Today and Tomorrow in Scottsdale Episode 161, Skyler Badenoch, Hope for Haiti
Today and Tomorrow in Scottsdale
Release Date: 05/05/2025
Today and Tomorrow in Scottsdale
Scottsdale duo reimagining public education Peter Bezanson and Patti Bezanson are co-chairs of BASIS Educational Ventures, based in Scottsdale, and two of the visionary leaders behind one of the highest-performing public school networks in the nation. From rapid growth to academic excellence, they share how BASIS Charter Schools scaled success without losing rigor. It’s a thoughtful conversation on leadership, innovation and what it takes to reimagine K–12 education.
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Scottsdale’s mystery writer unveils desert secrets Scottsdale’s own Betty Webb is the mind behind the Lena Jones mystery series. Her novels plunge readers into the stark, mesmerizing desert that surrounds our city, shaped by the same sharp observational eye she honed as a journalist. We’re talking sweeping landscapes, unforgettable characters, and how she made the leap from reporting the truth to crafting it in mystery form. This is a conversation with a writer who knows the desert’s secrets better than anyone.
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Jenna Kohl is director of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, one of Scottsdale’s most treasured natural landmarks. Under her leadership, she works to ensure that the Preserve continues to thrive as a model of community stewardship, sustainability, and outdoor recreation. Jenna talks about what it takes to protect and preserve this stunning desert landscape, spanning thousands of acres and hundreds of miles of trails, so it can continue to inspire and sustain generations to come.
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Every Woman’s Marathon comes to Scottsdale Miranda Abney is one of the driving forces behind the Every Woman’s Marathon, a national running event and festival celebrating women’s strength, wellness, and community. The marathon comes to Scottsdale on Sunday, Nov. 16, with pre-race events all that weekend. Learn more about the marathon’s mission, why Scottsdale was chosen as the host city, and what makes this event unlike any other.
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Donna Tew: bridging service and civilian life Donna Tew leads the SkillBridge program, a Department of Defense initiative that helps service members transition from military to civilian life. SkillBridge partners with organizations like HonorHealth to provide valuable hands-on experience and career opportunities. Donna, who served in the Air Force, shares how this program bridges the gap between service and civilian success.
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Enid Seiden: Inspiring service across Scottsdale Enid Seiden is a dedicated civic volunteer and philanthropic leader whose work embodies the spirit of community in Scottsdale. As vice chair of the Scottsdale Public Library Board and a member of the Foster Care Review Board of Maricopa County, Enid is helping shape a more connected, compassionate city — one family, one reader, and one act of service at a time
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Bridging nature and city life at SCC John Weser is director of the Center for Native and Urban Wildlife at Scottsdale Community College. Through his leadership, the center has become a living classroom for conservation — restoring habitats, educating students, and showing how wildlife and urban life can flourish side by side. It’s a conversation about connection, stewardship and the beauty of Arizona’s desert ecosystems
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Keeping Arizona’s baseball story alive Mike Phillips and Charlie Vascellaro are the players behind the Arizona Baseball Legacy and Experience. From the crack of the bat at spring training to the unforgettable players who shaped the game, Scottsdale has played a unique role in baseball’s history. Mike and Charlie are dedicated to preserving that legacy while inspiring future generations to connect with the sport in new ways. Discover the roots of ABLE and the lasting impact of baseball on Arizona.
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Ivan Gilreath and Paul Baker from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale are leading an organization that’s transforming young lives every day — providing a safe place for kids to learn, grow, and thrive. From tutoring and academic support, to mentorship, leadership development, and opportunities to build lifelong confidence, their work is shaping the next generation in powerful ways. Check out their vision for the future and the impact they’re making across our community.
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Ceci Moss on art, technology and future of SMoCA Ceci Moss, director and chief curator of the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, has nearly two decades of experience in the art world. From New York to San Francisco to San Diego, she has built a reputation for championing emerging artists and exploring the intersection of art, technology, and culture. She brings a passion for connecting art with community, and shares her vision for SMoCA and what’s ahead for the museum under her leadership.
info_outlineScottsdale’s Skyler Badenoch: Hope in action
Skyler Badenoch is passionate about Scottsdale and active in a number of local groups, and he also takes on a world view. He is CEO of Hope for Haiti, an organization working to improve the quality of life for Haitian families through education, healthcare, clean water, and economic development. Skyler shares powerful stories from the field, insights into leading through crisis, and what keeps him hopeful about Haiti’s future. Skyler’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and the power of community.