Kathy Wills: empowering college-bound students Kathy Wills, president-elect of the Coronado Foundation for the Future, brings a unique blend of financial expertise and philanthropic passion to her role at the foundation. Her deep commitment to education drives her work supporting college-bound students through the foundation — an educational nonprofit making a difference since 2006. Kathy’s work in our community is an inspiring model of leadership, purpose and impact.
Jun 23, 2025•28 min•Season 3Ep. 167
Building bridges through civic dialogue Carlos Alfaro, founder of Arizona Talks, is a leading voice for civic engagement in Arizona. Born in Mexico and raised in Scottsdale, Carlos has built a career creating platforms that encourage inclusive, civil debate on the public issues that shape our communities. As a Flinn Brown Fellow and policy events strategist, he brings insight, passion, and purpose to the work of building a stronger, more connected Arizona.
Jun 16, 2025•32 min•Season 3Ep. 166
Supporting those in need in Scottsdale Meet Jenny Adams, the dedicated executive director of Scottsdale Community Partners, a non-profit that’s been a vital lifeline for Scottsdale residents in need. She has been at the helm since 2015, leading with compassion and purpose as she oversees their programs and day-to-day operations. From emergency assistance and youth outreach to senior support and holiday giving, her group is making a tangible difference. Jenny’s leadership is helping strengthen th...
May 31, 2025•26 min•Season 3Ep. 165
Shea Najafi: Empowering women and igniting change Shea Najafi – founder of Scottsdale Women Rising – is a true powerhouse in community activism. Shea’s passion for equity, civic engagement and lifting up women’s voices has made a bold impact in Scottsdale and beyond. Tune in as we talk about what drives her work, how she’s building community and what’s next for this unstoppable force for change.
May 27, 2025•31 min•Season 3Ep. 164
Celebrating 50 years of McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park In this episode, Bill Scarbrough takes us on a journey through one of Scottsdale’s most beloved landmarks – McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. The park celebrates its 50th anniversary this year and it includes a new $15.2 million Roundhouse project that’s set to transform the visitor experience. Bill, who is president of the board that supports the park, gives us an insider’s look at how this historic space continues to bring joy to generat...
May 20, 2025•28 min•Season 3Ep. 163
Scottsdale rising star is filmmaker of the year Emilio Miguel Torres is a rising star in both education and film. By day, Emilio works in the communications department at Scottsdale Unified School District, but his creative talents go far beyond the school walls. A NYU Film School alum, he recently premiered his debut film, “The Ladder,” at the Phoenix Film Festival, where he was honored at Filmmaker of the Year for 2025. In this inspiring conversation, we talk about storytelling, education and ...
May 12, 2025•31 min•Season 3Ep. 162
Scottsdale’s Skyler Badenoch: Hope in action Skyler Badenoch is passionate about Scottsdale and active in a number of local groups, and he also takes on a world view. He is CEO of Hope for Haiti, an organization working to improve the quality of life for Haitian families through education, healthcare, clean water, and economic development. Skyler shares powerful stories from the field, insights into leading through crisis, and what keeps him hopeful about Haiti’s future. Skyler’s story is one of...
May 05, 2025•34 min•Season 161Ep. 3
Joe Garagiola, Jr.: building the D-Backs; living the legacy This week we welcome Scottsdale’s own Joe Garagiola Jr. — longtime baseball executive and one of the key architects behind the launch of the Arizona Diamondbacks. From the front office to Major League Baseball’s leadership team, Joe shares behind-the-scenes stories from his decades in the game, lessons on leadership, and the legacy of his legendary father. This conversation is packed with history, heart and a deep love for America’s pas...
Apr 29, 2025•31 min•Season 3Ep. 160
Inspiration from the heart of this Scottsdale leader There is no doubt you will be inspired by Jodi Low — corporate trainer, dynamic speaker, and founder of U & Improved, a leadership development company. She empowers business leaders with the mindset and tools to lead with heart and achieve the life they truly want. She’s also passionate about building future leaders, launching U the Teen Leader in 2014, and creating a nonprofit foundation to provide scholarships for teens who need a boost ...
Apr 21, 2025•26 min•Season 3Ep. 159
A visit behind the scenes at WestWorld In our latest episode, we’re joined by Will Lofdahl, general manager of WestWorld, one of the premier event venues in the Southwest. From hosting world-class equestrian events to massive car shows and festivals, Will takes us behind the scenes to look at what it takes to run a facility that hosts over 100 events each year. Tune in for a conversation about community, innovation and the future of events in Scottsdale.
