Scottsdale Vibes

Today's episode is an important one because we're diving into public safety, innovation, and what it takes to serve a growing and dynamic city like Scottsdale. I'm honored to be joined by Scottsdale Police Chief Joe LeDuc. As our city continues to expand and host world-class events The Scottsdale Police Department is continually evolving — investing in new technology like license plate readers and speed enforcement cameras, strengthening partnerships, and refining strategies to keep residents and visitors safe. Today, we'll talk about how technology is being used responsibly and effectively, how the department managed enforcement during some of the largest events of the year, and what priorities Chief LeDuc and his team are focusing on as we head into 2026.

This week on the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, we're talking baseball, community, and what makes Scottsdale spring training season so special. I'm joined by Jeff Meyer, a longtime community leader and President of the Cactus League Baseball Association, to pull back the curtain on one of Scottsdale's most iconic traditions. Today's episode is one I've been really looking forward to because it highlights something that truly puts Scottsdale on the national map every single spring: the Cactus League. I'm excited to be joined by Jeff Meyer, a prominent Arizona business leader, longtime Scottsdale Charros member, and President of the Cactus League Baseball Association. Jeff served as president during a pivotal time for the league, helping oversee the organization that brings 15 Major League Baseball teams and fans from all over the country right here to the Valley each year. Beyond baseball, Jeff has been deeply involved in Scottsdale's civic and nonprofit community, making him the perfect person to talk about not just spring training, but what it means to steward traditions that define Scottsdale's identity. We're diving into how the Cactus League works, why Scottsdale plays such a key role, and what fans can look forward to as we head into another exciting season.

What does it really take to grow strong leaders who care deeply about Scottsdale and its future? Today, we're talking about the people, projects, and purpose behind Scottsdale Leadership — and why it continues to shape our city in such a meaningful way. Scottsdale Leadership has been developing and connecting leaders in our city for nearly four decades — and chances are, if you're involved in the community, you've felt its impact in one way or another. From nonprofit boards and city commissions to business leadership and civic engagement, Scottsdale Leadership helps people better understand the city they live and work in and how they can play a role in shaping its future. Today, I'm joined by Lee Ann Witt, the Executive Director of Scottsdale Leadership. I'm especially excited for this conversation because I'm a graduate of Class 39 and currently serve on the Board of Directors as the Class 39 representative — so this program is very close to my heart. Lee Ann and I are going to talk about what Scottsdale Leadership really is, how it benefits the city, and why it continues to be such a transformational experience for so many people. For more on Scottsdale Leadership https://www.scottsdaleleadership.org/

Welcome to the 250th episode of the scottsdale vibes podcast! And we have another milestone to celebrate, Scottsdale is turning 75 — and the city is celebrating in a big way. Today, we're talking about the stories, milestones, and moments that shaped Scottsdale into the place we know and love In 2026, the City of Scottsdale will proudly celebrate its 75th anniversary, marking a milestone that honors the people, progress, and spirit that have defined our community since incorporation in 1951. It's a chance to reflect on where we've been, celebrate who we are today, and look ahead to what's next for "The West's Most Western Town." Joining me today is Holly Peralta, a communications and public affairs leader with more than a decade of experience in local government storytelling and community engagement. She currently serves as the Interim Senior Director of Communications & Public Affairs for the City of Scottsdale, where she helps connect residents with the people and services behind city government. Visit Scottsdale75.com for updates, event details, stories from the past and ways you can be part of Scottsdale's 75th year.

Each February, Scottsdale becomes the center of the golf world — and behind the scenes, an incredible team is keeping everyone safe. Today, we're talking with leaders from Scottsdale Fire and Scottsdale Police about what it really takes to support the Waste Management Phoenix Open. The Waste Management Phoenix Open is one of the most iconic events in Scottsdale — drawing massive crowds, international attention, and energy that's unlike anything else all year. While The Thunderbirds host the tournament, the City of Scottsdale plays a critical role in making sure the entire week runs safely, smoothly, and successfully. Today, I'm joined by Aaron Bolin from Scottsdale Police from Dave Folio from Scottsdale Fire Together, they help lead the planning, coordination, and public safety efforts that support one of the largest and best-attended PGA Tour events in the world. From emergency response and traffic management to behind-the-scenes logistics, they're part of the team that helps make WMPO week a great experience for residents, visitors, and first responders alike. Waste Management Open Feb 2-8th at the TPC Scottsdale Home to the largest and most enthusiastic crowds in the game as well as the most iconic hole on the PGA TOUR – the famed 16th hole Coliseum Visit their website for tickets. https://wmphoenixopen.com/general-admission-tickets/

