ICONIC HOUR

On today's podcast, musician and Artistic Director of the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM), Andrew Walesch shares how MIM offers a hands-on, immersive experience that celebrates music's role in shaping history and human connection.

BACK STORY

Like a good many before him, singer and pianist Andrew Walesch somehow manages to encapsulate the sophistication of a cosmopolite and the self-effacing charm of a country boy.

Whether composing and arranging or appearing in settings ranging from solo artist to big band, this Minnesota native, who crisscrosses the country playing dates big and small, is as respectful of his predecessors as he is ready to take a leap into the unknown and chart a new course.

In his monthly, sold-out shows with his 10-piece band, Walesch is a traditionalist and an iconoclast rolled into one. His audiences include jazz enthusiasts of a certain age, as well as a younger crowd compelled by his down-home insouciance, and the knowing irreverence of a tried-and-true American nightclub entertainer. "Although they are my idols, I don't attempt to imitate the great pop and jazz artists of the 50's and 60's," says the singer and pianist, "but I go for broke when we do our shows -- vocally and musically — which is what they all did best and why they were in a class of their own."

His vocal and piano chops, along with his keen sensibility to find and interpret a great lyric, have led to some great opportunities for Walesch, including an appearance on the nationally syndicated NPR broadcast Mountain Stage and more recently, an invitation to perform at the 33rd Annual Cabaret Convention at the Rose Theater at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City.

Website: mim.org

andrewwalesch.com

Instagram: mimphx

Andrewwalesch

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On today's podcast, owner of The Italian Daughter and Patricia's Pizza, Melissa Maggiore shares how she's honoring her father's legacy and passion, one dish at a time.

BACK STORY

Melissa Maggiore Meyer is the owner of two prominent restaurants here in the Valley— The Italian Daughter, an Italian eatery located in North Scottsdale and the recently opened Patricia's Pizza. Each concept is inspired by her family's love for food and Italian heritage. As the daughter of the late famed restaurant, Tomaso Maggiore, the restaurant industry is in her blood. Melissa puts a culinary twist on classic dishes to create a one-of-a-kind experience that transports guests to the coast of Italy. Melissa's successes include opening a variety of restaurants in Southern California, starring in a reality TV show on Food Network, and relocating to Scottsdale to launch two restaurant concepts inspired by her father's legacy. After her father's passing, Melissa has devoted much of her time to supporting the youth pursuing a culinary career through the Tomaso Maggiore Foundation and those impacted by cancer by supporting Cancer Support Community Arizona.

Website: https://www.theitaliandaughter.com/

https://www.patriciaspizzaaz.com/

Instagram: theitaliandaughteraz

patriciaspizzaaz

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On today's podcast, Founder and CEO of af&co., Andrew Freeman shares Expert Tips and Trends in Travel, Luxury Hotels and Fine Dining, and Strategies to stay relevant, resourceful, and respected in your industry

BACK STORY

Named as one of the Top 25 Most Extraordinary Minds in Sales and Marketing by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International, and was named a PRNEWS CEO of the Year Honoree for 2023, Andrew brings a combination of deep industry experience, passion and creativity to every endeavor. With 40 years in the hospitality industry and af&co. celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025, Andrew has built a legacy of innovation while staying at the forefront of industry trends.

With over 200 restaurant and hotel launches, Andrew and his team have provided branding, marketing, PR, and operations consulting for hundreds more, including spirits, wine brands, and destinations. af&co. has also produced culinary events ranging from intimate dinners to festivals drawing over 10,000 guests. From 2016 to present, af&co. has been named by the San Francisco Business Times as one of the Top 50 LGBTQ-Owned Businesses in the Bay Area, consecutively moving up the ranks to its current position at number 34.

Andrew got his start in the restaurant business by working his way up through the ranks at several legendary New York City establishments. At the Russian Tea Room, Andrew opened the Cabaret, which became the toast of the town after only six months and he spent six years as VP of PR at The Rainbow Room, working alongside Joe Baum. He then moved onto the famed Windows on the World, Andrew was the VP of Public Relations and Marketing and oversaw the re-launch after the Trade Center bombing in 1992.

