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Curiosity, Community, and Storytelling with Jose Acevedo of Finding Arizona

This week on the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, host Alicia Haygood turns the mic on a fellow storyteller who has spent nearly a decade capturing the heart of Arizona. Alicia is joined by Jose Acevedo, founder of the award-winning Finding Arizona Podcast, for a thoughtful conversation about curiosity, community, and why places like Scottsdale continue to inspire creators and entrepreneurs.

In a fun full-circle moment, Alicia recently appeared as a guest on Jose’s podcast—so this episode flips the roles and continues the dialogue. The result is an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at podcasting, storytelling, and the shared mission of amplifying local voices across Arizona.

If you love discovering the people, businesses, and stories that make Arizona special, chances are you’ve already heard of Finding Arizona. The weekly podcast highlights local business owners, creatives, chefs, nonprofit leaders, and entrepreneurs from across the state through organic, conversational interviews that feel more like chatting with a friend than sitting through a formal Q&A.

Over the years, Jose has interviewed more than 400 Arizona business owners and community leaders, giving him a rare perspective on what makes the state—and especially the Valley—so unique. During the episode, he shares how his love of storytelling began during his childhood on the Hopi Reservation, where his grandfather taught him the importance of listening as deeply as speaking. That early lesson became the foundation for his podcasting style: thoughtful, respectful, and rooted in genuine curiosity.

The conversation also explores how Jose’s path evolved from screen-printing t-shirts and attending Arizona State University to launching a podcast that has become a trusted platform for local stories. Along the way, Jose reflects on the growth that comes with nearly ten years behind the mic, how fatherhood has shaped his perspective, and why podcasting is as much about empathy as it is about content.

Alicia and Jose dive into what makes Scottsdale’s entrepreneurial and creative scene stand out, touching on the city’s investment in infrastructure, branding, and local business growth. They agree that one of Arizona’s greatest strengths is its collaborative spirit—where community often outweighs competition, and creators are eager to support one another.

From memorable guests and live podcast moments to the realities of podcast production, SEO, and audience growth, this episode offers a candid look at what it really takes to build something meaningful over time. Jose also shares his vision for the future, including expanding into podcast production, collaboration, and even a potential father-son podcast project.

At its core, this episode is a celebration of storytelling as a way to connect people, preserve legacy, and strengthen community. Whether you’re a longtime listener of Finding Arizona or discovering Jose Acevedo’s work for the first time, his passion for amplifying Arizona voices is impossible to miss.

🎧 Tune in to the full episode of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast to hear how curiosity, conversation, and community continue to shape Arizona’s creative landscape.

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Breaking Barriers in Arizona Car Culture with Rebecca Nguyen of The Warehouse

As Barrett-Jackson approaches and Arizona Car Week gears up, the energy around Scottsdale’s automotive scene is unmistakable. On this episode of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, host Alicia Haygood sits down with Rebecca Nguyen, founder of The Warehouse, to explore how cars, community, and connection are redefining what car culture looks like in Arizona.

Rebecca’s journey into the automotive world began early—at just 16 years old—behind the wheel of a Sonic Yellow Subaru WRX that once belonged to her older brother. What started as a shared bond between siblings quickly evolved into a lifelong passion rooted not in status or speed, but in memories, storytelling, and human connection. That early experience shaped Rebecca’s perspective on cars as emotional touchstones rather than simple collectibles.

Today, Rebecca is the founder of The Warehouse, one of Arizona’s most unique automotive concepts: a collector car storage space and social club designed to foster community. More than a place to store vehicles, The Warehouse is an environment where enthusiasts of all levels—first-time collectors and seasoned owners alike—can gather, learn, and connect. From curated vehicles with meaningful backstories to creative community events like Lego nights and automotive art showcases, Rebecca has intentionally built a space that prioritizes inclusivity over ego.

As a woman thriving in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Rebecca openly discusses the challenges of being taken seriously in automotive spaces—and the importance of mentorship, education, and creating welcoming environments. Rather than positioning herself as an authority on engineering or performance specs, she embraces the storytelling side of car culture, proving that passion and curiosity matter just as much as technical expertise.