Scottsdale's Western roots come alive in a big way each year, and today we're talking about the traditions that keep that spirit thriving. I'm joined by lifelong Scottsdale resident Raoul Zubia to talk all things Western Week and the iconic Parada del Sol Historic Parade. If you've ever lined Scottsdale Road for the Parada del Sol, wandered Old Town during Western Week, or felt that unmistakable Western pride in the air, today's guest has likely played a role in bringing that experience to life. Raoul Zubia is a lifelong Scottsdale resident, Coronado High School graduate, retired banker, and deeply committed community advocate. Over the years, he's served in numerous leadership roles — from Chair of the Scottsdale Human Services Commission to President of Partners for Paiute — and he currently serves on several local foundations and committees, including the Parada del Sol Committee, where he's also one of the parade announcers. Raoul's dedication to Scottsdale has earned him some meaningful recognition, including Scottsdale Leadership's Hodges Award and induction into the Scottsdale History Hall of Fame. Today, we're talking about what makes Scottsdale Western Week and the Parada del Sol Historic Parade such treasured traditions — and why they continue to matter to our city.

This week on Scottsdale Vibes, I’m turning the mic on a fellow podcaster who’s spent nearly a decade telling Arizona’s stories. I’m joined by Jose Acevedo, founder of the award-winning Finding Arizona Podcast, to talk about curiosity, community, and why Scottsdale continues to inspire creators and entrepreneurs. And fun fact: I was just a guest on his podcast, so today we’re continuing the conversation and flipping the roles. If you love discovering the people, businesses, and stories that make Arizona special, chances are you’ve already heard of Finding Arizona. It’s an award-winning weekly podcast that highlights local business owners, creatives, and community leaders from all across the state : all through organic, conversational interviews that feel more like talking with a friend than sitting through a formal Q&A. Jose has now interviewed more than 400 Arizona business owners and entrepreneurs, gaining a unique perspective on what makes this state and communities like Scottsdale — so special.

Today on the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, we're talking cars, community, and breaking barriers with Rebecca Nguyen—founder of The Warehouse and a lifelong WRX enthusiast whose passion turned into a career. From a yellow Subaru in her teens to leading one of Arizona's most unique automotive social hubs, her story is one of grit, vision, and redefining what a car collector looks like. I'm excited to welcome Rebecca Nguyen to the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast. Rebecca's journey into the automotive world started with a sonic-yellow Subaru WRX she inherited at sixteen—sparking a passion that led her into car shows, photography, industry events, and ultimately to launching The Warehouse, a collector-car storage and social club. As a woman thriving in a traditionally male-dominated space, she's built a community that celebrates enthusiasm, heritage, and connection. With Arizona's car week and Barrett-Jackson right around the corner, there's no better time to hear her unique perspective on the culture driving our state.

New Year, new Scottsdale Vibes Podcast. This week, we’re joined by Jennifer Reynolds, CEO and co-founder of Ideation Design Group. Jennifer brings 25 years of creativity, innovation, and big-picture perspective to how design influences culture, tourism, and the way cities like Scottsdale thrive on a global stage. I’m excited to welcome Jennifer Reynolds to the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast. Ideation Design Group is a boutique architecture and interior design firm that has spent the past two decades creating standout restaurant and hospitality spaces across 48 states and around the world. With 25 years of experience and an incredible eye for detail, Jennifer's helped transform how people dine, gather, and experience community: both here in Scottsdale and in major destinations globally. She’s giving us a look at how design shapes culture, attracts big events and brands, and helps put Scottsdale on the national and international map.

