The Power of Live: Sports, Hospitality, and Global Experiences

In this episode, we sit down with Paul Caine, President of TKO's On Location business to explore the future of live experiences and global sports entertainment. Paul oversees a vast international portfolio spanning consumer experiences, premium hospitality, and brand partnerships, placing him at the center of how fans engage with the world's biggest events.   Website: onlocationexp.com Instagram: onlocationexp   BACK STORY Paul Caine is the President of premium experiential hospitality leader On Location, part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO). In this role, Paul oversees a diverse and global portfolio of consumer experiences, hospitality, and brand partnerships.   Through partnerships with more than 150 rightsholders, including the NFL, NCAA, UFC, IOC (Paris 2024, Milano Cortina 2026, LA 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games), FIFA (FIFA World Cup 26TM) and PGA of America, On Location provides corporate clients and fans with official and exclusive access to memorable experiences at marquee events. Before joining On Location, Caine amassed an extensive track record building, operating, and transforming public and private businesses. He most recently served as Global Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) of Bloomberg Media, as Chief Executive Officer of Westwood One, and in numerous roles at Time Inc. over a span of 23 years, including Publisher of People, Entertainment Weekly, Executive Vice President, CRO, and Group President. He is also the Founder of PC Ventures (an investment and advisory company), Chairman of the Board of Magnite, and Co-Founder, with his wife Pam, of the Griffin Cares Foundation.   SUBSCRIBE TO ICONIC HOUR If you enjoyed today's podcast, I'd be so appreciative if you'd take two minutes to subscribe, rate and review ICONIC HOUR. It makes a huge difference for our growth. Thanks so much!   ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE  Stay in touch with ICONIC LIFE magazine. We invite you to join our digital VIP list and SUBSCRIBE!   JOIN OUR ICONIC COMMUNITY Website: iconiclife.com Instagram: @iconiclifemag Facebook: Iconic Life YouTube: ICONIC LIFE   FOLLOW RENEE DEE Instagram: @iconicreneedee LinkedIn: Renee Dee   Thanks for being a part of our community to Live Beautifully.  

In this episode, we sit down with Brian Johnson and Mike Teolis to explore how Colorbeam Lighting and Senergy360 are redefining the future of residential living through collaboration. By combining circadian-based lighting technology with intelligent home health and wellness monitoring, these two innovators are working together to create homes that actively support how we live, sleep, and feel. Website: colorbeamlighting.com senergy360.com Instagram: senergy360 colorbeamlighting BACK STORY SENERGY360 founder Brian Johnson began his career in the lumber industry as a certified lumber grader, where he gained expertise in utilizing lumber for construction. He quickly learned about lumber's susceptibility to mold growth during transportation and storage. This sparked his interest in healthier home construction and catalyzed the creation of SENERGY360. Today, he is the only General Contractor in the country to hold a triple certification from the Building Biology Institute, a testament to his dedication to creating healthy and sustainable living environments. Since 2003, Brian has been a trailblazer in the construction field, specializing in mass wall construction techniques. His passion for building performance stems from his lifelong commitment to health, athletic performance, and wellness. As an elite top 1% All-World Athlete, Brian understands the importance of optimizing physical and environmental factors for peak performance. Acutely aware of the impact the living space has on one's health, Brian prioritizes building using modern technology to mimic a natural environment indoors while safeguarding residents from adverse outdoor elements, whether natural or manmade. As President and Co-Founder at Colorbeam Lighting, Mike Teolis' mission is to transition the architectural lighting industry to a low voltage infrastructure that offers better, healthier, more features and benefits rich lighting technology and solutions.  At Colorbeam, we aim to be at the forefront of technological developments in the lighting industry while providing a positive impact on our customers and their overall health and lifestyle. As lighting steps into the digital era, our mission is to continually innovate our software technology and broaden our fixture selection. This is to ensure our customers always have access to the most advanced lighting solutions that offer the most sophisticated lifestyle, wellness, and energy-efficient benefits. With 25 years of experience in the audio-visual low voltage technology industry, Colorbeam's founders recognized the need for a better solution. Their background as low voltage technology integrators and their profound understanding of AV and lighting control technology contributed to the development of a lighting system that delivers tunability and wellness applications.   SUBSCRIBE TO ICONIC HOUR If you enjoyed today's podcast, I'd be so appreciative if you'd take two minutes to subscribe, rate and review ICONIC HOUR. It makes a huge difference for our growth. Thanks so much!   ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE  Stay in touch with ICONIC LIFE magazine. We invite you to join our digital VIP list and SUBSCRIBE!   JOIN OUR ICONIC COMMUNITY Website: iconiclife.com Instagram: @iconiclifemag Facebook: Iconic Life YouTube: ICONIC LIFE   FOLLOW RENEE DEE Instagram: @iconicreneedee LinkedIn: Renee Dee   Thanks for being a part of our community to Live Beautifully.  

