AZ Hustlers, Community Angels Meghan Alfonso AZ Hustlers, Community Angels Meghan Alfonso

AZ Hustlers: Karie Johnson

Karie Johnson is the owner of Barre3 Scottsdale PV. We’ve been fortunate to have worked with Barre3 in the past and they are always so supportive of our efforts to help families around the valley. Get to know a little bit about Karie!

Barre3-NS-Studio2020-Karie-Johnson.jpg

Karie Johnson is the owner of Barre3 Scottsdale PV. We’ve been fortunate to have worked with Barre3 in the past and they are always so supportive of our efforts to help families around the valley. Get to know a little bit about Karie!

Name: Karie Johnson

Instagram Handle: @barre3scottsdalepv

Title/Profession: Owner of Barre3 Scottsdale PV

What city do you live in!
Paradise Valley

How do you know PFF?
Through the amazing founder, Meghan!

What makes PFF special?
They continually give back to families in need and make a huge impact!

What is something on your bucket list?
To go to the Amalfi Coast.

Barre3-Karie-Johnson.jpg
Barre3-az-hustler-Karie-Johnson.jpg

What was your first job?
Life guard

What/who inspires you?
Mother Teresa

Coffee or tea?
Coffee

Sunrise or sunset?
Sunrise

What is a motto you live by?
You can do hard things.

What does a normal day look like for you?
Early morning routine of meditation, bible study, prayers and journaling before my kiddos wake up, get the kiddos off to school, work on or at barre3, always dinner with the family, relaxing evening at home.

What is one thing you can not live without?
Coffee!

One thing you think every one needs to try?
Barre3! Some people are intimidated by the barre or that it is either too hard or not hard enough. It is honestly just right because you make it your own! It is so empowering and really helps to balance the body from the inside out!

Read More
AZ Hustlers, Community Angels Meghan Alfonso AZ Hustlers, Community Angels Meghan Alfonso

AZ Hustlers: Kayla Iten

Kayla Iten is the CEO of All About Nannies, PFF’s newest partner, and our AZ Hustler of the month. All About Nannies, is an easy and quick way to find reliable nannies in Arizona. Having reliable childcare is so important and we know how difficult it can be to find it, which is why we love what Kayla is doing! Get to know more about Kayla!

PFF AZ Hustler: Kayla Iten, CEO of All About Nannies.

PFF AZ Hustler: Kayla Iten, CEO of All About Nannies.

Kayla Iten is the CEO of All About Nannies, PFF’s newest partner, and our AZ Hustler of the month. All About Nannies, is an easy and quick way to find reliable nannies in Arizona. Having reliable childcare is so important and we know how difficult it can be to find it, which is why we love what Kayla is doing! Learn more about Kayla and how she came to find PFF!

Name: Kayla Iten

Title/Profession: CEO of All About Nannies

What city do you live in!
Phoenix

How do you know PFF?
Through networking and our partnership donating a portion of each placement fee to PFF!

What makes PFF special?
I was so inspired by the foundations desire to help local families in tangible, creative and useful ways!

If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why?
I haven't been yet, but can't wait to go!

What is something on your bucket list?
To start a family of my own. I can't wait to use my 20 years childcare experience on my own children someday!

What was your first job?
My very first job was working in a daycare at a local YMCA in the infant room and I loved it!

What/who inspires you?
My family! My parents worked tirelessly to provide for us growing up and gave us an amazing life and taught us to value hard work, relationships and are still some of my favorite people after all these years

Coffee or tea?
Coffee

Sunrise or sunset?
Sunrise

What is a motto you live by?
”One person can make a world of difference”

What does a normal day look like for you?
Busy! I am generally up and make the commute down the hallway to my office at about 6:30 after getting the furry office assistants their breakfast. The first thing I always do is organize and tackle my never ending daily to do!

What is one thing you can not live without?
My Husband, my family, and my phone!