The conversation also dives into what makes Arizona’s car culture uniquely positioned for growth. While Barrett-Jackson has long anchored the state’s automotive reputation, Rebecca believes Arizona Car Week is still evolving—and that presents an opportunity. With inspiration drawn from Monterey Car Week, she’s working to help establish a broader, more intentional narrative that celebrates local culture, creativity, and responsible enthusiasm.

Looking ahead to January 2026, Rebecca teases exciting plans at The Warehouse, including a week-long automotive art gallery featuring multiple artists and evening events designed to bring the community together. It’s another example of how she’s pushing boundaries and expanding what car culture can be.

For Rebecca Nguyen, cars are more than machines—they’re memory makers, conversation starters, and gateways to community. Her story is a reminder that passion, when paired with intention, can reshape an entire industry.

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How Design Shapes Culture: Jennifer Reynolds on Hospitality, Innovation & Scottsdale’s Global Rise

Scottsdale has quietly become one of the most influential hospitality and culinary destinations in the country—and behind many of its most memorable spaces is Jennifer Reynolds, CEO and co-founder of Ideation Design Group (IDG).

On this episode of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, host Alicia Haygood sits down with Reynolds to explore how intentional design fuels cultural tourism, attracts global brands, and shapes the way cities like Scottsdale show up on the world stage.

With more than 25 years of experience, Reynolds has built Ideation Design Group into a boutique architecture and interior design firm known for creating standout restaurants, hospitality spaces, airport concepts, and entertainment venues across 48 states and internationally. From Universal Studios and Planet Hollywood to airport lounges, celebrity chef restaurants, and beloved local concepts, her work blends creativity with business-minded execution.

Why Scottsdale Became a Hospitality Hotspot

Reynolds credits Scottsdale’s rise to a combination of factors: strong tourism, year-round outdoor living, economic growth, and an influx of culinary talent. What was once a market dominated by chain restaurants has evolved into a thriving hub of one-of-a-kind dining concepts, chef-driven brands, and design-forward spaces.

Scottsdale’s affordability compared to cities like Los Angeles and New York, combined with its lifestyle appeal, has made it a magnet for restaurateurs, hotel developers, and national brands looking to expand west.

Designing Experiences, Not Just Spaces

A recurring theme throughout the conversation is Reynolds’ belief that great restaurant design goes far beyond aesthetics. Successful hospitality spaces must balance timeless materials, budget-conscious execution, and memorable “wow” moments that stand the test of time.

Rather than chasing trends that may feel dated in just a few years, Reynolds emphasizes classic foundations—natural materials, layered textures, and thoughtful layouts—paired with bold design elements that create emotional impact and lasting memories.

This philosophy is evident in projects like Heritage Kitchen + Cocktails, where IDG transformed a limited budget into a richly layered, high-end experience, and Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Kitchen at Sky Harbor Airport, which channels personality, energy, and fun through immersive visual storytelling.

Emerging Design Trends in Scottsdale

Reynolds points to several design trends shaping Scottsdale’s hospitality scene today, including:

  • Biophilic design, bringing greenery and outdoor elements inside
  • Elevated patios that blur the line between indoor and outdoor dining
  • Natural, regionally inspired materials
  • Speakeasies, supper clubs, and experiential dining concepts

Scottsdale has also shed outdated design stereotypes, emerging as a city known for cutting-edge hospitality spaces that rival major global destinations.

What’s Next for Ideation Design Group

Looking ahead, Reynolds is expanding IDG’s footprint into hotel design and airport lounges, allowing her team to shape entire environments rather than individual spaces. She’s also continuing long-standing collaborations with clients like Sammy Hagar, working on projects across Hawaii, California, and beyond.

A Lasting Impact on Scottsdale’s Identity

From iconic restaurants to global hospitality brands, Jennifer Reynolds’ work continues to influence how people experience Scottsdale—whether they’re locals, snowbirds, or first-time visitors. Her designs don’t just reflect the city’s growth; they help drive it.

