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    The Craft Podcast

    The Craft Podcast is hosted by Robert Van Arlen from the Iconic Hotel Valley Ho. The Craft brings an engaging approach to the art of business, relationships, and cocktails. This weekly podcast features successful entrepreneurs, entertainers, athletes, and musicians telling stories of their successes, failures and more... Every guest on The Craft get to enjoy a unique craft cocktail and sample the amazing fare created by Zuzu Lounge's Chef Russel. The beautiful setting and mouth water F&B serves as an ice-breaker that propels the conversation in to different directions, you never know what we will discuss! This podcast is recorded live every Wednesday from 3:30-5pm for the Zuzu Lounge located in the Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale Arizona.
    en54 Episodes

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    Episodes (54)

    Life with Purpose and a Business That Helps the Planet - Guest Scott Marion

    Life with Purpose and a Business That Helps the Planet - Guest Scott Marion

    This epsiode of The Craft takes you on a journey of growth and change.  Robert Van Arlen is joined by Scott Marion of Blue Sky Solar and The Elevated Life Foundation. Scott shares his story of finding peace and embracing change.  The guys discuss #Meditation #KundaliniYoga selling a successful insurance business and the transition to starting a #ResidentialSolar company.  Get amazing insight on personal growth can help you embrace the right change professionally. Interested in solar?  Then check out BLue Sky Solar's Solar 101 Webinar...

    Sign-up at the link below

    #Solar101 #ArizonaSolar #BlueSkySolar #SolarEnergy #ADD #ADHD

    From Darkness to Light - with Guest Jason Stancil

    From Darkness to Light - with Guest Jason Stancil

    Jason Stancil story is relatable and tranformative. In this Craft Podcast episode, Jason share a recent journey through broken promises to massive opportunities. Through a commitment to a business and capturing the optimal opportunity for them, Jason got "no pun intended" screwed. 

    It was more than turning a frown into a smile. It was turning a loss into an opportunity. This opportunity exposed lies and transitioned to his most exciting venture. His supporting teammates were not who he was expecting. Jason's wisdom, focus and positive attitude prevailed. 

    Enjoy!

    The Well of Intimacy - Guest Anne Given

    The Well of Intimacy - Guest Anne Given

    The Craft Podcast Guest:

    "Anne is an intimacy coach, who supports others in discovering themselves, sharing their authentic expression in the world, and experiencing more intimate relationships in all aspects of their lives. She believes intimacy is foundational to our fulfillment, vitality, and living a life that lights us up. She is certified as an integrative health and wellness coach and has a Masters in Integrative Health Studies from CIIS. 

    Her diverse life experience includes working in finance and start-ups for a decade, living in Europe for 6 years, guiding yoga, and various forms of coaching. Her curiosity and love of new experiences have allowed her to find her passion, which she now shares with others through her company, Well of Intimacy."

    Visit wellofintimacy.com to learn more.

    Response and Relationships Matters - With Guest Tom Rohlfs

    Response and Relationships  Matters - With Guest Tom Rohlfs
    Tom Rohlfs, National VP of Air Growth (Aviation) at Global Medical Response, takes leadership to another level. He is first passionate about his two adult sons, who are best friends and made him a better man without knowing it. Sports have been a part of his life growing up through college and into his adult life while watching both of his kids chase trophies and ribbons as well.
     
    Tom is in a relationship with his best friend and love of his life Kelly, who too has contributed to his growth and development as a man and as a father. She has shown him the importance of personal forgiveness and pet adoption.  
     
    He loves people and enjoys making at least one person every day smile or chuckle. 

    The Maestro of Tacos and Tequila - Guest David Tyda

    The Maestro of Tacos and Tequila - Guest David Tyda

    The Craft - Art of Relationships, Business, and Cocktails celebrates its 50th episode with special guest David Tyda. 

    Drew Grunwald stepped in to host the show for Robert Van Arlen.  Drew is joined by David Tyda founder of Taco Fest, and Phoenix food festivals like French Fry, Pizza and more. Tyda is also the owner of Barcoa (recently named one of the best tequila lounges in the country). 