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Hope Ijaola, founder of Dr. Hopiola Skincare, for an in-depth conversation about the inspiration, research, and clinical expertise behind the brand—and how to build a skincare routine that actually works. Website: drhopiola.com Instagram: drhopiola BACK STORY As a physician, I noticed that many of my patients, and even I myself, struggled to tolerate certain prescription-grade skincare products, despite their proven benefits. Side effects like burning, stinging, and peeling often made it challenging to use them consistently. This inspired me to explore high-performance natural alternatives - ingredients supported by science, yet gentle enough to respect the skin's natural balance. I studied organic skincare formulation enriched with advanced training in organic cosmetic science, and I focused on botanicals that are known to: Support the skin barrier and help reduce moisture loss Lock in hydration for a softer, smoother feel Provide antioxidants that help defend against environmental stressors and maintain a youthful, supple look From there, my mission became about more than formulation. I committed to sourcing ingredients responsibly and sustainably from trusted partners with meaningful stories. I built rigorous accountability into every step of the process: from sourcing and manufacturing to sanitation, filling, packaging, warehousing, and distribution. Dr. Hopiola was born from this pursuit: skincare designed to work in harmony with your skin, your values, and your well-being     SUBSCRIBE TO ICONIC HOUR If you enjoyed today's podcast, I'd be so appreciative if you'd take two minutes to subscribe, rate and review ICONIC HOUR. It makes a huge difference for our growth. Thanks so much!   ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE  Stay in touch with ICONIC LIFE magazine. We invite you to join our digital VIP list and SUBSCRIBE!   JOIN OUR ICONIC COMMUNITY Website: iconiclife.com Instagram: @iconiclifemag Facebook: Iconic Life YouTube: ICONIC LIFE   FOLLOW RENEE DEE Instagram: @iconicreneedee LinkedIn: Renee Dee   Thanks for being a part of our community to Live Beautifully.  

In this episode, we sit down with Scott, the founder of Mito Red Light, to explore the science, innovation, and vision behind one of the leading brands in red light therapy. Scott shares his journey from curiosity to creation, breaking down how red light therapy supports mitochondrial health, recovery, performance, and overall wellness. Website: mitoredlight.com Instagram: mitoredlightofficial   BACK STORY Scott Chaverri, founder of Mito Red Light. Scott's mission is all about empowering people to optimize their health-spans through clinically validated, at-home red light therapy technology. Much like Dr. Kovacs's focus on translating research into real results, Scott simplifies the science of restorative light—making non-invasive, clean-tech beauty accessible to everyone. He's built Mito Red Light into the industry leader, trusted by athletes, wellness pros, and over 80,000 users globally. Think of it as a gym for your cells or a daily recharge for high performers. Scott's journey bridges business rigor with personal renewal. After facing his own health challenges, he championed red light therapy—not as a trend, but as a non-invasive alternative backed by decades of research. From industry-leading skincare to energy and recovery solutions, Scott brings future-facing insight on why tech-powered wellness is redefining beauty and self-care right now.     SUBSCRIBE TO ICONIC HOUR If you enjoyed today's podcast, I'd be so appreciative if you'd take two minutes to subscribe, rate and review ICONIC HOUR. It makes a huge difference for our growth. Thanks so much!   ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE  Stay in touch with ICONIC LIFE magazine. We invite you to join our digital VIP list and SUBSCRIBE!   JOIN OUR ICONIC COMMUNITY Website: iconiclife.com Instagram: @iconiclifemag Facebook: Iconic Life YouTube: ICONIC LIFE   FOLLOW RENEE DEE Instagram: @iconicreneedee LinkedIn: Renee Dee   Thanks for being a part of our community to Live Beautifully.  

