Local Legends with Jess: Arizona Edition cover art

Local Legends with Jess: Arizona Edition

Local Legends with Jess: Arizona Edition

Written by: Jessica Benevento
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About this listen

Local Legends: Arizona Edition is a podcast that shines a spotlight on the incredible individuals making waves across the Grand Canyon State. Hosted by a passionate local connector and community advocate, each episode features candid, heartfelt, and often humorous conversations with Arizona’s most inspiring entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, and community changemakers. From real estate rockstars to nonprofit heroes, magicians to mentors—we’re bringing you the stories that make Arizona legendary. Tune in to be inspired, entertained, and reminded of the power of local connection.

© 2026 Local Legends with Jess: Arizona Edition
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Episodes
  • Local Legend Spotlight: Kicks by Kenna’s Journey from $20 Shoes to the NFL
    Apr 30 2026

    In this episode of Local Legends with Jess and Jason, we sit down with a true rising star—Kennedy Rettew, the creative force behind Kicks by Kenna.

    What started as a simple project at just 16 years old quickly turned into a thriving business built on passion, creativity, and word-of-mouth. From drawing as a child to picking up her first pair of paint markers at Home Depot, Kennedy shares how she turned a creative outlet into a brand recognized by Olympic athletes, NFL players, and high-profile clients.

    Kennedy opens up about the early days—charging just $20 for custom shoes, learning her value over time, and building confidence in her craft. With support from her family (and her “momager”), she leaned into social media and community connections to grow her business organically.

    Now graduating with a degree in graphic design, she reflects on balancing school and entrepreneurship, the importance of time management and attention to detail, and her plans to continue growing both her brand and career.

    This episode is a powerful reminder that big things can start small—and that passion, consistency, and community can take you further than you ever imagined.

    About the Guest

    Kennedy Rettew, also known as Kicks by Kenna, is a custom sneaker artist known for her bold, detailed designs. She has worked with Olympic athletes, NFL players, and major clients, all while building her brand from the ground up. With a background in graphic design and a passion for creativity, she continues to grow her business and inspire others to turn their passion into purpose.

    Special thank you to Juston Lisk from State Farm— Juston’s mission is simple: treat customers like family, provide real solutions, and ensure every client feels confident, supported, and genuinely cared for. That level of intention and service is exactly why he’s considered one of our favorite Local Legends in Arizona.

    We’re grateful for the support and proud to highlight Juston and his team for truly making a difference in our community.

    This episode is Sponsored by Juston Lisk www.MyAgentJuston.com 480-983-0418

    These are the local legends shaping our communities.
    Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.
    Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

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    22 mins
  • Closing Day… But in Pajamas?
    Apr 23 2026

    This episode of Local Legends with Jess – Arizona Edition brings the energy, the laughs, and the realness with Nina and Sheer in a fun, unfiltered “slumber party” style conversation. From building authentic connections in real estate to the unexpected power of social media (yes, even TikTok), this episode dives into how genuine relationships—not sales tactics—are what truly drive success. You’ll hear how one DM turned into a fast, seamless homebuying experience and why showing up as your real self is your biggest advantage.

    It’s a refreshing reminder that business can be fun, human, and full of personality. If you’ve ever wondered how to stand out, attract the right people, and create meaningful client relationships, this episode will leave you inspired, laughing, and maybe even rethinking how you show up online.

    These are the local legends shaping our communities.
    Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.
    Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

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    27 mins
  • Energy, Intuition, and Healing: How Alicia Sweezer Changes Lives
    Apr 16 2026

    In this episode of Local Legends with Jess, host Jessica Benevento sits down with Alicia Sweezer, founder of Who Knew Healing, for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional ideas about healing, intuition, and human potential.

    Alicia shares her unexpected journey from wildlife biologist working with endangered species to intuitive healer, and how her path evolved into helping people and animals connect, heal, and find clarity.

    She breaks down her work in a refreshingly clear way, blending intuitive life coaching, energy clearing, mediumship, and animal communication to help clients gain clarity, release emotional blocks, and reconnect with their path. Alicia also explains how energy influences decision-making, relationships, and overall well-being—and why learning to trust your intuition can be a powerful turning point.

    You’ll also hear how she works with animals, communicating with both living and passed pets to support behavior, trauma recovery, and even guide their owners through personal challenges. Her approach often uncovers deeper emotional patterns, creating transformation for both people and their animals.

    Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or already exploring personal growth, this episode offers a fascinating look at the unseen forces that may be shaping your life—and how to start tuning into them.

    Alicia Sweezer

    623-670-2192 www.whoknewhealing.com

    Hours: M-F 9am-6pm (MST)

    These are the local legends shaping our communities.
    Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.
    Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.

    Show More Show Less
    26 mins
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