Before founding af&co., Andrew spent a decade as VP of Public Relations and Strategic Partnerships at Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, launching over 40 properties and expanding the brand globally. He also spearheaded Kimpton's award-winning LGBTQ+ travel program, helping it become the first hospitality company to earn a 100% score on the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index—a distinction it has maintained since 2002.

In addition to af&co., Andrew co-founded Carbonate in 2020, an independent branding and creative agency specializing in storytelling, identity, and positioning for the hospitality industry. Under Andrew's leadership, af&co. and Carbonate have become highly respected consulting firms with headquarters in San Francisco and Cincinnati, serving clients nationwide. The af&co. + Carbonate Annual Trends Report, now in its 17th year, continues to be one of the most influential industry resources, providing insights into emerging hospitality trends.

When Andrew is not consulting with his growing list of notable clients, he dedicates any extra time he has to philanthropic efforts sitting on the boards of SF Travel, The Golden Gate Restaurant Association, Foodwise, and The Richmond Ermet AID Foundation. He's an honorary board member of Meals on Wheels San Francisco and a co-founder for Dress for Success San Francisco.

Andrew has been a driving force in initiatives that amplify and support hospitality businesses in the Bay Area. He is a co-founder of the Oakland Restaurant Collective and Savor Oakland and collaborates with Visit Oakland, Eat Drink SF, and The James Beard Foundation on yearly culinary events. He continues to advocate for hospitality businesses, ensuring they remain integral to the cultural and economic landscape. A regular contributor to industry publications, Andrew is a sought-after speaker at hospitality conferences worldwide.

When not working – you can find Andrew at Barry's Bootcamp, catching the latest Broadway show (obsessed), exploring the wonders of San Francisco with his pooch Dolly and of course celebrating life's everyday moments at his favorite restaurants and hotels.

Website: https://www.afandco.com/

Instagram: afandco

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If you're looking to own Arizona real estate or moving within our beautiful state, this podcast is for you.

Welcome to ICONIC Estates, a podcast presented by Russ Lyon/Sotheby's International Realty for people who love Arizona and the opportunity to live in luxury in the pristine desert. I'm your host Renee Dee, publisher of ICONIC LIFE magazine, and I'll be with you each month for the show.

On the pod today, I've got CP Drewett, who will talk with us about the relationship between strong architecture and the world of real estate. Mike Balzotti, director of education for Russ Lyon/Sotheby's International Realty, explains the current market conditions in Arizona, and then we talk with Josh Shaver, a global real estate advisor who has turned his hometown into a successful real estate career.

We so appreciate you taking the time to hear from us. If you enjoyed today's podcast, please make sure to subscribe and hit the bell so that you are alerted to never miss an episode. And, if you'd like to join our VIP list to receive our ICONIC Estates newsletter, please go to russlyon.com or the link is found in the show notes. I'd be so grateful if you'd take a moment to tell us what you think by rating and reviewing this pod.

On today's podcast, President of West Construction and Development Co. Scott West talks all things renovation of Arizona homes.

BACK STORY

Scott is proud and honored to be leading the family company since 2015. He grew up with the business and worked on job sites with his dad, Ed, since he was 10 years old. Now his experience spans all aspects of the construction industry and various trades.

His artistic and creative talents are instrumental to the vision and development of each project and his strong analytical and financial experience guide the company's growth.

Scott is committed to continuing the quality and integrity upon which West Construction was founded over 30 years ago.

Website: https://www.westconstructionaz.com

Instagram: westconstructionaz

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Making It Into The Modeling Industry | Owner of FORD/Robert Black Agency Sheree Hartwell Shares What It Takes To Make It In The Modeling Industry

On today's podcast, owner of FORD/Robert Black Agency Sheree Hartwell shares the ins and outs of the modeling world and what attributes they look when recruiting new talent.