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The Future of Pain Care: Dr. Ashu Goyle on Regenerative Medicine, True Healing & Taking a Stand for Patients

When it comes to modern medicine, few voices are pushing the boundaries of true healing like Dr. Ashu Goyle, a double board-certified anesthesiologist and interventional pain physician who trained at the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic. After years of practicing traditional pain management, Dr. Goyle experienced a professional turning point that reshaped his entire approach to medicine — and ultimately led him to build a regenerative, concierge-style practice in Scottsdale focused entirely on healing rather than masking pain.

In a new conversation with Alicia Haygood, Dr. Goyle shares how he transitioned away from insurance-driven, quick-fix care and into a holistic model that treats the whole person. Instead of cortisone shots, symptom-based visits, and short appointment windows, his practice emphasizes nutrition, sleep quality, biomechanics, advanced imaging, PRP, bone marrow therapy, and cutting-edge biologics that stimulate the body’s natural ability to regenerate.

Why Regenerative Medicine?

After a decade in traditional pain management, Dr. Goyle began noticing a troubling pattern: although patients’ symptoms improved temporarily, their imaging often showed worsening damage. The standard system of cortisone injections and pain management simply wasn’t healing anything — and in many cases, was accelerating degeneration.

A regenerative medicine conference changed everything.

“I realized the body has an incredible ability to heal itself,” he explains. “I had dedicated ten years to helping people manage pain, but I wasn’t helping them heal. That realization hit me hard.”

From there, he immersed himself in the science behind platelet-rich plasma (PRP), stem cell therapies, and the role of nutrition, sleep, physical therapy, and stress reduction in long-term wellness.

What “Natural Healing” Actually Means

For Dr. Goyle, regenerative medicine begins with the basics:

  • Food as medicine — the foundation for healthy tissues, joints, and cells
  • Sleep quality — when the body repairs itself and produces stem cells
  • Biomechanics and movement — the key to avoiding re-injury
  • Low-inflammation living — reducing alcohol, sugar, and processed foods

When someone’s lifestyle foundation needs more support, advanced biologic therapies come in — all derived from the patient’s own body. By concentrating platelets or bone marrow stem cells, he helps damaged tissues heal rather than simply masking symptoms.

A Concierge Approach That Makes Healing Possible

Regenerative medicine requires time, personalization, and participation — something the traditional insurance model no longer supports. Instead of rushed 15-minute visits, Dr. Goyle offers hour-long consultations, direct communication, and a multi-month partnership focused on long-term outcomes.

He describes it as a journey: “My goal is for you to be better one year from now than you would’ve been without this work. We go on that journey together.”

Part of that journey includes collaboration with a wide network of specialists — physical therapists, sleep doctors, functional medicine providers, personal trainers, chiropractors, and nutrition experts — creating a true village of care around every patient.

The Results Speak for Themselves

One of his favorite success stories: an 87-year-old executive who wanted to feel better at 90 than he did at 87. Through nutrition changes, PRP, stem cell therapy, laser treatments, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, he now hikes Camelback Mountain multiple times a week — pain-free.

“It takes time and commitment,” Dr. Goyle says, “but the body can do incredible things when we give it what it needs.”

The Future of Medicine

Looking ahead, Dr. Goyle believes regenerative medicine will continue to grow — especially among younger generations who already prioritize prevention, cleaner living, and long-term wellness.

“People don’t want joint replacements at 50,” he says. “They want to prevent them. And now, we have the tools to help them do that safely.”

From food to biologics, from sleep to stem cells, from biomechanics to concierge care — Dr. Goyle is redefining what medicine can look like when the goal is healing, not just symptom relief.

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How Scottsdale Serve Squad Is Transforming Community Care Through Compassion and Connection

On this week’s episode of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, host Alicia Haygood sits down with someone who is quietly—but powerfully—changing the way Scottsdale gives back. Scottsdale Serve Squad, a community-led nonprofit movement founded by Rocky Diehm, has become one of the fastest-growing grassroots efforts in the Valley. And it all started with a simple idea: show up, give back, and treat every person with dignity, compassion, and heart.

