In this inspiring episode of House Calls with Dr. Connie, master jeweler, devoted father, and proud immigrant Hugo Rodriguez shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings in Mexico to building a thriving jewelry business in Scottsdale.

Hugo opens up about the emotional toll of long waits for legal immigration, the challenge of building a business from scratch, and the joy of raising children with pride and purpose. He reflects on how kindness can dismantle stereotypes, why rules matter, and why he still believes America is worth believing in.

Dr. Connie connects Hugo’s experiences to her own family’s immigrant legacy, creating a heartfelt conversation about identity, faith, gratitude, and resilience - and what it truly means to become American.

• The emotional toll of long immigration waits
• Building a business from scratch
• Raising children with pride and purpose
• How kindness dismantles stereotypes
• Why rules matter - and why America is still worth believing in

Whether you’re an immigrant, a patriot, or simply someone who needs a reminder of what makes this country great, this episode is for you.

Subscribe for more inspiring stories and candid conversations with Dr. Connie Mariano.

#ImmigrantStory #AmericanDream #HugoRodriguez #JewelryDesigner #Scottsdale #DrConnieMariano #HouseCallsPodcast #LegalImmigration #FaithAndFamily #Entrepreneurship #AmericaTheBeautiful

In this timely conversation, Dr. Connie welcomes presidential health historian Ludwig M. Deppisch, M.D., to discuss the unique role of White House physicians across American history. With President Biden’s doctor facing court hearings this week, the discussion dives into the implications for public trust, transparency, and the evolving expectations of medical care at the highest level. Tune in for historical insights, modern-day parallels, and a deeper look at how presidential health has always been a political - and medical - flashpoint.

Join Dr. Connie Mariano in a heartfelt conversation with author, speaker, and podcast host Andrea Fortenberry as they explore the joys and challenges of motherhood. They dive into themes of grace, mental wellness, and creating meaningful rhythms during the summer season. Whether you’re a mom juggling it all or someone supporting one, this episode is full of encouragement and practical wisdom.

✨ Topics:

• Emotional health in motherhood
• Summer survival tips for families
• Faith-based encouragement
• Giving yourself grace in busy seasons

Learn more about Andrea: https://www.andreafortenberry.com/meet-andrea/

Former professional musician, Topher Hall joins Dr. Connie Mariano for a powerful conversation about second chances, healing from the past, and the journey toward a healthier life - physically, mentally, and spiritually. From personal setbacks to renewed purpose, Topher shares how transformation is possible for anyone ready to start fresh. Tune in for inspiration, insight, and real talk on growth and getting back up.

Spring brings wonderful weather and a renewed enthusiasm for outdoor activities. Many are training for races, half-marathons, and marathons - or simply aiming to stay active and healthy. In this episode, Dr. Connie welcomes nutrition expert, athlete, and educator Chrissy Barth to share insights on how athletes can maintain strong, healthy bodies. Learn expert strategies for nourishing your body to fuel your energy, enhance your performance, and support a long, active life.

In this fun and charming episode, Dr. Connie sits down with professional matchmaker and Navy veteran Roseann Higgins, founder of SPIES: Single Professional Introductions for the Especially Selective.

She’s on a mission to help high-caliber singles find their unicorns (authentic, lasting love) by going beyond dating apps and into real-life connections.

Dr. Connie and Roseann dive deep into:

• What makes a great match (and what ruins one)
• The power of vulnerability and values in relationships
• Dating deal-breakers, emotional intelligence, and chemistry
• Why the right match can elevate your whole life

You’ll laugh, reflect, and maybe even feel a little more hopeful about love - whether you’re single, coupled, or curious.

Join Dr. Connie for a joyous kickoff to Season 10 of House Calls! In this milestone episode, she welcomes seasoned event planners Donna Allen and Nicole Lessard from Destination Managers for an enlightening discussion about the surprising wellness benefits of social gatherings. Discover how throwing and attending parties can boost your mental health, enhance your social connections, and improve your overall well-being.

Whether you're an introvert or extrovert, this episode offers valuable perspectives on making social gatherings work for your lifestyle. Start your year right with practical advice from industry veterans who understand the art of bringing people together.

Don't miss this uplifting conversation that perfectly blends health wisdom with party planning expertise. Tune in to learn why your social calendar might be just what the doctor ordered!

The Destination Manager is a women-owned and operated, full-service destination management company based in Scottsdale. For 25 years, The Destination Manager has created extraordinary moments + memories for clients throughout Arizona. From a secret event space for an intimate gathering to managing logistics for 3,000+ guests, they are your trusted go-to for any + all Arizona destination planning + event needs.

Donna Allen, DMCP – Donna is an Art Institute of Phoenix alum whose role at The Destination Manager (TDM, for short) incepted, initially, as a creative experiment to internalize the process of event design in an era of outsourcing. Donna parlayed her technical education in interior design into the realm of event design, successfully building a team of creatives to refine TDM’s signature “organic design” approach. Now as the Creative Director and Co-President, Donna’s legacy as a creative powerhouse has laid the foundation and built the systems for strategic, form and function design.

Nicole Lessard, DMCP – Originally from Massachusetts, Nicole was a meeting planner in Boston before moving to Scottsdale in search of sunshine and blue skies. She joined The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, where she continued to develop her interest for the hospitality industry, specifically in a high-end, luxury capacity. In December of 2009, Nicole joined The Destination Manager as an Operations Manager and subsequently, as the Director of Operations. Fifteen years later, she is the Managing Director and Co-President of the company.

(DMCP is Destination Management Certified Professional – a designation awarded by the Association of Destination Management Executives International to individuals who have demonstrated the highest knowledge of best practices. There are 11 DMCPs in all of Arizona – 8 of whom work at The Destination Manager.)