Empowering Women - Got a Minute?

McKenzie Lain literally has gardening experience in her blood as the 3rd generation of her family to carry on the Watters legacy. She is thrilled to be following in the footsteps of her parents and grandparents and taking the garden center to the next level under her ownership. Like her mother before her, McKenzie began her love with gardening as a cashier and by watering plants after school. Education became her major focus after high school, and she received a degree from Fresno Pacific University in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from Fuller Theological Seminary. Now, she’s passionate about making sure Watters Garden Center continues to be a major part of the Prescott community by providing jobs and educating the public on the best gardening practices for success.  She also supports local organizations like Prescott Area Young Professionals and the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, McKenzie loves running through the garden center with her Mini-Schnauzers, playing pick-up basketball, and hiking our local trails. Learn more at https://wattersgardencenter.com/

Heather was in the fashion industry for over a decade working with photographers and producing shoots. While it may seem glamorous (yes, sometimes it was exciting and fun!), it was demanding and took all of her energy. Heather found Pilates and it was truly her saving grace. Because of the impact Pilates had on Heather's life, she was determined to one day leave fashion behind and become a Pilates instructor to really give to others something she finds so transforming. Flash forward to 2020 when Soar Pilates was born - out of a deep desire to create something that was attainable for the everyday person and would change their lives for the better. Heather adores every client that walks in their door (truly, the community is amazing) and she couldn’t be happier to be a part of such an amazing team of women that she is proud to call her instructors - she learns from each of them every day. For more information visit https://www.soarpilates.com/

Midwesterner, Anne-Marie made Prescott home 20 years ago and made a name for herself as a licensed insurance representative/office manager. Anne-Marie then founded and became the Owner/Editor of Maitre’D Magazine, a dining and culinary guide well-known across Northern Arizona. Her savvy sales and marketing skills led her to B2B sales in telecommunications with Sparklight Business. Now celebrating seven years with Sparklight, Anne-Marie uses her expertise in creating and maintaining long-term business relationships on a local level. Anne-Marie shows community support as an avid volunteer of many nonprofits including, Arizona Community Foundation Yavapai County, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona. Her passions are clean eating, dance, hiking, peopling, and her favorite, cooking. She believes “there are things you do because they feel right. It may be the real reason we are here: To love each other, to enjoy others’ cooking and say it was good”.

Aileen is a mom, an entrepreneur, a former Firefighter/EMT, and always keeping life guessing; not the other way around. She has a mind that can handle both the left and right sides with a natural ability to let the proper one rule at just the right moment.   Aileen brings a uniquely blended background of technical and artistic skills. These skills were obtained, practiced, and honed in the fields of design-clay/floral/graphic, administration/finance, management, and fire & emergency services. She brings experience in floral design from working her way up as a Floral Design Assistant to Floral Designer in a variety of regions from California (San Diego, Del Mar), Illinois (Naperville, West Dundee), and Arizona.  During her time in the fire and emergency services, she demonstrated a keen sense of observation, providing a compassionate listener to her crew and her patient. It is this skill that provides the ability to listen to her customers' desires and needs in order to execute the vision sought after. It is her drive and determination that bring the vision to fruition. Some facts about Aileen: -Studied design, art, graphic design, color theory -Floral Design Institute Graduate 2007 -Certified Firefighter I/II, EMT 2013 -Yavapai College AAS Fire Science 2015 -Yavapai College Certificate Fire Service Officer/Manager 2015 Aileen has garnered recognition in Prescott Woman Magazine, was awarded by Yavapai College as the 2019 Alumni of the Year, and most recently the honor and privilege of working on parade floats as a Rose Parade Florist since 2019.

Hilary Dartt loves great adventures, whether she’s writing, reading, or living them. The author of nine women’s fiction novels, Hilary lives in Arizona’s high desert with her husband, their three children, her Weimaraner, and running partner, Leia, a failed barn cat, and a flock of chickens. She loves camping, exploring in the Jeep, and dance parties with her kids. Learn more at https://hilarydartt.com/

Throughout Heather's career, she has had the great pleasure of traveling all over the country, working in many industries and with creatives of all kinds. From restaurants and breweries to the outdoors and sustainable living to music and local bands, to travel and farms. Now here in Prescott, Arizona, she has expanded into her own business, DeSousa Creative, and works with local businesses and musicians including Prescott Center for the Arts and Prescott Downtown Partnership.  What draws Heather to marketing and photography is sharing the story and passion behind the project and then connecting it to a community that is inspired in the same way. For more info visit: https://www.desousacreative.com/

