Mcdowell Mountain Ranch Podcast

As we say farewell to the MMR podcast and hello to Scottsdale Vibes podcast, I want to talk about why we love this city so much. And there's no better person to do that than Stephanie Pressler from Experience Scottsdale. Listen as we discuss the ways this city is going to shine bright and recover from COVID. Experience Scottsdalehttps://www.experiencescottsdale.com/events/ THE place to know all about events.  NDP Culinary Festival https://www.ndpsaints.org/support-ndp/signature-events/cf Coming up in a couple weeks. A night of food, friends and fun. Tickers are $100 online or $125 at the door. And if you’re alumni, you can get in for $50! Go get your tickets now. Can’t wait to see you all there.  Happy Halloween! It’s the last weekend to get spooked! Plenty of pumpkin patches, haunted houses and trick or treating going on. Stay safe and have fun.

The Polo Party is back at WestWorld! Celebrating 10 years, I got to speak with AZ Lady of Polo, Natalie Grancharov-Camacho. We talk of how she got into the game, marrying a 5 generation player and teaching Alicia how the game is played. We laugh and learn and get excited for The Polo Party! Calendar of Events Brought you by Notre Dame Prep Notre Dame Prep is your Catholic HS in Scottsdale. Check them out at NDPsaints.org The Polo Partyhttps://thepoloparty.com/ Buy your tickets for the Polo Party so you can see Natalie and all the other great players. Million Dollar Minglehttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/million-dollar-mingle-celebrity-polo-party-luxury-lounge-experience-tickets-161239075415 Don’t forget about A.C. Caswell’s event too.

It's Polo Time! It's 10 years of The Polo Party at WestWorld. This week, A.C. Caswell joins Alicia at the table talking about his big charity event at the Polo Match. Here how you can get your hands on the Million Dollar Mingle tickets.  Million Dollar Minglehttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/million-dollar-mingle-celebrity-polo-party-luxury-lounge-experience-tickets-161239075415 Don’t forget about A.C. Caswell’s event too, at the Polo Party. I’ve included the link to his parties. MMR Garage SaleThis saturday from 7-11am. The map of the garage sale locations will be posted online at www.mmrca.net beginning at 6 a.m. Saturday morning. On-Site Goodwill Donation Drive: Help Desert Mountain Band Boosters raise money by donating any gently used items to the Goodwill Drive at the Community Center between 1pm – 3 pm.Coffee & Bagels to meet your neighborsTuesday, Oct 19 from 8-9am. A perfect way to start the day! Pre-registration and payment required to ensure ample seating space and for planning purposes. Space is l

Our neighbor Janylle Radden is one of millions with food allergies. Dining out can be difficult and extra work to figure out what one can eat, with food allergies. That's when she took it upon herself to make it easier for her and others like her, creating MenuMd. The easiest way to find your favorite place to eat.  Calendar of Events Brought you by Notre Dame Prep Notre Dame Prep is your Catholic HS in Scottsdale. Check them out at NDPsaints.orgVeronica Leon from Macaroni Kid back with us this month. She is always in the know and I’m excited to hear what she’s narrowed down for us this month. https://nscottsdale.macaronikid.com/events

Alicia and the trio sisters of Fit Family Fitness join Alicia at the table. We talk all things from growing up here in Scottsdale, going off on their own just to reunite and start a family business. Maggie Mills is an MMR resident and she and her two sisters cater to all ages when it comes to physical therapy and personal training. A one stop shop at your home, nonetheless, to Fit all your Fitness needs. Calendar of Events Brought to you by Notre Dame PrepNotre Dame Prep is the Catholic HS. Check them out at ndpsaints.org to learn more.  Fit Family SeminarLink to register: https://airtable.com/shrVNuG0KWcJJLlXr September is Fall Prevention Awareness Month, so we will be talking balance & fall prevention. We'll be answering all sorts of common questions about balance and providing tips on how to improve balance and prevent falls in your daily life!Date: September 30th Time: 9:00 - 9:45 AMRegistration for Fall Garage Salehttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-garage-sale-oct-2021-registration-164189359795 Regist