A Grassroots Idea That Sparked a Movement

Rocky shares that Scottsdale Serve Squad wasn’t born from a formal plan or a large organization. It began with just four friends who wanted to make a difference in their city. After a Saturday run club, they went to Costco, bought Gatorade, snacks, and water, and drove to downtown Phoenix to hand them out to people experiencing homelessness.

They posted a photo on Instagram.

And then everything changed.

More people wanted to join. More people wanted to help. Donations began coming in. Within months, the group grew from a handful of friends to 20+ volunteers each month, all showing up ready to serve.

“It really was organic,” Rocky explains. “People are looking for ways to give back, and we’re just happy to create the space for it.”

Small Items, Big Impact

Scottsdale Serve Squad focuses on simple, meaningful essentials—water, snacks, hygiene kits, blankets, sandwiches—and delivers them to people who need immediate relief. In the summer months, volunteers pack ice-cold towels to place around people’s necks. The instant relief, Rocky says, is something you never forget.

These items may be small, but the message behind them is powerful: You are seen. You are valued. Someone cares.

Rocky emphasizes that their mission goes beyond handing out supplies. Volunteers take time to look people in the eyes, ask how they’re doing, listen to their stories, and offer hope. “It’s not just transactional,” she says. “Sometimes the most meaningful gift is presence.”

Stories That Stay With You

During the conversation, Rocky shares a story that deeply moved her. While serving downtown, the group met a young man named Chase. He wasn’t homeless, but he lived in a transitional home and was struggling to afford a bus ticket to see his mom for the first time in five years.

They gave him the money—and something even more important: kindness, conversation, and prayer.

It’s moments like these, Rocky says, that remind her why the Serve Squad exists.

How the Serve Squad Operates

The group currently meets once a month, typically on the second Saturday. Before each event, they post a packing list on Instagram so volunteers know what to bring. People can also donate financially, and 100% of contributions go directly toward supplies.

Because the group is growing so quickly, Scottsdale Serve Squad is now building a website, systemizing operations, and collaborating with others—including a local organizer named Jenna who discovered the group on TikTok. Together, they’re assembling 900 Thanksgiving food boxes for families in need.

And the momentum keeps building.

Holiday Outreach: What’s Coming Up

This month, the Serve Squad is helping provide full Thanksgiving meals to families who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford them. Next up: a Christmas outreach effort offering customized stocking stuffers for families navigating financial hardship.

“These are the things kids remember forever,” Alicia notes. “Being able to bring that joy back to families is priceless.”

A Movement Built on Compassion

Scottsdale Serve Squad is still under a year old, yet the ripple effect is undeniable. People want to be involved. People want to help. And Rocky is proof that you don’t need a big organization, a big budget, or a big platform to create big change.

You just need heart.

Get Involved

If you want to volunteer, donate supplies, or support an upcoming outreach event, you can connect with the Serve Squad on Instagram at:

@scottsdaleservesquad

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Inside the 66th Annual Phoenix Heart Ball: Scottsdale’s Most Elegant Night for a Lifesaving Cause

This week on the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, host Alicia Haygood welcomes two remarkable community leaders—Sue Carter and Caroline Connor, vice chairs of the 66th Annual Phoenix Heart Ball, taking place November 22nd. Considered one of the most elegant and meaningful philanthropic events in the Valley, the Phoenix Heart Ball brings donors, volunteers, and supporters together to champion heart health and raise critical funds for the American Heart Association.

For more than six decades, the Phoenix Heart Ball has stood as one of the nation’s top-performing Heart Balls, distinguished not only by its legacy but by its unique approach. Unlike many galas, this event includes no auctions and no paddle raises. Instead, the ball serves as a celebration of the fundraising accomplished throughout the year—a glamorous culmination of community generosity, dedication, and impact.

