Arizona Unscripted

🌵 ARIZONA UNSCRIPTED — CASA: A VOICE FOR ARIZONA’S CHILDREN

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Diane is joined by co-hosts Kathryn, Jim, and Carol for an inspiring conversation about how ordinary Arizonans can make an extraordinary difference in the life of a child.

Their guest is Madeline Romero, CASA Coordinator for Mohave County.

❤️ WHAT IS CASA?

CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children.

CASA volunteers are everyday people appointed by a judge to advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect and are involved in the juvenile court system.

Volunteers get to know their assigned child, visit with them regularly, communicate with others involved in the case, prepare reports for the court, and advocate for the child's safety and best interests.

Most importantly, they can become one consistent person in a child's life during a time when almost everything else may be changing.

🏠 A CHILD IN AN UNFAMILIAR WORLD

Madeline explains that children may be placed in foster care, with relatives, or in other out-of-home settings.

For some Mohave County children, placement can mean moving hours away because appropriate foster or group-home options aren't available locally.

Imagine being removed from your family, moving three hours away, starting a new school, living with people you don't know, and trying to understand a complicated court system.

A CASA volunteer can be the person who stays with that child throughout the journey.

🙋 WHO CAN BECOME A CASA?

You don't have to be an attorney, social worker, or child-welfare professional.

CASA volunteers come from all walks of life — retirees, working adults, parents, college students, doctors, attorneys, and people simply looking for a meaningful way to serve their community.

Madeline says Mohave County particularly needs more volunteers, including men who can serve as positive role models for teenage boys in the system.

🎓 TRAINING & SUPPORT

Volunteers go through an application, interview, background check, training, and screening process before being sworn in and assigned a case.

Training can be completed partly online or through an in-person CASA Academy, with expenses such as lodging and mileage covered.

Once assigned, volunteers are asked to visit their child at least once a month and provide regular reports to the court.

🌟 WHAT DOES SUCCESS LOOK LIKE?

There isn't one answer.

Success might mean safely returning home to a parent.

It might mean adoption by a foster family.

For an older teenager, it could mean successfully transitioning into adulthood, getting a first apartment, or finding a first job.

Through all of those possibilities, Madeline says the first priority remains the same: making sure the child is safe.

It's a heartfelt Arizona Unscripted conversation about foster care, advocacy, volunteering, and the enormous difference one dependable adult can make in the life of a child.

Interested in becoming a CASA volunteer?

Search for CASA Mohave County at AZCourts.gov to learn more and apply.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

🌵 ARIZONA UNSCRIPTED — FLOCK CAMERAS: SAFETY, SURVEILLANCE & PRIVACY

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Kathryn and Jim for another conversation about the growing use of automated license plate reader cameras in Arizona — but this time from a very different perspective.

Their guest is Ed Kahle of Apache Junction, whose unusual protest against a Flock camera attracted widespread media attention. Ed deliberately backed his work truck into the camera pole, bending it until the camera was pointed toward the sky.

Ed joins Arizona Unscripted to explain what happened, why he did it, and why he says his actions were intended as a protest against the growing use of surveillance technology.

📷 PUBLIC SAFETY VS. PERSONAL PRIVACY

Flock cameras and other automated license plate readers can provide law enforcement with another tool for investigating crimes and locating vehicles. But how should that capability be balanced against concerns about privacy?

Ed shares why he believes people should be concerned about having their movements recorded even when they have done nothing wrong.

🔐 WHO CONTROLS THE DATA?

The conversation moves beyond the cameras themselves to questions about the information they collect.

Who stores the data? Who can access it? How secure is it? Could it be hacked or misused? And what safeguards should exist when private companies provide surveillance technology to law enforcement agencies?

⚖️ WHERE SHOULD THE LINE BE DRAWN?

The group discusses the complicated balance between public safety, technology, individual privacy, law enforcement needs, and constitutional protections.

They also explore a larger question: as cameras, smartphones, businesses, neighbors, government agencies, and private companies collect more information about our daily lives, what expectations of privacy should people still have when they're out in public?

🗣️ A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE

Arizona Unscripted previously spoke with representatives of the Lake Havasu City Police Department about their use of Flock cameras and the safeguards they say are in place.