One thing you think every one needs to try?
Traveling and allowing yourself to be unplugged for a while.

*If you’re in the need for a nanny, visit the All About Nannies website here.

Read More
AZ Hustlers, Community Angels Meghan Alfonso AZ Hustlers, Community Angels Meghan Alfonso

AZ Hustlers: Brittany Yeaton

PFF Board member, Brittany Yeaton has been a supporter from the very beginning! Learn more about how she knows PFF plus a few fun facts about herself!

PFF AZ Hustler Brittany Yeaton (On right), alongside founder and CEO, Meghan Alfonso.

PFF AZ Hustler Brittany Yeaton (On right), alongside founder and CEO, Meghan Alfonso.

PFF Board member, Brittany Yeaton has been a supporter from the very beginning! Learn more about how she knows PFF plus a few fun facts about herself!

Name: Brittany Yeaton

Title/Profession: Internal Sale Associate/Brighthouse Financial

What city do you live in?
Scottsdale

How do you know PFF?
I have know Meghan since middle school and found out she was starting PFF and was very excited. I immediately started helping and volunteering at as many events as possible.

What makes PFF special?
PFF is special in so many ways. A foundation that is able to help families with children suffering is so incredible. I feel that people forgot the life still have to go on when a family is going through this difficult time so being able to help with bill or home repairs or whatever it my be is so amazing.

If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why?
My favorite event is definitely Clays for a Cause. I look forward to it every year! Rain or Shine

What is something on your bucket list?
To travel more! Sky Dive, African Safari so many things!

What was your first job?
Nanny

What/who inspires you?
Meghan! She is such an amazing person with an even more amazing heart.

Coffee or tea?
Tea

Sunrise or sunset?
Sunrise

What is a motto you live by?
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a different battle

What does a normal day look like for you?
Work, gym, family and Friends

What is one thing you can not live without?
Family

One thing you think every one needs to try?
Giving back in any way they can

Read More
AZ Hustlers, Community Angels Meghan Alfonso AZ Hustlers, Community Angels Meghan Alfonso

AZ Hustlers: Jeff Vance

AZ Hustler, Jeff Vance, has been a PFF supporter for a few years and we can’t express how grateful we are that he and his family are apart of our Angel community!

IMG_5316.jpg

AZ Hustler, Jeff Vance, has been a PFF supporter for a few years and we can’t express how grateful we are that he and his family are apart of our Angel community!

Name: Jeff Vance

Title/Profession: SVP of Operations at Sunstate Equipment Co.

What city do you live in?
Scottsdale

How do you know PFF?
Our company donated to PFF a few years ago and I fell in love with the cause.

What makes PFF special?
PFF is willing to help families where other organizations might not. How cool is it to help take the burden off a family like a car or electricity payment when they are caring for an ill child.

If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why?
Clay Shoot. I'm an outdoorsman and it is a unique opportunity to do something I enjoy while giving to a charity and meeting like minded individuals.

What is something on your bucket list?
To out bid Art Pearce at the next live auction. Just kidding, I've been all over Europe, next on the list is Athens Greece.

What was your first job?
Pulling skeet at a skeet range.

What/who inspires you?
Genuine folks like Meghan who look out for others well being.

Coffee or tea?
Tea

Sunrise or sunset?
Sunrise

What is a motto you live by?
Be kind and give back as much as possible.

What does a normal day look like for you?
I am involved in a lot of meetings with my peer group.

What is one thing you can not live without?
My family

One thing you think every one needs to try?
Donating in some way. It doesn't necessarily cost anything. Give someone a hand up.

Read More

Amandalyn Wulfert

Get to know local influencer and PFF AZ Hustler Amandalyn Wulfert.

amandalyn.png

Name: Amandalyn Wulfert

Instagram handle: @Amandalynrose

Profession/Title: Social Media Influencer

City you live in: Gilbert

How do you know of PFF: The amazing Runway of Hope Fashion Show

What makes PFF special: PFF is special because they help and support the many families, who have children with

life-threatening illnesses, overcome struggles they may face. They host events that bring the community together for a great cause snd show support for those who need it most.

