Podsdale

Arizona summers are no joke — and for our pets, they can be downright dangerous. In this episode of Podsdale, Holly Peralta and Greer Albaugh sit down with Dr. Steven Hansen, President and CEO of the Arizona Humane Society, to talk all things pet heat safety. From recognizing the signs of heatstroke to knowing the safest time to walk your furry friend, Dr. Hansen shares expert advice to help you keep your four-legged family members safe and cool. Plus, learn how AHS continues to support pet owners across the Valley and how you can get involved.

In honor of Scottsdale’s 75th anniversary of incorporation coming up next year, this episode of Podsdale takes a trip back to the 1950s. Crimesdale returns with a true crime story from 1959, when Scottsdale Marshal’s Deputies responded to a drunk driving call. The suspect turned out to be a well-known figure at the time, and the case quickly made headlines across the country. Citizen Advisor Bruce Wall shares the story and its surprising twist.

Scottsdale’s libraries are turning up the volume this summer! Librarian Jennifer Wong-Ortiz shares all the can’t-miss updates, from the Summer Reading Challenge and cozy Calming Corner to college prep resources and fresh-brewed coffee at Yellow Spruce Roasters. Plus, find out how new hours, starting July 1, make it easier than ever to visit.

Coyotes in the street? Javelinas in your yard? In this episode, we explore how to live alongside Scottsdale’s desert wildlife. Natural Resources Supervisor John Loleit joins us to talk about urban wildlife management, protecting natural habitats and how to prepare your property for both monsoon season and animal encounters.

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Human Services Manager Kristine Hahn-McDonald joins Podsdale to share how the city of Scottsdale is supporting mental health across the community. From youth and family services to public education and outreach, Kristine discusses the city's efforts to reduce stigma, increase access to resources, and empower residents to prioritize mental well-being.

With pool season heating up, we’re diving into water safety with John Bunnell, community services supervisor and aquatics expert. From lifeguard training to citywide safety protocols, this episode covers everything you need to know before hitting the water. Whether you're swimming laps or splashing with the kids, tune in for tips that could save a life.

In this special crossover episode, Podsdale teams up with Vintage Voice, Human Services’ new podcast dedicated to topics around aging adults, caregivers and advocates. Hosts Jessica Rapp and Kira Peters join us to talk about the inspiration behind Vintage Voice, the importance of staying connected as we age, and how Scottsdale’s senior centers are creating vibrant spaces for our community’s older adults.From fitness classes to social engagement and lifelong learning, this episode is all about celebrating active aging—and yes, staying vertical!

Financial scams targeting seniors are on the rise, and the scammers are getting smarter. In this episode of Podsdale, we sit down with Sergeant Joel Lewis from the Scottsdale Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit to uncover the latest fraud tactics, how criminals target older adults, and what steps seniors—and their families—can take to stay protected.

Dive into holiday cooking and cleanup with Solid Waste Outreach Manager Gina Azima and Water Quality Supervisor Bryce Denton. Gina shares valuable tips on reducing food waste, debunks common recycling myths, and outlines holiday-specific recycling guidelines, including how to handle tricky items like wrapping paper and packaging. Bryce explains why pouring grease down the drain is a no-go and offers safe alternatives for disposal. He also provides smart tips for conserving water. Whether you're prepping holiday meals or cleaning up, Gina and Bryce’s insights make it easy to enjoy a greener holiday season!

Explore the beauty and challenges of hiking in the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Join Natural Resources Coordinators Yvonne Massman and Madison Barasha, along with Fire Captain Gary Burns, as they share essential tips for staying safe while enjoying the great outdoors. Learn about trail etiquette, wildlife awareness and how Scottsdale’s first responders prepare for rescue operations. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, this episode will help ensure your adventures in the Preserve are both safe and enjoyable.

Dive into Scottsdale's rich and fascinating history with Joan Fudala, Scottsdale's community historian. From its early beginnings as a small agricultural community to its evolution into the "West's Most Western Town," Joan shares captivating stories about the key moments and figures that shaped Scottsdale into the vibrant city it is today. Tune in to learn some lesser-known facts that make Scottsdale a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about the past, this episode is a must-listen!

