All The Things Real Podcast

On this episode of All The Things Real, Mel sits down with Scott Goldsmith and TJ Tilman, the minds behind Level 1 Arcade Bar and a growing lineup of standout concepts across the Valley. What started as a bold idea between friends turned into one of the most recognizable nightlife experiences in Arizona.

They get into the real story behind building Level 1 from the ground up, how they identified the gap in downtown Gilbert, and what it actually takes to turn a concept into something people connect with. From late nights, financial pressure, and figuring out roles on the fly, to creating spaces that people genuinely feel a part of.

It’s a look at entrepreneurship without the filter—how to build something from nothing, why service and experience matter more than the concept itself, and what it means to create places people keep coming back to.

Credits:

Hosted by Melissa Gierhahn

Produced by Connor Greenwall

Music by Alexander M Thomas

Johann Warnholtz, founder of Exceptional Vibes, sits down with Mel on All the Things Real (ATTR) for a real, unfiltered conversation about what it actually looks like to build something from the ground up. From growing up around endurance events to producing some of the most talked-about food and beverage experiences in the East Valley, Johann walks through the non-linear path that got him here—and why he bet on himself to start over and do it his way.

They get into everything from beer festivals and chef dinners to the smaller, more intentional events Johann is known for—where the goal isn’t just scale, but connection. He shares how he’s built relationships across the Phoenix food and beverage scene, what separates a good event from a great one, and why creating a real experience matters more than just putting something together.

The episode also touches on the business side—what it takes to run a creative company, how he’s expanding into marketing strategy, and the reality of balancing passion with sustainability. If you’re into entrepreneurship, events, or just seeing how people turn ideas into something real, this one gives you a clear look behind the scenes.

Credits:

Hosted by Melissa Gierhahn

Produced by Connor Greenwall

Music by Alexander M Thomas

In this episode of All the Things Real, Melissa sits down with Jessica Sarkissian, a land planner and founder who has spent the last seven years building her own firm from the ground up. Jessica shares her journey through entrepreneurship, what it takes to run a business behind the scenes, and the reality of wearing every hat.She opens up about a major transition in her career—stepping away from her company to join a larger team—and what led her to that decision. From burnout to balance, the conversation highlights how priorities shift over time and why flexibility looks different in every season.Jessica also gets real about life outside of work, from raising four kids to traveling solo and refusing to wait for the “right time.” It’s an honest conversation about growth, independence, and giving yourself permission to change direction.

Credits:

Hosted by Melissa Gierhahn

Produced by Connor Greenwall

Music by Alexander M Thomas

In this episode of All the Things Real, Mel sits down with Jocelyn Skogebo—interior designer, historic home renovator, and a key voice in Downtown Mesa’s growth. From restoring century-old homes to navigating the realities of investment, Jocelyn shares what it really takes to preserve character while creating functional, modern spaces.

They talk through her journey from suburban living to embracing a more urban lifestyle, raising four kids through that transition, and the lessons that came with stepping outside the “bubble.” Jocelyn also opens up about the risks and rewards of renovating historic properties, turning unique layouts into opportunities, and even creating a boutique-style Airbnb experience.

Beyond design, the conversation dives into Jocelyn’s role on the city’s Historic Preservation Board, offering insight into how local decisions shape communities, property values, and growth. It’s an honest look at entrepreneurship, intentional living, and what it means to invest—not just in real estate, but in a city and its future.

Credits:

Hosted by Melissa Gierhahn

Produced by Connor Greenwall

Music by Alexander M Thomas

In this episode of All the Things Real, Melissa sits down with Christina and Macee, the co-owners of Rebel Wine Lounge in Downtown Mesa. They share how their business partnership evolved from working together in the mortgage industry to building multiple concepts, including Level 1 and Outcast, before launching their own women-led space.

They talk honestly about the challenges behind the scenes—slow seasons, tough decisions, and learning as they go—while emphasizing the importance of resilience, trust, and doing it scared. The two also give a glimpse into what’s next as they expand back into Gilbert and continue growing their brand.

A real conversation about entrepreneurship, partnership, and building something that lasts.