If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why: The fifth annual Runway of Hope fashion show was the first PFF event that I have been to, and I cannot wait to attend the many other events that they put on. The event that I

attended was not only an exciting atmosphere, but it gave the attendees an opportunity to see the different ways that PFF helps families in need.

What is your favorite thing about AZ? My favorite thing about Arizona is the landscape and the weather. I was born and raised in AZ, so the heat is something that I have come to adore. Plus, it gives us a year-round chance to go outside and soak up the sun, or do any other outdoor activities. Arizona is my home, I never plan on leaving.

What is something on your bucket list? One thing that is on my bucket list is to travel to Tokyo. It has been one place that I have always wanted to go, I would love to experience the culture and cuisine.

What was your first job? My first job was a hostess at Texas Roadhouse.

Sunrise or sunset? Sunset. Arizona sunsets are some of the prettiest in the world, yes I am biased. But honestly, it is one of my favorite things to sit back and watch the sunset and take in the amazing Arizona beauty.

Coffee or tea? Coffee...all day everyday!

What/who inspires you? My Grandma inspires me, she is the toughest lady I have ever known and she always pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and find my own happiness.

What is a motto you live by? “Do what you love”- a quote from my Grandma.

What does a normal day look like for you? A typical day for me would be waking up early, heading to Dutch Bros for a coffee with my dog, Lollipop. After a day at work, I typically like to end the day watching some reality tv with my family.

What is one thing you can not live without? One thing I cannot live without is my Malshi dog, Lollipop. She is my mini me and we practically do everything together.

One thing you think every one needs to try? I definitely think that everyone in life needs to try getting out of their comfort zone. There is something so special about doing something that you have always wanted to, even if it scares you!

Read More

5 Years Down...

Since then, we have hosted over 50 events and we have created three programs under the Pearce Family Foundation umbrella.

5 years down…

5-years.jpg

Imagine being 29, you just left a job you thought you would be at forever, two weeks before you moved into a new apartment, and now you have no source of income. YEP, that was me. I was beyond stressed and embarrassed that I was jobless with no plans on what to do next.

Thank god my now husband put the idea into my head that I should start my own nonprofit and use my families name who brought us success for many years to back the nonprofit. Being beyond scared to ask my family to believe in me and let me run with it was the first hurdle to get over. Then I hired a life coach who reminded me I had the confidence I would need to start a nonprofit.

After numerous meetings one must go through to start an organization, I eventually did it and it took just 6 months.

Since then, we have hosted over 50 events (remember it has just been me with a few interns and now two part time employees) and we have created three programs under the Pearce Family Foundation umbrella.

I always get asked why I decided to create a nonprofit, and it was because I saw a need that was not being fulfilled. I believe a child gets better faster when they are recovering in their home versus in a shelter or a hospital.

Creating the nonprofit has allowed me to continue my family’s legacy by connecting with businesses and people in a new way. The nonprofit has also reconnected me to friends I went to school with who we may have not crossed paths with again unless I was in this position.

PFF has been a blessing to me I have been able to help as many families as I can have a safe and stable living environment. I pray we continue to grow and receive the generous donations we have to keep us around. I am excited to see where the next 5 years will take us. But we have already found our forever home off 90th and Bell and have three amazing events we host every year.

If you want to build something on your own- do it. It will be scary as F**k but why not…if you don’t you will always wonder what if.

Read More

Kourtnie Martin

Get to know PFF’s Event Coordinator, Kourtnie Martin!

Kourtnie-1.jpeg

Name: Kourtnie Martin

Instagram handle: @kourtnie.renee

Profession/Title: Event Operations Manager

City you live in: Phoenix, AZ

How do you know of PFF: I started as an intern for Meghan about 2 years ago and have been working as the Event Operations Manager for about 9 months now!