    David has been throwing food festivals since 2010, most notably the Arizona Taco Festival. This event grew to nearly 40k attendees. After splitting with the co-founder, he opened BARCOA, an agave spirits bar in downtown Phoenix. More than “just a bar,” BARCOA is a community space, built for private events, agave tastings & education, and art - they’re connected to XICO, a Latinx & Indigenous art gallery. On the event side, the 8th Annual Phoenix Pizza Festival is coming up in November at Hance Park in Downtown Phoenix.  Check out this episode to find out how he got started and how his business evolved to where it is now.  If you like food festivals, events and tequlia, this episode is for you!

    Connections That Work for Others - Guest Jay Spector

    Connections That Work for Others  - Guest Jay Spector

    Jay Spector is more than a financial planner. His journey of sharing his success, by engaging his network has brought inspiration and opportunity to many. Jay's family landed in the Valley decades ago from the East Coast and through a family encounter, Jay found himself committing to Arizona Helping Hands, an organization serving the needs of foster care families. 


    His firm Evervest Financial is client-centered as they spend the time necessary to get to know everyone based on individual needs. During the Craft Podcast, Jay's humor radiates as he talks about relationships and business. He covers the facets of life that converge into financial freedom and personal growth. 

    The Craft Podcast
    enSeptember 21, 2023

    Music, Aliens, and More - Guest MC (Rapper) RA-Sool "The Alpha" McCray

    Music, Aliens, and More - Guest MC (Rapper) RA-Sool "The Alpha" McCray

    Host Robert Van Arlen, welcomes Ra-Sool to the Craft. The Craft is sponsored by ADDY Focus.  Robert and RA-Sool talk about meaning of business, music, numbers, UFO, "The Light" and much more.  DOn't miss this entertianing and informative episode of the Craft live from the iconic Hotel Valley Ho. 

    Rasool's Bio: 

    Emerging out of Phoenix Arizona with a blend of sounds that stand in contrast to the dry desert climate, Rasool Shum Shu Din McCray, professionally known as “Ra-Sool” is a rapper, producer and writer who has been adding rich textures to the music scene for over 5 years. With catchy melodies and groundbreaking vibes, the independent artist is becoming a formidable talent who follows his own rules in a market which yearns for artists to be their authentic self.

    His name Ra-Sool is a serious nod to how he sees himself. Roughly translated in Arabic as a messenger, prophet or an apostle, his music is delivering a new approach to how his audience engages. Working with all genres, he composes with influences of Hip-hop, R&B, Jazz, Soul, and even Rock and relentlessly pursues those musical narratives that flip the switch on how people interact with songs.

    Incorporating a variety of raw emotions and culture with his latest single “UFO” is a testament to how he perceives the world. Living through the pandemic, his dreams were consumed with thoughts of surreal experiences and how many in society were connecting with thought processes that were previously alien to them. What transpired is a track that encompasses his musical persona. His song sparks the emotions that fuel our passion for life and the truth of one’s thoughts is the flip side of that coin. With UFO, the laidback spiritual vibe that embraces serious drum patterns, complemented by his word play, lyrical flow, and soulful essence, is a musical journey to behold and a new tale to dream on.

    Ra-Sool also recognizes that the producer and the artist may also need to live parallel lives in one space. Collaborating with artists and their original projects, he understands that he must separate his own ego from the process which has given him a rare insight into how to add value to his own music. Disassociating himself from the emotional roller coaster of writing a song has given him the ability to evaluate his own tracks from a distance, and now he can provide those exquisite touches that elevate a song to greatness.

    Organic, fluid, and original, RA-Sool is taking a step into the Music industry creating his own radiance as he crafts music that will touch your mind, body, and soul in every way imaginable. Whether it be searching the skies or the dreams of your mind, the journey will be one we can all enjoy.
     
    Our Sponsor:

    ADDY was clinically tested by the renowned Cleveland Clinic. ADDYProducts.com

    The study’s results revealed a substantial increase in focus, concentration, and ability to stay on task and have mental clarity for over 5 hours after taking two capsules. Craft Listeners receive a 20% discount: Coupon Code - CRAFT23 

    Andrew Ament & Drew Grunwald - 2 Powerhouse Agents from a2LuxRE.com

    Andrew Ament & Drew Grunwald  - 2 Powerhouse Agents from a2LuxRE.com

    We welcome Drew and Andrew to the Craft. Host Robert Van Arlen interviews two powerhouse agents, giving them a combined 50 years plus of experience. A2 Luxury Real Estate is another level!