If you're like me, you're guilty of using screen time for a little alone time. You get me, parents? What I'm not guilty of is not knowing what my kid is watching. This week, Ilana Lowery joins me at the table to talk Common Sense Media. They do review everything from movies, shows, apps, game and more. A go-to recourse for you to feel safe with what your kids are watching.  Calendar of Events Brought to you by Notre Dame PrepNotre Dame Prep is the Catholic HS. Check them out at ndpsaints.org to learn more.   Common Sense Mediahttps://www.commonsensemedia.org/ Fall Concert Series in the Paradise Park https://www.eventbrite.com/e/concert-in-the-park-thaddeus-rose-band-sept-2021-tickets-159717975765 Thaddeus Rose Band Saturday, September 25, 2021 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Community Center Great Lawn 10607 E. Paradise Lane Come prepared to enjoy a fun evening of dancing and entertainment with the Thaddeus Rose Band. Food can be purchased at the Wandering Donkey's Food Truck which will be on-site. Space is limited.   AZ

The heat is still coming in with a vengeance. But I'm also desperate to get out of the house. This is where I typically take my kids when the time comes, AZ Boardwalk. This week I have Ran Knishinsky, CMO of Az Boardwalk. A family business started with a passion and love for the city, turned into one of the hottest destinations in Scottsdale.   Besides the heat and Boardwalk entertainment, the housing market is still burning too. So lucky to have Shawn Shackelton on to dig deep into what's happening. I always learn something when she pays me a visit.  Calendar of Events Brought to you by Notre Dame PrepNotre Dame Prep is the Catholic HS. Check them out at ndpsaints.org to learn more.   Arizona Boardwalkhttps://www.azboardwalk.com/ Like you just heard from Ran, there is day’s worth of activities to keep you and your littles entertained at AZ Boardwalk. Go check them out. With this weekend not cooling down at all, what better way to spend your time in doors then fun at Az Boardwalk. Pumpkin Fest at The Princess

Outdoor activities are all the rage here in Arizona. Besides climbing, hiking, biking and off roading, rock climbing is at the top of the list. I had the absolute pleasure of hanging out with Kevin Berk of AZ on the Rocks, a local rock gym here in North Scottsdale. Let's just say, the 31ft in his gym is nothing compared to his outside accomplishments.  AZ on the Rocks https://www.azontherocks.com/ Go Big or Go Small there is room for all at Az on the Rock. We went last week and had a BLAST! Like Kevin said, all ages, experience levels and ages accepted.  Tummie Time Seminar https://fitfamilypt.com/event/webinar-tummytime/ Fit Family Physical Therapy (www.fitfamilypt.com) serves the Greater Phoenix and Scottsdale areas, providing in-home, concierge physical therapy and personal training to patients of all ages and life stages - orthopedic, pediatrics & adolescents, athletes, pre- & post-natal, and seniors! Hosted by pediatric PT expert, Maggie Mills (MMR mom), the first topic of the free webinar series

This week I got a behind-the-scenes look at OdySea Aquarium with Directors. of Animal Care, Education & Conservation. The husband & wife duo were the first hires at the Aquarium. Their love for all things ocean animals is truly felt during our 1-1 time together. We go "in-depth" with them and learn a lot.  Calendar of EventsThis month’s calendar of events is brought to you by Notre Dame Prep. Notre Dame Prep is a Catholic High School with the shared values of Reverence, Respect, & Responsibility.. Check them out on the web at ndpsaints.org OdySea Aquariumhttps://www.odyseaaquarium.com/ Seems like there’s really only one thing to do this weekend, check out Odysea Aquarium of course. Now that you know more about the work that goes into protecting these animals, go check them out. Even if you’ve gone once, there is always something new to enjoy.  Labor Day weekend means the last of the Resorts summer time events. I know my family and I are excited for a little Staycation this weekend. Hope to see som

It's the age 'ol question we've asked a lot, "Do we have a good work life balance?" Al Loveland from Strabo joins me a the table to talk about changing your tune from balance to success. With just a few pointers and his Famous 4P's, we're all sure to succeed.        Calendar of EventsThis month’s calendar of events is brought to you by Notre Dame Prep. Notre Dame Prep is a Catholic High School with the shared values of Reverence, Respect, & Responsibility.. Check them out on the web at ndpsaints.org Desert Botanical Gardens Host Flashlight Nighthttps://dbg.org/events/flashlight-nights-2021/2021-08-21/ Flashlight Nights are nighttime self-guided adventures through Desert Botanical Garden. Nocturnal explorers can bring their own flashlights to shine along the trails to capture the night-blooming plants and animals that appear in the desert after dark. Each evening of Flashlight Nights includes socially-distanced activities for all ages. This week an All female mariachi band will be playing.  Beat the Heat e