What makes PFF special: The impact that it makes on the community. Hearing some of the stories of the families breaks my heart but being able to see the immediate impact the foundation makes is amazing!

If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why:I LOVE Runway of Hope! Everything about it is so fun and it has this incredible, high energy vibe the whole night.

What is your favorite thing about AZ? Definitely the food!

What is something on your bucket list? I have always loved traveling so my dream is to go to Australia and Greece.

What was your first job? I’ve been around volleyball for most of my life, so naturally my first job was as a youth volleyball referee.

Kourtnie-2-201x300.jpeg

Sunrise or sunset? There's nothing like an Arizona sunset!

Coffee or tea? Iced coffee.... even in the winter!

What/who inspires you? My parents inspire me with how hard working and supportive they are.

What is a motto you live by? Keep moving forward – it’s a reminder to not look back or dwell on the past.

What does a normal day look like for you? Everyday is so different but I can always count of staying busy!

What is one thing you can not live without? Music!... Or chocolate lol

One thing you think every one needs to try? Try to stay open minded and see situations from other people’s perspectives. 

Read More
AZ Hustlers, Home Featured, PFF Angels, Womens Movement Pearce Family Foundation AZ Hustlers, Home Featured, PFF Angels, Womens Movement Pearce Family Foundation

Cassandra Kusa

Get to know PFF Angel, Cassandra Kusa.

cassandra.jpg

Name: Cassandra Kusa

Instagram handle: @kusacmphotography

Profession/Title: Project Manager

City you live in: Phoenix, AZ

How do you know of PFF: I became familiar with PFF when I participated in the Runway of hope fashion show in 2018.

What makes PFF special: Everyone that I've met who is a part of this program and organization shows passion and love, I can see that they believe in what they are shooting to accomplish. It's incredible to see how it comes to life when you hear the recipients of this organization's stories and how much gratitude they have to be able to be a part of the PFF family. The work truly translates when you see the glimmer in the eyes of the families.

If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why: My favorite PFF event that I have been to was their holiday party in 2018. I got to see families and hear stories of families that have been helped by the organization and listen to real life struggles that have been experienced by those who received help from PFF. The stories touched my heart and to see the gratitude and passion in their eyes really stuck with me.

What is your favorite thing about AZ? My favorite thing about AZ is that the people I care most about live here. I get to see those who love and support me every week which I'm very grateful and lucky to be able to do.

What is something on your bucket list? I would love to travel outside of the states and experience the culture in other countries.

What was your first job? My first job was being an assistant to an accountant for Nation Wide Vision.

Sunrise or sunset? Definitely a sunset person - the deep shades of red always get me.

Coffee or tea? Tea all the way.

What/who inspires you? Lately what has been my biggest inspiration has been reading about people’s stories, who have struggled to find themselves and what to do with their future. Their stories about how their friends, family- ultimately their support system around them starts to step up and shine in their eyes. Showing and making them realize that they can do something that matters, and that love is on their side. I’ve had my struggles with self-doubt and thinking that accomplishing something that matters and won’t make a difference is out of my reach. Seeing other people’s stories has helped open my eyes that this is something other people struggle with and that I am more then capable of doing what I set my heart to. One thing that inspires and impresses me about the PFF organization is giving people a chance and showing them that there are people who care and are on your side, that you can overcome and get help what is happening- you are never alone.

What is a motto you live by? Try everything once. A good friend of mine told me that a few years ago, something I never thought would make a difference in my life, but I put in the effort to live by that. Many things I try, I don’t care much for, but there are a few things that I would never have done that I show a lot of passion for and I absolutely love it. You never know until you try and guess what, if you don’t like it, you don’t lose anything.