This episode continues that conversation by hearing from someone who strongly objects to the technology and believes communities need a much broader discussion about where surveillance is headed.

Ed also talks about the unexpected attention his protest received, his conversations with people from around the country, and why the experience has motivated him to become more involved in discussions about privacy, surveillance, and individual freedom.

The conversation doesn't pretend there are simple answers. Instead, it raises questions that communities across Arizona — and across the country — are increasingly confronting as surveillance technology becomes more widespread.

How much surveillance are we willing to accept in the name of public safety? Who should control the information that's collected? And what protections should exist to prevent that information from being misused?

It’s a spirited Arizona Unscripted conversation about technology, crime prevention, privacy, data security, civil liberties, and the rapidly changing relationship between public safety and personal privacy.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

🌵 ARIZONA UNSCRIPTED — THE ULTIMATE ARIZONA STAYCATION

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Diane, Jim, and Carol for a fun Arizona road trip without ever leaving the state!

Their guest Daniel, who lives in Graham County in southeastern Arizona, recently traded a traditional vacation for a staycation with friends and family in the Verde Valley. What he discovered was a reminder of just how much there is to explore right here in Arizona.

🏺 HISTORY & ARCHAEOLOGY

Daniel begins at the Verde Valley Archaeology Center, where visitors can explore the history and archaeology of the region. The journey continues through Arizona's mining past with a visit to the Arizona Copper Art Museum in Clarkdale and later to the Sedona Heritage Museum for a glimpse into the lives of some of the area's early families.

💀 SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT

In Jerome, Daniel discovers a museum devoted to skulls — from animals to human specimens. It's a decidedly unusual stop that fits perfectly with the historic mining town's quirky personality.

🍞 FOOD, WINE & LOCAL FLAVORS

Of course, no Arizona Unscripted road trip would be complete without food!

Daniel shares some of the local bakeries, restaurants, and wineries they discovered along the way, from fresh bread and sandwiches to pastries, locally sourced food, Arizona wine, and Italian cuisine.

🔭 A TRIP TO THE STARS

One of the highlights of the adventure is Flagstaff's Lowell Observatory.

Daniel describes the observatory's historic telescopes, interactive exhibits, nighttime viewing opportunities, and programs that make astronomy accessible to adults and kids alike. He also shares the special connection his host has to NASA's New Horizons mission, which made its historic flyby of Pluto.

🚗 DISCOVERING ARIZONA CLOSE TO HOME

But perhaps the biggest discovery wasn't any one attraction.

Daniel found that a staycation gives you the freedom to slow down, change plans, take a break when you want one, and discover places that even longtime residents may have driven past for years without ever stopping to explore.

The conversation also brings back memories of how much Cottonwood, Cornville, and the Verde Valley have changed over the decades — while retaining the scenery and character that make this part of Arizona so special.

From archaeology and Arizona history to skulls, pastries, wineries, red rocks, and billions of miles into outer space, this Arizona Unscripted adventure has a little bit of everything.

Sometimes you don't have to travel very far to have a great vacation. You just have to get out and explore your own backyard.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, Jim takes the host's chair and is joined by co-hosts Diane, Kathryn, and Carol for a fascinating look at a way of life that's especially important in western Arizona: RV living.

Their guest is Terri Newlon, an RV resident and advocate from Quartzsite who has been living the RV lifestyle since 2020.

🚐 FREEDOM ON FOUR WHEELS

Terri's journey began while caring for her father and brother, both of whom had stage-four cancer. Late at night, she found an escape watching videos about inexpensive RV and van living and began dreaming about trying it herself.

Eventually she did — starting with a truck and trailer before moving into a 37-foot Class A motorhome.

Then she discovered Quartzsite.

🏜️ WHY QUARTZSITE?

What was supposed to be a visit became home. Terri talks about falling in love with Quartzsite's community, rockhounding, RV culture, winter visitors, gem and mineral events, and the freedom of having an affordable home base while still being able to travel.

⚖️ RV RESIDENTS HAVE RIGHTS, TOO

The conversation takes an important turn when Terri discusses problems she experienced in her own RV park.