     

    Drew Grunwald - Drew Grunwald - Andrew (Drew) Grunwald is a dedicated and experienced real estate agent with a reputation for delivering exceptional results. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Drew has developed an intimate knowledge of the local luxury market and a deep understanding of the needs of his clients. Drew's passion for real estate began at a young age, and he has since honed his skills through extensive training and practical experience.

     

    Andrew Ament is a seasoned real estate professional with over 25 years of experience in sales, acquisitions, appraisal, management, and development of residential and commercial properties. Andrew was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended the University of Toledo in Toledo, Ohio, where he received his Bachelor of Business Finance with a Specialization in Commercial Real Estate. Andrew is a State Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser in Arizona and the owner of Censeo Valuation Consultants since 2004. He has also held Real Estate Licenses in both Ohio and Arizona and has been a licensed Realtor since 1996. 

     

    Mr. Scottsdale Knows Real Estate - Guest Evan Twombly

    Mr. Scottsdale Knows Real Estate - Guest Evan Twombly

    Meet "Mr. Scottsdale!" A former professional football player who has been recognized as the
    Homesnap Fastest Growing Realtor of the Year award winner. Evan is now the newest Host of
    an EMMY-nominated television show, The American Dream, where he showcases Greater
    Phoenix's Real Estate, Lifestyle, and Culture. He made a name for himself in the real estate world
    by providing home buyers and sellers with professional, responsive, and attentive real estate
    services. As a savvy negotiator and a leading market expert, Evan not only represents clients
    here in the States but also services international clients. Want an agent who will listen to
    what you want in a home?

    Finance 3.0 Time is Money - Guest Jerry Linebaugh & Matt Hollander

    Finance 3.0 Time is Money - Guest Jerry Linebaugh & Matt Hollander

    Jerry Linebaugh & Matt Hollander join Robert Van Arlen as guests on The Craft Podcast. Jerry, founder of Game Changer Wealth, has built a practice that breathes authenticity combined with execution. Robert, Jerry, and Matt unleash practical financial planning combined with the reality of life. Humor and finance typically can't coexist, but this podcast presents practical financial planning approach that emotionally connects with clients and craft listeners. 

    Game Change Wealth specializes in helping clients and their families succeed in planning their perfect retirement. They provide solid and proven principle-protecting techniques that you can understand! Game Changer Wealth is dedicated to helping clients get the most from their estate balanced with common sense, safety, and control. 

    The Craft Podcast
    enMay 05, 2023

    Dynamite Delights with Personal Chef, Guest Sandrena Sorensen Schumacher

    Dynamite Delights with Personal Chef, Guest Sandrena Sorensen Schumacher

    From Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, LA, & Scottsdale, our guest, Sandrena Sorensen Schumacher, personal chef extraordinaire, brings an experience for two too many.  Sadrena will cook for anyone looking for a private, exquisite experience. During this segment, The Craft Podcast provides her with Chef Russell's, ZuZu delights from the Iconic Hotel Valley Ho. Sadrena and host Robert Van Arlen, who has frequented Sri Lanka, connect, collaborate and share her inspiring journey. 

     

    A Hottie, A Nerd - With Guest Nikky Shaffer

    A Hottie, A Nerd - With Guest Nikky Shaffer

    The Craft Podcast Guest, Nikky Shaffer, is young, beautiful, and intelligent. Don't let the looks fool you. Nikky's background in robotic automation put her on the front lines of corporate America. She has had the opportunity to work with the brightest tech teams in the world and knows how to build, foster and expand relationships from the ground floor to the C-suite. During this podcast, Nikky pulls Host Robert Van Arlen out of his comfort zone. She is fun and witty and provides tips for personal and professional growth. 

    Taking it to the Street - With Guest Derek Kane

    Taking it to the Street - With Guest Derek Kane

    Derek Kane has a lifetime in marketing and the entertainment business.  he has spent the last 26 years working in a field I love! His start came in the early 90s promoting underground events and parties with his DJ friends. He discovered his talents were better suited on the other side of the turntables!

    From there Derek was introduced to multiple record labels and concert promoters throughout Arizona and quickly made a name for himself as an independent promoter for hire. "Entertainment Marketing" then "AZ Street Teams" and finally "National Street Teams" was birth. 

    The Craft Podcast Episode 36 "The Wrap Up" - Multi-Guest Line up

    The Craft Podcast Episode 36 "The Wrap Up" - Multi-Guest Line up

    Robert Van Arlen brings back many of his previous guests to share their experiences, growth, strategies that lead to success, and more. The insights from these entrepreneurs are epic!

