With Breeanya’s extensive list of titles and work to be done each week, she finds healthy ways to keep a positive work-life balance, which she said isn’t just about juggling responsibilities; it’s about thriving in both your professional and personal life. By striking the right balance, you’ll unlock greater fulfillment, boost productivity, and create a life that’s truly worth living.

“Work-life balance can undoubtedly be challenging, but it’s important,” she said. “My favorite ways to recharge are to hike, spend quality time with friends and loved ones, walk the dog, and travel. Traveling offers a nice escape from the daily grind, and I love learning about other cultures.”

In the face of adversity, Breeanya’s resilience shines through. She launched the “Empowering Women – Got a Minute? Podcast” amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic with the idea of telling local women’s stories differently. She uplifts listeners through candid conversations and inspiring stories, reminding them of their strength and resilience in the face of life’s obstacles.“We all hold the tools to empower each other just by listening and lifting each other,” she said. “Talking with someone and telling your story is empowering and impactful.”

Prescott Woman Magazine writer and editor, Hilary Dartt, who’s also an author, recounts how her writing career began twenty years ago. “I had just graduated as a Creative Writing Major from Cal State Long Beach and was looking for a job there. My brother had moved to Prescott on an Embry-Riddle wrestling scholarship and my parents followed. On a whim I applied for a position at the Daily Courier, and they ended up hiring me.”

Later, when a former Prescott Woman Magazine writer moved, she gifted Hilary her freelance accounts, one of which included writing for the now 20-year-old magazine. “The timing was perfect serendipity for launching my full-time freelance writing career.”

Formerly a marathon and half-marathon runner, Hilary misses the sport that, she said “was such a huge part of my identity at that time. I now know that the universe was pointing me in the direction to spend more time on my author career. Running demands so much time, and now I could use that energy to focus on writing books at a more accelerated pac

Tara Fort has written for Prescott Woman Magazine for about 17 years—and has become a fixture at the publication. Yet her work there is just one of many facets that comprise this accomplished and versatile Prescott resident.

These days, she primarily works alongside her husband, Simon, a member of Prescott High School’s class of 1982 and a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway (she has her real estate license, too).

“I feel really grateful that I can work from home and have the flexibility to work with Simon. He’s a top producer, a go-getter, and a marketing person. I learn so much from him.”

Trisha Shaffer loves capturing the “little moments”: the spontaneity, laughter, and tender moments exchanged among the people she photographs.

Prescott Woman magazine’s staff photographer said her love for photography originated from her great grandparents’ black and white photographs from the late 1800s and early 1900s. As a child, she’d look at them and use her imagination to take her back in time.

Haley Construction has come a long way in the nearly 70 years since Jim and Frances Haley launched it in Globe with nothing more than a borrowed $1,000 and an old Ford truck. Today, their granddaughter Gillian Haley strives to secure the company’s reputation as a local firm that can handle all types of projects, from custom homes to even the biggest commercial buildings.

Kimberly Marsh never planned to start a photography business. Now, a decade in, she said during a recent interview, “I love it.”

Kim specializes in portraits and personal branding—and doing things differently.

Shortly after she started photographing people, others would see the photos and say, “I can see their soul in that picture,” or, “I feel like I know them,” or, “I can see straight through them.”

The Yavapai Family Advocacy Center’s (YFAC) mission statement reads: “to reduce trauma to victims of abuse by providing a safe and supportive environment and facilitating a team approach to advocacy, investigation, and prosecution.”

But the people behind the organization describe their work a bit differently; they say they guide their clients to find their voice, take back their power, and rediscover their worth and value (or discover them for the first time).

One in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lifetimes. An estimated five to ten percent of those breast cancers will be linked to gene mutations passed through many generations of the family. Hormonal changes, lifestyle, and environmental factors also play a role in the development of breast cancer. This means breast cancer is likely caused by a complicated interaction of genetic makeup, the environment, and lifestyle.