She explains that qualifying RV residents can have protections under Arizona's landlord-tenant laws — but many residents don't know those protections exist.

Terri became involved in organizations educating manufactured-home and RV residents and now helps others understand their rights, identify park owners, document problems, and locate legal assistance.

🚰 WATER, POWER & ARIZONA HEAT

Some RV park problems go far beyond disagreements with management.

Terri describes residents dealing with inadequate water pressure and limited water availability, including a troubling situation involving a resident who needed reliable water for home kidney dialysis.

The group also discusses electrical limitations, solar power, air conditioning, insulation, and what it takes to live in an RV when Arizona temperatures approach 120 degrees.

🏥 AFFORDABILITY HAS TRADE-OFFS

Quartzsite can offer remarkably affordable living, but rural residents may need to travel for hospitals, specialists, and other healthcare.

Terri talks about these trade-offs and some of the things people should investigate before deciding whether RV living is right for them.

🔎 THINKING ABOUT RV LIVING?

Terri's advice: research the park, read reviews, talk with residents, understand who owns and manages the property, keep your receipts and records, learn your rights, and make sure the park can accommodate your RV.

It's a fun, informative, and sometimes eye-opening Arizona Unscripted conversation about freedom, affordable housing, retirement, tenant rights, rural healthcare, Arizona heat — and what life is really like when your home happens to have wheels.

And if you've never experienced Quartzsite during the winter season, you might just find yourself planning a road trip.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

Welcome to 🌵Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, Jim takes the host's chair and is joined by co-hosts Diane, Kathryn, and Carol for a fun and surprisingly educational conversation about one of Arizona's lesser-known elected offices:

What exactly does a constable do?

Their guest is John Hoge, Constable of La Paz County, who is seeking another term in office and has plenty of stories to tell about what the job is really like.

⚖️ SO...WHAT IS A CONSTABLE?

John explains the constable's role working with Arizona's Justice Courts, including serving summonses, court documents, eviction papers, and writs of restitution.

In larger Arizona counties, constables can stay extremely busy handling numerous cases each day. But La Paz County presents a different challenge — lots of territory, long drives, remote communities, RV parks, and sometimes addresses that aren't particularly easy to find.

John quickly learned an important lesson: sometimes asking for a landmark, neighborhood, business, or RV park works a lot better than asking for a street address.

🚪 KNOCKING ON DOORS NOBODY ELSE WANTS TO KNOCK ON

John describes his job rather simply: sometimes he's the person who has to knock on the doors nobody else wants to knock on.

A retired correctional officer, John explains how his previous career taught him to read people, remain calm in uncomfortable situations, and use a little psychology when trying to locate someone who may not be particularly excited to see the constable standing outside.

And sometimes the neighbors unknowingly help him out!

🚔 IS A CONSTABLE A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER?

The conversation explores the unusual legal authority that comes with the position, the differences between constables, sheriffs, and police officers, and some of the practical limitations of being essentially a one-person department.

John also explains that his work isn't necessarily confined to La Paz County. Under certain circumstances, he can serve documents in neighboring counties such as Mohave and Yuma.

🐴 WHAT HAPPENED TO THE HORSE?

Because this is Arizona, someone inevitably asks whether constables still ride around on horseback.

John assures everyone that he drives.

Apparently it saves a lot on hay — although with the price of gasoline, he may need to reconsider.

❤️ AND HOW DID HE BECOME A CONSTABLE?

That may be the best story of the episode.

John reveals that his journey into elected office began when an RV park manager he was dating complained that she couldn't get some summonses served.

John volunteered to help.

He ran for constable, got elected, served the papers...

...and about a month later, she broke up with him.

Fortunately, he discovered that he actually liked the job.

From serving court papers and navigating rural Arizona to RV parks, long drives, neighborhood psychology, law enforcement stories, and a little Wild West humor, this episode offers an entertaining look at an important public office that often flies under the radar.

John calls the constable an "unsung part of the law enforcement community" — and by the end of this conversation, you'll understand why.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Diane, Kathryn, Jim, and Carol for a lively conversation with Jacob Martinez, a lifelong Mesa resident and candidate for the Arizona House of Representatives in Legislative District 9, covering West Mesa, downtown Mesa, and part of eastern Tempe.

