Our story
The Village came to life through the very real, very personal experiences of a couple in Mesa, Arizona. After welcoming their first child, they found themselves yearning for a community, a place where they could find support, understanding, and friendship. Their search, however, seemed to end in vain. This struggle, though challenging, led to an important realization: they probably weren't alone in their search. If they were looking for such a community, it was likely that others were too. Driven by this understanding and their own unfulfilled need, they made a heartfelt decision. If they couldn't find the community they were looking for, they would create it themselves. And so, The Village was born, born out of necessity, determination, and a genuine desire to support parents like themselves.
Sam Podio, Owner & CEO
The idea for The Village transpired from my personal experience of being diagnosed with Postpartum OCD after the birth of my daughter, Charlotte Joyce. Going through this emotional and challenging time, I recognized the profound need for parenting support and a supportive community to lean on during such vulnerable moments in parenthood. It was during this period that I was inspired to create a safe and nurturing space where parents could come together, find camaraderie, and share their journey with others who could empathize and understand. The Village became the embodiment of my heartfelt desire to offer the support and resources I wished I had during my own postpartum journey, empowering fellow parents and providing them with a sense of belonging on their unique parenting paths.
Brent Savory, Director of Operations
When I took on the role of a stay-at-home dad after Sam returned to work, it opened my eyes to the joys and challenges of being a very hands-on father. However, amidst the wonder of raising our daughter, I felt an overwhelming sense of isolation, struggling to find a group of fellow dads to share this remarkable experience with. It was during these moments of searching for friendship and support that I realized the need for a nurturing community for dads like me. Partnering with Sam to create The Village became more than just a business venture; it was a genuine mission to create a community where dads could come together, bond with their children, and find comfort in the company of like-minded individuals.