In this episode of Finding Arizona Podcast, we explore A Safe Pool’s journey in revolutionizing pool safety. Founded to prevent pool-related accidents, A Safe Pool has become a trusted provider of removable pool fencing designed to keep children and pets safe while preserving backyard aesthetics. The company’s commitment to quality and safety education has driven its growth from a local business to a national presence. Now, through a collaboration with Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps and the Michael Phelps Foundation, A Safe Pool is amplifying water safety awareness by promoting essential layers of protection—such as barriers, alarms, and supervision.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Essential safety tips for creating a secure pool area at home.
• How A Safe Pool’s removable fencing combines protection with visual appeal.

Key Moments in This Episode:

• 00:04:00 - Intro to Pool Safety
• 00:08:44 - Product Development Journey
• 00:12:54 - Focus on Quality and Differentiation
• 00:15:12 - Employee Training and Community Education
• 00:19:23 - National Impact and Future Goals
• 00:25:40 - Collaboration with Michael Phelps Foundation
• 00:33:51 - Encouraging Community Awareness
• 00:35:46 - Final Thoughts and Resourcese

Resources Mentioned:

• Learn more about pool safety products at asafepool.com.
• Schedule a consultation with A Safe Pool’s Arizona office at 480-622-0706.
• Follow A Safe Pool on social media for updates on water safety and their partnership with the Michael Phelps Foundation.

Connect with Finding Arizona Podcast:

• YouTube: Finding Arizona Podcast
• Facebook: facebook.com/findingarizonapodcast
• Website: findingarizonapodcast.com
• Twitter: twitter.com/findingarizona

In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, Chef Samantha Gutierrez, co-founder of Pickle Farm Foods, shares her inspiring journey of founding a bodega focused on allergy-safe and locally sourced products. From her beginnings as a home chef to building a community-centered business, Sam's story is filled with resilience and creativity. Driven by her personal experience with celiac disease, she’s committed to offering delicious, allergen-free options for her community. Her journey illustrates the impact of family support, the healing power of food, and the importance of celebrating heritage in culinary ventures. In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the secrets to starting a successful allergy-friendly food business in Arizona.
• Explore the influence of family on culinary careers.

The Key Moments in This Episode Are:

• 00:01:30 - Origin Story and Passion for Food
• 00:05:09 - Pursuing Culinary Education
• 00:10:12 - Overcoming Challenges and Starting Pickle Farm Foods
• 00:12:12 - Finding Purpose
• 00:13:27 - Starting Your Own Business
• 00:15:24 - Adapting to Challenges
• 00:19:25 - The Concept of a Bodega
• 00:23:14 - Allergy-Friendly Catering
• 00:25:27 - Using Real Food
• 00:28:33 - Ancestral Connections to Food
• 00:29:41 - Educating the Next Generation
• 00:35:15 - Future Goals

The Resources Mentioned in This Episode Are:

• Visit picklesfarmfood.com to explore Chef Samantha Gutierrez's allergy-friendly catering services and place orders.
• Follow Chef Samantha on Instagram at Pickles Farm Food for updates on events, promotions, and more.
• For inquiries or collaborations, email Chef Samantha at [email protected].

Connect with the Finding Arizona Podcast:

• YouTube: Finding Arizona Podcast
• Facebook: facebook.com/findingarizonapodcast
• Website: findingarizonapodcast.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/findingarizonapodcast
• Twitter: twitter.com/findingarizona

Ready to start your own podcast? Found-House powered by The Finding Arizona Podcast is your best find!

SPONSORS:

• Earth Based Body: Get 20% off your first online purchase at earthbasedbody.com/discount/FINDINGARIZONA.
• Oura Ring: Enjoy $40 off your purchase using our link: ouraring.com.
• SeatGeek: Get a $20 discount on your tickets with code FINDINGARIZONA at seatgeek.com.

In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, dating coach and matchmaker Cat Cantrill shares her inspiring journey from dancer to successful entrepreneur. She highlights the power of embracing change, resilience, and self-love, drawing from her own transformative experiences. Cat also discusses the importance of first impressions in dating and her passion for matchmaking. Her transition from coaching women to helping men illustrates the value of curiosity and pushing past discomfort for growth. Cat's positive attitude and adaptability offer valuable insights for anyone seeking meaningful connections or navigating career changes. Tune in to hear her motivational story and gain guidance for overcoming life's challenges with grace. In this episode, you will be able to:

• • Mastering the art of successful online dating: Uncover the secrets to finding your perfect match in the digital world.
  • Crafting a personal brand after divorce: Learn how to redefine and rebuild yourself with confidence and resilience post-divorce.
  • Embracing the importance of first impressions in dating: Discover how to make a lasting impact from the very first moment you meet someone new.

