Phoenix (STN) – Another packed house, another night of meaningful, actionable, real-world solutions.
The November episode of ‘It Happens at STN’ delivered a powerful message: lasting change doesn’t come from slogans or short-term fixes. It comes from systems, shared responsibility, and leaders willing to serve, not just steer.
A behind-the-scenes look at UMOM’s Homegrown program set the tone for the evening. What began as a small café and culinary training ground has expanded into a warehouse logistics track that teaches life skills, certification, and pathways to livable-wage jobs. UMOM CEO Jackson Fonder and Deputy CEO Monique Lopez explained what it takes to turn an idea from “pilot” to “permanent.”
That commitment to systems over charity continued throughout the show and into the final panel of the evening, as Keys to Change leaders Amy Schwabenlender and Richard Crews challenged the room to move beyond feel-good efforts. Their puzzle-piece approach emphasized that progress happens when each organization owns its role, uses data, and works together for the long haul.
Between the two discussions, leadership took center stage. From funders like Pulliam Trust choosing to listen instead of prescribe, to Arizona Financial Credit Union giving nonprofits physical space and financial trust, and a program to help stretch SNAP benefits, the November episode highlighted what leadership looks like when it remains human. Ryan Garlington of the Black Chamber of Arizona called it “servant leadership,” focused on purpose instead of power. And Bank of America’s Russell Goldstein summed it up: impact happens when actions align with values and leaders remain consistent.
WATCH: It Happens at STN: Episode 3, Season 4
Among the highlights in a solutions-packed evening was the return of Veronica Aguilar to the ‘It Happens at STN’ stage. The Vice President of Recruitment at Teach for America and part-time ‘It Happens at STN’ host stopped by to chat about some recent recognition, her appearance on STN+, and the growth of Young & Empowered Women, an organization she founded.
The takeaway from the night is clear. Whether you lead a nonprofit, a business, a credit union, or a boardroom, change happens when systems support people, leaders listen first, and everyone participates.
As season four of ‘It Happens at STN’ continues to build momentum, only two live studio shows remain in 2025, and they’re shaping up to be some of the most engaging yet. If you would like to experience the show that is driving real change throughout the Valley, tickets are still available for both November 20 and December 4th.