Credits:

Hosted by Melissa Gierhahn

Produced by Connor Greenwall

Music by Alexander M Thomas

In this episode of All the Things Real, Melissa sits down with Arizona native and Emmy Award winning producer Alex Thomas, the artist behind the music project Juno Empire. Alex shares his journey growing up in the east Valley, discovering rock music as a teenager, and how a passion for creativity eventually led him from Northern Arizona University to working in the film and music world.

The conversation explores creativity, building something of your own, and what it means to pursue art in an authentic way. Alex also talks about his current work with Juno Empire, the process behind writing and producing music, and what he’s working toward next.

It’s an honest conversation about creativity, growth, and finding inspiration in everyday life here in Arizona.

Credits:

Hosted by Melissa Gierhahn

Produced by Connor Greenwall

Music by Alex Thomas

In this special episode of All the Things Real, we took the mic to the streets of Downtown Mesa to ask a simple question: What do you love most about this place? From longtime locals to first-time visitors, the answers were honest, heartfelt, and full of pride for the community they call home.

This episode captures the energy, character, and charm that make Downtown Mesa more than just a destination — it’s a gathering place filled with culture, creativity, and connection. Real voices. Real stories. Real love for the city.

Credits:

Hosted by Melissa Gierhahn

Produced by Connor Greenwall

Music by Alexander M Thomas

In this heartfelt episode of All the Things Real, Melissa sits down with her dear friend Kristen Merwin — author, hypnotherapy practitioner, and fierce advocate for children and women finding their voice. What began as a design-client relationship grew into a deep friendship, making this conversation especially personal. Kristen shares how her journey was shaped not by a traditional business plan, but by motherhood — particularly during the challenges of COVID, online learning, and her own ADHD diagnosis, which pushed her to seek better tools for both her children and herself.

That search led Kristen into brain health studies, conscious parenting certification, breathwork, and hypnotherapy, ultimately shaping the work she does today. From creating her Seven Magic Mindsets curriculum and children’s book Magic Mountain to writing her newest book Sacred Return for women, her mission has remained the same: to help people remember who they are. She believes sometimes all it takes is one adult, one sentence, one moment of belief to completely change a child’s life.

Together, Melissa and Kristen dive into self-compassion, releasing control, navigating family dynamics, and saying yes to growth even when it feels uncomfortable. This episode is an honest reflection on healing yourself first, trusting divine timing, and remembering your magic — at every stage of life.

Credits:

Hosted by Melissa Gierhahn

Produced by Connor Greenwall

Music by Alexander M Thomas

In this insightful episode of All the Things Real, Melissa welcomes John Merwin, CEO of Brooklyn Bedding, to explore his journey from working within a family-founded business to helping lead one of the most respected mattress manufacturers in the country. Together, they discuss the evolution of Brooklyn Bedding, the lessons learned through leadership, and what it means to grow a company while staying true to its original values.

John shares candid insights into the realities of entrepreneurship, navigating family dynamics in business, and balancing innovation with tradition. He reflects on the challenges of scaling a company, fostering a strong team culture, and maintaining authenticity in a competitive, fast-changing industry. Through his perspective, listeners gain a deeper understanding of resilience, long-term vision, and purpose-driven leadership.

Tune in to hear how John approaches leadership with intention, builds trust within a family-driven organization, and continues to shape the future of Brooklyn Bedding while honoring the foundation it was built on.

Credits:

Hosted by Melissa Gierhahn

Produced by Connor Greenwall

Music by Alexander M Thomas

In this episode of All the Things Real, Melissa sits down with Sarah Williams, a visionary entrepreneur and fearless self-starter, as they unpack the thrills and trials of building businesses and creating generational wealth. From paddle board rentals to goat yoga, Sarah’s ventures embody bold ideas and uncharted paths. Together, they discuss the mindset of a true entrepreneur, the reality of balancing multiple businesses, and why a supportive network (and the occasional therapist) is essential. They also explore the unique struggles of entrepreneurs—the constant hustle, the creative risks, and the role of resilience.

Listen in for real, unfiltered insights on growth, family, and turning wild dreams into reality—this conversation is one for anyone looking to make an impact on their own terms.

Follow Sarah online @desertpaddleboards and @sarah_elizabeth_williams