At 27, Alexes Niekamp’s list of achievements is impressive by any measure. She owns two successful businesses: the award-winning Lessons by Lexe dance studio and Quest Character Parties. She holds the Miss Saguaro title (a local title within the Miss Arizona organization). And, she’s the dance team coach for the Mustangs, the Northern Arizona Wranglers dance team.

Her journey hasn’t been easy; she’s worked hard for every one of her accomplishments … and the payoff is sweet.

When Prescott residents Cal Seabaugh and Kelly Williams say they’ve seen Arizona, they mean it: the duo spent 45 days this past fall hiking the entire Arizona National Scenic Trail—all its 800 miles and 110,000 feet of elevation gain.

Stretching the length of the state, from Utah to the Mexican border, the trail, also known as the Arizona Trail, showcases Arizona’s diverse landscape. And, Kelly, said, “It’s all spectacular.”

Every day, our hair is exposed to metal, including lead, copper, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic. Pollutants in the air, hair products and cookware we use, certain foods, our local water, and even drinking from aluminum cans can cause metal to accumulate over time and cause damage, hindering natural hair growth and vitality.

Metals such as lead and copper can disrupt the natural growth cycle, leading to hair loss and thinning. These metals can weaken the hair shaft, causing it to become brittle and prone to breakage. And, the presence of metals can also affect hair color and texture, causing unwanted changes.

That’s where a metal detox comes in. Understanding the significance of metal detoxing in maintaining luscious locks is crucial.

Women view the world through a uniquely feminine lens. The roles we play are often customary and inevitable. Centuries-old barriers continue to squelch our strength, ability, and potential. When we veer from the expected path, criticism can be harsh.

If you want greater success, you can’t keep thinking, saying, and doing the same things.

By thinking differently, you will act differently. You will act with Badassery … and you will create different results.

The Women’s Foundation for the State of Arizona announces the appointment of new CEO, Katia Jones The Women's Foundation for the State of Arizona (WFSA) proudly announces the appointment of Katia Jones as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective March 2024. With...

On March 8, Park Collective buzzed with energy and enthusiasm as local women immersed themselves in a day of empowerment and celebration.

The 2nd annual Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce’s International Women’s Day luncheon—with a sold-out crowd of 250 attendees—served as a powerful reminder of the collective strength and resilience of women from all walks of life.

Prescott Woman Magazine interviewed Amber Traina, Co-Owner of Allied Electric and member of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce. We learned about how much she values personal connections.

In Arizona’s vibrant landscape, a persistent challenge that demands our attention and advocacy is the gender pay gap. As we strive for equity and inclusivity, it is imperative to address this issue head-on and work towards creating a fair and just society for all, but more specifically for those who have been marginalized for centuries past. Additionally, we must consider the impact of disclosing salary history and its role in perpetuating existing inequities. The Women’s Foundation for the State of Arizona (WFSA) urges everyone to join us in advocating for change and making our voices heard.

Prescott Woman Magazine sat down with Jen Herbert, owner of Superstition Meadery and a Prescott Downtown Partnership (PDP) member, to find out what she enjoys most about living and working in Prescott.

Prescott Woman Magazine interviewed Jen Group, Realtor® with Iannelli and Associates, the Leslie Jacobs Real Estate Team, and Prescott Chamber of Commerce members. We learned about how much she values the vitality of Prescott and how much she contributes to it.

Prescott Woman Magazine interviewed Tiffany Talbot, area supervisor for Family Entertainment Group at In The Game and a Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce member. We learned about how much she values giving back to the community.

Gina Benner remembers when she decided to change her life. “I woke up one morning and knew I wanted to do the second half of my life differently. I had experienced a significant change in my mindset and approach to life, and that was the beginning of this crazy journey to focus my career decisions on things that meant more.”

Today, Gina’s evolution has given her many gifts through her various roles, each showcasing the anchors that keep her rooted in this next chapter.