    John DeSantiago - New Golf Glove Technology 

    Khalid Mateen/Real Estate Mix 

    Mario Muzzi/RE investor and Berkeley Econ Pro

    Toure Gray-Model/Zipreceuiter

    Drew Grunwald - Financial Investment

    Rachel Mills - Technology Sales

    Jerry Abrams - Innovation Leadership and Part-Time Professor Virginia Tech

    All guest on The Craft Podcast "The Wrap"

     

     

    The Craft Podcast - Episode 35 "Cleaning Fish" with Guest Nikki Groff

    The Craft Podcast - Episode 35 "Cleaning Fish" with Guest Nikki Groff

    The Craft Podcast Guest Nikki Groff has achieved many successes in life. She is fearless, as one of the first things her mother taught her was how to clean fish. As an executive and author Nikki waste no time. This podcast is filled with inspiration. 

    Nikki Groff has been ranked among the top mortgage originators in the nation and has been recognized as a successful branch manager and thought leader on loan production and mortgage production systems.

    Her other achievements include being named a Distinguished Mortgage Professional and receiving NAWRB’s Roaring Thirty Award and the Duncan Group’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017. She was named one of So Scottsdale magazine’s People to Watch in 2018. In addition, Groff is the founder of a nonprofit called Giving Back, which was developed to assist community heroes with the financial aspects of the home-buying process.

    The Craft Podcast - Episode 33 "The Event Maestro" with Guest RJ Orr

    The Craft Podcast - Episode 33 "The Event Maestro" with Guest RJ Orr

    RJ Orr is the Executive Vice President of Bluemedia, the signage legends. By day, Bluemedia designs, prints, fabricates, and installs signage and decor for the biggest events in the world. By night, they print and fulfill the campaigns that impact millions of consumers.

    Our foundation of technology, design, production, and commitment to Make It Perfect™ gives us the creativity and experience to achieve what others deem impossible.

    The Craft Podcast - Episode 34 "ADDY - No Shortage, No Prescription Required" with Guest Tommy Vella

    The Craft Podcast - Episode 34 "ADDY - No Shortage, No Prescription Required" with Guest Tommy Vella

    When someone says it can't be done, there are others that find a way. Tommy Vella developed with BOARD-CERTIFIED ADDICTION SPECIALIST DR. SAMUEL AMEN an active ingredient WGCP™ to create a plant-based stimulant called ADDY™. He took it one step further with clinical research and reviews. The WGCP™ clinical study was conducted by the Cleveland Clinic, rated one of America’s top hospitals by U.S. News and World Report. The Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit organization that does not endorse any particular product. They conduct clinical trials and report the facts and findings of the study. WGCP™ was clinically shown to increase focus and concentration for 5-6 hours with zero side effects. Addy™ is now on the market; it's safe, effective, not a drug, and does not require a prescription. The Craft Host, Robert Van Arlen, is a huge proponent of ADDY™ and is excited to share the journey of the most effective plant-based stimulant for focus. 

    The Craft Podcast - Episode 32 "Navigating the Mortgage Mayhem" with Guest Omar Mateen

    The Craft Podcast - Episode 32 "Navigating the Mortgage Mayhem" with Guest Omar Mateen

    Omar Mateen has been providing mortgage lending in the valley for over a decade. His areas of expertise are jumbo financing, builder financing, down payment assistance, foreign nationals, FHA/VA/Conventional, second home financing, investment properties, and private money/hard money. Listening to this podcast will enlighten you on options only an expert would know. Omar shares stories of how he helps families, when others may give up.

    Enjoy this Craft Podcast!

    The Craft Podcast Episode #31 from hospitality to retirement planning our guest Ryan "RB" Bearden talks about the transition from behind the bar to behind the desk

    The Craft Podcast Episode #31 from hospitality to retirement planning our guest Ryan "RB" Bearden talks about the transition from behind the bar to behind the desk

    In the Craft Podcast Episode #31, from hospitality to retirement planning, our guest Ryan "RB" Bearden talks about the transition from behind the bar to behind the desk, helping people in the hospitality industry plan for retirement using a few little-known strategies that give people a clear path to retirement.  RB follows in his father's footsteps, helping people achieve their financial goals.