A Tradition Built on Purpose and Passion

Founded in 1959 by philanthropist Peggy Goldwater, the Phoenix Heart Ball has grown into a year-round philanthropic effort driven by nearly 100 women who plan every detail—from fundraising to décor to community partnerships. Each year introduces new leaders, themes, and initiatives, yet the mission remains the same: to fight heart disease and stroke, the leading cause of death for both men and women.

With over $60 million raised and more than 35,000 attendees over its 66-year history, the Heart Ball continues to be one of the most influential philanthropic traditions in Arizona.

Local Impact, National Reach

While the funds raised support the American Heart Association nationwide, a significant portion directly benefits local research, programs, and heart-health initiatives here in Arizona. This includes grants, community education, training programs, and advancements in lifesaving technologies.

The Phoenix Heart Ball is unique in that its committee is composed entirely of community-based volunteers—not corporate boards—creating a deeply personal connection to the cause. As both Sue and Caroline shared, nearly every volunteer has a “why”: a personal family experience with heart disease that inspires their commitment and service.

Stories That Fuel the Mission

For Sue Carter, involvement began with a profound personal loss—her father passed away at age 45 from a heart attack. Over the years, she has lost several family members to heart disease, making her advocacy both personal and powerful.

For Caroline Connor, memories of her father’s heart attack when she was a child and the loss of her niece to a congenital heart condition strengthened her family’s dedication to raising awareness and funding research.

These stories—shared by so many Heart Ball members—are what make the event more than a glamorous evening. They make it a movement.

A Night of Elegance and Celebration

Each year, the Phoenix Heart Ball is hosted at The Phoenician, welcoming approximately 850 guests dressed in black-tie attire and ballgowns. With dining, dancing, and an atmosphere of heartfelt celebration, the night honors the accomplishments of the year and the individuals who made them possible.

This year’s theme, “Vision for the Future,” reflects the committee’s dedication to continued progress, innovation, and expanding the reach of heart-health resources throughout the community.

Giving Back Beyond the Ballroom

While the Heart Ball itself is the signature event, the year includes additional opportunities like the annual golf tournament and ongoing fundraising efforts. Both Sue and Caroline are also deeply involved in other local charities—from Phoenix Children’s Hospital to SARRC to the Boys & Girls Club—demonstrating the strong philanthropic spirit that fuels this community.

How to Support the Phoenix Heart Ball

Whether you’re interested in attending next year’s event, volunteering, or making a donation, you can visit:

PhoenixHeartBall.org

Registration details, committee information, and donation links are available year-round.

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Vineyards in the Valley: Where Fine Wine Meets Purpose

On this week’s episode of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, host Alicia Haygood sits down with Scottsdale natives and lifelong friends Skyler Badenoch and Ricky Palmer, the duo behind the much-anticipated Vineyards in the Valley event returning this December. What began as a shared love of wine has grown into one of Scottsdale’s most meaningful celebrations—uniting community, compassion, and connection over exceptional wine and cuisine.

Now in its second year, Vineyards in the Valley will feature 70+ ultra-premium wineries, local chefs, and unforgettable experiences—all benefiting Hope for Haiti, a nonprofit where Badenoch serves as CEO. The organization provides vital healthcare to Haitian women and families, including early detection and treatment for breast and cervical cancer.

For Badenoch, this mission is deeply personal: “Our work focuses on improving quality of life, particularly for women and children. It’s not just about what we do, but the problems we help local Haitian leaders solve.”

Palmer’s inspiration also came from the heart. Wanting to honor his late mother, a breast cancer survivor, he turned a simple idea—hosting a wine event—into a powerful cause. “I wanted to make an impact that mattered,” he says. “When Skyler told me about the women walking miles to get screened in Haiti, I knew we had to make this happen.”

An Event Rooted in Community

This year’s event takes place at the Scottsdale Stadium, a full-circle moment for the friends who grew up watching spring training games there. Guests will enjoy world-class wine, local restaurant partnerships, and music—all while supporting life-changing healthcare in Haiti.

Leading up to the grand tasting, a series of exclusive dinners at top Scottsdale restaurants like Bourbon Steak, Catch, Hearth ’61, and Course Restaurant will pair exquisite cuisine with featured wineries.