What does a normal day look like for you? I wake every morning to my cat, Mister Pooper staring at me, giving soft meows until I get out of bed,  I usually wake up and either go to work, my family owns a construction company, or I go down to Scottsdale and inline skate. After that I like to eat, and as of late I start reading books that suck me in until I finish them- regardless if that takes me into the early morning

What is one thing you can not live without? One thing that I cannot live without is my one year old twin nephews. Everyday I wake up and see their smiling face on the background of my phone, receive photos and videos of their daily activities from my family, and get to spend every Sunday with them. They’ve showed me what true love and happiness is, not only through my eyes but how much they mean to my parents and my brother. It has been a blessing having them come into my life and I can’t imagine what things would be like without them.

One thing you think every one needs to try? I am a big fan of music, I think everyone should try and go to one big music festival or rave to see their favorite artist, nothing is better than seeing the people around you showing the same passion you have for the music you love

Read More
AZ Hustlers, Home Featured Pearce Family Foundation AZ Hustlers, Home Featured Pearce Family Foundation

Irene Marie

Get to know AZ Hustler, Irene Marie.

pff-irene-marie.jpeg

Name: Irene Marie

Instagram handle: @iweezy_ - Personal, @weezys_playhouse - Company

Profession/Title: Fashion Creative

City you live in: Phoenix, AZ

How do you know of PFF: I was graciously invited to showcase one of my go to designers BJAMESLA at their Runway of Hope 2018. I fell in love with the movement and everything that PFF is about.

What makes PFF special: 100% of the proceeds earned from events goes towards families in OUR community. PFF is having a direct impact on families in need in Arizona. The fact that I feel I can give back through fashion makes me passionate and excited to be apart of this incredible organization. PFF is paying for families' mortgages, getting vehicles for families, paying bills, so families going through tough times can focus on their family. That's insane.

If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why: Runway of Hope 2018. I led the closing designer and I'll never forget the crowd screaming when my final model dropped her jacket to reveal the final look. I thought she fell, I remember peeking out from backstage expecting to see my girl on the ground. Fashion moments like that are what it's all about. The experience. The goosebumps.

What is your favorite thing about AZ? The epic sunsets.

What is something on your bucket list? To live in Ashram, India for a year, no phone, no connection to the outside world. Just me, myself and Irene (I had to).

What was your first job? Luxury designer assistant in Dallas, TX. Re-doing women's closets, styling socialites for events, building wardrobes for powerful, busy women. I felt so inspired as a young woman, dressing intelligent, strong women who wanted their wardrobe to say "yeah, I'm the boss". I think that's what luxury styling is about, the fit sets the tone when you walk in the room lookin sharp. If you look good, you feel good, and if you feel good, you do good.

Sunrise or sunset? I loathe mornings. Sunsets forever.

Coffee or tea? Americano, extra hot.

What/who inspires you? The artists I surround myself with. Pushing one another to put out our very best work, to focus on true authenticity in what we create. Never sell out for the Koolaid.

What is a motto you live by? "Color my life with the chaos of trouble."

What does a normal day look like for you? There is absolutely no normalcy in my life. My home is a giant playhouse, dual studio, a place to create something new every day. So that's what we do. Everyday brings something unique and special.

What is one thing you can not live without? My man.

One thing you think every one needs to try? Prickly Pear Margarita at Joyride.

Read More

Carly Gilleland

Get to know AZ Hustler Carly Gilleland.

pff-carly.png

Name: Carly Gilleland

Instagram handle: @carlygilleland - Personal, @_goodvibemedia - Company

Profession/Title: Owner/Lead Producer at The Good Vibe Media, as well as a spin instructor at The Madison!

City you live in: Phoenix, AZ

How do you know of PFF: Meghan, I am pretty sure the two of us connected through the Madison when PFF was in it’s early years. I have been doing video work for them ever since!!

What makes PFF special: First, their dedication. I’ve never seen a team and community more loyal and dedicated to their cause. It’s been a treat to produce some of these videos because I get to see first hand how they are making such a positive impact on SO MANY families lives. Second, their community. Each event I go to of theirs, I meet so many awesome people. They have built a pretty stellar community of likeminded people wanting to do good for others.

