Phoenix Prosperity Podcast

In this episode of the Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, host Tim Fergestad sits down with Rick Marencic, the design principal and studio director at JCJ Architecture. Rick shares insights from his decades-long career in architecture and interior design, where he’s worked on everything from airports and casinos to high-end hotels and restaurants.
Rick’s expertise spans industries, but his passion for creativity and storytelling shines through. Learn how his artistic roots, growing up in a family of makers, influenced his approach to design and his success as a mentor and leader in the field. Rick also takes us behind the scenes on some of his fascinating projects, including his work with Rainforest Café and tribal casinos across the United States.
Key highlights include:
The unique challenges of designing in high-security environments like airports and casinos.
How JCJ Architecture is expanding its reach into the Phoenix market and beyond.
Rick’s perspective on balancing creativity, teaching, and leadership in a fast-paced industry.
Personal reflections on the lessons Rick has learned, his artistic journey, and his family’s influence on his craft.
---------------------------------------------------- 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 welcomes Deacon Hayes, the founder of Well Kept Wallet, a platform dedicated to helping people make money, save money, and escape the weight of debt. Deacon shares the inspiring story of how he and his wife tackled $52,000 in debt using simple, actionable strategies that anyone can implement.
Deacon discusses the philosophy behind his financial approach, emphasizing the importance of education, tools like the debt snowball method, and shifting from trading time for money to building streams of income. He also reveals how Well Kept Wallet evolved from a simple blog to a global brand offering financial education across platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.
Other highlights include:
Why January is the perfect month to review your portfolio.
How Deacon's financial checklist simplifies the path to financial freedom.
The impact of teaching financial literacy to kids, including tips for empowering the next generation.
The benefits of focusing on index funds and diversification while avoiding emotional investment pitfalls.
 
---------------------------------------------------- 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 Ryan Abbott, the dynamic president of Clayco’s Southwest region. Ryan is a nationally recognized leader in construction and design, a published educator, and a driving force in the world of integrated project delivery.
Ryan shares insights into how Clayco stands out as a fully integrated design-build firm—handling everything from sourcing land and capital to designing, engineering, and constructing cutting-edge projects. From data centers to manufacturing facilities, Ryan discusses the critical role Clayco plays in Phoenix’s booming built environment.
You’ll hear about Clayco’s growth trajectory, including 7 million labor hours in 2024, and how they’re transforming industries like energy, microelectronics, and high-rise construction. Ryan also dives into leadership lessons, his focus on tangible impact, and the importance of staying ambitious in both business and personal investments.
If you’re curious about innovation in the construction world, the future of Phoenix’s infrastructure, or how to make a lasting impact, this episode is a must-listen.
Highlights:
How Clayco operates as a one-stop shop for design and construction.
The sectors driving Phoenix’s growth, including data centers, energy, and manufacturing.
Ryan’s leadership philosophy and the power of diverse teams.
The importance of investing in people and creating tangible value.
Reflections on wealth building, risk-taking, and the exponential nature of progress.
 
---------------------------------------------------- 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 Susan Mershon, founder of The Techie Mentor and a seasoned business strategist, to discuss how she empowers entrepreneurs, virtual assistants, and freelancers to build scalable, freedom-based businesses.
With over 15 years of experience in IT and the online business world, Susan shares her journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship and explains how she helps coaches, consultants, and course creators simplify their digital marketing strategies. She dives into the importance of leveraging technology and automation to create sustainable businesses while focusing on what you love most.
Susan also introduces her exciting new venture, The Techie Strategist, which aims to provide coaches and consultants with not only the tools and strategies to succeed but also ongoing support through an agency model. Along the way, she discusses challenges in the tech space, navigating AI advancements, and building multiple income streams for long-term financial freedom.
Key Takeaways from the Episode:
The importance of aligning tech with strategy (not the other way around)
How to simplify funnels, websites, and social media for coaches and consultants
Insights into creating digital products and multiple income streams
Overcoming challenges like shiny object syndrome and money mindset issues
---------------------------------------------------- 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 Tyler Jordan, Managing Partner at Nova House, to discuss the exciting world of offshore luxury real estate investments. Tyler, who has lived and worked in over 30 countries, shares how his company makes investing in international real estate seamless for U.S.-based accredited investors.
Learn about Nova House’s innovative approach to developing high-end residential properties in exotic locations like Costa Rica, Bali, and Thailand. Tyler explains the challenges of building relationships in foreign markets and how those connections are key to ensuring successful development projects.
Tim and Tyler also delve into the 1% better every day mindset, the importance of aligning passion with purpose, and how to balance professional goals with personal life transitions. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or curious about diversifying your portfolio globally, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration.
Key Topics Discussed:
The inspiration behind Nova House’s mission and name.
Tyler’s journey into international real estate development.
How Nova House builds trust and relationships in foreign markets.
The challenges and rewards of offshore investments.
Tyler’s future vision for creating a global portfolio of high-end properties.
Advice for investors looking to diversify into international luxury real estate.
 
