Phoenix Prosperity Podcast

Standardized tests have been debated for years—do they help students, or are they just a hurdle? In this episode of The Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, Tim Fergestad sits down with Andrew Caldwell, CEO of Shmoop, to talk about how his company is changing the game for test prep and education.
Andrew shares the fascinating story of how Shmoop started from a simple YouTube video and grew into a platform helping students nationwide. From SAT and ACT prep to financial literacy and even social-emotional learning, Shmoop offers a unique, humor-filled approach to education. Tim and Andrew discuss why standardized testing isn’t going away, how data-driven learning improves outcomes, and how Shmoop helped Texas and Utah students boost their scores and unlock new opportunities.
They also touch on the importance of adaptive learning, AI’s role in education, and what schools and parents can do to set students up for success. Plus, Andrew reveals a special discount for podcast listeners!
Tune in to learn:
Why humor and engagement are key to better learning outcomes
How a personalized test-prep approach can help students improve scores
Why standardized testing is making a comeback—and what it means for students and schools
How AI is shaping the future of test-taking and essay evaluations
---------------------------------------------------- Interested in being part of this? Please visit our guest invitation page where you can learn more and fill out a brief questionnaire to get started: https://phoenixprosperitypodcast.com/guest It’s going to be enlightening and, most importantly, a lot of fun. I’d love for you to be a part of it!

In this episode of the Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, Tim Fergestad sits down with Paul Zohav, a seasoned chaplain, domestic violence counselor, and marriage coach with over 30 years of experience helping couples build strong, lasting relationships. Paul shares insights from his new book, Marriage and Communication: Recipes for Life, offering practical tools for improving communication, deepening intimacy, and preventing common relationship pitfalls.
Paul introduces simple yet powerful techniques, such as using “Yes, and…” to foster connection and “seems” to avoid unnecessary conflict. He also dives into love languages, personality types, and the importance of responding rather than reacting in conversations. Whether you're newly married or decades into your relationship, these insights will help you create a more fulfilling partnership.
Paul also discusses how these communication strategies can apply in the workplace, helping businesses foster collaboration and reduce conflict.
Key Topics Discussed:
The five gifts of “Yes, and…” for better communication
How the five love languages impact relationships
The role of personality types in understanding your partner
The importance of presence in conversations
How corporate teams can benefit from improved communication
--------------------------------------------------- Interested in being part of this? Please visit our guest invitation page where you can learn more and fill out a brief questionnaire to get started: https://phoenixprosperitypodcast.com/guest It’s going to be enlightening and, most importantly, a lot of fun. I’d love for you to be a part of it!

In this episode of the Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, Tim Fergestad sits down with Kristin Hege, founder and CEO of Convey Communications, a leading PR and communications firm specializing in B2B tech. Kristin shares her journey in the PR industry, how she built her firm into a trusted partner for some of the most innovative software companies, and what it takes to stand out in an increasingly crowded media landscape.
Kristin dives into the challenges of modern PR, from shrinking newsrooms to the rise of influencer relations in B2B. She also offers insights into how growth-stage tech companies can effectively use PR to drive brand awareness, support long sales cycles, and build credibility in their industries.
Beyond her professional work, Kristin discusses her passion for mentoring the next generation of PR professionals, her involvement in industry organizations, and her personal goals for building long-term wealth through real estate investments.
In This Episode, You'll Learn:
How B2B tech companies can leverage PR for growth
The biggest challenges in media relations today
Why thought leadership is key in the tech industry
Kristin’s approach to leadership and company culture
Her personal journey in entrepreneurship and wealth-building
--------------------------------------------------- Interested in being part of this? Please visit our guest invitation page where you can learn more and fill out a brief questionnaire to get started: https://phoenixprosperitypodcast.com/guest It’s going to be enlightening and, most importantly, a lot of fun. I’d love for you to be a part of it!