If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why: Oh jeeze. They are all so awesome in their own different and unique way!! Which is probably my favorite. It’s so much more than a fancy gala or dinner party to raise money. Their Clays for a Cause tournament is SO fun! I haven’t spent much time shooting on a range, so it was a new experience! Also love the fashion show!!

pff-carly2.png
pff-carly3.jpg

What is your favorite thing about AZ? Weather, community, and the up-and-coming food scene!

What was your first job? Receptionist at Steven Paul Salon.

Sunrise or sunset? BOTH!!

Coffee or tea? Coffee in the morning, tea in the afternoon.

What/who inspires you? Almost everyone. That’s vague I know, but I’m a storyteller so I literally find inspiration in most everyone I come across. There is a lot to learn from those around us if we can be open to it.But you know, Oprah, Brene Brown, and Brooke Shields are a few names that I idolize. ;)

What is a motto you live by? She believed she could, so she did.

What does a normal day look like for you? Wake up, take dog and daughter on a bike ride, get my girl off to school, workout with spin/run/yoga, then it’s shoots/meetings/editing at our office at The Marilyn off of 46th and Thomas.

What is one thing you can not live without? Good music, haha. It fuels me!

One thing you think every one needs to try? Meditation, every day, even if it’s for 1 minute. We live in a society of busy busy, hurry, hurry. I think every one needs to try being still and present.

Read More
AZ Hustlers, Home Featured, nonprofit scottsdale, PFF Angels Pearce Family Foundation AZ Hustlers, Home Featured, nonprofit scottsdale, PFF Angels Pearce Family Foundation

Terry Morrison

Get to know AZ Hustler, Terry Morrison.

pff-terry-morrison.jpg

Name: Terry Morrison

Instagram handle: @wtmorrison - Personal, @crescentcrownaz - Company

Profession/Title: Vice President - National Accounts, Crescent Crown Distributing

City you live in: Scottsdale, AZ

How do you know of PFF: From my good friend Art Pearce, invited me to Clays for a Cause event and have participated every year since!

What makes PFF special: When families have children who are in need of special attention and assistance, PFF allows them to concentrate on what’s most important by assisting with the necessities of living such as paying bills, providing support service dogs, etc.

If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why: Clays for a Cause is a departure from the standard charity golf tournament. It allows participants to fellowship, perhaps try something they have never done before, and have a lot of fun outdoors doing some shooting.

What is your favorite thing about AZ? The history and the outdoors. The history is fascinating from days of outlaws, mining, agriculture, and politics. It is a true illustration of what the old West was like. When enjoying the outdoors, hiking, camping, golfing, fishing, etc. you truly understand the diversity of our beautiful State. From the desert of the valley to the pine forests in the mountains, there are many wonderful aspects for anyone to discover.

What is something on your bucket list? I have been so fortunate to experience so many special things that I have wanted to, nothing jumps out at me. I would like to go to Africa and see all of the wild animals. I love animals.

What was your first job? Working on a cattle ranch in Northeastern New Mexico. We pastured cattle that were eventually shipped to feed yards in Texas. We roped, branded, vaccinated, and managed several thousand head of cattle. My primary mode of transportation was a horse and looking back I was the luckiest kid in the world.

Sunrise or sunset? Tough to call in Arizona because both are exceptional but I would say sunset, I see more of them than sunrises, ha. And a cold beer goes better with a sunset for me personally, although I’m not judging.

Coffee or tea? Coffee, black.

What/who inspires you? Those who are dedicated and committed to a goal and are not easily dissuaded or discouraged. That could be a professional athlete, a first responder, or just someone simply committed to doing the best with what they have been given.

What is a motto you live by? I try to never forget or take for granted how lucky I have been in my life. Unfortunately, there are a lot of people that have not been as fortunate as me and I try not to lose sight of that in everything that I do. I have my father to thank for that.