Are you thinking about becoming a volunteer at Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center? Good for you. And we mean, literally, “Good for you.” Yavapai Regional volunteers are reaping benefits on many different levels. Here are just a few:

Good for your social life. Countless Yavapai Regional volunteers tell us that what started as a volunteer shift has resulted in lasting friendships. It’s a great way to make friends and get involved with like-minded people. You’ll often see our volunteers having lunch together in the cafeteria before their shifts begin or getting together after hours to attend various community events. Some of our volunteers even travel together.

Good for your physical and mental health. Research by the Corporation for National and Community Service shows that people who volunteer have lower mortality rates, lower rates of depression, and fewer physical limitations than those who don’t volunteer. Additionally, a 2013 study of more that 1,600 older adults found that the participants who volunteered at least 200 hours per year were forty percent less likely to get high blood pressure than non-volunteers.

Light has a way of shifting perspective. For years, walks have provided me time and space for reframing challenges, enjoying victories, and planning ahead. And I’m not unique: as I write this, a dear friend is asking herself some big questions while she walks the Camino de Santiago in sunny Spain.

Getting outside is essential for physical and mental wellness, especially in pregnancy. Historically, pregnant women were told to take it easy; we know now how essential movement is to a healthy pregnancy and a better postpartum. Most pregnant people can walk safely, and it also gets you outside for fresh air and sunshine.

Sunlight also boosts vitamin D levels: vitamin D is both a vitamin and a hormone, and its synthesis begins when sunlight hits your skin. Vitamin D is necessary for your health throughout your lifetime, but it becomes really important in pregnancy and postpartum.

When is a diet not a diet at all? It sounds like a riddle, but the answer is easy: when it’s the Mediterranean diet. A more accurate name might be the Mediterranean lifestyle since a significant component of making this diet work is how you approach life. There are no strict dietary restrictions. A balanced social life and enjoying meals with others are key components. Laughter, reducing stress, and living are recommended.

The Mediterranean diet focuses on the quality of your food rather than a single nutrient or food group. It’s been proven to reduce the risk of chronic health conditions such as heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. A recent National Institute on Aging study reports that it may even help protect the brain from damage caused by Alzheimer’s disease.

Four weeks after giving birth, I was already working full-time again when my daughter and I moved back into town.

My story isn’t typical. But Google “most stressful life events,” and having a baby rarely comes up. Consider that becoming a new parent happens within the context of an already-full life, and it’s astounding that new parents have so little support.

Here’s what we know: stress causes chronic disease, partly by raising blood sugar. High blood sugar is a health risk at any time in life, but pregnant and postpartum women are especially vulnerable.

Kara Schumann and Amanda Eliseo, Licensed Professional Counselors, have known each other for over 20 years. In that time, their paths continued to cross or run parallel … so much so that starting a business together seemed like a natural fit.

Pickles Lea Yoga is once again bringing a yoga festival and health fair to Prescott. Yoga will take over the Elks Theater and Performing Arts Center July 20th from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. The theme of the third annual Yoga Festival fundraiser is Don’t Give Up!

This year, Pickles Lea is happy to announce that all proceeds will go to Pickles Lea Yoga, the only 501(c)3 yoga company in Northern Arizona. Its mission: to make yoga assessable to all humans no matter their gender, physique, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status by offering donation-based community yoga. It’s free if people need it to be. Pickles Lea loves the Quad City area and is always giving back to the local community.

Whether you’re planning a camping trip to Yosemite or a honeymoon in the Bahamas, travel can be an unforgettable adventure. The last thing you want is an unexpected illness to ruin your plans.

Our immunity can suffer during travel for several reasons. Sleep can be compromised, we’re trying not-so-healthy foods, and we may get a little slack on the exercise routine. Combine this with exposure to more germs, forgetting to hydrate regularly, and the stress of being on the go, and our immune system may end up a little out of balance.

