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Today and Tomorrow in Scottsdale
Today and Tomorrow in Scottsdale
Author: Don Henninger
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© 2021, Don Henninger, All Rights Reserved
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Scottsdale Arizona is at a tipping point, we are building the city of our future, right now. Today! And this is the time to ask the questions, that will get us to where we want to go.
I'm your host, Don Henninger, former publisher of the Phoenix Business Journal, and executive director of SCOTT, the civic leadership group. I've spent three decades with my finger on the pulse of all the growth and change that has occurred in Scottsdale, and I'm excited to find out what's next!
What kind of city do we want?
How do we evolve to stay successful?
How can we balance and respect the city's rich western heritage, while also adapting to the modern world?
Each week the "Today and Tomorrow in Scottsdale" podcast, will introduce you to the people, places and things, that will determine what kind of city we build, together.
We'll go behind the scenes of every business and industry to look for answers, ideas, opinions, and more! We'll speak with community leaders, newsmakers, historians, futurists, friends and neighbors. People like you and me, who wanna create a legacy for future generations to enjoy.
We'll dig into the realities of what it will take, to write the next chapters of Scottsdale's remarkable story.
Pull up a chair, listen and enjoy the podcast...Today and Tomorrow in Scottsdale.
I'm your host, Don Henninger, former publisher of the Phoenix Business Journal, and executive director of SCOTT, the civic leadership group. I've spent three decades with my finger on the pulse of all the growth and change that has occurred in Scottsdale, and I'm excited to find out what's next!
What kind of city do we want?
How do we evolve to stay successful?
How can we balance and respect the city's rich western heritage, while also adapting to the modern world?
Each week the "Today and Tomorrow in Scottsdale" podcast, will introduce you to the people, places and things, that will determine what kind of city we build, together.
We'll go behind the scenes of every business and industry to look for answers, ideas, opinions, and more! We'll speak with community leaders, newsmakers, historians, futurists, friends and neighbors. People like you and me, who wanna create a legacy for future generations to enjoy.
We'll dig into the realities of what it will take, to write the next chapters of Scottsdale's remarkable story.
Pull up a chair, listen and enjoy the podcast...Today and Tomorrow in Scottsdale.
187 Episodes
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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 resilience, leadership, and the power of community.
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.
Time to 'play ball' with Jeff Meyer As another spring training season unfolds, we catch up with Jeff Meyer, president of the Cactus League Association. For nearly two decades, he has helped shape the partnerships that bring Major League Baseball to communities across the Valley — working alongside civic leaders and nonprofits like the Scottsdale Charros to make it all happen. He's also served on the board of the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority, helping sustain the ballparks that fuel both the region's economy and love of the game.
Andrea Robertson: the story behind Lexie's Law Andrea Robertson is founder of Lexie's Voice, which started as her determination to secure the right diagnosis and education for her daughter and grew to become a statewide movement. Andrea led the charge behind Lexie's Law, opening doors for hundreds of Arizona children with autism and developmental disabilities. Her story is one of grit, advocacy, and how love can turn into lasting impact.
Smiles that matter for healthier futures Barb Kozuh is executive director of the Delta Dental Foundation of Arizona, based in Scottsdale. She brings real heart to the work of expanding access to oral health care across our communities. She talks about why oral health is about so much more than smiles — it's about dignity, opportunity, and how investing in people and partnerships can truly change lives.
Building better communities with Charlie Popeck Charlie Popeck is a longtime leader in sustainability and green building and the founding principal of Green Ideas Building Science Consultants. He has spent his career helping communities create buildings that are healthier, more resilient, and more deeply connected to the places we call home. Join us for a conversation about stewardship, smart growth, and what it looks like to build with both people and the future in mind.
Liberty Wildlife and our shared responsibility Laura Hackett is the education manager and biologist with Liberty Wildlife, an organization devoted to protecting native wildlife and nurturing a deeper sense of compassion and stewardship in our community. Join us for a conversation about our responsibility to the natural world, the beauty of showing up with care, and the deep connection between compassion and conservation.
Where cakes become messages of love For Goodness Cakes Arizona is an organization that brings dignity, joy, and a sense of belonging to children in foster care. Through custom-made cakes, they remind kids that they are seen, celebrated, and deeply loved. Join us as we visit with three volunteers for a tender conversation about compassion, community, and how small acts of care can leave a lasting imprint on a child's life.