Join us as we talk about tourism and events in Scottsdale, and the city's impactful partnership with Experience Scottsdale. Our guests, Rachel Smetana, Scottsdale's Director of Tourism and Events, and Rachel Pearson, Vice President of Community & Government Affairs at Experience Scottsdale, share how their collaboration helps shape Scottsdale’s tourism strategy. Learn how the city's Tourism & Events Department and Experience Scottsdale work together to market Scottsdale to local, national, and international audiences, and how this partnership benefits residents through economic growth, exciting events, and cultural opportunities.

Explore Scottsdale Promise, a groundbreaking initiative that’s putting education at the forefront of our city’s future. Scottsdale City Council approved funding to kickstart this ambitious program, designed to provide scholarships and internships for eligible Scottsdale residents and graduates of Scottsdale high schools. We chat with Stephanie Zamora and Melanie Burm about the critical partnerships between the City of Scottsdale, Scottsdale Community College, Scottsdale Unified School District and the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation that make this initiative possible. Learn how this need-based, last-dollar program is designed to connect Scottsdale’s youth with educational opportunities, while encouraging participation in public service.

In this episode of Podsdale, we're diving into a crucial topic — water safety! We'll cover essential safety tips for all ages, from toddlers to adults, and discuss how to recognize and prevent drowning and water-related injuries. Our guests from Scottsdale Fire – Dave Folio and Lori Stauffer - share their personal experiences, safety tips and insights. Tune in to learn how to keep your loved ones safe while making a splash this summer!

Podsdale goes "Crimesdale" in this special episode as Citizen Advisor Bruce Wall joins host Holly Walter to delve into a story that reads like a thriller novel, but is all too real. It's a murder-for-hire case with more curveballs than a spring training game. Did a father actually plan the murder of his adult son? Uncover twists and turns as we peel back the layers of this shocking crime. You won't want to miss it!

This week on Podsdale, we delve into the city's innovative recycling and composting efforts to learn about the crucial role these initiatives play in urban sustainability. Guests Gina Azima, outreach manager for Solid Waste Services, and J.D. Hill, co-owner and founder of R.City, explore the transformative impact of recycling and food waste diversion and share how you can get involved.

Blue Zones Project Scottsdale is an innovative community health initiative led by HonorHealth in collaboration with The Cigna Group and Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona. Discover how this groundbreaking partnership is working to enhance the well-being of Scottsdale residents by applying lessons from Blue Zones—regions around the world where people live longer, healthier, and happier lives. We chat with Danielle Anderson, the Organization & Well-Being Lead, and Maureen Aldrich, the Marketing & Engagement Lead, to learn about their efforts in transforming Scottsdale into a healthier and more vibrant community. Hear about the initiatives being rolled out in local worksites, schools, restaurants, and more to make healthy choices easier and foster a culture of well-being. Learn more: https://bluezonesprojectscottsdale.com/

Summer is here which means our June Days Summer Spectacular is back! June Days has become a celebration of all things Old Town Scottsdale , and Scottsdale's new Old Town Marketing Program Manager, Angelica Cipullo, is here to give us the inside scoop. With daily activities and events – wine tastings, art exhibits, crafting workshops, live performances, and family-oriented outings – Everyone will leave with suntans and sunshiny memories.  To find out more, visit OldTownScottsdaleAZ.com and click "June Days."

Looking to volunteer your time? Want to make a positive change in Scottsdale? Then serving on one of our boards and commissions might be for you! From the Library Board to the Airport Commission, your experience and expertise can benefit your community. Join us as we speak to Rommel Cordova, City Clerk Deputy, and Neal Shearer, Chair of the Human Services Advisory Commission, and learn how to apply, what it's like to serve and how your time will make a difference in Scottsdale. For more Information about our different boards and commissions, or to apply, visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov, and search “Boards and Commissions.”

Why create a city ambulance service? Scottsdale Fire Chief Tom Shannon emphasized the critical need for comprehensive “door-to-door” care, considering that more than 18,000 residents and visitors were transported to hospitals by third-party ambulance services last year alone. From cutting-edge technology to specialized training, discover how this service will enhance emergency medical care in Scottsdale. Listen as Chief Shannon and Battalion Chief Brian Joseph explain about how this service is not just responding to emergencies, but also fostering a safer and healthier city.