Today and Tomorrow in Scottsdale

In the 200th episode of our podcast, we take a look at the future of education, the future of work, and how we prepare young people for both, with Chad Wilson, superintendent of the East Valley Institute of Technology. He brings a unique perspective on what students need in a rapidly changing economy – from career and technical education and workforce development to the skills employers are looking for. We'll explore how EVIT helps students turn their talents into real-world skills, meaningful careers, and future opportunities.

Shaping Scottsdale's schools

What does the future of education look like in Scottsdale? As we head into election season, that's a question worth asking Dr. Jennifer Johnson, whose career in public education has taken her from the classroom to the superintendent's office, state education leadership and higher education. Now, she's running for the Scottsdale Unified School District Governing Board, bringing decades of experience and a unique perspective to the challenges and opportunities facing Scottsdale schools.

Healing heroes through service dogs

With a mission built on compassion, healing, and hope, Sean Alfonso shares how The Pearce Family Foundation of Scottsdale is helping Arizona veterans living with PTSD and other service-related challenges through the life-changing support of service dogs. It's a powerful story of resilience, recovery, and the incredible bond between veterans and their loyal companions.

Inside the vision that built Scottsdale

What happens when the person who helped shape modern Scottsdale tells the story from the inside? Longtime city planner Don Hadder takes us behind the scenes of nearly four decades of growth, vision, and transformation. From the creation of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve to master-planned development and the policies that guided Scottsdale's evolution, Don shares the stories, decisions, and challenges that helped define the city we know today.

Desert stewardship with Angy Shearer

As CEO of the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, Angy Shearer is helping shape the future of conservation in Scottsdale, preserving more than 30,500 acres of natual wonder for generations to come. From protecting desert trails to inspiring community connections, it's all about stewardship, leadership and preserving the beauty of the Sonoran Desert.

Where science meets patient care

Science, innovation, and patient care all come together in this fascinating conversation with Angie Cooper, Director of Research Business Development at the HonorHealth Research Institute in Scottsdale. With more than 20 years of experience in neuroscience, clinical trials, and military medicine, Angie shares how groundbreaking research moves from idea to impact — from the future of clinical research to the human side of discovery.

Where aviation meets community

Kelli Kuester, Aviation Planning and Outreach Coordinator for the Scottsdale Airport, helps connect a fast-moving industry with the people it serves every day. The City Hall veteran now plays a key role in shaping how the airport grows, communicates, and stays connected to the community.

Where storytelling meets leadership

Abbie Fink, president of HMA Public Relations, knows how to turn words into impact and relationships into community change. She has spent more than 30 years shaping conversations and strengthening Scottsdale through her leadership and service. She's a connector, a storyteller, a community advocate and someone who knows exactly how to bring people together.

Stagebrush spotlight with Michael Helander

Step into the spotlight with us as we explore the magic of community theater and its impact beyond the stage. Michael Helander shares how her work with Stagebrush Theatre is helping young people discover confidence, creativity, and a true sense of belonging. It's a conversation about storytelling, community, and the kind of transformation that doesn't end when the curtain falls.

From concert tours to real impact

With over 30 years in the entertainment industry, Maria Brunner has worked alongside music's biggest names. Today, she's channeling that experience into purpose as the founder of Musically Fed — turning unused tour catering food into meals for those in need. What began in Scottsdale is now making a global difference.

With over 30 years in the entertainment industry, Maria Brunner has worked alongside music's biggest names. Today, she's channeling that experience into purpose as the founder of Musically Fed