On today's episode, we sit down with Janice Rantanen, Director of Lasting Impressions at Candelaria Design Associates and the visionary planner behind the firm's ICONIC first Candelaria Design Tour France. Janice takes us inside their most recent adventure to Paris, France, sharing insider experiences, cultural highlights, and all the must-dos for anyone planning to travel abroad. Website: candelariadesign.com Instagram: candelariadesign BACK STORY Janice has lived in the Valley since 1982 and joined Candelaria Design as Director of Lasting Impressions early 2019. She ensures the comfort of our valued clients and design team members, as well as upholding the Candelaria Design Lifestyle aesthetic. Prior to joining Candelaria Design she represented a semi-custom home builder in selling many of Scottsdale's finest communities. In addition to her real estate background she also owned one of Scottsdale's most beloved home and garden stores specializing in farm antiques and accoutrements sourced from Europe. Janice has always had an interest in architecture and interior design; she enjoys antiquing, cooking, gardening and traveling the US as well as abroad. SUBSCRIBE TO ICONIC HOUR  If you enjoyed today's podcast, I'd be so appreciative if you'd take two minutes to subscribe, rate and review ICONIC HOUR. It makes a huge difference for our growth. Thanks so much! ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE Stay in touch with ICONIC LIFE magazine. We invite you to join our digital VIP list and SUBSCRIBE! JOIN OUR ICONIC COMMUNITY Website: iconiclife.com Instagram: @iconiclifemag Facebook: Iconic Life YouTube: ICONIC LIFE FOLLOW RENEE DEE Instagram: @iconicreneedee LinkedIn: Renee Dee Thanks for being a part of our community to Live Beautifully.

On today's episode, we sit down with Sarah Kearney, Executive Director of Blue Zones Project Scottsdale, and Todd LaPorte, CEO of HonorHealth, to explore how Scottsdale is taking bold steps toward becoming a longer-living, more connected, and more vibrant community. Website: bluezonesprojectscottsdale.com    Instagram: bzpscottsdale   BACK STORY With more than 35 years of diverse healthcare experience, Todd LaPorte leads an integrated health system with nine acute-care hospitals, numerous outpatient facilities, a research institute, and various community services impacting social determinants of health and military preparedness. HonorHealth is one of Arizona's largest employers, with a presence throughout much of the growing Phoenix metropolitan area. Since joining HonorHealth in 2001, Todd has held executive roles in which he focused on financial and strategic leadership. He has shaped a system with many access points to provide convenient, high quality care for patients, and with an ability to coordinate care efficiently and effectively. HonorHealth governs with its medical staff one of the country's highest performing ACOs in the country. For most of his twenty years at HonorHealth, Todd served as the CFO. In April 2017, he became the 10th CEO in more than 150 years of its legacy firm history. Before joining HonorHealth, Todd held senior management roles for an international CPA firm that served Arizona healthcare clients, as well as clients in high-tech manufacturing and consumer services. He was also the CFO of a privately held healthcare company that served more than a half million Arizonans. Todd is the current board chair for the Health System Alliance of Arizona, an association of the five largest healthcare systems throughout the State. He is a member of Greater Phoenix Leadership (a CEO advocacy group) and is a board member of Experience Scottsdale (a visitor's bureau). He