From tragedy to triumph, this is the remarkable story of how one woman transformed both her life and an entire town through the power of food and love.

In 1995, grief-stricken mother Lisa Dahl arrived in Sedona, Ariz., with no culinary training, no business plan and nothing left to lose after her 23-year-old son, Justin, was killed while trying to help a robbery victim. Thirty years later, she operates six award-winning restaurants that have transformed Sedona from a spiritual retreat into Arizona's premier culinary destination.

Join Joseph J. Airdo, managing editor of Images Arizona magazine, for an intimate conversation with Chef Lisa Dahl as she shares the untold stories behind her restaurants, the deeply personal meaning of the butterfly symbol that guides her work, and her ambitious plans for the Lisa Dahl Foundation. You'll discover how cooking became her path to healing, why she's never considered retiring, and the spiritual connection she maintains with her late son through every dish she creates.

This is more than a success story — it's a testament to resilience, community, and the transformative power of following your calling despite overwhelming odds.

This podcast accompanies our feature story "The Butterfly Effect" in Images Arizona magazine's Ultimate Arizona Travel Guide — Part II (August-September 2025).

Step into a harvest of horror as we explore “Clown in a Cornfield” with director Eli Craig (“Tucker and Dale vs. Evil”) and author Adam Cesare. Discover how this slasher film weaponizes generational conflict for modern audiences, the surprising inspirations behind the terrifying Frendo mask, and why horror provides a unique lens for examining social divides. Craig shares personal insights about creating an entry point to horror for younger viewers, while Cesare reveals which scenes from his novel were enhanced in the adaptation process. For horror fans and cultural commentators alike, this episode cuts deep into both the visceral thrills and thought-provoking themes of one of this year's most compelling genre films.

Join us as we explore the extraordinary world of Arizona wildfire photographer Mark E. Anderson, who ventures into "the belly of the beast" to document nature's most powerful force. From exploding saguaros to 150-foot flames, Anderson shares gripping stories from the fire lines while reflecting on how his spiritual journey intertwines with his dangerous pursuit. Through his experiences, we discover both the raw power of wildfires and the profound beauty of Arizona's landscape, gaining unique insight into the natural phenomena that increasingly shape our Southwest communities.

Journey into the healing world of therapeutic harp music as we explore the Therapeutic Harp Foundation's groundbreaking work across Arizona. From calming crying infants to providing comfort in life's final moments, discover how this ancient instrument is revolutionizing modern healthcare through the power of sound. Features the inspiring story of Executive Director Jocelyn Obermeyer.

We explore the blooming success of Stemistry, a unique “flower bar and coffee lab” with locations in Phoenix and Scottsdale. Join our hosts as they discuss 18-year-old entrepreneur Dylan Capshaw’s journey from middle school activist to innovative business owner. Discover how this Arizona State University freshman is redefining the cafe experience by blending artisanal coffee culture with hands-on floral design. From his early online ventures to managing multiple locations, Dylan’s story of determination and creativity offers a fresh perspective on youth entrepreneurship in Arizona.

Love is in the air — and on the canvas — as Anthem’s FLAIR artists prepare for their Valentine’s Day weekend exhibition. Join us for an intimate look at mixed media artist Cathy Rae’s creative journey and discover how this talented collective is transforming a hand-painted bench into a testament to artistic collaboration. From gritty desert-inspired collages to chocolate-dipped delights, this episode explores the intersection of art, community and romance in the heart of Arizona.

Journey into the heart of Navajo weaving tradition with master artisan Rena Robertson, who learned her craft at age 5 and now creates stunning two-sided rugs using natural dyes harvested from the desert. Discover how this ancient art form sustains both cultural heritage and modern livelihoods, as we explore the upcoming Scottsdale Navajo Rug & Jewelry Show & Sale. From the spiritual significance of the upright loom to the innovation of contemporary designs, this episode weaves together stories of family legacy, artistic evolution and cultural preservation that make Navajo textiles so much more than mere rugs.

Journey into the fascinating world of rock and mineral collecting as we explore how a small group of passionate geologists transformed their library meetings into one of Arizona’s premier mineral exhibitions. From ancient Vishnu basement rocks to stunning amethyst cathedrals, discover how the Daisy Mountain Rock & Mineral Show has become a cornerstone of Anthem’s cultural landscape. Join us as we uncover the stories behind these geological treasures, learn about Arizona’s rich mineral heritage, and explore how this grassroots organization is shaping the next generation of rock enthusiasts through innovative educational programs. Whether you’re a serious collector or simply curious about Earth’s hidden wonders, this episode reveals how a community’s passion for geology has created an enduring legacy in the Valley.