Podcasts are the latest trend from self-help to solving crimes. There seems to be a little something for everyone. Join hosts, Sarah Watts and Ben Kalkman, as they explore the human journey of some local leaders - their stories of humility, triumph, roadblocks, and lessons learned - while they reflect on how they became who they are today and share stories of inspiration and hope with listeners.
Elaine Kessler, MA
Elaine creates work that inspires connection, perspective, and promise. It is her mission “to creatively and collaboratively co-create a world that works for all; a world where boldness, compassion, and possibility are alive and vigorously pursued; a world where grace and generosity live and endure.” Elaine is a graduate of the Masters in Creative Enterprise and Cultural Leadership Program at Arizona State University. She also completed graduate work in Southeast Asian Studies and Performance Studies. She owns and operates Elaine Kessler Photography, a studio based in Gilbert. In addition to being a commercial photographer, Elaine produces interactive art exhibits and teaches art, design, and business strategy in higher education.
Jenn Daniels
Jenn served as an elected local leader for over a decade as a Council member, Vice-Mayor and the Mayor of Gilbert, Arizona. Under her leadership, Gilbert thrived, becoming one of America's most vibrant towns - earning several national awards, including the Most Prosperous City in America, Most Livable City & Second Safest City. In 2020, she was appointed by Governor Doug Ducey to a six-year term on the State Transportation Board. Today, she serves as the CEO of Horizon Strategies AZ, a consulting firm that helps clients navigate a full range of complex and controversial public policy issues. Jenn makes being a mom to four kids spanning high school to elementary her top priority and spends her free time hiking, reading, organizing, and baking delicious treats.
Adelaida Severson, PhD
Adelaida is the president and chief executive officer of Bushtex Inc., an international satellite communications firm she founded with her husband in 1994 that specializes in remote broadcast transmissions for the government and broadcast networks. Among her many honors, Severson was inducted into Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication Hall of Fame in 2017. In addition, she was selected by AzBusiness magazine to its 2015 “Most Influential Women in Arizona” class; in 2014, the Phoenix Business Journal named her on its “Top 25 Dynamic Women in Business” list; and in 2013, she was selected as the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce Business Woman of the Year. Severson also serves as a trustee for ASU.