speaks frequently to Arizona State University MBA classes and community service organizations throughout the Valley of the Sun. Todd was named CFO of the Year by the Arizona chapter of the Financial Executives International in 2012 and was recognized by Becker's Hospital Review as one of the "125 Hospital and Health System CFOs to Know" in 2013. Todd has served as board chair for a chapter of Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the nationally acclaimed Scottsdale Aquatic Club and the Paradise Valley School District's supporting Foundation for Public Education. He holds a bachelor's degree in business from the University of Arizona and an MBA from Arizona State University. His four daughters all swam competitively at four different D-1 schools, so his college sweatshirt collection is quite confusing.     Sarah Kearney leads Blue Zones Project Scottsdale as the Executive Director. Her leadership experience is diverse and rooted in community well-being, service, and forward-thinking optimism. She most recently worked for Experience Scottsdale, whose mission is to enhance the Scottsdale community through tourism. In Sarah's 16+ year tenure at the organization, she held several leadership roles and specialized in worldwide leisure sales, partner development strategy, membership and community engagement, program development, and more. Driven by her passion for the Scottsdale community, Sarah has served, led, and guided several local organizations, leaving a cross-sector imprint. She has served as the Board President for Scottsdale Leadership, the Board President for Community Celebrating Diversity, a Board Member for Scottsdale Sister Cities, the Officer of Membership for Millennials in Travel, and the Vice President of Community Outreach at GiGi's Playhouse Phoenix/Scottsdale. Sarah holds an MBA from the University of Phoenix and a B.A. in Communication from Arizona State University. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, reading, sports and spending time in the Scottsdale sunshine. She is a proud wife and hockey, dance, and dog mom to her two children and golden retriever.   SUBSCRIBE TO ICONIC HOUR If you enjoyed today's podcast, I'd be so appreciative if you'd take two minutes to subscribe, rate and review ICONIC HOUR. It makes a huge difference for our growth. Thanks so much!   ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE  Stay in touch with ICONIC LIFE magazine. We invite you to join our digital VIP list and SUBSCRIBE!   JOIN OUR ICONIC COMMUNITY Website: iconiclife.com Instagram: @iconiclifemag Facebook: Iconic Life YouTube: ICONIC LIFE   FOLLOW RENEE DEE Instagram: @iconicreneedee LinkedIn: Renee Dee   Thanks for being a part of our community to Live Beautifully. TAGS: bluezonesprojectsscottsdale, honorhealth, iconichourpodcast, health, wellness, iconiclifemag, iconiclife, livebeautifully  

On today's episode, we sit down for Part II of our conversation with legendary Chef Christopher Gross and hospitality visionary Bill Nassikas as they explore the intersection of cuisine, creativity, and guest experience. From Michelin-level kitchens to world-class resorts, they share stories from decades at the top of the culinary and hospitality industries—along with candid conversations with chefs, winemakers, and entrepreneurs redefining what it means to serve. Insight, humor, and behind-the-scenes wisdom—straight from two masters of their craft. Website: https://wrigleymansion.com/christophers westroc.com  Instagram: christophersatwrigley   BACK STORY The president and COO of Westroc Hospitality since its founding, William J. Nassikas boasts decades of successful national and international