---------------------------------------------------- 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, Tim Fergestad sits down with Alex Oraibi, an extraordinary technologist whose career bridges healthcare and artificial intelligence. From a foundation in pharmacy to earning a master’s in computer science, Alex has carved out a unique path blending technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Alex shares the inspiration behind Aesculapius Systems, his groundbreaking AI-driven healthcare platform designed to empower doctors with advanced tools for diagnostics, treatment planning, and prescription management. He also dives into his work with Future Trading Pro, where he leverages AI and machine learning to design sophisticated trading algorithms for financial markets.
Beyond business, Alex discusses his personal journey as a refugee to the U.S., settling in Phoenix, and how the city became a launchpad for his success. He offers insights into the challenges of navigating healthcare regulations, the evolving role of AI in trading and diagnostics, and how small clinics can benefit from affordable tech solutions.
Key topics include:
How Alex’s background in pharmacy and tech led to innovative AI-driven healthcare tools.
The real challenges of entering the U.S. healthcare market, from HIPAA compliance to pricing.
His experiences building trading algorithms and mining cryptocurrencies.
Alex’s reflections on wealth, career freedom, and why investing in yourself is key to long-term success.
 
---------------------------------------------------- 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 welcomes Rick McPartlin, the creator of Revenue Science. With decades of experience working with global giants like Siemens, Johnson & Johnson, and Vistage organizations, Rick has honed the art and science of predictable revenue generation.
Rick shares his transformative insights on how businesses can eliminate chaos, align teams, and deploy intentional strategies to create sustainable growth. He explains how mid-sized businesses, often between $10 million and $1 billion in revenue, can apply principles similar to Six Sigma and Lean to the production of revenue, transforming inefficiency into profitability.
Key highlights include:
The concept of "cost of chaos" and its impact on your bottom line.
Why traditional sales myths, like cold calling, need a rethinking.
How to align teams across departments to create seamless value transfer.
The evolution of revenue strategies from the seller-driven to the buyer-driven era.
Rick’s groundbreaking framework to develop a winning "revenue strategy."
------------------------------------------------------ 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 insightful episode of the Phoenix Prosperity Podcast, host Tim Fergestad sits down with Austin Peterson, a comprehensive financial planner and co-founder of Backbone Planning Partners. With over two decades of experience, Austin shares his expertise on financial planning tailored to business owners, including strategies to prepare for a successful business exit and ways to maximize returns while minimizing taxes.
Austin discusses the importance of certifications like the CFP® designation, what sets his practice apart, and why a financial advisor’s role extends beyond managing investments to include deep business consulting. From dissecting compensation structures in the financial planning world to exploring alternative investments, Austin provides practical advice for business owners navigating the complexities of wealth management.
Listen in as Austin and Tim explore topics like:
Why planning ahead is critical for selling your business.
The impact of proper financial planning on maximizing your business's value.
The role of alternative investments in a robust portfolio.
Discover how Austin’s firm bridges the gap between financial planning and business consulting to ensure clients achieve their goals, whether preparing for a sale, growing their wealth, or safeguarding their future.
 
------------------------------------------------------ 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!

Clinical trials play a crucial role in developing the future of healthcare. In this episode, Lee Eifler, co-founder of Makoa Health, shares how his organization brings innovative therapies to market while prioritizing diversity and community impact.
Discover how Makoa Health delivers exceptional patient care and why participants are vital heroes in advancing medicine. Whether you're curious about joining a clinical trial or learning about the industry, this conversation is packed with insights.
Key Highlights:
Why diversity in clinical trials matters.
How participants benefit from cutting-edge healthcare.
Behind the scenes of clinical research with Makoa Health.
------------------------------------------------------ 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 welcomes Minky Kernacs, a visionary leader in data strategy and AI-driven technology. Minky shares her inspiring journey from founding Mercurio Analytics to making tangible impacts on communities across America.
Discover how Mercurio Analytics empowers state and local governments to use technology for tackling homelessness, supporting foster care systems, and reducing recidivism in the justice system. Learn about innovative AI solutions that create digital twins of communities, enabling targeted, trauma-informed services that change lives.
Highlights include:
How Philadelphia reduced homelessness by 40% in five years using Mercurio's platform.
The role of AI in improving foster care placements and supporting vulnerable populations.
Overcoming challenges in implementing data-driven solutions in government agencies.
Minky also shares her entrepreneurial insights, the importance of timing in the market, and her passion for using technology to drive meaningful change.
 
------------------------------------------------------ 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!