BACK STORY

Since its origination in 1987, the FORD/Robert Black Agency has been one of the most prominent model and talent agencies in the Southwest. Sheree Hartwell purchased the agency from founder Robert Black on March 1, 2005, after being the Agency Director for 6 months. Since acquiring FORD/Robert Black Agency, Sheree has significantly expanded the agency's reach and impact. Today, she and the FORD/RBA community celebrate her 20 years of ownership and success. Under Sheree's proprietorship, the agency has earned its reputation as an industry leader. "I feel incredibly fortunate to have been able to build my career here in Arizona and cultivate a community that is making its mark in our industry not only in our local market, but globally," Sheree shares. The agency provides a full-service model and talent agency to a diverse talent group of all ages, genders, ethnicities, and body types for print, runway, commercial print, TV/film, and voice-over work. FORD/RBA also represents expert artists for photography, hair/make-up, and wardrobe styling. Over the years, the agency has doubled its office space now located in North Scottsdale and the tenure of staff now totals over 75 years of experience amongst the team. The agency has also grown its roster to over 500 signed talent, and added new divisions including Kids, Hair/Makeup/Wardrobe, Families, and Social Media Influencers.

Website: https://fordmodels.com/

Instagram: fordrba

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On today's podcast, owner of Oasis Luxury Smart Homes Justin Worley shares how assistive technology for your home can be personalized to your lifestyle needs. With smart home technology on the rise, learn about the many benefits of customizing your home's lighting design & control, electrical, audio / video, shades, security, comfort control, outdoor entertainment, home automation and more from a true expert.

BACK STORY

Justin has over fifteen years of experience in the home automation sector. Today he owns Scottsdale's premier source for the design, installation and personalized programming of your home entertainment and control solutions.

Website: https://oasissmarthomes.com/

Instagram: oasisluxurysmarthomes

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On today's podcast, Arizona Real Estate Mogul and Change Agent Tim McBride shares his personal journey of finding a bigger purpose beyond real estate, leaving a legacy of service.

BACK STORY

Originally from Vancouver, Canada, Tim McBride pursued a career in professional sports and entertainment upon earning undergraduate and graduate degrees in the field. After his sports-tech company plateaued, he found himself back in Arizona and pivoted into what has been a fruitful six-year career in real estate.

Now residing in the Scottsdale area, McBride works with residential clients in Scottsdale and nearby locales. He strives to be intentional in his interactions and build real relationships with his clientele. Describing his approach as relationship-driven and impact-focused, he challenges himself daily to elevate his standard of service to clients and community.

With a passion for real estate and serving his community, Tim began The Change Agent Golf Classic, a tournament benefiting The Driven Project, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing joy and strength to children battling critical illnesses. Recently established in Scottsdale by founder Kevin Gordon, The Driven Project provides these young warriors with unforgettable "supercare therapy" experiences, giving them a chance to ride in exotic cars and escape the challenges they face - even if it's just for the day. This uplifting experience offers a profound sense of hope, strength, and inspiration for these children and their families during an incredibly challenging time.

In addition to The Change Agent Golf Classic, Tim also heads the Homes for Good Foundation, a purpose driven movement of independent real estate professionals designed to tell a much bigger story beyond the transaction and be a catalyst for inspiration, impact and the transformation in our neighborhoods and communities. Where every real estate transaction means immediate local impact.

Website: https://timmcbriderealestate.com/

https://homesforgoodfoundation.org/

https://cbo.io/bidapp/index.php?slug=changeagent

Instagram: @timmcbride_changeagent

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ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE

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TAGS: timmcbriderealestate, timmcbridechangeagent, changeagentgolfclassic, servingthecommunity, philanthropy, homesforgoodfoundation, iconichourpodcast, iconiclife, iconic

Do you really know what's in your food? On today's podcast, co-founder of Seed Oil Free Alliance Corey Nelson shares what exactly seed oils are, the dangers they may cause to your health, and how to avoid using them in the kitchen.