SUPPORT:

If you love this episode, please share it with someone you know will also enjoy it! Not for us, but for our guests, leave a review on iTunes. While you are listening, post a screenshot on social media and make sure to tag @FindingArizonaPodcast so we can thank you! Leave us a five star review!  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-arizona-podcast/id969100902?mt=2  

• https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/channel/UCT1El4slg62CP_XGg_i23vA
• https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/channel/UCT1El4slg62CP_XGg_i23vA
• https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/findingarizonapodcast
• https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/
• https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/findingarizona
• https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/findingarizonapodcast

Ready to start your own podcast? Found-House  powered by The Finding Arizona Podcast is your best find! https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/found-house

Want to be a guest or a sponsor of the show? Send us a message on the https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/contact 

SPONSORS: Revitalize your self-care routine with Earth Based Body! Get 20% off your first online purchase at https://earthbasedbody.com/discount/FINDINGARIZONA. Embrace the goodness of nature for radiant skin!

Upgrade your wellness game with Oura Ring! Enjoy $40 off your purchase using our exclusive link: https://ouraring.com/raf/a6bde107b4?utm_medium=iac. Elevate your health and sleep tracking now! 

Score a $20 discount on your SeatGeek tickets with code FINDINGARIZONA. Catch your favorite events live from seatgeek.com

In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, Brendan Franks, founder of AZ Law Now Injury Attorneys, shares how a traumatic accident involving his pregnant wife led him to establish his personal injury law firm. Experiencing firsthand the challenges of navigating insurance and legal processes, Brendan realized the crucial need for better representation and support for those in similar situations. His passion for advocating for individuals unaware of their rights and options became the driving force behind his firm. Brendan's commitment to serving underrepresented communities and providing client-centered legal services shines through, making this conversation both insightful and inspiring. Tune in to hear more about his journey and the impact he's making in the personal injury law space. In this episode, you will be able to:

• • Discover the key steps to launching a successful personal injury law firm.
  • Understand the crucial role of legal representation in accidents and how it can protect your rights.
  • Explore effective strategies for growing your business through meaningful community engagement.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:03:07 - The Traumatic Event that Sparked a New Mission 

00:06:04 - The Need for Advocacy in Legal Matters 

00:08:33 - Spousal Support and Encouragement 

00:10:22 - Fulfillment in Helping Clients 

00:12:06 - Dealing with Trauma and Learning from Past Experiences 

00:13:22 - The Reality of Dealing with Insurance Companies 

00:14:23 - The Impact of Insurance on People's Lives 

00:16:20 - The Power of Personal Branding and Connection 

00:22:26 - Hiring and Differentiating as a Non-Attorney Owner 

00:23:27 - Creating a New Category in the Legal Industry 

00:27:29 - Representation for Underrepresented Communities 

00:34:35 - Future Goals  The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• • Visit AZ Law Now's website at azlawnow.com to learn more about their personal injury legal services and how they can help you.
  • Connect with AZ Law Now on social for updates, news, and valuable insights on personal injury law and legal representation.
  • Contact AZ Law Now at 602-654-0202 to schedule a consultation and get the legal representation you need for your personal injury case.

SUPPORT:If you love this episode, please share it with someone you know will also enjoy it! Not for us, but for our guests, leave a review on iTunes. While you are listening, post a screenshot on social media and make sure to tag @FindingArizonaPodcast so we can thank you! Leave us a five star review!  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-arizona-podcast/id969100902?mt=2  

• https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/channel/UCT1El4slg62CP_XGg_i23vA
• https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/channel/UCT1El4slg62CP_XGg_i23vA
• https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/findingarizonapodcast
• https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/
• https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/findingarizona
• https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/findingarizonapodcast

Ready to start your own podcast? Found-House  powered by The Finding Arizona Podcast is your best find!

Want to be a guest or a sponsor of the show? Send us a message on the https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/contact 

SPONSORS: 

Revitalize your self-care routine with Earth Based Body! Get 20% off your first online purchase at https://earthbasedbody.com/discount/FINDINGARIZONA. Embrace the goodness of nature for radiant skin!