experience in the hospitality industry. Like CEO Scott Lyon, William gained early exposure to his career path as the son of hotelier James A. Nassikas, founder of the Stanford Court Hotel in San Francisco. Prior to joining Westroc, William served as senior vice president of operations at Grand Bay Resorts, joining that organization as part of the merger-acquisition of Carefree Resorts. There, he was responsible for all accommodations, restaurant, spa, golf, and other guest service operations for properties including The Boulders Resort, The Buttes in Tempe, The Peaks at Telluride, Carmel Valley Ranch, The Lodge at Ventana Canyon, The Grand Bay Miami, and the famed Golden Door Spa. Among his many achievements, William was instrumental in the conception and development of Deer Valley Resort in Utah. He gained invaluable experience through executive management positions within Hyatt Hotels, as well as training throughout Europe, including the famed Restaurant Girardet in Switzerland. A graduate of Cornell University's Hotel School, William earned a Diplome Finale des Etudes from Ecole Hoteliere de la Societe Suisse des Hoteliers in Switzerland. His numerous honors include "Hotelier of the Year" by The Chaine des Rotisseurs, being inducted into The Arizona Republic's Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame, the Ivy Award from Restaurant & Institutions magazine, the CSX Award of Excellence, nomination for the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art's Contemporary Catalyst Award, the 2006 Industry Leadership Award from Arizona Hospitality Industry Professionals, and AZLTA's 2019 Hotelier of the Year award. William fulfills a commitment to give back to the hospitality industry, helping train future professionals as a visiting lecturer to the Inaugural Master of Real Estate Development Class at Arizona State University, Cornell University's Hotel School, and University of New Hampshire's hospitality management program. He also serves on various boards, including the Royal St. Corporation, AZLTA and The Mission B1 Foundation.   Based in Phoenix, AZ, Christopher Gross is a James Beard Foundation Award-winning chef who has been recognized among the best in the United States. Famed for its modern twists on classic French fare, Christopher's at Wrigley Mansion earned a 2022 James Beard Outstanding Chef nomination. It was rated 18/20 by Gayot Guide which named it Best French Restaurant, Best 10 Restaurant Wine Lists, Best 10 Restaurants with a View, and Best Romantic Restaurants. In its five-star review, Arizona Republic called the restaurant "Phoenix's most innovative, enticing dining experience for its exclusive tasting-menu experience where the chefs also serve each dish." Named to the Scottsdale Culinary Hall of Fame, Chef Christopher has also been honored by Food & Wine magazine's "America's 10 Best New Chefs," was the first chef in Arizona to be honored with the Robert Mondavi Culinary Award of Excellence and also created the nationwide "Flavors" fundraiser for the American Liver Association.   SUBSCRIBE TO ICONIC HOUR If you enjoyed today's podcast, I'd be so appreciative if you'd take two minutes to subscribe, rate and review ICONIC HOUR. It makes a huge difference for our growth. Thanks so much!   ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE  Stay in touch with ICONIC LIFE magazine. We invite you to join our digital VIP list and SUBSCRIBE!   JOIN OUR ICONIC COMMUNITY Website: iconiclife.com Instagram: @iconiclifemag Facebook: Iconic Life YouTube: ICONIC LIFE   FOLLOW RENEE DEE Instagram: @iconicreneedee LinkedIn: Renee Dee   Thanks for being a part of our community to Live Beautifully.  

