All The Things Real Podcast

On this episode of All The Things Real , Mel sits down with Scott Goldsmith and TJ Tilman, the minds behind Level 1 Arcade Bar and a growing lineup of standout concepts across the Valley. What started as a bold idea between friends turned into one of the most recognizable nightlife experiences in Arizona. They get into the real story behind building Level 1 from the ground up, how they identified...

Johann Warnholtz, founder of Exceptional Vibes, sits down with Mel on All the Things Real (ATTR) for a real, unfiltered conversation about what it actually looks like to build something from the ground up. From growing up around endurance events to producing some of the most talked-about food and beverage experiences in the East Valley, Johann walks through the non-linear path that got him here—an...

In this episode of All the Things Real, Melissa sits down with Jessica Sarkissian, a land planner and founder who has spent the last seven years building her own firm from the ground up. Jessica shares her journey through entrepreneurship, what it takes to run a business behind the scenes, and the reality of wearing every hat. She opens up about a major transition in her career—stepping away from...

In this episode of All the Things Real , Mel sits down with Jocelyn Skogebo—interior designer, historic home renovator, and a key voice in Downtown Mesa’s growth. From restoring century-old homes to navigating the realities of investment, Jocelyn shares what it really takes to preserve character while creating functional, modern spaces. They talk through her journey from suburban living to embraci...

In this episode of All the Things Real , Melissa sits down with Christina and Macee, the co-owners of Rebel Wine Lounge in Downtown Mesa. They share how their business partnership evolved from working together in the mortgage industry to building multiple concepts, including Level 1 and Outcast, before launching their own women-led space. They talk honestly about the challenges behind the scenes—s...

In this episode of All the Things Real, Melissa sits down with Arizona native and Emmy Award winning producer Alex Thomas, the artist behind the music project Juno Empire. Alex shares his journey growing up in the east Valley, discovering rock music as a teenager, and how a passion for creativity eventually led him from Northern Arizona University to working in the film and music world. The conver...

In this special episode of All the Things Real , we took the mic to the streets of Downtown Mesa to ask a simple question: What do you love most about this place? From longtime locals to first-time visitors, the answers were honest, heartfelt, and full of pride for the community they call home. This episode captures the energy, character, and charm that make Downtown Mesa more than just a destinat...

In this heartfelt episode of All the Things Real , Melissa sits down with her dear friend Kristen Merwin — author, hypnotherapy practitioner, and fierce advocate for children and women finding their voice. What began as a design-client relationship grew into a deep friendship, making this conversation especially personal. Kristen shares how her journey was shaped not by a traditional business plan...

In this insightful episode of All the Things Real, Melissa welcomes John Merwin, CEO of Brooklyn Bedding, to explore his journey from working within a family-founded business to helping lead one of the most respected mattress manufacturers in the country. Together, they discuss the evolution of Brooklyn Bedding, the lessons learned through leadership, and what it means to grow a company while stay...

In this episode of  All the Things Real , Melissa sits down with Sarah Williams, a visionary entrepreneur and fearless self-starter, as they unpack the thrills and trials of building businesses and creating generational wealth. From paddle board rentals to goat yoga, Sarah’s ventures embody bold ideas and uncharted paths. Together, they discuss the mindset of a true entrepreneur, the reality of ba...

In this transformative episode of All the Things Real, Melissa welcomes Sam Peace, a conscious leadership coach, sound healer, and spiritual guide. Together, they dive into Sam’s journey from trauma therapist to empowerment coach, exploring the power of alignment, the art of sound healing, and embracing the balance between masculine and feminine energies. Sam opens up about grounding daily practic...

In this heartfelt episode of  All the Things Real , Melissa welcomes Roberto Centeno, the visionary behind Espiritu where this podcast is filmed and a true force in the Arizona culinary scene. Robert shares the story behind his first restaurant, diving into the power of collaboration, his journey as an entrepreneur, and how he balances his role in the kitchen with community impact. With the suppor...

In this special episode of  All the Things Real , Melissa sits down with Trent and Eric, the passionate founders behind Mesa’s beloved Phantom Fox Brewery and Chupacabra. Recorded right in the heart of their brewery, this episode takes you through their journey of transforming a historic building into a community hub filled with craft brews, camaraderie, and character. From local collaborations to...

In this inspiring episode of All the Things Real , Melissa chats with Felicia Romero, apowerhouse in the fitness and wellness industry. Felicia is a public figure and a podcast host of @hifeliciapodcast From her early days running gyms to helping women embrace their authentic selves, Felicia has always forgedher own path. Together, they dive into the journey of finding peace in a chaotic world, ov...

In this episode of All the Things Real , Melissa dives into an enriching conversation with Scott Smith, former mayor of Mesa and advocate for the city’s sustainable development. Scott shares his journey from a CPA and attorney to a business owner and ultimately mayor, highlighting pivotal moments and challenges. Together, they explore Mesa’s unique community fabric, the vision for its future, and...

In this episode of All the Things Real , Melissa sits down with Mark Freeman, a lifelong Mesa resident and community leader, to explore the fascinating history and rapid growth of Mesa, Arizona. From Mesa’s pioneer roots to its modern transformation, Mark shares personal stories, insights into local development, and his vision for Mesa’s future. As a council member and mayoral candidate, he discus...

In this debut episode, host Melissa dives deep into her journey, exploring her path from real estate to founding All the Things Podcast , a platform for sharing authentic stories from entrepreneurs, real estate insiders, and community leaders. Melissa shares her vision for the podcast—connecting with local influencers, revealing the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and building a community root...