centric Vision
American Solar & Roofing embraces a culture where its people can thrive
For many leaders, the path to the top is carefully planned. For me, it was forged through experience, adversity and a deep sense of responsibility. My outlook was shaped by my upbringing as a classic Gen X-er, a so-called "feral child" of divorced working parents — if I didn’t make my own meals while watching “In Living Color,” no one would. I credit that early independence for … [More]
Guiding Principles: The Blueprint for Enduring Business Success
They articulate ‘Who are we; why do we exist; and how do we intend to create value over the long haul?’
Senior leaders understand that building an enterprise isn’t just about navigating market trends or chasing the next big idea — it’s about establishing a foundation that lasts. In decades of working with companies striving to stand out in competitive markets, one truth has consistently emerged: Strong guiding principles are the cornerstone of lasting success. Consider the … [More]
The 7 Commitments of a Great Team
From bestselling author Jon Gordon, top consultant to championship coaches and high-performing teams in the NFL, NBA and MLB, comes a powerful new fable on what it takes to build a truly great team. It's not just talent ― it's commitment. In The 7 Commitments of a Great Team, we follow the journey of Tim, a struggling leader facing declining business performance, low team … [More]
Rebooting Tech Culture: How to Ignite Innovation and Build Organizations Where Everyone Can Thrive
Many technology leaders believe in having more women and people of color in technical and leadership positions throughout their organizations. In truth, though, they just fall back on exclusionary behaviors, like revering the typically male "lone genius" who is essential to their innovative future. But there is a solution. In Rebooting Tech Culture, Whitney argues that the same … [More]
Their Take: Leadership Is a Long Game
ESPN hot take veteran Stephen A. Smith says Mat Ishbia is on the verge of being the “worst owner in NBA history.” Here in Arizona, we see something different: an owner who’s invested more in his teams, his players, and his city in two years than most do in a lifetime. Let’s be clear: the Suns didn’t fall apart overnight, and no one’s above criticism — not even Mat. But to … [More]
Podcast Launches Showcasing Stories Behind Inspiring Business Leaders
Better Business Bureau Pacific Southwest, Central & Inland California (BBB) proudly announces the launch of Leadership Lowdown, a new podcast powered by BBB and leadership development firm U & Improved, dedicated to spotlighting the real stories behind today’s most inspiring local business leaders. Hosted by Jodi Low, CEO of U & Improved and 2025 Chairwoman of … [More]
Mastering the Ultimate Leadership Skill – Coaching
In today’s complex, fast-paced, multigenerational workplace, one leadership skill stands above the rest - coaching. In their new book Coaching Power, Tom Preston and Luciana Nunez, partners at the renowned executive coaching firm The Preston Associates, argue that a leader’s ability to coach—not just command—is the key to unlocking potential, navigating change, and supporting … [More]
Leadership and the Challenges of New Technology, Global Teams, and Hybrid Work
In an era where traditional leadership models are crumbling under the weight of technological change, remote work, and global competition, leaders need a new playbook. In the groundbreaking, Leading in the Age of Digital Disruption, author Mike Peterson delivers exactly that — combining powerful storytelling with battle-tested strategies for building resilient, high-performing … [More]
5 Ways to Improve Your Leadership and Embrace Introspection
Elevating your leadership skills is a powerful and crucial step in career advancement. However, outstanding leadership is not just about guiding others but also about using self-reflection and self-leadership to guide yourself. In the 2024 Harvard Business Global Leadership Development Study, a Senior Director at a Global Health Care Company says it succinctly, “The number … [More]
Arizona Leadership Firm Launches with Focus on Cause Marketing and Coaching
Jill Hawkins Johnson, a certified Dare to Lead™ facilitator and experienced cause marketing strategist announced the launch of JHJ Collective, a consulting firm specializing in "transitive good" – doing good for those who do good for others JHJ Collective offers comprehensive services in two key areas: cause-related marketing strategy and impactful leadership coaching based … [More]
Mastering the Ultimate Leadership Skill: Coaching
In today’s complex, fast-paced, multigenerational workplace, one leadership skill stands above the rest –coaching. In their new book Coaching Power, Tom Preston and Luciana Nunez, partners at the renowned executive coaching firm The Preston Associates, argue that a leader’s ability to coach—not just command—is the key to unlocking potential, navigating change, and supporting … [More]