We all know the importance of eating healthy. But, somedays that can be hard with the hustle & bustle of everyday like. Good things we have Rebecca Clubb of Whole Health Everyday to our rescue.  She's not your typical in-home chef service. She's the real deal and then some. My family LOVED the meals and I loved Chef Grace. We can't wait to welcome them in our home again.  Calendar of Events Brought to you by Notre Dame Prep. Notre Dame Prep is the Catholic HS. Check them out at ndpsaints.org to learn more.   Phoenix Film Festival Aug 12-22https://www.phoenixfilmfestival.com/ This festival is taking place in N. Scottsdale at Harkins Movie theatre, located off Scottsdale and 101. LOTS of movies for all ages, including Kid’s days each Saturday of the festival. Go to their website to learn more.  Strawberry Festival @ Mortimer Farmshttps://www.mortimerfarmsaz.com/StrawberryFestival If you have a family, or just love strawberries, then this is the event for you! The picking is fun and the eating is even better

Kids sports. We all want our kids to be the best at whatever sport they choose. But how do you, as parents, know you chose the right team & organization? And did you know that it may not be easy to switch to a different organization. This week I have Tamera Hatfield and Kristin Hollrah of AZ Soccer Academy. I definitely learned a lot on what it means to pick the right team for your child. And how going with the first organization you hear about may not be the best pick.  Calendar of Events Brought to you by Notre Dame PrepNotre Dame Prep is the Catholic HS. The staff, faculty and students are really one of a kind. And the campus, well...breathtaking is a word that quickly comes to mind. Check them out at ndpsaints.org to learn more.   Yoga in the Rainforest @ Butterfly Gardenhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/yoga-in-the-rainforest-tickets-161816061195 Bring a mat and practice yoga surrounded by thousands of butterflies. This hour-long class will guide guests through a series of yoga poses that help you build s

"Proof is useless unless it's proof of something people already want to believe." -Benedict Society This is the quote Dr. Menzel left me with after our interview. SUSD is starting back this week. While we're all excited to have last year behind us, there are still some concerns about what this school year will look like. I got the opportunity to sit down 1-1 with Dr. Menzel. He was ready and willing to tackle every hot topic issues.

We are so excited to have the kids back on campus this year. But that's not the only thing NDP is excited for. New Principal Dr. Gene Sweeney and Dean of Faculty Bonnie-Gene Chudzinski join me at the table. We talk about this year's message, goals for their new positions and the preparation for this year. Calendar of Events School Donation Drive at Quarterhttps://scottsdalequarter.com/events-news/event/2021/07/12/default-calendar/school-supply-drive This is the last week of donation collection for Arizona Helping Hands benefiting children in foster care. Located in The Quad, you can drop off school supplies in the bin in front of the school bus anytime during mall hours. Go to the websiteWish List to find the needed items. OR,you can sponsor a backpack filled with everything a child in foster care needs to go back to school for $35. You can donate online ahhbacktoschool.org. A Chorus Line @ Desert Stages Theatre https://www.desertstages.org/achorusline/ Live theatre and music is BACK. Come see a live perform

This week, Dee & Earl DeFrates join me at the table. We talk about their love for each other, their passion for entrepreneurship and why MMR is their forever home.  It's also time to check in with our favorite realtor Shawn Shackelton. We get into the details of the housing market and fun outside of work.  Calendar of Events If you would like to promote your event or let me know of something going on, let me! Email me at mmrpodcast@michelle.media.  Waking up with the Butterflies at Butterfly Gardenhttps://butterflywonderland.com/special-events/#wake Saturday, July 24-830-930am, Guests are invited to enjoy a quiet hour photographing the butterflies, birds and reptiles as they awake or catch that perfect photo of a new species. Ages 18 & up; $25 for Admission or Free for members. Registration required. Call (480) 800-3000, ext. 210.

