Tales With Taylor

Date 08-11-2026

Episode 84:

Louann Philips & Jessica

Empowering Children, Families & Communities with Southwest Human Development

In this episode of Tales with Taylor, Taylor joined by Louann Phillips, Special Events Manager, and Jessica Brandt, DPT, Vice President of Services for Children with Disabilities at Southwest Human Development.

Listen to this Episode now and learn

How together, they highlight the incredible work Southwest Human Development is doing across Arizona to support children and families, with a special focus on disability services, early intervention, inclusion, and assistive technology.

What You’ll Learn in Episode 84

↪ The disability services available through Southwest Human Development

↪ Why early intervention can make such a meaningful difference for children and families

↪ How assistive technology can improve independence and quality of life

↪ What the MAKERS of Change Assistive Technology Challenge is all about

↪ How Arizona high school students can use creativity to solve real-world challenges

↪ The importance of inclusion and accessibility in our communities

↪ How nonprofit organizations bring together people, resources, and ideas to create meaningful change

Our Guest: Louann Philips

Louann Phillips, Special Events Manager at Southwest Human Development, is a native Arizonan and nonprofit professional with more than 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector.

Throughout her career, Louann has had the opportunity to work with organizations including Downtown Phoenix Inc., Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, Goodwill of Central Arizona, The Phoenix Symphony, and Southwest Human Development.

In her current role, she manages major events including the Easterseals Golf Classic, Playfest Community Festival, and the annual MAKERS of Change Assistive Technology Challenge.

Beyond her professional work, Louann is a proud mother of two daughters and is passionate about supporting her community through nonprofit work and meaningful events.

Our Guest: Jessica Brandt, DPT

Jessica Brandt, DPT, is the Vice President of Services for Children with Disabilities at Southwest Human Development.

Jessica provides leadership and support across multiple programs, including:

Birth to Five Center of Excellence

- Smooth Way Home

- High Risk Perinatal Program

- Nurse Family Partnership

- Inclusion

- Side by Side

- Head Start Disabilities Services

A native Arizonan, Jessica earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from the University of Arizona and her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from A.T. Still University.

With more than 22 years of clinical and management experience, Jessica has worked extensively with children and families, including providing early intervention services through AzEIP.

Her experience in pediatric physical therapy, healthcare leadership, and early intervention gives her a deep understanding of how important accessible services and family support can be.