BACK STORY

Corey Nelson is co-founder of the Seed Oil Free Alliance, a certification company that's helping industry and consumers switch to healthier oils and fats. Corey is responsible for product development and policy at the Seed Oil Free Alliance. He oversees consumer education, strategic partnerships, lab testing and certified product surveillance. He is also the co-author of the Seed Oil Free Standards with Dr. Andrew Weil.

Prior to co-founding the Seed Oil Free Alliance, Corey worked as a remote health coach and fitness trainer, advising thousands of clients ranging from individuals with medical limitations to elite and professional athletes. He has also managed educational campaigns for dozens of health and wellness companies and written informative, science-based articles that have been viewed by millions of readers.

Seed Oil Free Alliance's mission is advocating and advancing the availability of seed-oil free options through trust, transparency, and education.

Website: seedoilfreecertified.com

Instagram: @seedoilfreecertified

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ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE

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TAGS: seedoilfreealliance, seedoilfreecertified, seedoils, health, podcast, iconic, iconiclife

Are you ready to embark on the cruise of your dreams? On today's podcast, cruise specialist Jonathan Phillips and Tami Louis of Regent Seven Seas Cruises share their years of cruise experience to help get you ready for the perfect odyssey on water!

BACK STORY

Jonathan is a destination and cruise specialist, having visited over 76 + countries and all seven continents, and cruised on nearly every cruise line.

Originally from London, United Kingdom, Jonathan now resides in beautiful Phoenix, Arizona and has called America his home for the past 32 years, proudly becoming a US citizen in January of 2006. Jonathan constantly strives to improve his relationships with his suppliers and industry partners, therefore offering his clients first-hand knowledge of an incredible and vast array of travel experience.

Jonathan loves what he does with a passion and could not think of any other path that he would have followed. Having worked in the cruise industry for many years for some of the world's best cruise lines, he has an insider's knowledge of how the cruise industry works, and that relates to how he relates with managing clients' expectations.

"People often ask me where I see myself in the next 5 – 10 years, and I tell them, exactly where I am today, doing what I care about with a passion!" -Jonathan Phillips

Tami Louis, joined Regent Seven Seas Cruises in 2003 as Director of Sales & Marketing and is committed to helping Travel Advisors reach their potential and goals in the luxury segment. Tami has been honored with the "Wave Award" as favorite Cruise Line Representative by Travel Age West Magazine. The Signature Travel Network "Hero Award" and RSSC top sales awards 2016 and 2023.

Spotlight on Christopher Gross sailing on Regents seven seas Grandeur.

Amsterdam

-TO-

Paris (Le Havre)

August 28th – September 9th

Northern Europe Luxury Cruise - Amsterdam to Paris (Le Havre) on Aug 28, 2025 | Regent Seven Seas Cruises (rssc.com)

This 12-night voyage has a 15% deposit, and final payment is due on April 30th, 2025

Currently there is an amazing offer

H WAS $12,299 NOW $9,600 per person

G2 WAS 12,599.00 NOW $8820.00

G1 WAS 12,999.00 NOW $9,100

F2 $10,640.00 sold out

F1 WAS $13899.00 NOW $9730.00

E $ WAS $15,099 NOW10,624.00

D WAS 15,499.00 NOW $10,904.00

• Unlimited Shore Excursions

• Exquisite dining, including all specialty restaurants at no added cost

• Unlimited beverages, fine wines, craft cocktails, specialty coffees & more

• Customizable in-suite mini bar replenished daily with your preferences

• Pre-Paid gratuities

• Unlimited WiFi*

• Valet laundry service

• 24-Hour in-suite dining

• Open bars and lounges & dynamic entertainment and enrichment experiences

Cassis Travel Services

Jonathan Phillips

602 955 1586

[email protected]

Website: www.rssc.com

Instagram: regentcruises

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