Every sip tells a story: of community, of friendship, and of hope. “We started with a dream,” Palmer shares, “and now we’re helping change lives.”Tickets are already going fast for this year’s Vineyards in the Valley.

To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit https://hopeforhaiti.com/vineyardsinthevalley/

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Empowering Women Through Connection: The Women’s Collective and the Sunset 5K for Charity

This week on Scottsdale Vibes, we’re shining a spotlight on the women who are making a real impact in our community. Kira Peters, President of the Women’s Collective, and Holly Amend, Chair of the Night Run, joined host Alicia Haygood to talk about their mission to elevate women in leadership — and how they’re inviting the community to join them for a night of fitness, philanthropy, and fun.

Built on the foundation of connection, mentorship, and empowerment, the Women’s Collective has awarded nearly $100,000 in grants to organizations helping women grow as leaders. From supporting programs like Dress for Success and the Scottsdale Public Library’s educational initiatives to mentorship-driven nonprofits like Career Connections, their reach continues to expand across the Valley.

Now, they’re inviting the community to lace up for their signature event — the Sunset 5K for Charity, happening November 8th along the Arizona Canal in Scottsdale. The evening race coincides with Canal Convergence, making it a perfect blend of wellness, art, and community spirit.

“It’s not just a women’s event — it’s for everyone,” Kira explained. “Families, runners, walkers — even those who just want to stroll and take in the beauty of the canal at sunset. Every step supports women’s leadership right here in Scottsdale.”

The Women’s Collective’s goal is simple but powerful: inspire and elevate women leaders while providing the tools and mentorship they need to rise. Through fundraising events like the Sunset 5K, they’ve been able to sponsor workshops such as “Your Next Promotion: What’s Holding You Back?” and create opportunities for women to connect, learn, and lead.

“It’s not just about courage,” Kira shared. “It’s about giving women the tools to use that courage and take the next step — whether that’s in business, community leadership, or personal growth.”

The organization continues to grow, now boasting more than 20 active members and preparing for a membership drive in February 2026. The team is also working closely with partners like Blue Zones to expand their impact on community health and connection.

Holly added, “We’ve seen how powerful community can be — when women lift each other up, it transforms not just careers, but lives.”

Whether you run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, the Sunset 5K for Charity is your chance to support women who are shaping Scottsdale’s future.

To learn more about the Women’s Collective, become a member, or register for the race, visit thewomenscollectiveaz.org.

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Sip, Savor, Shop: Arizona’s Local Flavor Comes to Scottsdale

There’s something special about events that truly celebrate Arizona’s local spirit — and Sip, Savor, Shop is one of them. Created by A Taste of AZ founders Luke Irvin and Eric Walters, this new festival brings together the best of what our state has to offer: food, drink, and community.

Born from their passion for storytelling and supporting local businesses, Luke and Eric have built A Taste of AZ into a multimedia brand dedicated to Arizona’s vibrant food and beverage scene. From breweries and wineries to small-batch artisans and chefs, they’ve spent years highlighting the people and places that give our state its unique flavor. Now, with Sip, Savor, Shop, they’re inviting everyone to experience that magic in person.

Bringing Arizona Together

Hosted at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale, Sip, Savor, Shop is designed to be more than just another food festival — it’s an immersive experience celebrating local craftsmanship. Guests can explore a curated selection of Arizona-based wineries, breweries, distilleries, and artisan vendors, all while enjoying live music and delicious bites.

For Luke and Eric, the event is a natural extension of their mission. “We’ve always wanted to connect the community directly with the people behind the products they love,” they shared on the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast. “This event gives us the chance to bring those stories to life — face-to-face.”

Local Roots, Local Love

While both founders have deep ties to Arizona’s culinary world, A Taste of AZ has quickly grown into something much larger than a publication. Through their print magazine, digital content, and now events, Luke and Eric continue to highlight the diverse mix of cultures and creativity that make Arizona such a dynamic food destination.