Apr 12, 2025•28 min•Season 158Ep. 3
t was inspiring to catch up with Debbie Waitkus, founder of Golf for Cause and co-founder of the Marilyn Smith & Founders Legacy Foundation. Debbie is a powerhouse in the world of golf, using the sport as a platform for business success, empowerment and philanthropy. Tune in as we discuss how she’s driving opportunities for women in golf, honoring the game’s pioneers and making a lasting impact through her work.
Apr 01, 2025•29 min•Season 3Ep. 157
Scottsdale emergency manager works to keep city safe How does a city prepare for the unexpected? From natural disasters to public safety planning, Jacob Johnson, Emergency Manager for the City of Scottsdale, is on the front lines of resilience and response. Tune in as we discuss the strategies, challenges, and innovations that keep our community safe. Residents can take a step to help them get prepared, too, at: https://www.smart911.comsmart911.com...
Mar 25, 2025•31 min•Season 3Ep. 156
Brian Bednar: a lifetime of service Join us for a special episode as we celebrate Brian Bednar, a true community champion, as he prepares to retire from SRP. With years of dedicated service, Brian has not only powered our communities but has also been a driving force behind impactful local initiatives. We reflect on his incredible journey, the legacy he leaves behind, and what’s next for this passionate advocate of community engagement
Mar 17, 2025•28 min
How Natalie Marsh is shaping creative lives in Scottsdale Creativity meets community as we talk with Natalie Marsh, the visionary director of learning and innovation for Scottsdale Arts. From groundbreaking arts education programs to inspiring the next generation of creatives, Natalie is shaping how the arts transform lives. Her passion for making the arts accessible, the innovative programs she leads and the power of creativity in education and community building improve the lives for everyone ...
Mar 10, 2025•36 min•Season 3Ep. 154
A helping hand for students in need Chad Bays, CEO of Academic Opportunity of Arizona, is on a mission to break down financial barriers and create pathways for K-12th grade students living with disabilities and low-income hardships to thrive. Learn about his inspiring journey, the impact of scholarships and educational initiatives that his organization provides, and how you can be part of transforming futures in our education system.
Mar 03, 2025•30 min•Season 3Ep. 153
Behind the scenes at the Celebration of Fine Art Join us for an inspiring conversation with Susan Potje, the force behind the Celebration of Fine Art in Scottsdale, one of the most vibrant art communities in the country. Discover the stories behind this renowned art show, which has been in Scottsdale since 1991, and see how it brings artists and collectors together, and what makes it a must-visit event each year.
Feb 25, 2025•34 min•Season 3Ep. 152
Brian Raab: The Visionary Behind Tequila Corrido Join us as we welcome Brian Raab, CEO and founder of Tequila Corrido. Brian’s passion for craftsmanship and storytelling is infused into every bottle, bringing the spirit of Mexico to life with award-winning tequila. Hear about his journey, the artistry behind Corrido, and what sets his brand apart. And Brian is no stranger to the food and beverage lineup in Scottsdale. He also is the man behind the Fat Ox and the Mission Restaurants....
Feb 17, 2025•34 min•Season 3Ep. 151
Meet the compassionate leader behind the work of STARS Meet Claudia Chavez, executive director of Scottsdale Training and Rehabilitation Services, or STARS. Claudia's journey with STARS began in 2011 and over the years, she has held various roles, most recently serving as the director of operations. Her dedication and passion have been instrumental in enhancing the lives of people with developmental disabilities. Join us as we delve into her inspiring journey and her vision for the future of STA...
Feb 11, 2025•30 min•Season 3Ep. 150
Meet Scottsdale’s newest city council member Maryann McAllen officially joins the Scottsdale City Council this week. With a long-time record of service to the city, a passion for the work ahead and a vision for a brighter future, she is committed to strengthening our community, supporting sustainable growth, and championing the needs of Scottsdale's residents. Her leadership and dedication promise to make a meaningful impact on the city's future.
Jan 12, 2025•28 min•Season 3Ep. 149
Leading Scottsdale’s economic future Teri Killgore holds one of Scottsdale’s most significant roles as the city’s economic development director, a position vital to shaping the city’s growth and prosperity. With a deep reservoir of municipal government experience, she brings a unique blend of strategic vision and practical expertise to her work, ensuring Scottsdale remains a destination of choice for residents, businesses and visitors. Her efforts focus on fostering innovation, enhancing infrast...