Hedda Fay is the Community Outreach and Program Manager for Northland Cares.  Northland Cares is a 501c3 QCO Non-Profit.  They are a specialty healthcare provider for people living with HIV and Hepatitis C.  We provide HIV prevention and education and offer free harm reduction as well.  Hedda joins us to discuss women's sexual health, safe dating tips, and more. Safe Dating Tips: Tell your friends and family the name of the person you are meeting, where you are going & when you plan on being done with the date.  Meet in a public space and select a time when people will be around. Daytime dates can be both fun and safe!  Drive yourself to the date or take an Uber! This way if you need to leave you can and you are in control of your situation.  No alcohol. I know it is tempting for social anxiety, but no alcohol on the first date. You can still have an enjoyable time, we promise. 80% of attacks on women involve alcohol.  Do not leave your food or beverages alone with the date. People drug food and beverages with things that have no smell, or taste, and act quickly. It happens here where we live, more than you can imagine.   Bring pepper spray with you. In Arizona, you can. Get a small one for your purse, it is a great deterrent and provides protection and a means to create distance if you need to. The effects last a while.   Have a group date. It is 2022 and it is okay to invite them to something with friends so that another person can give you feedback. We cannot always be objective with someone we “like” and it is a safer date.  Research the person. Do a google search, and check their social media. Check the local sex offender registry. People who prey on children will form a relationship with a single parent to have access to the person’s children.   Things to Remember:  Your time is valuable, sharing time with a person is something we do not get back. You can pay for yourself. There is nothing wrong with bringing ca$h and offering to pay your part if you feel pressured. Handholding is intimacy. Think about whose hands you hold, the people you love or care for. Remember the first intimate thing you can do is hold the person’s hand. You are NOT obligated to kiss or be intimate with anyone PERIOD! NO is okay to say to people. It is one of two options. FREE Condoms, PEP or PrEP, contact Northland Cares at:  Prescott: 928-776-4612 or 928-771-0023  Cottonwood: 203 S Candy Lane #3B, Cottonwood, AZ 86326 Phone: 928-649-0833 

Sarah Haynes is the founder of Pixel Parfait, which provides graphic design, web design & online marketing services to small-medium size businesses around the country. Sarah has been in the design & marketing field for over a decade and specializes in helping businesses and individuals develop their brands.  Sarah has a passion for designing full branding identities and helping companies refresh their branding through fresh, clean, and cohesive design pieces. Outside of her office, Sarah can be found spending time with her two young daughters and husband, traveling, hiking, swimming, and loving the amazing scenery that Arizona offers.  Sarah is also known to enjoy true crime, reading, and personal arts and crafts projects in her free time.   To contact Sarah, please email designer@pixelparfait.graphics or visit https://www.pixelparfait.graphics/ Instagram Accounts for Graphic Designers: https://www.instagram.com/brand.brief/ https://www.instagram.com/theglowandgrowclub/ https://www.instagram.com/lets.brief/

Lesa West, is the owner of New Life CPR, in Prescott, AZ but is originally from Tennessee. She says the best thing about what she does is having someone come up to her and say "I heard your voice in my head" when they had to either perform CPR or a First Aid situation.  She says about mentorship: Our job here on earth is to be there for each other - teach and not give but really TEACH, Listen, Hug, help people breathe, and give others strength in themselves - when we do all these things, we grow! Learn more about New Life CPR at https://newlifecpr.com/

After graduating from Northern Arizona University with a bachelor's degree in Advertising and Photography, Ariana Bennett continued to pursue her advertising career here in Arizona. Her experience includes working in Tucson, AZ at a full-service creative marketing agency and as a Marketing Director. Now based in Prescott, Arizona, Ariana works with Arizona businesses and brands as a consultant combining her storytelling experience with marketing strategies using video, social media, graphic design, and digital marketing. With a passion for small businesses, you’ve got a marketing partner who will work with you on a marketing strategy to meet your goals and drive results. Ariana is a passionate, self-motivated, and career-driven individual with years of experience working in the marketing and advertising industry. Ariana finds that her success is accomplished in environments where she is surrounded by a team of creative minds that are excited to exceed their goals through hard work, unique approaches, and a love of laughter. Ariana works with businesses and brands of all sizes and is widely recognized as a hardworking, forward-thinking, and leader in her industry and in her community.

Liberty Casarez worked as a financial aid manager before entering the automotive industry. Liberty joined the Findlay Automotive Group in Bullhead City in 2014 and she started her career as a salesperson before being promoted to Internet and Marketing Manager positions. Before transferring to Prescott, Liberty was influential in helping to propel Findlay's Bullhead City dealership to a level of community prominence it had yet to realize. Liberty volunteered her time and services when needed. She was involved with the local Chamber of Commerce, as well as Rotary, Kiwanis, and the Boys and Girls Club of the Colorado River leading to joining the board of directors in many of the organizations. You will find Liberty throughout the Quad-Cities wearing one of her multiple "hats" - either as a leader, a volunteer, or maybe sometimes just enjoying some downtime.   Episode notes:  https://www.findlayauto.com