The good news is, that there are a few simple steps you can take to boost your immunity and improve your chances of staying healthy. 

or many women, the details of a wedding are etched into memory:

The smell of the air, and how it feels against your skin.
The way the light shines across the landscape to illuminate hills and valleys, vibrant flowers crowning reception tables, the smiles and bright eyes of the people you love.
How you look and feel in your dress (take lots of photos!).
With each step you take toward your partner, feeling both nervous and sure.
Your first kiss as a married couple.
The food and drinks, are lovingly offered to guests gathering to celebrate you.
And how the lights sparkle as the sun sets, twinkling against a purple sky while you dance, deeply in love.

Keeping a close watch on your children’s eye health is important to catching problems early. Especially when you consider that one of four school-age children has a vision disorder, according to the American Optometric Association.

Jess had premenstrual migraines, debilitating fatigue, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, near-constant body aches, and weight gain which were all devastating her quality of life.  Together we discovered that her blood sugar was unstable, which drove fatigue, and that she had problems processing estrogen, which caused cyclical inflammation that made migraines and body pain blow up and also worsened her Hashimoto’s. 

The Bean Peaks Gravity Flow trail system is being developed about three miles south of town on White Spar Road. A gravity flow trail system involves a series of one-way trails designed for mountain bikers to be able to climb a gradual hill and then enjoy a series of trail options to descend.

Some trails will involve more technical features, while others will allow beginners to get a taste of technical features that can also be rolled over at slower speeds.

The idea is to give mountain bikers a place to safely enjoy some faster downhill riding without the concern of yielding to other users—on these trails, they have the right of way. Everywhere else in town, mountain bikers are expected to yield to all other trail users no matter what direction they are traveling. The Bean Peaks area will have trails that are designated for climbing and will be multi use; while the descending trails will be one direction single use trails for mountain bikes only. Signs and user education materials will be a major component to ensure the safety of all users.

Last summer, I wrote about a trail extension in the works for the West Spruce Trail #264. It has finally connected to several other trails, making exploring the mountains southwest of town easier.

The old West Spruce Trail terminated near the Thumb Butte Loop Road cattle guard. Now, thanks to the completion of the extension, the 264 trail crosses the road and heads east.

The trail is mellow with little to no incline or decline as it wraps around the hillside, exposing more amazing views to the north. The trail winds around the hillsides for about a mile until you run into an intersection where hikers have four options from which to choose. The Sierra Pieta overlook is a mile to the south. Potts Creek is 1.5 miles in the other direction; old Forest Road 9401J will take you to the circle trail intersection on 327, and now you can go straight across and head another 2 miles towards Copper Basin Road and Forest Road 9402D, which will take you to the Mt. Francis Trails.

The Storm Trails in the heart of the Granite Dells now have a new access point. The Gateway Trail allows users to access the Peavine Trail just north of the Iron King intersection in just a half mile. The trail starts on Old Highway 89. When heading north on 89 out of Prescott, there is a right-hand turn just after Three Sisters Consignment that takes you past the trailer park to an area with some parking.

Sycamore Canyon Wilderness has so much scenic beauty to offer. It has many access points and many miles of trails surrounding it and in it. One of my favorite Sycamore hikes is the Sycamore Rim Trail. It is a bit of a drive to get to, but well worth the effort.

A New Set of ‘Incredibly Beautiful’ Trails Southeast of the Peavine/Iron King Intersection Provides Myriad Hiking Opportunities and Breathtaking Sights

I recently had a conversation with Jason Williams, Prescott National Forest (PNF) Trails and Wilderness Manager, about what is happening with the trails out at West Spruce.

He told me the latest project is a new trail that will connect to the West Spruce Trail, which currently ends or begins on Forest Road (FR) 373 just before the cattle guard. I jumped in the truck and went to see how much they have accomplished.

To find this new trail, head past Thumb Butte about 1.8 miles, then turn left onto FR 373. Continue another 3.2 miles on the dirt road to a small parking area on the right, just before the cattle guard. This new trail takes off to the east and offers spectacular views as it twists and turns over two miles to Copper Basin Road.  