🏠 MAKING ARIZONA MORE AFFORDABLE

Jacob says one issue comes up again and again as he knocks on doors across his district: the rising cost of just about everything.

Housing. Utilities. Groceries. Healthcare.

The group talks about why so many Arizonans — from young people just starting out to seniors living on fixed incomes — are finding it increasingly difficult to afford the communities they call home.

Jacob discusses ideas he supports to address housing costs, including limiting corporate purchases of single-family homes and giving local communities greater authority to regulate short-term rentals.

🏡 AIRBNBS, HOUSING & LOCAL CONTROL

Arizona's popularity as a tourist destination creates an interesting dilemma: visitors need places to stay, but the people who work in those communities also need affordable places to live.

The conversation explores how short-term rentals can affect housing availability and why Jacob believes cities and towns should have more power to develop solutions that work for their own communities.

🎓 PUBLIC SCHOOLS & ARIZONA'S ESA PROGRAM

As a graduate of Mesa Public Schools and a recent law school graduate, Jacob credits public education with helping give him the foundation to succeed.

He talks about school funding, teacher support, Arizona's universal ESA program, and why he believes the state needs to put more resources into public education while adding greater accountability and restrictions to the voucher system.

👨‍👩‍👦 GROWING UP IN MESA

Jacob also shares his own Arizona story.

Raised in Mesa by a single teenage mother, he talks about growing up with the help of programs such as WIC and public assistance — experiences that shaped his views about the role government programs can play for families going through difficult times.

He also explains why, despite moving several times, he has barely ventured outside the same square mile of Mesa where he grew up.

🍕 WAIT...IS MESA AN ARIZONA FOOD DESTINATION?

It's Arizona Unscripted, so naturally the conversation finds its way to food.

Jacob makes a bold claim that Mesa belongs alongside New York and Los Angeles as a great food city — prompting the hosts to immediately start asking for restaurant recommendations.

And apparently, volunteering to knock doors for Jacob can come with a pretty good bonus: exploring some of Mesa's many local restaurants afterward.

🪧 AND WHY DOES JACOB HAVE HIS OWN PARK?

There's also the mysterious "Jacob Martinez Park" sign hanging behind him.

No, Mesa didn't actually name a park after him.

Jacob explains how serving for six years on the Mesa Parks and Recreation Advisory Board — beginning while he was still in high school — earned him a personalized park sign when his term ended.

It's a fun moment that also highlights just how early Jacob became involved in his hometown.

This episode is a wide-ranging Arizona Unscripted conversation about affordability, housing, education, community involvement, a new generation entering public service — and, of course, where to find some great food in Mesa.

Learn more about Jacob Martinez:

MartinezForAZ.com

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Jim is joined by co-hosts Diane, Kathryn, and Carol for a fascinating look at something uniquely Arizona — the office of State Mine Inspector.

Their guest is Brian Matlock, a mechanical engineer, Marine Reserves veteran, and Democratic candidate for Arizona State Mine Inspector.

⛏️ WAIT — WE ELECT A MINE INSPECTOR?

Yes! Arizona is the only state in the country where voters elect the State Mine Inspector.

Brian explains what the office actually does and why its work matters not only to miners and mining companies, but also to hikers, mountain bikers, off-roaders, campers, families, and anyone who enjoys Arizona's backcountry.

👷 KEEPING ARIZONA'S MINERS SAFE

One of the Mine Inspector's major responsibilities is safety. Brian discusses everything from personal protective equipment and explosives to processing facilities and the everyday practices designed to help ensure miners make it home safely at the end of the day.

His approach? He says the Mine Inspector shouldn't simply be looking for violations — the office should work with miners and mine operators as a partner in safety.

⚠️ ARIZONA'S ABANDONED MINES

Then there's a problem most Arizonans may not realize exists.

Brian says Arizona has more than 100,000 abandoned mines, including hundreds of abandoned uranium mines. Some can be extremely dangerous, particularly to people exploring Arizona's vast backcountry.

The group discusses how these mines can be located, marked, and secured — and Brian shares his idea of working with outdoor enthusiasts and local communities to help identify potentially dangerous abandoned mine sites.