It's HOT out there. And we're not the only ones suffering. Our cars, ATV, SUV's boat and RV's actually spend more time in the sun than any of us. Good thing our neighbor and EuroCars Detail owner Catherine Rigotini-Fugelni is here for our rescue. Hear her advice on how to keep your car safe in this hot AZ sun and why she chose MMR to raise her family too.  Calendar of Events MMR Aqua Fit ClassesTues-Friday 530-630pmSaturday 12-1pmSunday 3-4pm$5 drop in rate @ 105th poolEmail mmraquafit@gmail.com with any questions   Shark Week at OdySea Aquariumodyseaaquarium.com During Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, celebrate sharks LIVE at OdySea Aquarium, home to one of the largest and most diverse collections in the country. With over 50 sharks and 14 different species, OdySea Aquarium is a fin-tastic place to see and learn about these majestic creatures.  OdySea will offer a variety of special programs, activities, and educational opportunities from July 12 – 18, including daily special appearances from a Discovery Chan

They say parenting is the hardest job you'll ever have. And the teenage years, well, let's just say it's hard for parents and kids. Luckily we have Gen Z Life Coach, Tracey Martin to help us and our kids navigate through it. Tracey and her teenage daughter, Marina Martin join Alicia to talk about getting through to teens during this day and age. Simple answer, communicate.  Kitten Pop Up Adoption Shophttps://www.experiencescottsdale.com/event/kitten-pop-up-%5badoption%5d-shop/366842/ Get your kitten snuggles and take home a new furry friend at The Kitten Pop Up [Adoption] Shop at Scottsdale Quarter! Every summer (also known as “Kitten Season”) more than 1,200 kittens come through the Arizona Animal Welfare League and now is our time to find them loving homes. Join us to find your purrrrfect kitten match! You can find the AAWL Pop Up on the second floor of building 15279, located near the public restrooms on 72nd Place between North Street and Quad Drive. Take the elevators up and follow the signs!  Concerts

We love this great neighborhood and city we reside in. So why not celebrate it with it's own episode! This week I have Scottsdale resident Ben Cruz at the table with me as I learn about the history of Scottsdale.  WestWorld 4th of July Spectacularhttps://www.scottsdale4th.com/ Since we’re talking celebrations, this weekend is the biggest Fireworks event in Scottsdale. That’s right, 4th of July at WestWorld. Tickets are still available so get some now. Huge family, fun event right in our backyard. GO have some fun again, neighbors. Need a Staycation?This is the perfect LONG weekend for it! Check out all of the amazing resorts here in Scottsdale. Almost each one is having something fun and special going on for the 4th of July.  Whatever you chose to do this weekend. Have a wonderful time, stay safe and celebrate this great country with those you love the most.

It's time to get out and have some fun. And if you're not ready to leave the state, there is PLENTY here in AZ to enjoy. That's where DukOut Adventures, located right here in Scottsdale is all about. Get out and explore!  Private Dinner & Movie with friends/familyhttps://marcellinoristorante.com/news-events/dinner-and-a-movie/ Every Wednesday night, through August,  you and your friends can get a private movie and dinner at Marcellino Italian Restaurant in Old Town. You have a list of 5 movies to choose from while served delicious Italian food. Call Bettina for reservations at 480-990-9500. My mouth is watering just looking at this menu    Scottsdale’s 70th Anniversary Legacy Questhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/scottsdale-70th-anniversary-legacy-quest-tickets-156024608805 Happy 70th Birthday, Scottsdale! Celebrate this GREAT city with this family-friendly celebration of Scottsdale’s incorporation as a city. Friday, June 25 from 630-830pm guests will participate in an adventurous expedition gathering facts a

We all know that Scottsdale is filled with transplants from all over. This week we meet our neighbor Steve Vicera, a Filipino immigrant who moved here knowing no one but his wife and her family. Now he's a successful business owner with a family of his own. Steve joins Alicia at the table to discuss his journey to American citizenship and how is body building days lead him to Sommet Fitness. Summer Ice Cream Partyhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/ice-cream-social-registration-154319641201 Thursday, June 24, 430-630pm at Community Center. Come swim or play at the playground where you can also purchase an Ice Cream from Buster ice cream bus.MUST Register by June 20 so hurry up! Flashlight Nights @ Desert Botanical Gardenhttps://dbg.org/events/flashlight-nights-2021/2021-06-05/ Flashlight Nights are nighttime self-guided adventures through Desert Botanical Garden. Nocturnal explorers can bring their own flashlights to shine along the trails to capture the night-blooming plants and animals that appear in the desert a