Their passion for supporting local doesn’t stop with restaurants or breweries — it extends to artists, craftspeople, and small businesses. That’s what makes Sip, Savor, Shop so special: it’s a one-stop celebration of everything local, crafted with care and authenticity.

Why Scottsdale?

When it came time to host Sip, Savor, Shop, Scottsdale was the obvious choice. Known for its mix of sophistication, creativity, and community pride, it’s the perfect home for an event that showcases Arizona’s best flavors.

As Luke and Eric put it, “Scottsdale has always been at the crossroads of culture and connection. We wanted Sip, Savor, Shop to reflect that — to be a place where locals and visitors alike can experience the energy of Arizona’s makers firsthand.”

Taste, Toast, and Take Home

Whether you’re sipping on a locally crafted wine, savoring a small-plate creation from an Arizona chef, or browsing artisan goods to take home, Sip, Savor, Shop promises a day full of discovery. It’s a true celebration of what happens when creativity, community, and craftsmanship come together.

As Luke and Eric continue to grow A Taste of AZ and expand their impact, events like this one prove that local stories — and local flavors — have never been more worth celebrating.

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Giving Back Off the Court: Eddie Johnson and Helping Hands for Single Moms

After 17 seasons in the NBA and a career that included a Sixth Man of the Year Award, former Phoenix Suns star Eddie Johnson has never stopped giving back. These days, the game-day TV analyst is using his platform for something far greater than basketball — empowering single mothers across Arizona through the nonprofit Helping Hands for Single Moms.

On this week’s episode of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, host Alicia Haygood sat down with Eddie to talk about his journey from professional athlete to community leader, and the purpose that continues to drive him off the court.

A Life Lesson in Giving Back

Growing up on Chicago’s South Side, Eddie was raised by his single mother, Doris, alongside six siblings. He credits her strength, sacrifices, and love for shaping who he is today.

“My mom had a choice,” Eddie shared. “She was raising us all by herself, and she chose to have me — that’s the biggest gift anyone could ever give.”

After years of focusing on his career, Eddie realized that true success meant more than just wins on the court. He launched community programs like Accept the Challenge, aimed at keeping at-risk students in school, and partnered with organizations including Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Phoenix Youth Council.

“I needed to start giving back with hands-on opportunities instead of just donating money,” he said. “I wanted to be part of the change.”

Finding Purpose with Helping Hands for Single Moms

Eventually, Eddie found a cause that hit closest to home.
Helping Hands for Single Moms provides scholarships, mentoring, and essential services that help single mothers earn college degrees and create brighter futures for their families. From paying rent or fixing cars to offering childcare support, the organization helps these women succeed through education and empowerment.

“Helping Hands gives moms an opportunity to be the hero in their home,” Eddie explained. “By earning their degree and leading their families, they inspire everyone around them.”

The nonprofit, led by CEO Chris Kaufman, has changed countless lives in the Valley — and Eddie’s dedication has helped raise more than $3 million in support over the past decade.

A Weekend of Fun and Fundraising

Each fall, Eddie hosts the Helping Hands for Single Moms Weekend, a star-studded event that’s part charity, part celebration.
This year’s festivities run October 16–18 at Talking Stick Resort, featuring:

  • Celebrity Poker Tournament — play alongside sports legends for cash prizes and bragging rights.
  • Celebrity Golf Classic — tee off with former pros, community leaders, and supporters.
  • Main Event Gala — an evening of laughter, music, and inspiration, featuring live entertainment (including a special performance by Eddie’s daughter).

“It’s grown from one small event into a full weekend of fun,” Eddie said. “People come out, enjoy themselves, and help us raise money for a great cause.”

More Than a Player

From inspiring students to supporting single mothers, Eddie Johnson continues to prove that leadership extends far beyond the basketball court. His belief in community, education, and perseverance has made a lasting mark on the Valley — and on everyone he meets.

“I’m not trying to get notoriety for what I do,” he said. “I just know that mothers need help — and if I can use my platform to make that happen, that’s what I’m here for.”

To learn more or donate, visit HelpingHandsforSingleMoms.org.