What does a normal day look like for you? We don’t have normal days in the beer business. We are customer and service orientated with over 5,000 customers and there are always opportunities to improve. It’s a fun, competitive, challenging environment every day and I can’t imagine doing anything else. The people I work with are the best part of my work day and I love my team, each and every one of them.

What is one thing you can not live without? My wife Christine first of all, and of course our dogs. Her and I have made a pretty good team for 20 years and we get so much joy from our dogs.

One thing you think every one needs to try? Chicharones, most people are surprised at how good they are after tasting them, particularly with your favorite hot sauce on them accompanied by a cold cerveza.

Read More
AZ Hustlers, Home Featured, nonprofit scottsdale Pearce Family Foundation AZ Hustlers, Home Featured, nonprofit scottsdale Pearce Family Foundation

David Shapiro

Get to know PFF AZ Hustler, David Shapiro.

pff-david-shapiro.jpg

Name: David Shapiro

Instagram handle: @d_shap001 – Company - @dialdavidshapiro

Profession/Title: Personal injury attorney – Owner of David Shapiro Law, PLLC

City you live in: Scottsdale, AZ

How do you know of PFF: Meghan Pearce Alfonso and I have been good friends since U of A!

What makes PFF special: PFF is an amazing organization. It works collaboratively with individuals, businesses and other charitable entities to make a huge difference in people’s lives. Unlike most charities, recipients of the PFF charity get to witness firsthand the generosity of the PFF donors/sponsors.

If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why: By far, the fashion show! It raises an amazing amount of money and features local designers with local models. It embodies the local spirit of PFF.

What is your favorite thing about AZ? Aside from the sunshine and golf, I love the tightness of this community. My wife Elizabeth and I are constantly amazed by how fast our community has glued together to take care of those who are less fortunate. PFF is a shining example of this!

What is something on your bucket list? I definitely want to go on an African safari and learn about innovative ways to protect all of the endangered species who live there!

What was your first job? Fry’s Food and Drug as a clerk.

Sunrise or sunset? AZ Sunset for sure!

Coffee or tea? Coffee

What/who inspires you? My wife inspires me with her work ethic and my sister with her refusal to let any physical disability stop her success. And of course, my clients who unfortunately have been badly hurt in a collision or wreck but refuse to give up on their life – these folks give me inspiration every single day to go fight for them.

What is a motto you live by? Be grateful for what you have.

What does a normal day look like for you? I wake up at 5:30 a.m., train from 6-7 a.m., get into my office, meet with clients, draft and edit motions, disclosure statements, perhaps take a deposition, grab a late lunch, go over the cases with my staff, update clients, take a late client or vendor meeting and get home around 7:30 p.m. to have dinner with my incredible wife Elizabeth and two pups, Moe and Harper.

What is one thing you can not live without? My family.

One thing you think every one needs to try? Try listening more and talking less. 

Read More
AZ Hustlers, Home Featured Pearce Family Foundation AZ Hustlers, Home Featured Pearce Family Foundation

Dakota Jeane Hilton

Get to know PFF AZ Hustler, Dakota Jeane Hilton.

pff-dakota-jean.jpg

Name: Dakota Jeane Hilton

Instagram handle: (I have a few!)Personal / stylist profile: @dakotajeane, Business profile: @frockify

Profession/Title: I wear way too many hats and I really should have only chosen one… but my titles include: Fashion Stylist / Owner of Frockify / Art Director / Fashion Designer / Political Campaign Manager / House Flipper & Home Designer / Musician 

City you live in: Downtown PHX 

How do you know of PFF: I had a retail store for Frockify last year and I was lucky enough to have Meghan walk through the door. She ended up buying an item and we chatted for a while. She told me about her great non-profit organization and we have been keeping in touch since then. 

