Podsdale

Scottsdale's beautiful desert surroundings come with a responsibility to prepare for wildfire risk. In this episode of Podsdale, members of Scottsdale Fire discuss how Scottsdale prepares for wildfire season, the challenges posed by dry vegetation, invasive plants and changing conditions, and the important role residents play in wildfire prevention. Learn about defensible space, emergency preparedness, evacuation planning and the year-round efforts that help reduce wildfire risk across the city. Whether you live near the McDowell Sonoran Preserve or elsewhere in Scottsdale, this episode offers practical tips and important information to help protect homes, neighborhoods and the desert we all enjoy.

Summer in Scottsdale is no joke, especially when you are planning for monsoon storms and wildfire season. In this episode of Podsdale, we sit down with the city of Scottsdale’s Emergency Management team to talk about how the city prepares for extreme weather, what residents should know ahead of time, and how coordination across departments helps keep the community safe when conditions change quickly. From early planning and monitoring systems to real-time response and recovery, the team shares what goes on behind the scenes long before storms roll in or smoke is on the horizon.

In honor of Volunteer Appreciation Week, Podsdale sits down with Brandon Chapman, the city of Scottsdale’s volunteer coordinator, to talk about the impact of volunteering across the community. Learn how volunteers support city programs, what opportunities are available and how you can get involved. Whether you’re looking to give back, meet people or make a difference, there’s a place for you in Scottsdale.

As temperatures rise in Scottsdale, staying safe on the trails is more important than ever. In this episode of Podsdale, we’re joined by Kelsey Lamper and Madison Barasha from the Scottsdale Sonoran Preserve to talk about heat safety, common mistakes hikers make and how to prepare before heading out. From how much water you really need to when it’s safest to hike, they share practical tips for both locals and first-time visitors, plus what to do if things go wrong on the trail. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to the desert, this episode will help you enjoy the preserve safely.

Todd Bankofier, CEO and Executive Director of Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, shares an exclusive look at the museum’s newest exhibit opening March 28. Explore highlights from the Richard A. Gates Collection, Working Pardners, Visions in Bronze, and Fire of Ages. Learn how the museum curates its collections, brings the history and art of the American West to life, and engages the community through storytelling, education, and programs. Discover behind-the-scenes stories, must-see pieces, and why this exhibit is a can’t-miss experience for both locals and visitors.

The crack of the bat and sunshine in Old Town can only mean one thing: Spring Training in Scottsdale. On this episode of Podsdale, we talk with Kyle Urban from Scottsdale Stadium about what it takes to prepare for the season and host the San Francisco Giants each year. From offseason prep and game day operations to recent stadium upgrades and the impact on local businesses, we cover what fans can expect, plus a fun rapid-fire round.

Scottsdale is turning 75, and we’re celebrating in a big way. In this special episode of Podsdale, host Gayle is joined by Joy Racine, community involvement manager, and Bruce Wall, citizen advisor, to reflect on Scottsdale’s journey from a small desert town to the vibrant city it is today. Hear stories from Scottsdale’s past, learn about the events planned throughout 2026, and explore what this milestone means for our community now and into the future.

In this episode, we explore Scottsdale’s brand-new Constituent Services team. Learn how the city is providing fast, personalized support to residents, what makes this service model unique, and how it’s designed to help navigate city programs, services, and issues. Guests Will Brooks, assistant to the City Manager, and Ross Heyl, Constituent Services supervisor, share how the department works, what residents can expect, and what success looks like as Scottsdale rolls out this innovative approach to connecting with the community.

Ready to get moving, Scottsdale? We’re talking with Tom from Club SAR, who brings expert fitness tips, class recommendations and plenty of encouragement. From boxing to strength training to the supportive community that fuels every workout, Tom breaks down what makes Club SAR such a standout city gym. Consider this your podcast pre-workout. 

This episode of Podsdale recaps the late-September monsoon that hit Scottsdale and the extensive cleanup that followed. Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation Chris Walsh explains how teams prepare before storms, how the city coordinated its rapid response and what crews encountered at Eldorado Park and other impacted areas. He also highlights the history and success of the Indian Bend Wash, the sustainable practices used during recovery and the improvements planned moving forward. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how Scottsdale responds and builds resilience after major storms.