On today's episode, we sit down with legendary Chef Christopher Gross and hospitality visionary Bill Nassikas as they explore the intersection of cuisine, creativity, and guest experience. From Michelin-level kitchens to world-class resorts, they share stories from decades at the top of the culinary and hospitality industries—along with candid conversations with chefs, winemakers, and entrepreneurs redefining what it means to serve. Insight, humor, and behind-the-scenes wisdom—straight from two masters of their craft. Website: https://wrigleymansion.com/christophers westroc.com  Instagram: christophersatwrigley   BACK STORY The president and COO of Westroc Hospitality since its founding, William J. Nassikas boasts decades of successful national and international experience in the hospitality industry. Like CEO Scott Lyon, William gained early exposure to his career path as the son of hotelier James A. Nassikas, founder of the Stanford Court Hotel in San Francisco. Prior to joining Westroc, William served as senior vice president of operations at Grand Bay Resorts, joining that organization as part of the merger-acquisition of Carefree Resorts. There, he was responsible for all accommodations, restaurant, spa, golf, and other guest service operations for properties including The Boulders Resort, The Buttes in Tempe, The Peaks at Telluride, Carmel Valley Ranch, The Lodge at Ventana Canyon, The Grand Bay Miami, and the famed Golden Door Spa. Among his many achievements, William was instrumental in the conception and development of Deer Valley Resort in Utah. He gained invaluable experience through executive management positions within Hyatt Hotels, as well as training throughout Europe, including the famed Restaurant Girardet in Switzerland. A graduate of Cornell University's Hotel School, William earned a Diplome Finale des Etudes from Ecole Hoteliere de la Societe Suisse des Hoteliers in Switzerland. His numerous honors include "Hotelier of the Year" by The Chaine des Rotisseurs, being inducted into The Arizona Republic's Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame, the Ivy Award from Restaurant & Institutions magazine, the CSX Award of Excellence, nomination for the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art's Contemporary Catalyst Award, the 2006 Industry Leadership Award from Arizona Hospitality Industry Professionals, and AZLTA's 2019 Hotelier of the Year award. William fulfills a commitment to give back to the hospitality industry, helping train future professionals as a visiting lecturer to the Inaugural Master of Real Estate Development Class at Arizona State University, Cornell University's Hotel School, and University of New Hampshire's hospitality management program. He also serves on various boards, including the Royal St. Corporation, AZLTA and The Mission B1 Foundation.   Based in Phoenix, AZ, Christopher Gross is a James Beard Foundation Award-winning chef who has been recognized among the best in the United States. Famed for its modern twists on classic French fare, Christopher's at Wrigley Mansion earned a 2022 James Beard Outstanding Chef nomination. It was rated 18/20 by Gayot Guide which named it Best French Restaurant, Best 10 Restaurant Wine Lists, Best 10 Restaurants with a View, and Best Romantic Restaurants. In its five-star review, Arizona Republic called the restaurant "Phoenix's most innovative, enticing dining experience for its exclusive tasting-menu experience where the chefs also serve each dish." Named to the Scottsdale Culinary Hall of Fame, Chef Christopher has also been honored by Food & Wine magazine's "America's 10 Best New Chefs," was the first chef in Arizona to be honored with the Robert Mondavi Culinary Award of Excellence and also created the nationwide "Flavors" fundraiser for the American Liver Association.     SUBSCRIBE TO ICONIC HOUR If you enjoyed today's podcast, I'd be so appreciative if you'd take two minutes to subscribe, rate and review ICONIC HOUR. It makes a huge difference for our growth. Thanks so much!   ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE  Stay in touch with ICONIC LIFE magazine. We invite you to join our digital VIP list and SUBSCRIBE!   JOIN OUR ICONIC COMMUNITY Website: iconiclife.com Instagram: @iconiclifemag Facebook: Iconic Life YouTube: ICONIC LIFE   FOLLOW RENEE DEE Instagram: @iconicreneedee LinkedIn: Renee Dee   Thanks for being a part of our community to Live Beautifully.  