Upgrade your wellness game with Oura Ring! Enjoy $40 off your purchase using our exclusive link: https://ouraring.com/raf/a6bde107b4?utm_medium=iac. Elevate your health and sleep tracking now! 

Score a $20 discount on your SeatGeek tickets with code FINDINGARIZONA. Catch your favorite events live from seatgeek.com

Kathleen Ventura, co-owner of Compost Crowd, discovered the need for sustainable waste management through a personal journey of questioning and conscious living. Her inspiration sparked during a visit to her friend in Cleveland, Ohio, where she learned about a company providing food scraps collection services. This encounter ignited Kathleen's passion for environmental impact and led to the founding of Compost Crowd in January 2018. Her journey reflects the power of individual actions and community engagement in creating a positive environmental footprint. Kathleen's commitment to eco-friendly practices and her dedication to making a difference resonate with small business owners seeking to implement sustainable waste management solutions. Her story serves as a beacon of inspiration for those looking to engage with their community and prioritize organic waste management in their business practices.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the environmental benefits of composting and how it can positively impact your business and community.

• Explore the opportunities and steps to start a successful composting service business and turn organic waste into a valuable resource.

• Engage your community in eco-friendly practices and learn how to make a real impact on the environment.

• Uncover effective organic waste management strategies for restaurants and reduce your environmental footprint.

• Get creative with composting solutions for offices and transform waste into sustainable practices for your business.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introducing Kathleen and Compost Crowd
00:01:50 - Origin Story of Compost Crowd
00:06:06 - Connection to the Environment
00:09:57 - Making a Difference with Composting
00:11:43 - Scaling Composting Services
00:12:28 - The Birth of an Idea
00:14:18 - Expansion and Challenges
00:20:19 - Environmental Impact of Composting
00:21:26 - Benefits of Composting Service
00:23:32 - Importance of Waste Reduction
00:23:52 - Benefits of composting and reducing waste
00:24:50 - Importance of returning nutrients to the earth
00:26:22 - Secondary business of composting
00:28:13 - Daily routines and community engagement
00:35:04 - Expansion goals for the business
00:35:15 - Focusing on Engaging Residents
00:36:21 - Building Relationships with Restaurants
00:38:33 - Expanding into Office Composting
00:42:12 - Winning Eco-Friendly Awards
00:45:46 - Operating with Integrity and Meaning
00:47:04 - Building a Family Business
00:47:34 - Promoting Compost Crowd
00:48:16 - Community Engagement
00:48:51 - Conclusion and Farewell

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit compostcrowd.com to sign up for food scraps collection service in the northern Arizona area.

• Connect with Compost Crowd on Instagram for updates, events, and to engage with the community.

• Keep an eye out for the pumpkin drop event in Bolsonaro and Flagstaff in the first week of November to participate in the community engagement activity.

Connect with me here:

• https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/

• https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/channel/UCT1El4slg62CP_XGg_i23vA

• https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/channel/UCT1El4slg62CP_XGg_i23vA

• https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/findingarizonapodcast

• https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/findingarizona

• https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/findingarizonapodcast

Ready to start your own podcast? Found-House.com powered by The Finding Arizona Podcast is your best find!

Shelby Duplessis's journey into civil engineering began with her uncle’s encouragement, igniting her passion for math and science at a time when women in these fields were underrepresented. As she navigated a male-dominated industry, Shelby channeled her drive into community service and leadership, ultimately creating Passion to Powher—a platform empowering young women to break barriers. The recession shifted her focus toward balancing career with family and a deeper connection to nature. In this episode of Finding Arizona Podcast, Shelby shares her inspiring story of resilience, empowerment, and leadership. Her insights on mentorship and personal growth provide valuable lessons for those seeking to align passion with purpose.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Navigate Career Transitions: Discover the keys to smoothly transitioning careers post-recession and thriving in your new professional journey.
• Break Boundaries: Explore the exciting possibilities and opportunities for women in male dominated industries.

• To get involved with Passion to Power, email [email protected] for volunteer and sponsorship opportunities.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• • To get involved with Passion to Power, email [email protected] for volunteer and sponsorship opportunities.
  • Connect with Shelby on Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/shelby.duplessis

SUPPORT:

If you love this episode, please share it with someone you know will also enjoy it! Not for us, but for our guests, leave a review on iTunes. While you are listening, post a screenshot on social media and make sure to tag @FindingArizonaPodcast so we can thank you! 

