Meet Jarrod Riddle | Historian, owner operator of Spirit of Arizona Tours

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jarrod Riddle and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jarrod, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Well, I’ve always loved history. I love visiting historic locations, I love old fashioned architecture and I love reading about the characters that helped shaped this country. Out of college I had a pretty decent entry level job but at the end of the day it wasn’t what I was passionate about. So I thought, “well, what do I love?” History! Ok, “well how can I turn that into a job?” So I thought about becoming a history teacher. But there’s a laundry list of why that wouldn’t fit my personality. Then I thought about applying to museums. But then that sounded a little stagnant to me. So tour guiding sounded like the best option. It allowed to go out and show and touch and feel the history we have. I worked for several tour companies, enjoyed each one. I would always suggest tours to management but they would kind of blow me off so I though, “ok then, I’ll just start my own!” And that’s how Spirit of Arizona Tours was born!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
At Spirit of Arizona Tours, our journey has been one of passion, dedication, and a deep connection to the rich history and vibrant culture of Arizona. Our work is driven by a desire to share the unique and diverse stories of this beautiful state with our guests, providing them with an authentic and memorable experience.

What Sets Us Apart
What truly sets us apart is our commitment to personalized, immersive tours that go beyond the typical tourist experience. We pride ourselves on our in-depth knowledge of Arizona’s history, culture, and natural wonders, offering tours that are both educational and entertaining. Our guides are not just experts; they are storytellers who bring the past to life, making each tour an engaging and enriching adventure.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Man, that’s a tough question. What I can tell you is that I would make sure to show off our desert. I have some favorite off grid spots I like to spend time at. Especially near the Salt River. One of my favorite spots restaurants is Fry Bread house. We’d definitely hit some of my favorite historical spots. (Come on tour to find out what they are!) I absolutely love the MIM. Just have to see where the week takes us.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There’s a lot but probably 1st would have to be my family and especially my Mom. She is one who pushed me to go for it. I’m not a risk taker and this was a huge risk!

So many other operators in the tour community that I have leaned on for advice. What I love about this community of tour operators is we really do try to help each other. Even here in Arizona where we’re technically competing for tourist dollars, there’s still love and support.

Next is the City of Phoenix official historian Steve Schumacher. His friendship and mentorship have meant the world to me. Steve has provided opportunities for me I probably may not have come across otherwise. He invited me to join his group of historians who have been a wonderful resource for me to lean on. So, thank you to the entire group!

Website: https://spiritofarizonatours.com/