What makes PFF special: Phoenix really needed PFF. Phoenix is the 5th largest city in the United States, even though it doesn’t always feel that way. Due to our large population, there are inevitably many children with a life threatening illness and families need help during those trying times. PFF is there to help families in our city get back on their feet and provide hope that is so necessary. 

If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why: I was honored to participate in the 4th annual Runway of Hope where I was able to showcase six looks down the runway. This is my favorite event because we were able to integrate the fashion community with PFF and do our part to contribute to the great cause Meghan is fighting for. 

pff-dakota-jeane.png

What is your favorite thing about AZ? Everything – the people, the dry air, the sunshine, the warmth, the freedom, the space… I lived in NYC for several years, which was amazing. One year in LA, which was great. But, there’s nothing like being home. There’s so much creative energy happening here right now and I love being a part of it. 

What was your first job? I just turned 15 years old when I was offered my first job at the Steaming Bean (Durango, CO, where I lived until I was 16) as a barista. I worked in coffee for eight years before I got into fashion. 

Sunrise of sunset? Sunrise in LA and NYC, sunset in PHX. 

Coffee or tea? Coffee. At least 4 cups throughout the day. I enjoy green tea while I chow down on sushi, but otherwise I’m a huge coffee proponent. 

What/who inspires you? So many people and things inspire me. One person who inspires me to work hard and be confident in all I do is my mom, Delina DiSanto. She’s currently running for US Congress and seeing her during this process has been incredible. I’m also very much inspired by my husband, Michael, who encourages me to live my dreams and (many) aspirations. In terms of fashion and styling, I’m inspired by rock and roll styles of the 60’s and 70’s. 

What is a motto you live by? Stay busy, but always make in-person time for friends and family. 

What is one thing you cannot live without? This is basically two things, two contrasting things… But, I cannot live without my personal time when I can be my most creative. I am much more creative when I’m in my own head and focused. I also cannot live without the people around me. I love my friends and family so much and I need time with them often. 

One thing you think every one needs to try? Everyone needs to try and have at least 5 solid vintage pieces in their wardrobe. Wearing vintage always feels good because it’s sustainable, and also it transforms your confidence to new levels. My personal wardrobe is about 50% vintage. I love to style vintage in a fashionably relevant way, and it works well with new styles when you put things together correctly. This is why I got into styling – vintage makes my vision come alive.

Read More
AZ Hustlers Pearce Family Foundation AZ Hustlers Pearce Family Foundation

Skye Lucking

Get to know PFF AZ Hustler, Skye Lucking.

pff-skye-lucking.jpg

Name: Skye Lucking

Instagram handle: (I have a few!) @youarecourageous - For my YouTube Channel, Courageous Creatives@skyelucking - For my art and mural work@joyfulgeometry - My modern art products company@prismagicbooks - My coloring book company (about to close up shop on this)

Profession/Title: Host of Courageous Creatives https://www.youtube.com/c/CourageousCreatives

Artist for Skye Lucking Art & Design www.skyelucking.com

Lead Designer - Joyful Geometry www.joyfulgeometry.com

How do you know of PFF: I do a Fashion Friday segment on my YouTube channel which does a LOT of features around what is happening at FABRIC. I saw your Instagram video about your 4th Annual Runway of Hope and have been following PFF after that!

What makes PFF special: I've followed PFF along and this is an easy question! I am a mother of an almost 4-year-old and could not imagine having to deal with a life threatening illness for him as well as worry about how to keep a household afloat. What an amazing organization you have!

What is something on your bucket list? 2 Things: 1) Attend a Ted Talk. 2)  GIVE a Ted Talk! (It'd be about fear and love.)

Sunrise of sunset? Happy to see both. It means I'm alive!

Coffee or tea? Tea. (Trying hard...)

What/who inspires you? Creative people because it takes courage. Courageous people because it takes creativity."Promote what you love, rather than bashing what you hate/" - This is the guiding principal for my YouTube channel. You can see it in what I produce.

pff-skye-lucking2.jpg
pff-skye-lucking3.jpg
Read More