And his advice if you find one is simple: don't go inside.

🏜️ COPPER, URANIUM & ARIZONA'S MINING HISTORY

The conversation travels around the state to some of Arizona's major mining regions and explores why copper remains such an important part of Arizona's identity and economy.

But mining isn't just about copper and precious metals. Brian explains that the Mine Inspector's responsibilities also extend to aggregate and stone operations that produce materials used in construction.

🌱 WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A MINE CLOSES?

Mining doesn't end when the minerals run out.

Brian explains the Mine Inspector's role in mine reclamation — including reviewing reclamation plans and helping ensure that required work is completed when mining operations come to an end.

🚐 AND WHAT EXACTLY IS BOONDOCKING?

It's Arizona Unscripted, so naturally the conversation wanders a little!

Brian talks about his love of mountain biking, exploring Arizona's backcountry, and "boondocking" — heading off-grid with a small camper and enjoying some of the state's more remote places.

The group even gets into vertical mine shafts, nineteenth-century mining laws, near-miss safety reporting, and — perhaps most importantly — whether they make wide-brimmed hard hats.

It's an informative and surprisingly fun Arizona Unscripted conversation about an elected office many Arizonans may know little about, an industry deeply connected to Arizona's history, and the people responsible for making mining and Arizona's backcountry safer.

Learn more about Brian Matlock:

MatlockForAZMI.com

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

🌵 ARIZONA UNSCRIPTED — UNDERSTANDING SUICIDE, GRIEF & PREVENTION

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this important episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Kathryn and Jim for a candid conversation about suicide, grief, prevention, and the mental health resources available in our communities.

Their guest is Teri Geier, a licensed clinical social worker with decades of experience working with children, adults, veterans, people struggling with addiction, hospice patients, and families affected by suicide.

Following recent tragedies that deeply affected the Lake Havasu City community, Teri helps the Arizona Unscripted team explore a difficult subject that too often remains unspoken.

The conversation explores:

• How grieving after a suicide can differ from other forms of grief

• Warning signs that someone may be struggling

• Depression, exhaustion, isolation, and major life transitions

• Why it's important to ask someone directly if they are thinking about suicide

• The guilt and unanswered questions often experienced by family members and friends

• Suicide among children, adults, veterans, and older Americans

• Gaps in emergency and mental health services

• Why communities, hospitals, mental health professionals, law enforcement, and other organizations need to work together

Teri emphasizes one particularly important message: we shouldn't be afraid to talk about suicide. Asking someone directly about what they're experiencing can open the door to a conversation when they may desperately need someone to listen.

The discussion also examines what happens after a suicide and why families, friends, coworkers, and entire communities need support rather than silence, shame, or stigma.

It's a serious but important Arizona Unscripted conversation about recognizing when someone may be struggling, supporting those left behind, and finding better ways for Arizona communities to respond.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or suicide crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

🌵 ARIZONA UNSCRIPTED — ARIZONA’S WATER FUTURE: THE COLORADO RIVER

Welcome to Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Kathryn and Jim for a fascinating and important conversation about one of Arizona’s most precious resources: WATER.

Their guest is Doyle Wilson, a longtime Arizona water expert who served as Water Resources Coordinator for Lake Havasu City for approximately 15 years. With a background in geology and a Ph.D. in environmental science, Doyle helps unravel the remarkably complicated story of the Colorado River and explains why decisions being made today could have enormous consequences for Arizona’s future.

The conversation explores:

💧 The history of the Colorado River and the 1922 Colorado River Compact

🏜️ Why Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City, and other western Arizona communities are so dependent on the Colorado River.

🚰 How Arizona, California, Nevada, and the other basin states divide Colorado River water.

🌾 Why agriculture plays such a major role in water use.

🏙️ How the Central Arizona Project helped fuel the growth of Phoenix and Tucson.

♻️ The growing importance of recycled and reused water.

❄️ How snowpack and decades of below-expected river flows affect Arizona’s water supply.

⚠️ Why Arizona could face significant Colorado River water shortages in the years ahead.