Scottsdale duo reimagining public education Peter Bezanson and Patti Bezanson are co-chairs of BASIS Educational Ventures, based in Scottsdale, and two of the visionary leaders behind one of the highest-performing public school networks in the nation. From rapid growth to academic excellence, they share how BASIS Charter Schools scaled success without losing rigor. It's a thoughtful conversation on leadership, innovation and what it takes to reimagine K–12 education.
Scottsdale's mystery writer unveils desert secrets Scottsdale's own Betty Webb is the mind behind the Lena Jones mystery series. Her novels plunge readers into the stark, mesmerizing desert that surrounds our city, shaped by the same sharp observational eye she honed as a journalist. We're talking sweeping landscapes, unforgettable characters, and how she made the leap from reporting the truth to crafting it in mystery form. This is a conversation with a writer who knows the desert's secrets better than anyone.
Jenna Kohl is director of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, one of Scottsdale's most treasured natural landmarks. Under her leadership, she works to ensure that the Preserve continues to thrive as a model of community stewardship, sustainability, and outdoor recreation. Jenna talks about what it takes to protect and preserve this stunning desert landscape, spanning thousands of acres and hundreds of miles of trails, so it can continue to inspire and sustain generations to come.
Every Woman's Marathon comes to Scottsdale Miranda Abney is one of the driving forces behind the Every Woman's Marathon, a national running event and festival celebrating women's strength, wellness, and community. The marathon comes to Scottsdale on Sunday, Nov. 16, with pre-race events all that weekend. Learn more about the marathon's mission, why Scottsdale was chosen as the host city, and what makes this event unlike any other.
Donna Tew: bridging service and civilian life Donna Tew leads the SkillBridge program, a Department of Defense initiative that helps service members transition from military to civilian life. SkillBridge partners with organizations like HonorHealth to provide valuable hands-on experience and career opportunities. Donna, who served in the Air Force, shares how this program bridges the gap between service and civilian success.
Enid Seiden: Inspiring service across Scottsdale Enid Seiden is a dedicated civic volunteer and philanthropic leader whose work embodies the spirit of community in Scottsdale. As vice chair of the Scottsdale Public Library Board and a member of the Foster Care Review Board of Maricopa County, Enid is helping shape a more connected, compassionate city — one family, one reader, and one act of service at a time
Bridging nature and city life at SCC John Weser is director of the Center for Native and Urban Wildlife at Scottsdale Community College. Through his leadership, the center has become a living classroom for conservation — restoring habitats, educating students, and showing how wildlife and urban life can flourish side by side. It's a conversation about connection, stewardship and the beauty of Arizona's desert ecosystems
Keeping Arizona's baseball story alive Mike Phillips and Charlie Vascellaro are the players behind the Arizona Baseball Legacy and Experience. From the crack of the bat at spring training to the unforgettable players who shaped the game, Scottsdale has played a unique role in baseball's history. Mike and Charlie are dedicated to preserving that legacy while inspiring future generations to connect with the sport in new ways. Discover the roots of ABLE and the lasting impact of baseball on Arizona.
Ivan Gilreath and Paul Baker from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale are leading an organization that's transforming young lives every day — providing a safe place for kids to learn, grow, and thrive. From tutoring and academic support, to mentorship, leadership development, and opportunities to build lifelong confidence, their work is shaping the next generation in powerful ways. Check out their vision for the future and the impact they're making across our community.
Ceci Moss on art, technology and future of SMoCA Ceci Moss, director and chief curator of the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, has nearly two decades of experience in the art world. From New York to San Francisco to San Diego, she has built a reputation for championing emerging artists and exploring the intersection of art, technology, and culture. She brings a passion for connecting art with community, and shares her vision for SMoCA and what's ahead for the museum under her leadership.
Honoring Lori: fighting pancreatic cancer with purpose Jennifer Peterson and Nicole Hawes are on the board of the Lori Peterson Cancer Foundation, which was created to honor the life and legacy of Lori Lynn Peterson, who courageously battled pancreatic cancer. Carrying forward her spirit, the organization is dedicated to advancing research, supporting treatment, and raising awareness for one of the toughest cancers to fight. The foundation has funded projects that bring hope, progress, and real impact for patients and families. They are turning loss into legacy and making a difference in the fight against pancreatic cancer.
Water you can trust: A talk with Suzanne Grendahl Under the leadership of Suzanne Grendahl, Scottsdale became the first city in Arizona — and one of only a few nationwide — to earn approval for direct potable reuse, turning recycled water into safe, high-quality drinking water. Suzanne has been a leader in making sure Scottsdale's water surpasses the toughest safety standards, even as we face drought and climate pressures. She shares her journey, the science behind this innovation, and why public trust in water is more important than ever.