Sarah Vincent is the Education Director at the Highlands Center for Natural History. As a member of the Education team, Sarah brings a passion for science and a love for education. Sarah brings experience in environmental and educational leadership – constantly learning from and celebrating the communities that make up the Central Highlands, human and non-human. She works hard to facilitate meaningful experiences for people in nature, about nature, and most importantly, with nature. She is the *brand new* mother of Sylvia and the wife of Andrew. Episode notes: https://highlandscenter.org/

Take a minute with us today to chat with Colleen Biggs about Being Fearless. Colleen Biggs is an Award-Winning Business Coach who empowers women entrepreneurs who are ready to lean into their peak performance and take action so they can expand their influence, attract the right clients and generate more money.  With over 22 years of experience, she has launched over 340 businesses, is an International Speaker, Author to five #1 International Best-Seller with the latest being Step Into the Spotlight to Expand your Influence, the CEO and founder of L.E.A.P. and was awarded the Local Businessperson of the Year award and Top 10 Women Business Leaders of 2021. Colleen is dedicated to supporting, promoting, and fueling purpose-filled, powerful female voices — like yours — and giving you the tools to make it happen! Episode notes: For more information visit https://colleenbiggs.net/

The Prescott area is bursting with creative talent. We don’t have to tell you that. Painters, sculptors, jewelers, musicians, and even theater abound. We enjoy a wealth of traditional arts and culture, and today, we get to talk with a creative crew that is taking it to the next level with two different projects. One branch of their endeavors is the 5enses Magazine and Webcast. The Magazine is published by John Duncan and is available for free at locations all over town. It showcases our wealth of local talent in the arts, literature, politics, and science while advocating for a connected community. The webcast - hosted by Robert Zinni - features intimate, unconventional interviews with local and regional luminaries, thinkers, and change-makers. John and Zinni also collaborate - collude? - Conspire! across media and the community in an inventive new kind of performance.  The TBD Show is part sketch comedy ala Saturday Night Live, part experimental film company, and part community instigator.  Based at Thumb Butte Distillery, the TBD crew brews its own unique recipe of entertainment that you can enjoy live, in person or online from the comfort of your home. Get ready to meet the minds behind 5enses and the TBD Show. SHOW NOTES: https://www.5ensesmag.com/ https://www.5ensesmag.com/webcasts https://www.thetbdshow.com/

If you don’t travel, why not?  What’s stopping you?  Fear of the unknown or fear of all sorts of knowns?  Does it seem like too much trouble or maybe you can’t get your spouse interested? Today we are talking with a couple of local Prescott Women who don’t let any of those things stop them from seeing the world and having rich, adventurous, and fulfilling lives.  After you hear their stories, you’ll be ready to join them. Our guests today include Jennifer Burns, a self-diagnosed travel addict and owner of  Dream Travel Management, a travel company devoted to empowering women to travel the world in ways that work for them.  Dream Travel trips provide safety, engagement, and purpose that create more than memorable experiences - they are life-changers. Plus, fellow travel junkie, Alexis Miller, a Prescott area resident for the last six years, Alexis serves as the Community Outreach Coordinator for Stepping Stones Agencies. She loves to read, cook, and travel, and as you will hear,   she’s always ready for the next adventure. If you're interested in learning more about the all-women Dream Travel Management trips visit https://prescottwomanmagazine.com/recover-your-spark-with-thailand-trip-for-women/

Do you love the Grammy Awards?  Or the Nobel Prize?  Well right here in the Quad Cities, we have an award that is kind of a combination of the two.  The Prescott ATHENA Award honors our very own hometown rockstar genius women who embody the powerful, responsive, collaborative Leadership and Service we need today. Today we talk with Prescott Woman Magazine owner/publisher Breeanya Hinkel, who was instrumental in bringing this International award to the Quad Cities. She tells about where the Athena Award comes from and what it signifies. Then we hear from Bonnie Stevens, one of the major sponsors of the award and event - she also happens to be a 2012 Flagstaff Athena Award recipient, so she knows what she’s talking about! Last but not least we hear from Robyn Allen, 2022 Prescott ATHENA Award Recipient, and director of SUZE'S Prescott Center for the Arts.  Robyn helped pave the way for volunteerism through the theater during the ongoing COVID pandemic.  For more information about the Prescott ATHENA Awards visit www.prescottathena.com. 

What’s it like when you wear clothes you absolutely love?  Do you feel like you can walk into any room and belong?  Do you feel empowered to say yes to opportunity? In this episode, we’re talking with some Prescott women who know all about looking great and feeling confident. They are the founders, supporters, and users of the Teens Closet. The Teens Closet provides popular clothing as a way to connect with and support local teens who are facing the big challenges of poverty, housing insecurity, and family disruption. Guests Krystal Koons & her daughter Kaileigh Nall who are cofounders of the Teens Closet Past user Cheyenne Swearingen who shopped at Teens Closet from ages 13-20 and who now attends NAU  Current user, Jennesey Schuh Student Volunteer Sara Gallardo

