As a host on ALT AZ 93.3 in Phoenix, Izzy spends Monday through Friday mornings from 6 to 10 a.m. playing a variety of alternative rock, and speaking with listeners who call into the show.
But when she’s played the final Red Hot Chili Peppers, Fall Out Boy, No Doubt or other song for the morning and her workday is done, Izzy loves nothing more than retreating to her peaceful home in Lakewood.
“I may be in the entertainment industry, but I love my quiet neighborhood,” Izzy says, adding that she moved to Ahwatukee about two years ago from Las Vegas.
“I heard from close family friends who also live in Ahwatukee that it’s an up-and-coming area that’s quiet and suburban. I’ve got a nice backyard, and everything I need is less than 10 minutes away.”
One of the many things Izzy enjoys about living in Lakewood is the greenbelt walking path, where she frequently walks her three dogs.
A devoted animal lover, Izzy hosts an Animal Of The Week segment on her show, where she posts a video of an adoptable dog or cat from Lost Our Home Pet Rescue in Tempe.
“Lakewood also has a beautiful lake that my boyfriend and I like to relax by and fish at. I love the spacious backyards that Ahwatukee allows, since my dogs love to run around,” she says.
“I also love how safe the neighborhood feels. I totally feel comfortable going to grab my mail late at night by myself.”
Izzy, who has worked in radio for 12 years, got her start while she was in college at the University of Illinois.
“I was going to school for my psychology degree, but fell into radio as something fun to do on the side,” she says.
“I realized radio would be a lot more fun as a job than anything in psychology, so after I graduated, I moved on to my first real position doing nights at KISS FM in Springfield, Illinois.”
Prior to working in Las Vegas, Izzy also worked at a station in Fresno, California.
“I feel lucky to have found my passion so young, and to have already gotten 12 years in one of the most fun industries you could ever work in,” Izzy says.
“It’s definitely been a wild ride to get where I am, but moving all over has taught me a lot about myself, and having my very own show has shown me what I’m capable of.”
When she’s not on the air, or walking her dogs, Izzy can be found doing yoga every day, both in a studio and in her home.
"My boyfriend and I also enjoy going on trips up north to see some nature for the day, or going on weekend road trips to camp somewhere not too far,” she says.
“Since I have such a social job, I also really enjoy hanging out at home – in the backyard or on the couch watching a true crime documentary. We also like to experiment with cooking a lot to keep things interesting!”
Looking back, Izzy is definitely pleased with her decision to move here.
“After living in Ahwatukee, I wouldn’t want to move to any other place in valley.”
Izzy’s Fave Ahwatukee Haunts
One of Izzy’s favorite things about Ahwatukee is the diversity in food found in local restaurants. Here are three of her fave spots to enjoy a tasty meal:
Vero, 1334 E. Chandler Blvd.
“I love Vero. It is nice and convenient, and it gives me a little slice of home because I’m originally from the Chicago area.”
Casa de Juana, 3941 E. Chandler Blvd.
“Their food is incredible, and their staff is always so kind.”
Sakura Sushi, 4747 E. Elliot Road
“Their sushi is so fresh, and it’s always fast and friendly service.”