Leave us a five star review!  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-arizona-podcast/id969100902?mt=2  

Ready to start your own podcast? Found-House powered by The Finding Arizona Podcast is your best find!

https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/found-house

Want to be a guest or a sponsor of the show?

Send us a message on the https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/contact 

SPONSORS: 

Revitalize your self-care routine with Earth Based Body! Get 20% off your first online purchase at https://earthbasedbody.com/discount/FINDINGARIZONA. Embrace the goodness of nature for radiant skin!

Upgrade your wellness game with Oura Ring! Enjoy $40 off your purchase using our exclusive link: https://ouraring.com/raf/a6bde107b4?utm_medium=iac. Elevate your health and sleep tracking now! 

Score a $20 discount on your SeatGeek tickets with code FINDINGARIZONA. Catch your favorite events live from seatgeek.com

Tim Riester is the visionary founder of Riester, a renowned advertising agency based in Arizona. Tim shares his inspiring journey from growing up in a small Ohio town to becoming a creative force in the marketing world. He reflects on how his family background, particularly his grandfather’s influence in the arts and his mother’s unconventional outlook on life, fueled his storytelling talents.  Throughout the conversation, Tim offers fascinating insights into the art of storytelling in advertising, the agency's award winning, impactful work, and how embracing technological advancements has propelled Riester’s growth. For marketers, advertisers, and entrepreneurs alike, this episode provides essential lessons on blending creativity with business acumen to create lasting impact. In this episode, you will learn to:

• Discover how family background can influence creativity and storytelling in marketing.
• Learn the key steps to successfully transition from employee to agency owner.
• Explore the importance of storytelling in crafting compelling marketing campaigns.
• Learn how Arizona's unique environment fosters business success and innovation.

Key moments in this episode:

00:03:05 - Influence on Creativity and Business

00:13:08 - Nurturing Talent 

00:16:18 - Building Relationships and Discovering Hidden Talents

00:19:00 - The Power of Storytelling

00:29:19 - Illustrating Creativity with AI Tools

00:31:51 - Winning Awards and Agency Recognition

00:39:08 - Arizona's Inspiring Environment

00:42:30 - Arizona's Visionary Leaders

00:48:27 - Business and Foundation Outreach

00:49:46 - Gratitude and Recognition Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Email Riester at [email protected] for business inquiries.
• Visit riester.com for more information about their services.
• Call Riester at 602-462-2261 for direct assistance.
• Explore Riester's foundation work at riesterfoundation.com to learn about their environmental and animal advocacy projects.
• Get informed and make your vote count with the Citizens Clean Elections Commission! Visit azcleanelections.gov for nonpartisan and unbiased information on Arizona elections. Whether you're looking for candidate details, voting guides, or key election resources, we've got you covered. Empower your vote—access trusted information today!

Connect with us:

• Twitter
• YouTube
• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Finding Arizona Podcast

Interested in starting your own podcast? Found House powered by The Finding Arizona Podcast is your best find! https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/found-house

In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, host Jose Acevedo talks with Ross Novotny, co-founder of Now Pools, about his entrepreneurial journey and the innovative world of on-demand pools and spas. Ross shares the inspiration behind the creation of Now Pools, focusing on the need for adaptable pool solutions in the extreme heat of Phoenix. He highlights the importance of family support during the pandemic and the challenges faced in developing their temporary pool solution. His approach to problem-solving and customer-centric innovation provides invaluable insights for entrepreneurs everywhere. 

Unlock an exclusive deal with the code "FindingAZ" and get $100 off your next pool or spa service! Whether you're looking for installation, maintenance, or planning a special event, Now Pools has got you covered!  In this episode, you will learn how to:

• Discover the benefits of above-ground pools and how they can enhance your outdoor living space.
• Effectively manage pool chemicals and maintenance to keep your pool clean and safe.
• Uncover the key steps to expanding a unique business model nationally.