Are you ready for a really frank discussion about your undercarriage? Are you ready for some real talk about keeping ourselves, our kids and our communities safe from sexually transmitted infections? Our featured nonprofit story this month is about Northland Cares, the local HIV/AIDS and STI education, care, and prevention service. Living with HIV/AIDS is vastly different today than it was 20 or 30 years ago.  It’s no longer a death sentence for people who have access to care.  But people of all walks of life and all ages in our community are still becoming infected with HIV and all the other sexually communicable infections.  Northland Cares is showing up every day to provide judgment-free treatment, support, education, and prevention for all of us. Guest Bio: Our guest today is Hedda Fay, Community Outreach and Program Manager for Northland Cares.  She is an LCNA, she’s worked as a case manager in the field since 2018, and she is an excellent educator, as you’ll find out.  She proves that it’s possible to make difficult subjects easy to talk about and she models how to bring warmth and honesty to a very personal side of healthcare. This is the Prescott Woman Podcast, an audio supplement of Prescott Woman Magazine.

“You have cancer,” is one of the scariest things a doctor can say.  Even with recovery and survival rates improving drastically for most cancers, a diagnosis can be one of the darkest times for an individual and a family to go through. In this episode, we talk with three very close sisters who are all too familiar with what cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery are like.  Jodi, Jamie, and Janine have gone through it not once, but twice. Jodi Padgett, a hard-working Financial Planner got breast cancer when she was 45 and seven years later, baby sister Janine Sass was diagnosed - also at age 45.  Janine and middle sister Jamie Rygiel are both Registered nurses and provided huge support when Jodi was going through treatment and navigating the medical system. By the time Janine was in treatment, many aspects of cancer care had improved, but all three sisters are motivated by their individual and shared experiences to continue bringing light, information, and hope to our friends and neighbors here in Prescott if and when they hear the scary C-word. We have a candid talk with the sisters about their journey together and what they have learned about being sick, staying well, and caring for the people we love.  Jodi, Jamie, and Janine are some of the most positive, energetic women we’ve met and we know you’ll be as inspired by them as we are.

Who steps in to support and advocate for kids when families fall apart?   Who stands next to them in the courtroom and makes sure they have more than the clothes on their back? And who supports those advocates so they can keep doing important work for local children? Today we have the privilege to talk with CASA for Kids Foundation Executive Director, Charlie Tardibuono, as well as the Director of Programming & Development, Barbara Moss. We find out what they are doing to help Court Appointed Special Advocates help the most vulnerable kids in our community. The mission of Yavapai CASA for Kids Foundation is to serve the unmet needs of abused, neglected, and abandoned children who are in the care of the Yavapai County Juvenile Court – Prescott, and qualified youth who have aged out of that court’s jurisdiction. In addition, Yavapai CASA for Kids Foundation supports the work of the CASA program and CASA volunteers. What You'll Get from the Guests   Charlie is the first Director of the Foundation and comes from a long career in for-profit and nonprofit companies.  He worked in aerospace and semiconductor industries as well as international relief and development. Barbara started at the Foundation as an AmeriCorps VISTA in the spring of 2020. She studied the effects of institutionalized poverty and inequality as an undergrad and had her own experience as a child “in the system.” Barb brings this combined knowledge and compassion to the work, as you will hear. For more information visit: https://ycfk.org/

What would it mean to you or your family to have a doctor who really listens, who cares deeply, and who meets you where you are?  In this time of managed care, when medical visits are pared down like airplane seats, we got to talk with a pediatrician who insists on serving the whole family with a range of options that range from mainstream medicine to alternative treatments and good old-fashioned emotional support. Dr. Jennifer Tidrosky has been a pediatrician for 10 years, and has lived in Prescott for 5 years with her husband and daughter. Dr. T works at Ponderosa Pediatrics, which is part of the Dignity Health-Yavapai Regional Medical Group. She’s a D.O., or Osteopath, and she’s training in Reiki, as well.  When she’s not working, Dr. T enjoys Prescott's beautiful hiking trails and taking in the art either by visiting galleries, shows on the square, or dabbling in her own paint. Dr. T is also a member and advocate for the Vaccinate with Confidence campaign.  The endeavor addresses parental attitudes and perceptions associated with vaccines to counter the spread of vaccine misinformation that adversely affects children and families in Yavapai County. The messaging and imagery is designed to show families what these infectious diseases can look like, remind them that these are serious diseases that can include a number of serious immediate and long-term complications, and to express that the best way to protect the people they care about is to keep their family’s immunization status up to date Stay tuned to hear a lively, laughter-filled, information-rich conversation about what family medicine can be like. Resources:  Dr. Tidroski's Bio Vaccinate with Confidence Campaign