If you are  wrapping  up your holiday shopping in Scottsdale, chances are, you're doing it here. It’s a true Scottsdale icon  - Fashion Square. From its start back in 1961 to now being ranked one of the top malls in the country, it’s become a destination for luxury shopping, dining, and community events. Joining me is Fashion Square’s Events and Communications Manager Lauren McGlinch and Sr. Marketing Manager Melanie Sutton to share how this desert landmark keeps growing and staying at the top of its game.

Today on the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, we're joined by our real estate expert and trusted sponsor, Shawn Shackelton as well as sponsor Jeremy Mueller of Jeremy Mueller Insurance. They are here to wrap up 2025 and give some insight into the new year. As we wrap up 2025, Jeremy has had a front-row seat to everything that shaped the insurance market this year for Scottsdale homeowners and drivers. After a year of shifting interest rates, evolving buyer demand, and a Scottsdale market that kept all of us on our toes, Shawn's here to break down the biggest wins of 2025, the trends that shaped her clients' experience, and what we should all do before the new year to be ready for 2026. Whether you're thinking about buying, selling, or simply staying informed, Shawn has the insights to help you navigate whatever the new year brings.

Known as The Holistic Pain Doc, Scottsdale’s Dr. Ashu Goyle believes in healing first, not insurance red tape. From PRP to groundbreaking new programs, he’s helping people find freedom from pain without surgery or long-term medications. After training at the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic, Dr. Goyle came to Scottsdale and built a practice that puts healing ahead of anything. He’s double board-certified in anesthesiology and interventional pain medicine and has spent years helping patients truly solve their pain rather than just masking it. Through advanced regenerative treatments like PRP, bone marrow therapy, and a groundbreaking new program, Dr. Goyle is giving patients freedom from pain without surgery, long-term medications, and without the limitations of insurance-driven medicine.

Today on Scottsdale Vibes, we're diving into a story where fine wine meets heartfelt purpose. Scottsdale natives and lifelong friends, Skyler Badenoch and Ricky Palmer, join us to share how their event, Vineyards in the Valley, is turning a passion for wine into a meaningful impact for Hope for Haiti. If you love great wine and giving back, this episode is for you. Vineyards in the Valley isn't just another tasting event—it's a celebration of community, connection, and compassion. Founded by Scottsdale locals and lifelong friends, Ricky Palmer and Skyler Badenoch, the event brings together more than 65 ultra-premium wineries, local chefs, and supporters for an unforgettable experience benefiting Hope for Haiti. Ricky curates the incredible wine lineup, while Skyler, as CEO of Hope for Haiti, ensures that every sip supports life-changing healthcare and opportunity for women and families in southern Haiti. Together, they've created something truly special—an event that shows just how powerful our community can be when we gather for a cause.

This week on Scottsdale Vibes, we’re shining a spotlight on a grassroots group that’s quietly making an impact across our city. Raquel Diehm joins me to share the story behind Scottsdale Serve Squad, a community-led movement that’s serving our neighbors with compassion, connection, and heart. Today, we’re talking about an uplifting community effort… happening right here in our backyard: the Scottsdale Serve Squad. If you follow them on Instagram, you’ve probably seen the photos of volunteers handing out water, snacks, blankets, hygiene kits… simple but meaningful items that bring comfort to people who need it most. But what makes this group special isn’t just what they hand out. It’s how they show up… with presence, kindness, and a message that every person is seen and valued. And at the heart of it all is founder Raquel Diehm, who started this movement after seeing a need in our community and refusing to look away. Today she’s here to share how Serve Squad began, how it’s grown, and how you can get involved.

For more than six decades, the Phoenix Heart Ball has brought our community together to raise critical funds and awareness for the American Heart Association — an organization that's been fighting heart disease and stroke for over 100 years. This year marks the 66th Annual Phoenix Heart Ball, happening November 22, 2025, and it's a celebration of generosity, research, and the people whose dedication keeps every heart beating stronger. Joining me today are Sue Carter and Caroline Conner, both serving as Vice Chairs for this year's Heart Ball. Sue and Caroline are deeply connected to this cause — each with personal family experiences that inspire their passion for advancing heart health — and they're here to share what makes this year's event so meaningful.