Key moments in this episode:

00:03:09 - Origin Story of Now Pools

0:07:05 - Support and Partnership

00:11:40 - Timing and Success

00:13:17 - Addressing Consumer Needs

00:14:01 - Chemical Maintenance Challenges

00:16:29 - On-Demand Pool Delivery

00:18:35 - Innovation and Problem-Solving

00:21:35 - Creating a New Market

00:25:01 - Client-Centric Approach

00:27:02 - Building Trust and Teamwork

00:28:32 - Lessons from Consulting

00:31:13 - Leadership and Decision-Making

00:32:05 - Expansion Plans Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Visit nowpools.com to learn more about their on-demand pool and spa subscription service and sign up for their services.
• Unlock an exclusive deal with the code "FindingAZ" and get $100 off your next pool or spa service! Whether you're looking for installation, maintenance, or planning a special event, Now Pools has got you covered
• Check out Finding Arizona Podcast at FindingArizonaPodcast.com to listen to more episodes with inspiring entrepreneurs.

Connect with us:

• Facebook
• Finding Arizona Podcast
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• Twitter

Interested in starting your own podcast? Found House powered by The Finding Arizona Podcast is your best find!https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/found-house
Want to be a guest or a sponsor of the show? Send us a message on the https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/contact 

SPONSORS: Revitalize your self-care routine with Earth Based Body! Get 20% off your first online purchase at https://earthbasedbody.com/discount/FINDINGARIZONA. Embrace the goodness of nature for radiant skin!

Upgrade your wellness game with Oura Ring! Enjoy $40 off your purchase using our exclusive link: https://ouraring.com/raf/a6bde107b4?utm_medium=iac. Elevate your health and sleep tracking now! 

Score a $20 discount on your SeatGeek tickets with code FINDINGARIZONA. Catch your favorite events live from seatgeek.com

Unlock an exclusive deal with the code "FindingAZ" and get $100 off your next pool or spa service! Whether you're looking for installation, maintenance, or planning a special event, Now Pools has got you covered!

In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, we sit down with Erin Conrad, the passionate founder of Conrad Music. Erin shares her journey from starting a local music school in Gilbert, AZ, to expanding her vision into something much larger—bringing music into every household. We explore how Conrad Music has evolved from private lessons to an innovative teaching platform, helping students and teachers alike enhance their musical journey. With over a decade of teaching experience, Erin dives into the unique methods she uses to create enriching musical experiences, retain students, and offer fresh resources to families and music educators. In this episode, you will be able to:

• Explore how Conrad Music brings music education into homes and communities.
• Learn about Erin’s innovative teaching approach that has helped countless teachers expand their studios and retain students.
• Gain insights into the tools and resources Conrad Music offers for both parents and teachers to enhance the learning experience.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Learn more about Conrad Music’s mission and services: https://conradmusic.studio/
• Access free educational resources for parents and teachers: https://conradmusic.studio/resources

SUPPORT:

If you love this episode, please share it with someone you know will also enjoy it! Not for us, but for our guests, leave a review on iTunes. While you are listening, post a screenshot on social media and make sure to tag @FindingArizonaPodcast so we can thank you! Leave us a five star review!  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-arizona-podcast/id969100902?mt=2  

• https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/
• https://www.youtube.com/@findingarizonapodcast
• https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/findingarizonapodcast
• https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/findingarizona
• https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/findingarizonapodcast
• https://www.instagram.com/findingarizonapodcast/

Ready to start your own podcast? Found House powered by The Finding Arizona Podcast is your best find!https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/found-house
SPONSORS: 

Revitalize your self-care routine with Earth Based Body! Get 20% off your first online purchase at https://earthbasedbody.com/discount/F.... Embrace the goodness of nature for radiant skin!

Upgrade your wellness game with Oura Ring! Enjoy $40 off your purchase using our exclusive link: https://ouraring.com/raf/a6bde107b4?u.... Elevate your health and sleep tracking now! 

Score a $20 discount on your SeatGeek tickets with code FINDINGARIZONA. Catch your favorite events live from seatgeek.com

In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, host Jose Acevedo sits down with Joshua Byrd, owner of WHOLEISTIC FITNESS, and his partner, Jade, to discuss their entrepreneurial journey in the fitness industry. Joshua and Jade share how personal health challenges led to the creation of their holistic approach, which emphasizes community, accountability, and personalized wellness plans. They discuss the importance of work-life balance, integrating mindfulness and yoga into their programs, and the strong partnership behind their success. Packed with insights for aspiring fitness entrepreneurs, this episode offers inspiration and practical advice for anyone looking to elevate their wellness journey.In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the benefits of holistic health and wellness for a well-rounded fitness journey.
• Uncover the entrepreneurial journey in the fitness industry and get inspired to take your business to the next level.
• Explore the art of integrating yoga into fitness routines and elevate your workout experiences.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• • Visit fitness website at https://wholeisticfitness.us/ for more information about their services, classes, and community events.
  • Contact holistic fitness: 4405 E Ray Rd STE 5, Phoenix, AZ 85044 (602) 312-3171 [email protected]