On today's episode, we sit down with Salvatore Ferragamo Jr. — entrepreneur, hospitality visionary, and member of one of the most ICONIC fashion families in the world — for a rich conversation that blends heritage, hospitality, and the evolving landscape of luxury living. Website: www.ilborro.it Instagram: salvatore_ferragamo_jr ilborro    BACK STORY The Italian Association of Arizona is thrilled to announce its 10th annual Italian Festival at Old Town Scottsdale Waterfront, where attendees can experience Italy in the Valley on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 26 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The two-day festival will bring back its theme "La Strada del Vino", translated directly as the street of wine, offering visitors new opportunities to experience Italian cuisine, wine, live entertainment and a special Italian guest star in honor of the festival's 10th anniversary. "We are pleased to welcome fashion leader and wine owner Salvatore Ferragamo Jr. to the festival," said Italian Association of Arizona Founder Dario Soldan. "As part of the iconic designer family, Mr. Ferragamo Jr.'s attendance highlights the strong unity of the Italian community, and we look forward to celebrating our wonderful culture in Scottsdale." Salvatore Ferragamo Jr., the grandchild of Salvatore Ferragamo, the fashion designer and founder of the renowned Italian luxury fashion house known for its shoes and accessories since 1927, will be this year's special guest. Ferragamo's grandson owns part of the family wine company out of Tuscany, Il Borro, a super Tuscan wine producer, and Pinino, a Brunello wine producer. There will be a Ferragamo wine station open throughout the entire weekend of the festival, offering wine bottles and tastings. Ferragamo Jr. will attend the event briefly on Sunday afternoon. The two-day festival will feature over 30 wines from various regions in Italy, new Valley food vendors such as Luna by Giada and Elephante, along with returning favorites like Pomo Pizzeria, Mamma Lucy, Marcellino Ristorante and several others. Merchant vendors such as Outrageous Oils, Italian Harmony and Mamma Letizia will offer a selection of curated Italian products at the event. Additional items available include ceramic pottery from Lome, handcrafted apparel from Tea n Lace, jewelry, leather handbags and original artwork. This year, the festival will feature two stages with live entertainment along the waterfront. Programming includes cooking demonstrations from the festival's title sponsor, Greco & Sons, music performances by Ripalta Bufo, Sima and her All-Star Quartet, the Steve Ansel band and various street performers, including a group of 15 flag twirlers from Asti, Italy. Children can also enjoy face painting and balloon making at the event. The festival provides three ticket packages. The Salvatore Ferragamo Experience is available for $99.99 during the presale period from now until Tuesday, Sept. 30, offering one general admission ticket, six wine tasting tickets, four Ferragamo wine tasting tickets, as well as a wine glass and lanyard. After the presale, the price increases to $125 and does not include the wine glass or lanyard. The "La Strada del Vino" package consists of one general admission ticket, six wine tasting tickets, a wine glass and a lanyard, priced at $49.99 for presale and $65 at the regular rate. General admission tickets cost $15 if purchased in advance and $25 at the door. Children aged 12 and under receive free entry to the festival. The celebrations don't stop there. Ferragamo Jr. will also have an exclusive meet and greet experience on Sunday, Oct. 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. outside of the Ferragamo store in Scottsdale Fashion Square, right next to the festival. For $150, guests can personally meet Ferragamo Jr. and select a bottle of either the highly rated Super Tuscan Il Borro or the Brunello di Montalcino from Pinino. Following the festival, Ferragamo Jr. will host an exclusive dinner on Monday, Oct. 27 at Virtu Honest Craft in Scottsdale. Limited to 50 guests, this event will feature a seven-course menu paired with wines from Il Borro and Pinino, offering attendees the opportunity to dine alongside Ferragamo Jr. A portion of the proceeds will be contributed to the Italian Association in support of building a future Italian Culture Center. Tickets are priced at $400 per person. The Italian Association of Arizona wants to thank its title sponsor, Greco & Sons, and the City of Scottsdale, for making the event possible. For more information about the festival and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.italianassociation.org/annual-italian-festival. About Italian Association: The Italian Association (IA) is a private, non-profit 501c (3), non-political membership organization for Arizona Italian and American communities interested in developing their understanding and knowledge of Italy. Guided by the Board of Directors and Advisory Council, the Italian Association's mission is to establish Arizona's premier Italian Cultural Center, a vibrant hub celebrating Italian heritage, traditions and community. SUBSCRIBE TO ICONIC HOUR If you enjoyed today's podcast, I'd be so appreciative if you'd take two minutes to subscribe, rate and review ICONIC HOUR. It makes a huge difference for our growth. Thanks so much! ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE Stay in touch with ICONIC LIFE magazine. We invite you to join our digital VIP list and SUBSCRIBE! JOIN OUR ICONIC COMMUNITY Website: iconiclife.com Instagram: @iconiclifemag Facebook: Iconic Life YouTube: ICONIC LIFE FOLLOW RENEE DEE Instagram: @iconicreneedee LinkedIn: Renee Dee   Thanks for being a part of our community to Live Beautifully.