Today on Scottsdale Vibes, we're diving into a story where fine wine meets heartfelt purpose. Scottsdale natives and lifelong friends, Skyler Badenoch and Ricky Palmer, join us to share how their event, Vineyards in the Valley, is turning a passion for wine into a meaningful impact for Hope for Haiti. If you love great wine and giving back, this episode is for you. Vineyards in the Valley isn't just another tasting event—it's a celebration of community, connection, and compassion. Founded by Scottsdale locals and lifelong friends, Ricky Palmer and Skyler Badenoch, the event brings together more than 65 ultra-premium wineries, local chefs, and supporters for an unforgettable experience benefiting Hope for Haiti. Ricky curates the incredible wine lineup, while Skyler, as CEO of Hope for Haiti, ensures that every sip supports life-changing healthcare and opportunity for women and families in southern Haiti. Together, they've created something truly special—an event that shows just how powerful our community can be when we gather for a cause.

This week on Scottsdale Vibes, we’re honoring Veterans Day by talking about the power of storytelling. I’m joined by Justin Layman and Barbara Hatch to talk about how sharing veterans’ stories helps preserve history, build understanding, and strengthen our community. As Veterans Day approaches, Scottsdale is finding new ways to honor and connect with the men and women who’ve served. One of those efforts is the Veterans Community Series, a monthly program from the City of Scottsdale’s Veterans Advisory Commission in partnership with the Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce and Scottsdale Leadership. Joining me today are two people leading that mission — Justin Layman, U.S. Army veteran and Veterans Advisory Commissioner, and Barbara Hatch, founder of Imprints of Honor, which has spent more than 20 years helping students honor veterans through storytelling in the book series Since You Asked. Plus, we check in with our sponsor Jeremy Mueller of Jeremy Mueller Insurance.

This week on Scottsdale Vibes, we’re highlighting two incredible women shaping the future of leadership in our community — Kira Peters and Holly Amend of the Women’s Collective. Their organization is built on connection, mentorship, and empowerment — and since its founding, they’ve awarded nearly $100,000 in grants to local programs helping women advance in leadership and achieve their goals. Now, they’re inviting you to join them for their signature event, the Sunset 5K for Charity, happening November 8th along the Arizona Canal in Scottsdale. Whether you run, walk, or just enjoy the view at sunset, every step supports women right here in our community. Want to get involved, volunteer, or donate? 👉 Visit thewomenscollectiveaz.org to learn more. Plus we check in with our sponsor - Realtor Shawn Shackelton to chat about the Scottsdale housing market.

We all know Scottsdale loves good food, great drinks, and a reason to get together….and NOW there’s a brand-new event that has all three. Today on Scottsdale Vibes, I’m joined by Luke Irvin and Eric Walters, the co-founders of A Taste of AZ, to talk about their newest celebration, Sip, Savor, Shop….a food, drink, and local shopping experience you won’t want to miss. Arizona’s food and drink scene has never been more exciting, and no one captures it quite like A Taste of AZ. From their magazine and podcast to their festivals and now their brand-new event, Sip, Savor, Shop, Luke and Eric have built a platform that celebrates everything delicious and local about our state. Coming up on Saturday, November 1st, they’re hosting their inaugural Sip, Savor, Shop festival at Salt River Fields, where guests can enjoy unlimited food samples, drinks, and access to some of Arizona’s top breweries, wineries, distilleries, and restaurants—plus a curated marketplace of local artisans and retailers. It’s part tasting event, part shopping spree, and all Arizona.

You know him as a former Suns player who’s now a game day TV analyst but he’s also a motivational speaker- dedicated to a local organization helping single mothers. I’m excited to welcome former NBA star Eddie Johnson. After his incredible career on the court, Eddie turned his focus to giving back, supporting the nonprofit Helping Hands for Single Moms. The organization provides scholarships and vital services to help low-income single mothers pursue their education and build a brighter future for their families. Eddie’s commitment both on and off the court shows the true impact of using your platform to lift others up.