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Thursday Gathering
Swipe Right on Connections
Feb 12, 2026, 3:30 PM - 7:00 PM MST

This Valentine’s season, Venture Cafe is all about making connections that matter — in love, ideas, and career growth. Join Bolia Matundu (BM), Executive Producer of Pop the Balloon or Find Love, for a fireside chat with Rashad as he shares why Phoenix stole his heart, the realities of building a hit show, and a sneak peek at what’s next for the franchise.

The evening will also celebrate the launch of the exclusive Venture Cafe Mentorship Network, designed to connect ambitious professionals with top mentors for guidance, insight, and opportunity. Whether you’re looking for inspiration from the screen or meaningful connections for your career, this night promises engaging conversation, community, and a little Valentine’s magic.

Sessions
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3:30 PM - 5:30 PM MST
LEGO® Serious Play® Workshop: Unlock “What If …"
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4:30 PM - 5:30 PM MST
Maximizing the Power of Influencer Marketing: Partnering with creators to boost toy & game brand awareness
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4:30 PM - 5:30 PM MST
Women Entrepreneur Network: Making KPIs a Part of Normal Conversations for Women Entrepreneurs
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4:30 PM - 6:30 PM MST
Mentor Hours: Intentional Achievement
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4:30 PM - 6:30 PM MST
Mentor Hours with a Marketing & Branding Stretegist
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5:45 PM - 6:15 PM MST
The VCPHX Mentorship Network Launch
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6:15 PM - 6:45 PM MST
Why Phoenix Pops - Fireside Chat
Speakers
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Rashad Armstrong
MC/Host
Venture Cafe Phoenix
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Jessica Carr
Owner/Strategist
BeOn Brand Media
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Sandy Holtz
CPA
Holtz Accounting Service, PLLC
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Jason Hsieh
Chief Toy Officer
In 2013, while living in Japan, Jason Hsieh faced a life-changing moment when his son, Keanu, was diagnosed with Autism and ADHD. With limited resources and therapy opportunities available, Jason and his family made the significant decision to move to the US in search of better support for Keanu. Relocating to Seattle, Washington, they sought additional therapies and resources. However, they encountered high costs for therapies and sensory products, many of which were not covered by insurance. Determined to find affordable and quality solutions for his son’s challenges with anxiety, sleep, sensory, and attention, Jason decided to take matters into his own hands, leading to the creation of LakiKid. As the Chief Toy Officer at Toy Launch, Jason has revolutionized toy marketing on Amazon, combining creativity with cutting-edge digital strategies. As the founder of LakiKid, he is driven by a mission to support the Autism community. Jason’s expertise spans finance, e-commerce, and omni-channel marketing, with a focus on creating value and joy for families like his own.
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Bolia Matundu
CEO
BM Pro Media and Luv or Pop
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Patrick McNeil
Owner | Principal
Patrick McNeil Owner & Principal, Chart House Solutions, LLC Patrick McNeil is a distinguished leadership development professional and executive coach who brings over two decades of military leadership excellence to the corporate world. Following 27 years of exemplary service as a Master Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy, Patrick founded Chart House Solutions, LLC, where he specializes in transformative leadership development and organizational consulting. Education & Credentials Patrick holds a Bachelor of Science in Management from the University of Phoenix and a Master of Arts in Organizational Development and Leadership from Fielding Graduate University. As an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) through the International Coach Federation, he maintains the highest standards of professional coaching practice. Specialized Expertise Patrick\'s innovative approach to leadership development incorporates cutting-edge methodologies, including his certification as both a LEGO® Serious Play® PRO Trainer and Facilitator. As a Blanchard Authorized Partner, he delivers proven programs in SLII®, Building Trust, and Management Essentials. His expertise is further enhanced by his certification in the Tilt365 Suite of Assessments and completion of the Tilt365 Laser Coaching Masterclass. Professional Approach At Chart House Solutions, Patrick employs a collaborative methodology rooted in Servant Leadership principles. He partners with clients to co-create customized solutions that address their unique organizational challenges through executive coaching, leadership development, and strategic consulting. His approach combines military precision with academic rigor, delivering practical, results-oriented solutions that drive both personal growth and organizational excellence. Community Leadership Beyond his professional practice, Patrick demonstrates unwavering commitment to veteran welfare through his leadership in suicide prevention initiatives. As the immediate past president of the Southwest Veterans Foundation and current Co-chair of their signature fundraising event, Patriots Ball, he continues his service to those who have served. Patrick\'s unique synthesis of military leadership experience, advanced academic credentials, and comprehensive professional certifications positions him as a trusted advisor to leaders and organizations pursuing meaningful transformation and sustainable success.
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Cynthia Pierce
Founder and CEO
Resolution Resource Group
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Joseph Price
Founder and CEO
Intentional Achievements
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