In this episode of The Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, host Tim Fergestad sits down with Derek Lundsten, President and Chief Culture Officer of Lifeguides. Lifeguides is a unique platform that connects people facing life challenges with mentors who have been through similar experiences. Whether it’s becoming a new parent, transitioning from military to civilian life, or dealing with caregiving responsibilities, Lifeguides offers a human-centered approach to support and guidance.
Derek shares the inspiration behind Lifeguides and how the company is filling the gap left by traditional support systems. He discusses the platform’s peer-to-peer model, the role of technology in creating meaningful human connections, and the impact of intentional community-building.
Tim and Derek also explore how Phoenix has become a hub for Lifeguides and why it’s an ideal place to foster innovation and conscious leadership. Derek opens up about the challenges of growing the company, the lessons he’s learned as an entrepreneur, and Lifeguides’ ambitious vision to positively impact a billion people worldwide.
In this episode, you'll learn:✅ How Lifeguides is creating a world where no one navigates life alone✅ The power of peer mentorship in overcoming life’s challenges✅ Why Phoenix is a growing hub for innovation and conscious leadership✅ How Lifeguides balances technology with real human connection✅ Derek’s personal journey as an entrepreneur and what success looks like for him
Whether you're an entrepreneur, a leader looking to support your team, or simply someone seeking guidance from those who’ve walked your path, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.
 
---------------------------------------------------- Interested in being part of this? Please visit our guest invitation page where you can learn more and fill out a brief questionnaire to get started: https://phoenixprosperitypodcast.com/guest It’s going to be enlightening and, most importantly, a lot of fun. I’d love for you to be a part of it!

In this episode of the Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, host Tim Fergestad sits down with Joshua Offenhartz, managing partner at Kahana Feld in Arizona. Joshua brings a wealth of experience in legal strategy, helping businesses navigate challenges from incorporation to litigation.
He shares insights on the common legal pitfalls entrepreneurs face, the importance of proactive legal planning, and how businesses can protect themselves from unnecessary disputes. Joshua also discusses how the legal industry is evolving with technology and what the future holds for firms like Kahana Feld.
In this episode, we discuss:
How Joshua helps businesses of all sizes with legal strategy
Common legal mistakes entrepreneurs make (and how to avoid them)
Why lawsuits are inevitable for successful businesses—and how to manage them
The impact of AI and technology on the legal industry
Joshua’s approach to investing and financial planning
 
---------------------------------------------------- Interested in being part of this? Please visit our guest invitation page where you can learn more and fill out a brief questionnaire to get started: https://phoenixprosperitypodcast.com/guest It’s going to be enlightening and, most importantly, a lot of fun. I’d love for you to be a part of it!

After spending over 40 years in the corporate world, Gordon Parkman turned his focus to helping small and mid-sized business owners navigate the challenges of growth. As the founder of Achieve Results Consulting, Gordon provides hands-on coaching to entrepreneurs at every stage—whether they're just starting out or feeling stuck after years in business.
In this episode of The Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, Gordon shares:
The key business elements every owner must master, from financial control to operations
How he helps clients develop detailed growth plans and stay accountable
Why he uses “invisible persuasion” to guide business owners to their own solutions
The biggest challenges he’s faced in his corporate and entrepreneurial journey
How having an accountability partner has shaped his success
If you're a business owner looking for clarity and direction, this episode is packed with insights to help you take the next step.
 
---------------------------------------------------- Interested in being part of this? Please visit our guest invitation page where you can learn more and fill out a brief questionnaire to get started: https://phoenixprosperitypodcast.com/guest It’s going to be enlightening and, most importantly, a lot of fun. I’d love for you to be a part of it!

On this episode of the Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, host Tim Fergestad sits down with Trevor Helmer, a former banker turned entrepreneur, who’s making waves in the golf industry with Kin Golf Club—Scottsdale’s premier private indoor golf experience.
After spending years in finance, Trevor found himself at a crossroads following a bank collapse and a layoff. Rather than returning to corporate life, he took a leap into his passion: creating an elite, high-tech indoor golf club that gives golfers a 24/7, weatherproof, and data-driven way to improve their game.
Trevor shares how cutting-edge golf simulation technology like TrackMan launch monitors helps players refine their skills with precision. He also talks about the importance of knowing your numbers in golf, the challenges of launching a business, and his long-term vision for growing Kin Golf Club into a community-driven, performance-focused golf destination.
Tune in to hear:
How a garage golf setup inspired a luxury indoor golf club
The state-of-the-art technology that makes Kin Golf different
Why indoor golf is booming worldwide and how it's evolving in the U.S.
The biggest challenges of starting a business from scratch
Trevor’s take on success, personal growth, and financial freedom
If you’re a golfer, entrepreneur, or just love stories of career reinvention, you won’t want to miss this episode!
 