Dec 23, 2024•34 min
Meet Pastor Jackie Parks, a community inspiration There is no doubt that when you meet Pastor Jackie Parks you will be inspired and motivated by her passion and dedication to serving others – especially during this holiday season when we pause to reflect on our blessings. Jackie, lead pastor at South Scottsdale Presbyterian Church, is founder and executive director of Community House, which serves homeless people through their day relief center, offering them not just resources but also dignity ...
Dec 18, 2024•31 min
Catching up with Scottsdale legend Don Carson Don Carson, a Chicago native turned Scottsdale icon, left an indelible mark on the city, creating Don and Charlie’s restaurant, a dining experience that became a staple for locals and Cactus League fans alike. Don wove the game into the fabric of Scottsdale’s culture. Though Don and Charlie’s closed in 2019, its legacy endures, much like his ongoing contributions to the community. Listen in for a great conversation, a bit of a Scottsdale history less...
Dec 10, 2024•36 min
Long-time public servant back home in Scottsdale Kira Peters has been serving Scottsdale residents for nearly three decades – minus one year. Last year she moved to Bozeman, Montana, where she worked as assistant city manager. But her heart remained in Scottsdale. She came back home this year to take on the role as director of Scottsdale Human Services. She knows the city perhaps as well as anyone thanks to her long and diverse career here. And she has big plans in her new role overseeing servic...
Nov 26, 2024•29 min
Reflections on election, future with Tammy Caputi Scottsdale City Council member Tammy Caputi will be ending her 4-year term in a few weeks after she came up short in her re-election bid. Join us as she looks back at her accomplishments in office and talks about the key issues facing the city, both now and into the new year. You’ll discover that she has few regrets about the election results and soon will be exploring other opportunities to continue her leadership in ways that benefit our commun...
Nov 19, 2024•30 min
Wrapping up elections, Scottsdale and beyond Election Day has arrived, finally! It’s been a long season, to say the least. Tune in as Kevin and Don review events on the road leading up to Election Day, from Scottsdale’s city council and school board races to the state and federal campaigns that dominated the media. We also discuss the work the Arizona Democracy Resilience Network and other groups are doing to help us navigate through the days ahead.
Nov 05, 2024•33 min
Artist shares whirlwind journey to Scottsdale Scottsdale is known worldwide as one of the Southwest’s premier arts destinations. The brand is supported by a host of individual artists who collectively add to that reputation. Meet one of them, Kirk Russell, a mixed media artist. Kirk started his career as a photojournalist and now creates composite images with acrylic paint. Find out how a hurricane in the British West Indies blew him all the way across the U.S. to his home now in Scottsdale....
Oct 29, 2024•30 min•Season 3Ep. 9
Familiar face takes on another key role in Scottsdale For nearly 25 years, Rachel Smetana has been serving the city of Scottsdale in a variety of jobs. From human services to mayor’s chief of staff, with stints working at the library, in planning and economic development. Now her new job is director of the city’s tourism and events department, a key role overseeing an industry that has a $3.5 billion impact to the city. She’s a quick study and has big plans, as you’ll learn when you tune in....
Oct 16, 2024•36 min•Season 3Ep. 10
Scottsdale mayoral race: Focus on Lisa Borowsky Lisa Borowsky is running for election as Scottsdale’s mayor, challenging the incumbent, David Ortega. Tune in for a question-and-answer session with her to learn where she stands on the important issues of the day and her vision for the future of the city. Last week’s episode featured Mayor Ortega.
Oct 07, 2024•33 min
Scottsdale mayoral race: Focus on David Ortega Mayor David Ortega is running to be re-elected for a second term in office. Tune in for a question-and-answer session with him and find out where he stands on the issues of the day and his vision for the future of the city. Next week’s episode will feature his opponent: Lisa Borowsky.
Sep 30, 2024•41 min•Season 3Ep. 9
Spotlight on Scottsdale school issues, candidates There are six candidates running for three seats on the Scottsdale Unified School District’s governing board in an important election this year. We had a chance to catch up with three of them: Donna Lewis, Matt Pittinsky and Mike Sharkey. Listen in as they discuss some of the critical issues facing the district and their ideas on how they would deal with them and build on SUSD's continued success as one of the state's outstanding districts....
Sep 24, 2024•45 min•Season 3Ep. 7