What does it mean to know where you come from?  To connect with the traditions of your people?  To understand yourself as part of something bigger? How does diversity and art enrich the whole community? Prescott Unified School District created the Indian Education Program to sponsor culturally relevant programs and provide academic support for Indigenous K-12 Students throughout the school year. The program is unique in that it includes oversight and guidance from local parents/guardians of the students AND input from around the country in the form of presentations and lessons. We are fortunate to talk with Jessica Kota and her daughter Leona, who are core participants in the program and Kelly Mattox who works for PUSD. Who's with Us On This Episode?  Jessica Kota is a  Licensed Master Social Worker and a member of the Aamjiwnaang First Nations community.  Jessica grew up in Indian Ed classes run by her mother.  When she moved to the Prescott area about 8 years ago, she discovered PUSD’s Indian Ed program and got involved as a parent volunteer.  Jessica is currently the Chair of the Parent committee. Leona Mireles Kota is a 14 year old Ojibwe-Xicana who just finished the 8th grade at Mile High Middle School.  Leona is a student leader in the Indian Ed. Program who never misses culture classes, field trips, or parent committee meetings if she can help it.  Leona volunteers with the younger children and serves as a role model for learning and being respectful to guests and Elders. Kelly Mattox’s interest in the spiritual aspects of Indigenous cultures began at a young age. Kelly is the PUSD Indigenous Programs Coordinator, as well as the Homeless Liaison and Family Resource Center Coordinator. Stick around for an inspiring, informative, multi-cultural, multi-generational conversation about solutions, connection, and the power of people. Follow the PUSD Indian Ed program here: https://www.facebook.com/PUSDIndianEducationProgram

What makes the Prescott area so special?  The great music and art? Yes, we hear you!  The perfect climate?  Without a doubt.  The wonderful, walkable downtown? Hundred percent.  But what about the ribbons of green that wind through town, the creeks that support big shade trees, provide wildlife habitat and create cool recreation areas, right in town? Prescott Creeks is also one of the organizations that has made life in Prescott better for over 30 years now…  a group that is quietly and diligently protecting and restoring those natural waterways, educating us on the vital interrelationships between us and the creeks, and advocating to preserve the natural areas that make Prescott the cool, green haven it is for birds, wildlife, and humans alike. Today we are excited to talk with Prescott Creeks Executive Director Michael Byrd, former board president Karen O’Neill, and current board member Bruce McKeeman. Karen, a retired nursing instructor, is an avid birder, as you will hear. She got involved with Prescott Creeks in 2004, and served on the board for 10 years, 2 of those as president.  She’s been actively involved with the Prescott Audubon Society as well, working on numerous bird surveys.  Karen continues to support Prescott Creeks as a donor and volunteer. Bruce spent his career working in a number of roles in the National Park Service.  His education in biology, forestry & recreation management prepared him to work with natural and cultural resources throughout the U.S. and even in other countries like Georgia and Jordan.  After retiring to Prescott,  Bruce joined the Board to help protect & restore the Watson Woods Riparian Preserve and educate people on the necessity and value of our wild areas. And Michael, the sole paid employee of Prescott Creeks, is their jack of all trades, working directly with donors, developing education programs, pulling on his waders to assess creek health, and getting dirty planting trees.  He’s been director of Prescott Creeks for 22 years, parlaying his senior project at Prescott College into his dream career. I met Michael when I brought groups of volunteers to the big restoration project that turned a section of Granite Creek that had been degraded by gravel mining and neglect into a thriving creekside forest that actually helps purify the water running into Watson Lake. The Watson Woods Riparian Preserve is a perfect, close-by location for a cool hike and a quick getaway from our busy, growing city. Stay tuned for a lively discussion of how Prescott Creeks is keeping us green, making it easier to get outside and enjoy our natural treasures, right in the heart of downtown, and working toward a sustainable future.  Find out why Prescott is here and not someplace else, how many creeks Prescott has [you’ll be surprised], and how you can get in on the joy of taking care of them. This is the Prescott Woman Podcast, an audio supplement of Prescott Woman Magazine and we’re your hosts Kelly Roberge and Charles Matheus. Alright - let’s get local!

Do you spend every minute you can outdoors?  Do you love adventure? Does time among the trees and dirt and sky recharge your batteries? OR, are you feeling a little sluggish and penned up and do you sort _wish_ you spent more time outside? Our guest, Amanda Foster, is a 2nd generation Prescottonian who has worked in the outdoor industry for over 25 years. She’s an outdoor educator and mentor and advocate who loves seeing others fall in love with wilderness, knowing they will also want to protect our natural treasures. As owner of the Hike Shack, Amanda is a pillar of the local business community and in her free time, she continues to enjoy a wide range of outdoors activities. Hiking and trail running, bow hunting, fly fishing, river rafting, dirt biking are just a few.  She tells us how spending time outdoors helps her stay sane and how matching the right people to the activity makes it more fun and sustainable. Amanda shares the smart way to get started outdoors, for those of us who are indoor cats, like me,  and some really important dos and don’ts for everyone. If you are interested in how human well-being, the natural world, and community intersect, you’ll love this talk with Amanda Foster. Welcome to the Prescott Woman Podcast. This is an audio supplement of Prescott Woman Magazine.