This section of trail will be slightly narrower and more difficult than the Circle Trail.

If you are looking for a new adventure and haven’t done any exploring on the northwestern side of Granite Mountain, I have a loop for you. Fourteen miles out of Williamson Valley Road is the Almosta Ranch subdivision. Just a half-mile down Almosta Ranch Road, you’ll find a large parking area for the beginning of your exploration. Almosta Trail begins here and heads towards the western side of Granite Mountain. I took Almosta Trail to Lost Shoe and then Stringfeild back to Almosta to make about an eight-mile trek. Almosta Trail leads you through the end of the housing development and into the vast country full of pines, juniper, cactus, scrub oaks, manzanita, and even cottonwoods once you hit Mint Wash and Jerome Canyon.

When Prescott residents Cal Seabaugh and Kelly Williams say they’ve seen Arizona, they mean it: the duo spent 45 days this past fall hiking the entire Arizona National Scenic Trail—all its 800 miles and 110,000 feet of elevation gain.

Stretching the length of the state, from Utah to the Mexican border, the trail, also known as the Arizona Trail, showcases Arizona’s diverse landscape. And, Kelly, said, “It’s all spectacular.”

Just before the two-mile mark, look for the trailhead sign on the left. Headwaters Trail is 3.27 miles of single track that will take you back to the Peavine. It is a very flowy trail that winds though the grass and it is a great place to get some miles in. Eventually the trail curves back toward the new subdivision. The trail continues through the area on a dirt single track in a wash. The fences for homes keep them silent and almost hidden. Follow the well-marked signs and stay on the dirt single track until you arrive back at the Peavine. Now you are about a mile from the parking area. This approximately seven-mile round trip is kind of a long journey, but because it doesn’t involve climbing any mountains, it is easy to accomplish.

On a beautiful Sunday morning, I found myself struggling to leave my warm comfy bed and cup of coffee. Some days it is just hard to keep your chin up. I finally convinced myself not to waste the day and go for a hike to clear my head. I found myself heading to the Ranch Trailhead parking area just down Walker Road about a ¼ mile. I heard it had recently received some much-needed love.

A Refreshing New Hot Spot for Wine Lovers on Prescott’s South Side & Fresh. Modern. Local. From Pop-Up to Full Dining Brick and Mortar

Learn more about Vino Wine Bar at Prescott Pines Inn and BiGA restaurant on Miller Valley Road.

Wine: Rafter Eleven

‘It’s an Experience’

Rafter Eleven offers wine from around the world—and so much more—in a space that feels like home

Rafter Eleven is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. In addition to wine, this establishment offers coffee, olive oils, balsamic vinegars, spices, comfort food, and cocktails, as well as cooking classes … and live music every Friday and Saturday evening.

Dine: Superb Food Co.

‘A Place to Gather’

Through a varied, seasonal menu, Superb Food Co. offers comfort food with a twist

Ariel Nadelberg grew up in the restaurant industry and feels fortunate to finally own and operate her own spot, Superb Food Company. She runs the restaurant with her longtime partner Jason Shepherd and said she enjoys “the beauty of fostering a community and providing a welcoming place to gather.”

Wine: Winey Cats

Winey Cats provides a unique twist on wine pairings … and fosters a love for cats. Nestled in the heart of Chino Valley, this unique destination offers more than just fine wines and beautifully curated lawns to relax. It boasts a charming cat sanctuary where guests can admire adorable felines and make impactful donations.

Dine: Essence Kitchen + Bar. Owned and operated by Julia and Chef Jason, Essence is more than just a dining experience; it’s a cornerstone of community connection in Chino Valley. From Julia and Jason’s commitment to local produce from Yavapai College and hospitality programs with Chino Valley High School, to their annual fundraisers for local veterans, every detail reflects their dedication to their community.