Doyle also explains the complicated priority system that determines who gets water first when supplies become scarce — and why Arizona may face some particularly difficult choices.

What happens if there simply isn’t enough water to go around?

It’s an informative Arizona Unscripted conversation about water, history, growth, conservation, and the future of life in the desert Southwest.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

🌵 ARIZONA UNSCRIPTED — WHO CONTROLS YOUR UTILITY BILLS?

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Diane, Jim, and Carol for a conversation about an Arizona government agency that affects nearly everyone in the state — but that many Arizonans know surprisingly little about: the Arizona Corporation Commission. Their guests are Jonathon Hill and Clara Pratte, candidates for two seats on the Arizona Corporation Commission.

So what exactly does the Corporation Commission do — and why should Arizonans care?

The conversation explores the Commission’s role in regulating investor-owned utilities and reviewing the rates customers pay for electricity, gas, and water. The group also discusses some of the other responsibilities of the Commission, including business registrations, securities regulation, and railroad and pipeline safety.

⚡ UTILITY BILLS & AFFORDABILITY

Jonathon and Clara explain how utility rate increases are reviewed by the Commission and why decisions made by five statewide elected commissioners can ultimately affect household budgets across Arizona.

💻 DATA CENTERS & ARIZONA’S GROWTH

With data centers expanding across Arizona, the group discusses who should pay for the new electrical infrastructure needed to serve these enormous energy users — and the concern that ordinary ratepayers could ultimately bear some of those costs.

☀️ SOLAR & ARIZONA’S ENERGY FUTURE

The conversation turns to rooftop solar, renewable energy, energy efficiency, and what homeowners receive when the electricity they generate flows back onto the grid.

💧 WATER & INFRASTRUCTURE

Water also enters the discussion as Jonathon explains how his background in geology could inform decisions involving groundwater and water utilities, while Clara discusses her experience working on energy and infrastructure projects in rural and tribal communities.

🚀 TWO VERY DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS

Jonathon is an engineer and geologist who has spent years at Arizona State University working on NASA missions involving Mars, Jupiter, and asteroids.

Clara, a member of the Navajo Nation, brings a background in public policy, economic development, infrastructure, and renewable energy. She also discusses her work helping bring electricity to hundreds of homes on tribal lands.

Together, the guests explain why they believe the Arizona Corporation Commission deserves far more attention from voters — and why issues involving electricity, water, infrastructure, and affordability reach across political and geographic lines.

It’s another wide-ranging Arizona Unscripted conversation about an often-overlooked part of Arizona government and the decisions that can directly affect our homes, communities, and monthly bills.

More information about the candidates:

Jonathon Hill: https://www.votehillaz.com

Clare Pratte: https://www.claraforaz.com/

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — A Conversation with Alberto Flores

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Kathryn and Jim for an energetic conversation with Alberto Flores, a lifelong Phoenician and candidate for the Arizona House of Representatives in Legislative District 24, representing communities in Maryvale and South Glendale.

At just 29, Alberto brings the perspective of a new generation of Arizonans to the conversation. He shares how growing up in a working-class immigrant family inspired his interest in public service beginning when he was only 12 years old, eventually leading him to study political science at Arizona State University and run for the state legislature.

The conversation starts with an issue Alberto says he hears again and again while knocking on doors: affordability. From groceries and gasoline to wages and housing, Alberto talks about the pressures facing working families—particularly in communities where people may already be working multiple jobs just to make ends meet. He also discusses workers, unions, and collective bargaining and their role in helping families build greater economic security.

Public education is another major topic. Alberto discusses schools losing resources and arts and music programs that give children opportunities to discover their talents and interests. Drawing on his own childhood, he explains why creating more opportunities for the next generation is such a personal part of his campaign.

The discussion also explores housing affordability and the challenges facing younger Arizonans who are working hard and earning good incomes but still find homeownership increasingly out of reach. Alberto talks about younger candidates becoming involved in Arizona politics and why he believes their generation needs a stronger voice in decisions that will shape their future.

Finally, the group talks about one of Alberto’s biggest passions: getting young people engaged. He shares what he has learned from knocking on thousands of doors, meeting first-time voters face-to-face, and using TikTok and Instagram to reach younger Arizonans where they get much of their information. For Alberto, politics doesn’t have to be something that divides communities—it can also be a team sport that brings people together.

