Latest Issue: August 2021
Cover Story
Coming Back: How Marketing Will Build (Back) Business after COVID
The term “new normal” is bandied about quite a bit these days. And, indeed, the consensus seems to be that consumers’ relationship with companies they turn to for goods, services and information has evolved in new directions from what was … [More]
Features
Lost in the Amazon
When I think about what’s wrong with today’s internet experience, I often remember the time I tried to plan a family vacation. I logged in with high hopes. In the old days, I might have turned to a travel agent, but today all the tools that … [More]
Harrah’s Ak-Chin, a Community HERO
People. Planet. Play. Service to these fundamentals is integral in the long-standing traditions and culture of the Ak-Chin Indian Community, which has a commitment to preserve and impact not only the tribal community but neighboring communities in a … [More]
Making Sense of the Puzzle
“Whenever you see a successful business, someone once made a courageous decision.” —Peter F. Drucker In my previous article, exploring the possibilities, our topic was seizing the opportunities for the business to take advantage of change. In this … [More]
The Silent Killer of a CEO
C-suite execs are used to problems from employees, stalled cash flow, unexpected challenges arriving out of nowhere, and the futile attempt to maintain a balance between home life and work life. After a while, these leaders feel trapped in a … [More]
Roundtable
Flip the Pyramid – Bottom-Up Pipeline for Ideas
Innovation doesn’t just come in a box or get delivered to overnight. Like a plant, it needs to be watered and fed so it can grow. Many organizations … [More]
Economy
Businesses Benefit: The Work Opportunity Tax Credit
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal tax credit available to employers who hire people in certain target demographics who often … [More]
Legal
Fighting Defamation
Imagine Googling your name to find that you’ve been hijacked by a computer-savvy foe, who has cleverly labeled you a convicted sex offender, drug … [More]
Nonprofit
Record Giving Reaches $471 Billion. What Does It Mean for 2021?
While a strong year-end stock market and record giving in response to COVID-19 and racial justice efforts drove growth in contributions, a tumultuous year created an uneven picture. Total estimated charitable giving in the United States rose 5.1% … [More]
From the Top
Savanna and Perry Stephens: Autism No Barrier for Entrepreneurs
Savanna and Perry Stephens launched their career as the owners of the Phoenix, Arizona, SpeedPro Desert Valley franchise in 2020 after relocating from their home in New Mexico. While starting a … [More]
CRE
The Rise of B2R Communities
The current forecast for multifamily properties is a roller coaster for anyone trying to pin down information from leading analysts. During this time of uncertainty, we have identified a few trends to expect in the coming years. First, as always, … [More]
Bringing (Good) KARMA to North Central Phoenix
As we step back into a post-pandemic world, I know I am not alone when I say I have emerged after months of work and self-reflection with a new perspective and clear focus on what I want to do and achieve both personally and professionally. In … [More]
Phoenix Real Estate Draws the Life Sciences Market
Between COVID-19 and new innovations across the pharmaceutical industry, demand for life sciences space has never been higher. This is good news for Phoenix, which is in a prime position to support this lucrative business sector. According to … [More]
Healthcare
Prep Now for Open Enrollment – 5 Steps to Ensure Success
For many, open enrollment is a dreaded time of year. With more than 20 years of open enrollment seasons under my belt, I have experienced my fair share of employers calling me in crisis because they just received their insurance renewals and do not … [More]
Technology
Fintech Innovations Drive Business Worldwide
Fintech startups played a significant role in the global financial industry during the pandemic. Payments companies especially have brought rapid … [More]
By the Numbers
Employers Delay Promotions Due to Pandemic
The pandemic put a pause on everything, including raises. In a recent study by professional staffing firm Robert Half, more than half of U.S. … [More]
Briefs
Maintenance Tips for a Well-Running Business Fleet
Preventive fleet maintenance will save a business time and money. Small businesses running well-maintained fleets save fuel and deal with fewer breakdowns. However, small-business owners still come up short when it comes to fleet maintenance. As a … [More]
Restaurant Industry Faces Hiring Crisis and Extreme Rise in Food Costs
It has been a trying year for the restaurant industry and, throughout the pandemic, restaurants across the nation as well as many local restaurants, including Arizona-based fast-casual pizzeria Fired Pie, had to temporarily close some of their stores … [More]
Customers Turn the Tables on Service
It’s no secret that the pandemic has caused a massive employee shortage in the hospitality industry. My wife, Cindy, and I have owned Il Vinaio in downtown Mesa for 12 years and, while we have been through our share of challenges, the recent lack of … [More]
DYPER Composting Diverts from Landfills
Eco-friendly diaper delivery service DYPER has launched a unique new service in Phoenix to make parents’ lives easier while offering a sustainable diapering option. DYPER provides a convenient monthly diaper delivery via a recurring subscription, and … [More]
How Tech Companies Improve Sourcing New Talent
Contrary to popular belief, there is not a talent crunch in the tech industry. Rather, the real issue lies in how tech companies are sourcing and selecting technical talent. As a new group of graduates enters the workforce, companies should think … [More]