---------------------------------------------------- Interested in being part of this? Please visit our guest invitation page where you can learn more and fill out a brief questionnaire to get started: https://phoenixprosperitypodcast.com/guest It’s going to be enlightening and, most importantly, a lot of fun. I’d love for you to be a part of it!

Navigating the complexities of prescription drug coverage can be overwhelming, but pharmacist and Medicare specialist Natalie Sales is here to help! With nearly 20 years of experience as a pharmacist—including a deep dive into compounding and veterinary medicine—Natalie has now shifted her focus to helping seniors find the right Medicare plans that fit their needs and budgets.
In this episode of the Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, Natalie shares her journey from pharmacist to insurance expert, her passion for educating seniors about their options, and the huge impact the right prescription plan can have on healthcare costs. She also dives into the realities of pharmaceutical regulations, the world of compounding medicine, and how she’s building a community-focused business to better serve seniors.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
How Natalie transitioned from retail and compounding pharmacy to Medicare consulting
Why prescription drug costs vary so much and how to find the best plan
The importance of annual Medicare reviews—and how one simple change could save thousands
How compounded medications can be a more affordable option for some treatments
Why education and community outreach are the keys to navigating the healthcare system
---------------------------------------------------- Interested in being part of this? Please visit our guest invitation page where you can learn more and fill out a brief questionnaire to get started: https://phoenixprosperitypodcast.com/guest It’s going to be enlightening and, most importantly, a lot of fun. I’d love for you to be a part of it!

In this episode of the Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, host Tim Fergestad sits down with Lloyd Hopkins, a solutions-focused leader dedicated to strengthening communities through education and media. Lloyd is the Chief Brand Officer at STN (Social Television Network), a board member at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix, and the founder and executive director of the Million Dollar Teacher Project.
Lloyd shares his journey from working in classrooms to launching an organization that champions and uplifts educators. He discusses the urgent need for teacher support, the impact of education on prosperity, and how his organization is working to increase teacher compensation, recognition, and resources.
Tim and Lloyd also talk about his work with STN, a streaming television network focused on local issues and leaders. He explains how STN Plus, a new subscription platform, will connect viewers with inspiring local leaders and actionable insights.
Listen in as Lloyd shares:
His personal journey from self-discovery to launching the Million Dollar Teacher Project
The crisis in teacher retention and why supporting educators is a community responsibility
The mission of STN and how it’s changing the local media landscape
His thoughts on authentic leadership and building wealth without sacrificing identity
---------------------------------------------------- Interested in being part of this? Please visit our guest invitation page where you can learn more and fill out a brief questionnaire to get started: https://phoenixprosperitypodcast.com/guest It’s going to be enlightening and, most importantly, a lot of fun. I’d love for you to be a part of it!

How do consulting firms stand out in a crowded market? In this episode of the Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, I sit down with Mike Grinberg, founder of Proofpoint Marketing, to dive into the nuances of growth consulting. Mike shares his journey from aspiring graphic designer to marketing expert and business owner, offering insights into how he helps consulting and advisory firms scale sustainably.
We discuss:
Why differentiation in consulting is more than just having a unique process
The role of risk and relationships in business growth
The transition from running an agency to building a high-profit, small-scale business
The challenges of entrepreneurship, from financial struggles to major business pivots
The importance of investing early and building wealth with intention
Mike also shares book recommendations that shaped his approach and gives practical advice for those looking to refine their positioning and marketing strategy. If you’re an entrepreneur, consultant, or business owner looking to scale smartly, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.
 
---------------------------------------------------- Interested in being part of this? Please visit our guest invitation page where you can learn more and fill out a brief questionnaire to get started: https://phoenixprosperitypodcast.com/guest It’s going to be enlightening and, most importantly, a lot of fun. I’d love for you to be a part of it!