Episode #5 - Austin Zaback

Episode #5 - Austin Zaback

In this episode, Matt sits down with entrepreneur and investor Austin Zaback, founder of Nectar Pest Control. Austin opens up about his childhood, the challenges he faced growing up, and how those early experiences shaped his work ethic and drive. They dive into how he built Nectar from the ground up and how he made his mark in the real estate world through wholesaling. Austin shares what it really takes to scale multiple businesses, stay grounded, and continue betting on yourself even when the odds aren’t in your favor.

Episode #4 - Bella Barker

Episode 4 — Bella Barker (Ace Building Maintenance) This week we sit down with Bella Barker, a Phoenix native who’s been holding it down at Ace Building Maintenancefor over 15 years and is one of the most plugged in people in the BOMA scene. We talk about what it’s like balancing kids, relationships, and a career in commercial janitorial, plus how she’s built a reputation that everyone in the industry seems to know and respect. It’s a real, unfiltered conversation about life, work, and the people behind the buildings that keep Phoenix running. 🎙️ The Desert Network welcomes Bella Barker.

Episode #3 - Ernie Jackson

Episode #3 of The Desert Network dives into one of the most powerful conversations we have had yet. Ernie Jackson of Plaza Companies opens up about grief, resilience, and the reality of moving forward after tragedy. Ernie shares the heartbreaking story of losing his son Quentin in a car accident, what it was like to hold him in his final moments, and how that shaped his outlook on life, faith, and community. This episode is not just about loss. It is about strength, connection, and why some people never truly “get over” grief, but instead learn to live with it.

Episode #2 - Anthony Vickman

In this episode of The Desert Network, I sit down with Anthony Vickman, owner of Dino Turf Cleaning. Anthony’s a family-first business owner who turned a background in carpet cleaning and events into a thriving turf cleaning company here in Queen Creek. We talk about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the role of faith and family in keeping perspective, and how having the right partner at home can be a superpower when building a business. If you’re a property manager, service pro, or just someone chasing growth while balancing family life, this episode will hit home.

Episode #1 - Gabby DeRoest

In our very first episode, Gabby and I sit down to kick off The Desert Network and give you a real look at what’s ahead. We talk about why we started this podcast, some of the wins and struggles we’ve had running a business and raising a family, and how we want to use these conversations to connect with property managers, business owners, and anyone building something of their own. It’s raw, it’s honest, and it’s the start of something we’re excited to grow.