How does a hand UP help a family and our community?  How does stable, affordable housing impact life?  Find out how our featured Quad Cities nonprofit, Habitat for Humanity works to give families a fighting chance, not only to survive but to become valuable contributors to our community. Alice Ayers and Gail Martin have both worked at Prescott Area Habitat for years because they continue to be moved by the mission that provides struggling families with real hope.  Alyce is the Director of Community Relations and Events, responsible for getting the message OUT and drawing more support IN. Gail is Director of Volunteers Services and gets to place community members in purposeful, meaningful roles like building houses, supporting the Habitat ReStore, and so on. Both Alyce and Gail are joyful evangelists for the work Habitat does to make decent housing available to as many people as possible, here in our community.  They have both witnessed the miraculous transformations that can happen when families move into a home that they actually own. In this episode of the Prescott Woman Podcast, we talk about the joys this work provides them, the current challenges that Habitat is facing, and how we can all lend a hand. Grab your hammers and let’s go! For more information visit https://prescotthabitat.org/

What would you think about newcomers who moved to the Quad Cities, rolled up their sleeves and got all the way into the hard work of advocating for and educating us, devoting themselves to our economic development and the care of our most vulnerable? How about, "Welcome!" and "Thank you!!" Guest Bios: Our guests this episode grace the April/May cover of Prescott Woman Magazine and have called Prescott Valley home for the last 4 years.  Lesley Jenkins is the regional director for the Alzheimer’s Association Southwest Chapter, which is based here in Prescott.  Her husband, Rodney Jenkins is the Vice President of Community Relations and Student Development at Yavapai College.  In their long careers of service, Lesley has worked in media relations and a host of nonprofits and Rodney has been a successful political organizer and municipal official.  The thread throughout their career seems to be about weaving people together with the resources they need to live their best lives. Stay tuned for a lot of laughter, a bit of courtship timeline debate, community compassion, and inspiration as we talk with these two accomplished, passionate leaders about their work to make things better for all of us here in the Prescott area. This is the Prescott Woman Podcast, an audio supplement of Prescott Woman Magazine and we’re your hosts Kelly Roberge and Charles Matheus. Alright - let’s get local! SHOW NOTES:  10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's Alzheirmer's Association Desert Southwest Chapter Latest News from Yavapai College

After the protests and turmoil that unfolded in downtown Prescott last summer, what action did you take? Most of us talked about it with our friends and associates, maybe took it to social media.  But how many of us actually DID something?  But the teens on the Launch Pad’s Teen Advisory Council got moving to address the rift that showed itself so dramatically on Courthouse Plaza.  It’s a rift that had been seeping through the cracks of our culture all along and many of our local teens were seeing it in their schools long before it erupted downtown. A few teens from the Launch Pad Center worked together to create a series of facilitated discussions about race and racism in several local high schools. Our guests on this episode share their personal experiences with racism, as well as their contributions to facilitating the tough conversations with their peers that will help us all heal as a community and live up to our claim as Everybody’s Hometown. In this we get to talk with 4 members of the Teen Advisory Council about what motivated them to get involved in the conversation about racial justice and what TAC is doing to address the issue in area high schools. A few tips to help the listener: Keep in mind that the teens were together in the same room sharing a microphone, so they were masked up to keep themselves and each other safe.  Some of their voices are hard to hear what they have to say is worth the effort. Also, this episode starts with a “check in” the traditional way TAC starts all their meetings. A check in is a chance for everyone to introduce themselves and speak a little bit about what’s on their minds. Lastly, you’ll notice that, in the check in, the teens mention what pronouns they prefer. This pronoun announcement might seem foriegn to some listeners but it is becoming a standard way for people to introduce themselves and to make a conversation safer and more welcoming for anyone who might not fit the usual gender definitions. Get ready to be impressed and inspired by these smart, mature young women who are doing the real work of making Prescott better… together.

Spring is in the air despite the occasional snowstorm. Love is in the air, despite the social distancing. It must be time to talk weddings! Weddings are the most universal and meaningful ritual in our culture and Prescott is the perfect place for two people to get hitched. Charles and I got married here, surrounded by our friends and in sight of Granite Mountain. It’s a weekend we’ll never forget. On this episode of Prescott Woman Podcast, we talk to some wedding professionals who are in the business of making a couple’s most special day as beautiful, memorable, and stress-free as possible These women are passionate, smart, and dedicated to their craft and it was a pleasure for us to get a glimpse into their wonderful world of weddings!