SUPPORT:If you love this episode, please share it with someone you know will also enjoy it! Not for us, but for our guests, leave a review on iTunes. While you are listening, post a screenshot on social media and make sure to tag @FindingArizonaPodcast so we can thank you! Leave us a five star review!  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-arizona-podcast/id969100902?mt=2  

• https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/
• https://www.youtube.com/@findingarizonapodcast
• https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/findingarizonapodcast
• https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/findingarizona
• https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/findingarizonapodcast
• https://www.instagram.com/findingarizonapodcast/

Ready to start your own podcast? Found House powered by The Finding Arizona Podcast is your best find!https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/found-house
SPONSORS: 

Revitalize your self-care routine with Earth Based Body! Get 20% off your first online purchase at https://earthbasedbody.com/discount/F.... Embrace the goodness of nature for radiant skin!

Upgrade your wellness game with Oura Ring! Enjoy $40 off your purchase using our exclusive link: https://ouraring.com/raf/a6bde107b4?u.... Elevate your health and sleep tracking now! 

Score a $20 discount on your SeatGeek tickets with code FINDINGARIZONA. Catch your favorite events live from seatgeek.com

In this episode of the Finding Arizona Podcast, Fernando Lopez shares his journey from the military to independent filmmaking. He discusses his transition from the Marine Corps to pursuing acting and filmmaking, highlighting the benefits of indie films over big studio productions. Lopez emphasizes leveraging local resources and the dynamic interplay of actor-director roles in indie films. His narrative provides valuable lessons for aspiring independent filmmakers. Lopez's enthusiasm and determination make this episode a must-listen for understanding indie filmmaking strategies and the evolving film industry landscape. Be sure to check out his Award Winning Film “VEGA” streaming on @tubi @primevideo.  In this episode, you will be able to:

• • Discover how military skills can be harnessed for a successful shift into the dynamic world of filmmaking.
  • Embracing the Benefits of Indie Films over Big Studio Productions.
  • Leveraging Local Resources in Film Production.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:04:48 - Early Acting Opportunities 

00:13:09 - Film Industry in Arizona 

00:25:40 - Starting out in the Film Industry 

00:27:26 - Writing What You Know 

00:31:34 - Embracing Unique Strengths 

00:36:26 - The Director's Vision 

00:38:10 - The Filmtrepreneur Mindset 

00:39:19 - The Importance of Subtle Storytelling 

00:41:29 - Indie Filmmaking Work Ethic 

00:45:11 - Future Projects and Goals 

00:49:57 - Final remarks  The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit Big Fern's Instagram profile @bigfern to connect and stay updated on his latest projects and releases.
• Explore Fernando’s IMDb page to learn more about his work and to contact him directly via email.

SUPPORT:If you love this episode, please share it with someone you know will also enjoy it! Not for us, but for our guests, leave a review on iTunes. While you are listening, post a screenshot on social media and make sure to tag @FindingArizonaPodcast so we can thank you! Leave us a five star review!  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-arizona-podcast/id969100902?mt=2  

• https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/channel/UCT1El4slg62CP_XGg_i23vA
• https://www.youtube.com/youtube.com/channel/UCT1El4slg62CP_XGg_i23vA
• https://www.linkedin.com/linkedin.com/findingarizonapodcast
• https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/
• https://www.twitter.com/twitter.com/findingarizona
• https://www.facebook.com/facebook.com/findingarizonapodcast

Ready to start your own podcast? Found-House.com powered by The Finding Arizona Podcast is your best find!Want to be a guest or a sponsor of the show? Send us a message on the https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/contact 

SPONSORS: Revitalize your self-care routine with Earth Based Body! Get 20% off your first online purchase at https://earthbasedbody.com/discount/FINDINGARIZONA. Embrace the goodness of nature for radiant skin!

Upgrade your wellness game with Oura Ring! Enjoy $40 off your purchase using our exclusive link: https://ouraring.com/raf/a6bde107b4?utm_medium=iac. Elevate your health and sleep tracking now! 

Score a $20 discount on your SeatGeek tickets with code FINDINGARIZONA. Catch your favorite events live from seatgeek.com