On today's episode, we sit down with Jesse Katz, the visionary founder and winemaker behind Aperture Cellars—a label that's redefining the future of fine wine through precision, storytelling, and stunning design. From collaborating with A-list celebrities to building one of the most architecturally striking wineries in California, Jesse shares his journey of blending innovation with tradition in an industry steeped in legacy. Website: aperture-cellars.com Instagram: aperturecellars BACK STORY EARLY ADVENTURES to legendary vineyards and wineries around the world with his father, photographer Andy Katz, gave Colorado-native Jesse Katz a profound respect for the creative art of winemaking. Jesse creates distinct, nuanced wines for his brands Aperture Cellars and Devil Proof Vineyards; while serving as a consulting winemaker for some of the world's most prestigious wines.   Inspired from an early age, Jesse dived into the wine industry and has since became one of the most exciting — and accomplished — winemakers in the world. Jesse's diverse experience spanning 25 harvests at wineries, along with his desire to travel, fed his aspiration to learn from the best in the industry, including Pétrus in Bordeaux, as well as time on the winemaking teams at Screaming Eagle Winery and Robert Foley Winery in Napa Valley, and Viña Cobos and Bodega Noemia in Argentina. In 2010, Jesse was the youngest-hired head winemaker in the U.S. at Lancaster Estate where, during his five-year tenure, he orchestrated the building of the new Roth winery, production facility, and tasting room, and received 90+ scores on every wine scored by the Wine Advocate, and garnered Lancaster Estate's inclusion on the list of Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines. In 2013, Wine Enthusiast named Jesse one of its 40 Under 40 Tastemakers and he was also the first winemaker on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2014. As a consulting winemaker for some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Von Miller, Tony Hawk and Justin Timberlake, in 2017, Jesse's wine collaboration with Shep Gordon, The Setting, earned acclaim as the most expensive wine in the world. Jesse enjoys putting his craft to work raising funds for good causes, non-profits, and charity events. All large format bottles of Devil Proof and Aperture are donated to charitable auctions along with numerous cases of wine and custom winery experiences each year. Through travels with his photographer father, winemaker Jesse Katz developed a profound passion for wine and winemaking that has shaped his career. As a child and young adult, it was through his father's work that Jesse was first introduced to the art of winemaking, where he quickly recognized the importance of terroir and balance of the winemaker's influence, landing him on a path he has followed ever since. Jesse's winemaking philosophy is a combination of diverse hands-on experience and knowledge passed on to him from some of the greatest winemaking legends while working at some of the most renowned wineries around the world. One core ethos has always prevailed though: evolution. Jesse is always learning, always evolving and constantly trying new things to achieve greater excellence.  When it comes to the production methods, Jesse and his team are constantly modifying their fermentation applications based on different vineyards and fruit quality year to year. Each vintage calls for a tailored barrel fermentation approach on both Aperture reds and whites. Early extraction brings fleshy, ripe characteristics; while extended maturation ensures structure and length from each grape variety. A combination of warm and cool fermentation is completed on all varieties.   SUBSCRIBE TO ICONIC HOUR If you enjoyed today's podcast, I'd be so appreciative if you'd take two minutes to subscribe, rate and review ICONIC HOUR. It makes a huge difference for our growth. Thanks so much! ICONIC LIFE MAGAZINE Stay in touch with ICONIC LIFE magazine. We invite you to join our digital VIP list and SUBSCRIBE! JOIN OUR ICONIC COMMUNITY Website: iconiclife.com  Instagram: @iconiclifemag  Facebook: Iconic Life YouTube: ICONIC LIFE FOLLOW RENEE DEE Instagram: @iconicreneedee LinkedIn: Renee Dee Thanks for being a part of our community to Live Beautifully.