What’s it like combating an entrenched problem like homelessness during a pandemic?  What skills and mindset make the difference in good times and bad? How does one get selected Prescott Woman of the Year? Find out from Coalition for Compassion and Justice Executive Director, Jessi Hans.  In 2018, Jessi and her team set the bold (Crazy?) intention to end homelessness in Prescott.  Since Covid, they have redoubled their efforts to house every member of the Prescott community and connect their clients to the services that will help get them back on their feet and back to their lives.  We talk with Jessi about the Housing First philosophy, leading her team with authenticity and transparency, the value of partnerships, and how to stay human when things get tough. After 16 years in the human services field, Jessi Hans has an understanding of how addiction, trauma, mental illness, and systemic barriers can put people out on the street. Jessi takes a collaborative approach to problem-solving, bringing together people and organizations with the gifts and skillsets to make meaningful progress on difficult problems.  She also works consciously to shift the narrative around people experiencing homelessness to help everyone see what she sees: human beings, citizens, neighbors, members of the community. Born and raised in Iowa, Jessi earned her B.F.A. at Northwest Missouri State University and she’s lived in Arizona since 2005. She has a wife and three young children. Jessi enjoys quality time with her family, traveling, reading, creating art, and singing. Jessi was recently named Women of the Year by Prescott Area Leadership. When we asked her the uncomfortable question of why she was chosen for this honor, she told us she thought the award honored her role more than her actions. We think she might be being too humble, but we’ll let you decide why you think Jessi deserves the win.

When was the last time you walked into a room of your peers wearing the perfect pair of shoes for you - Just the right clothes to make you feel comfortable in your own skin and confident in the world? For many local teens living in low-income households or families affected by addiction or homelessness this feeling was a distant dream until they met the team at Teen Closet.  Staff and volunteers work with teens not only to find the perfect look and fit, but to build relationships that let young people who are living with big challenges know that they are not alone, not forgotten. Welcome to the Prescott Woman Podcast In this episode we get to talk with Krystal Koons and Diane DeLong about the magic of the right pair of shoes in a teen’s life and the opportunity that their personal shopping service gives them to get to know some extraordinary teens, help them find their gifts, and make our community brighter. You’ll hear these two passionate, intelligent women explain the difference between charity and empowerment, and you’ll hear inspiring success stories about the young people they serve. You’ll also hear their concerns about the new challenges facing teens and the one thing parents should NOT do in response. Show notes: North Star Youth Programs Teen Closet Amazon Wishlist Prescott Athena Awards Prescott Woman Magazine Distribution Locations

On this month’s episode, you'll learn a lot about the heart and how a local “rock star” Cardiac Electrophysiologist is using the latest hi-tech methods, collaborative leadership, and deep compassion to heal hearts and people. Welcome to the Prescott Woman Podcast, the monthly audio companion to Prescott Woman Magazine. Hosts Kelly Roberge and Charles Matheus are a curious couple who explore the rich array of talent, personality, and engagement they find throughout the Quad Cities.  Each episode engages in a relaxed and inquisitive conversation with the people featured in the pages of Prescott Woman Magazine, discovering more about how they are working to make our community better. This month we get to spend an hour with a woman who is a smart and accomplished cardiac physician, but what we came away with was the unshakable sense of her incredibly powerful love and compassion as a healer, family member, and leader in our community. Dr. Nisha Tung is a Cardiac Electrophysiologist - a self-described electrician of the heart -  at Yavapai Regional Medical Center here in Prescott.  She went to med school in India and did residencies in North Dakota and Indiana before landing fellowships at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale and at UCLA.  She was recruited by YRMC to develop the state-of-the-art cardiology program and facility that opened in August of 2015. A long way from her native India, Dr. Tung tells us about the grit it took for her to get here, the joy her work and patients bring her, and what community means.  We find out what a cardiac electrophysiologist IS, and take a bit of a dive into the technical side of modern heart medicine. We also find out what kind of little girl Dr. Tung was and how both family tragedy and traditions have influenced the path of her career. Stay tuned until the end for a slightly emotional moment AND for a critical heart-health tip for women. Show Notes: YRMC Article featuring Dr. Tung YRMC's Cardiac Cath Lab Go Red for Women - the American Heart Association's women's initiative Click for an animated explanation of artrial fibrillation Prescott Woman Resources: https://prescottwomanmagazine.com/ Magazine Pickup Locations

What is NACOG?  We’ve all heard of it.  Most of us can’t seem to remember what it stands for.  But after this episode of the Prescott Woman Podcast, you will know and remember, thanks to Teri Drew, the smart and savvy director of the Economic/WorkForce wing of NACOG, the Northern Arizona Council of Governments.  They are doing the hard and important work of economic development, community support, early childhood education, and so much more.  They coordinate with local and county governments across Apache, Coconino, Navajo, and Yavapai counties here in Northern Arizona to make life better for all of us. Teri is with us today to talk about the work she has done for over 40 years to lift individuals out of poverty via career development and at the same time, support local businesses in building effective, sustainable workforces. Teri Drew works with 24 communities across Northern Arizona to help both workers and businesses build success. She currently serves as Chair of the Arizona Workforce Association (AWA) and was recently appointed to the United States Workforce Association (USWA). She has served on just about every workforce-related board and committee at local, state, and national levels during her long career. For complete show notes and links go to: https://prescottwomanmagazine.com/prescott-woman-podcast/