Tucked away in the heart of our charming town of Prescott Valley, there’s a place where time seems to slow down and moments with loved ones become treasured memories. Welcome to Rafter Eleven, a haven where the aroma of freshly baked scones mingles with the rich scent of ground espresso, and laughter fills the air like a sweet melody.

The essence of family and the celebration of togetherness are woven into every aspect of Rafter Eleven’s cozy ambiance. Stepping through the door, you’re greeted by warm smiles and the alluring wall of international wine. 

Nestled in the heart of downtown Prescott, Papa’s Italian has been a cherished community restaurant since 1991. Stepping inside, visitors are instantly transported to the Italian countryside, surrounded by walls embellished with beautiful murals, cozy seating tailored for families of all sizes, and traditional Italian aromas filling the air.

When it comes to planning a wedding reception, finding the ideal venue can be a daunting task, especially in a small town. Having experienced the magic of weddings firsthand, I know Rafter Eleven is the perfect place to host an intimate celebration.

Simply step into Rafter Eleven, and you’ll immediately sense the warm and inviting atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of Prescott Valley, this charming coffee, wine, and olive oil bar offers a cozy space, perfect for hosting an intimate wedding reception. The rustic decor, soft lighting, and lush patio seating create an ambiance that feels like a warm embrace. It’s a place where love and celebration come together in an enchanting setting.

t Rafter Eleven, we believe in the power of giving and the importance of fostering our local community. Located in the heart of Prescott Valley, Rafter Eleven is not just a C.O.W. (Coffee, Olive Oil, and Wine) bar, but a place where you can give the gift of quality time and quality products. Whether your gift comes in the form of a bottle of wine shared between friends, a custom-made gourmet gift basket, or a gift certificate, there is something for everyone at Rafter Eleven.

At Rafter Eleven, we love our oil … but not just any oil. Olive oil has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, as well as in our kitchen. This golden liquid is extracted from the fruit of the olive tree, and its use dates to ancient times. The ancient Greeks and Romans used olive oil not only for cooking but also for its medicinal properties. Today, olive oil is celebrated for its rich flavor, versatility, and numerous health benefits.

Between them, Maricor and Richard Skladzien have lived in lots of places: Arkansas, Oklahoma, Iowa, and California. And they’ve enjoyed a variety of experiences in those places: they were an accountant and public works director, respectively, and they ran a coffee roasting company, grew grapes, and owned several stores.

The rolling hills of Paulden, Arizona—and a sense of adventure in retirement—provide the setting for their newest endeavor: They’re the owners of Del Rio Springs Vineyard and Winery, and its tasting room in downtown Prescott.

As a unique and charming venue in Prescott Valley, Rafter Eleven has established itself as the go-to destination for memorable business meetings and curated private events. With its rustic atmosphere, exquisite new menu options, and refreshing cocktails, Rafter Eleven promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for you and your guests, whether it’s for business or pleasure.

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Heather DeSousa, owner of DeSousa Creative, LLC, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Karen Weisser, Massage Envy’s Director of Operations for Northern Arizona, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it offers.

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Jennifer Burns, a multi-company entrepreneur (owner of NaturaBella Microblading and Permanent Cosmetics and Dream Travel Management, also known as AZWomen’sTravel), to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer. 

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Darla DeVille, Public Affairs Manager for the Northwest Division of APS, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Jessica Parker, owner & esthetician at NAKED Beauty Bar, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Ellen Bashor, M.Ed., a Park Ranger and Outdoor Advocate, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Madison Stephens, a mom, personal trainer, line dancing instructor, and avid hiker, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Sandy Griffis, Executive Director of the Yavapai County Contractors Association, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Aileen Casillas, owner of Florian, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Joellyn Nusbaum, a vacation rental owner and President of United Animal Friends, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

PWM: How long have you lived in Prescott?

Joellyn: I’ve been coming to the Prescott area since 1982 when my folks bought a cabin but have lived in Prescott full time since 2002