What will school look like this fall?  How do our school administrators make the decisions that will affect families with children and by extension, our whole community?  Get the inside view in this episode of the Prescott Woman Podcast with PUSD Superintendent Joe Howard and Assistant Superintendent Mardi Read. Welcome to the Prescott Woman Podcast, the monthly audio companion to Prescott Woman Magazine. We’re your hosts Kelly Roberge and Charles Matheus, a curious couple exploring the rich array of talent, personality, and engagement we find throughout the Quad Cities.  We dive deeper with the people featured every other month in the pages of Prescott Woman Magazine, discovering more about how they are working to make our community better. Our guests this episode are stalwart education leaders, Mardi Read and Joe Howard. Mardi Read graduated from UC Riverside with a BS in Environmental Science and worked in environmental consulting for 10 years. She moved to Prescott in 1997, where her father was raised and her grandmother was a teacher at PHS. Education and Prescott must be in Mardi’s bones, because she went on to earn her teaching credential and two master’s degrees - in educational technology and educational leadership. She worked for years in the classroom and as an administrator before becoming Assistant Superintendent of Prescott Unified School District.  Joe Howard also has the education of Prescott kids in his bones. Joe’s father Jim Howard was superintendent of schools in Prescott for years.  Joe has been the superintendent of the Prescott Unified School District for the last five years, guiding the district through budgetary, enrollment, and staffing challenges. Following his second year as superintendent, he received the prestigious Distinguished Administrator award from Arizona School Administrators. Joe and Mardi were very open and honest with us about the challenges of educating kids during a pandemic, especially considering the limited resources available and the rapidly changing situation. But they have come up with a clear plan that balances keeping kids safe while working hard to keep their education on track. There’s a treat at the end of the episode. Mardi, who’s clearly the historian of the pair, regales us with some stories about the early years of Prescott Unified School District, so listen for that. We think you will finish listening to this episode feeling more confident in our school administrators and more hopeful for the future of our kids. References & Show Notes: Prescott Unified School District PUSD Roadmap for Reopening  Prescott Woman Magazine  You can always pick up a magazine at these locations: Stepping Stones Thrift Stores – Prescott & Prescott Valley Rafter Eleven – Prescott Valley Yavapai Exceptional Industries – Prescott Purple Cat Bookstore – Prescott Wingspace Co-Working – Prescott Artisan Cleaners – Prescott Bella by Leah – Prescott Gateway Mall Prescott, Prescott Valley, and Chino Valley Libraries Prescott, Prescott Valley, and Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce Downtown Distribution Boxes located at: The Dinner Bell, Hotel St Michael, Murphy’s Restaurant, and the downtown US Post Office

What makes Prescott (and the rest of the Quad Cities) strong? What makes us unique and successful when things get tough? Our first episode attempts to answer those questions. In the spring of 2020 the COVID-19 pandemic arrived in Prescott and the Quad Cities. We all started seeing the effects and the community felt the strain, but our collective community spirit and ingenuity rose in response. The writers and staff at Prescott Woman Magazine started collecting stories of that resilience and creativity and featured them in the June/July issue of the Magazine, with the headline, Prescott Strong. To further lift up those voices and our community story, Prescott Woman commissioned this oral history. The Prescott Strong Audio Chronicle is a collage of personal reflections and reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic. We trust that you will find it inspiring and meaningful because these are the voices of your neighbors and friends. Show Notes: Thank you to the following women and men for contributing quotes: Deputy Police Chief Amy Bonney Claire Louge - executive Director of Prevent Child Abuse Arizona Deputy Fire Chief Cory Moser Kerry Johnson - Special Education Teacher Tina Rose - Parent Jim Cabral - Owner of Gabby’s Grill Rachel Whisenand, Emergency Department Nurse, Yavapai Regional Medical Center Ariana Bennett - Parent Special thank you to our guests: Kaia Kordossky-Herrera, Physicians Assistant and owner of Prescott Complete Care Sasha Naasz, owner of The Movement Studio Carissa Johnson - English and Language Arts Teacher at Bradshaw Mountain Middle School  for sharing their trials and triumphs with us in extended interviews. Over a dozen other local citizens contributed quotes that you can read in the current June/July issue of Prescott woman magazine. The issue is available in locations throughout the Quad Cities and at https://prescottwomanmagazine.com/ The following local musicians provided the soundtrack to the episode. Follow these links to more of their music: Drew Hall & Anton Teschner on Facebook Candace Devine on Spotify Rachel Plays Guitar on Spotify Sugar and the Mint on the web. Kaileena Martin on Spotify Kelly Roberge narrated this podcast and Charles Matheus produced, recorded and engineered it. We hope you enjoyed hearing from and about your Quad Cities neighbors and businesses in this audio format. Please join us every month when we’ll share interviews and stories to inspire and engage you on the Prescott Woman Podcast.

A preview of the inaugural episode.