It’s a lively Arizona Unscripted conversation about working families, affordability, education, opportunity, young voters, and what a new generation of leadership could mean for the future of the Grand Canyon State.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Kathryn and Jim for a conversation with Brian McMahan, the Democratic nominee for the Arizona House of Representatives in Legislative District 30, representing communities across Mohave and La Paz Counties and the Wickenburg area.

Brian shares what he's hearing as he travels throughout the district, where affordability, water, rural healthcare, public safety, education, and government spending are among the issues on residents' minds.

Water takes center stage as the group discusses Arizona's increasingly urgent need for a comprehensive plan to protect its limited water resources. From agricultural use and groundwater to the enormous demands of new data centers, the conversation explores some of the difficult choices Arizona may face as communities plan for continued growth in an increasingly dry state.

The discussion also turns to rural healthcare, where access to doctors, specialists, hospitals, emergency medical services, and affordable care can be very different from what residents experience in Arizona's larger cities. Drawing on his experience as a retired fire chief, Brian discusses the connection between healthcare, fire districts, EMS services, and the challenges of providing essential services across Arizona's vast rural areas.

Brian also talks about government spending, public education, term limits, and why he believes Arizona needs to start planning for tomorrow's challenges before they become full-blown emergencies.

It's another wide-ranging Arizona Unscripted conversation about the issues facing Arizona's rural communities—and the people working to shape the state's future.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

🌵Arizona Unscripted — A Conversation with Miranda Lopez

Welcome to 🌵Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Kathryn and Jim for a lively conversation with Miranda Lopez, a candidate for the Arizona House of Representatives in Legislative District 21, which stretches from southeastern Tucson through Sahuarita, Rio Rico, Tubac and Nogales, with a portion extending east toward Bisbee.

Miranda shares her journey from growing up in Phoenix and attending the University of Arizona to becoming a community organizer, working with the Pima County Democratic Party, advocating for students, becoming involved with organized labor, and ultimately deciding to run for public office.

Joining the conversation is returning guest Eric Robbins, a resident of the district, who helps bring a local perspective to the discussion.

The conversation tackles some of the major issues facing Southern Arizona and the state as a whole. Miranda discusses her views on public education and Arizona's school voucher system, the shortage of affordable housing, renters and homeownership, and the role she believes state government should play in addressing these challenges.

The group also heads south to the Arizona-Mexico border, discussing proposed construction and changes affecting border communities, including concerns raised in the conversation about neighborhoods, businesses, the environment, and plans for the Nogales port of entry.

Along the way, Miranda talks about her experience finding areas of agreement with people across the political spectrum and why meaningful conversations and common ground can still play an important role in getting things done.

It's another wide-ranging Arizona Unscripted conversation about the people, policies, communities, and challenges shaping the future of the Grand Canyon State.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — Can a Conversation Bring Us Together?

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Diane, Kathryn, and Jim for an inspiring conversation with Eric Robbins from Pima County, who shares a grassroots effort aimed at doing something many of us could use a little more of these days — talking with our neighbors and actually listening to one another.

What started simply as a few people getting together for Saturday morning coffee has grown into an effort to strengthen community connections, encourage meaningful conversations, and find common ground in a time when Americans often seem more divided than ever.

Instead of telling people what they should think, Eric's group is taking a different approach: asking questions. What makes you proud to be an American? What would make our country better? Have you simply had enough of some of the division? And can empathy, kindness, and respect actually be signs of strength rather than weakness?

Those questions lead the 🌵 Arizona Unscripted team into a thoughtful—and sometimes very personal—conversation about patriotism, healthcare, politics, community, empathy, and the importance of being willing to listen even when we don't agree.

Eric also discusses plans to bring these conversations into communities through signs, radio messages, social media, and eventually face-to-face gatherings where neighbors can sit together and reconnect.

It's a reminder that perhaps bringing people together doesn't always require a complicated solution. Sometimes it can start with a cup of coffee, a good question, an open mind—and a willingness to listen with the heart of a neighbor.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one conversation at a time.

🌵Arizona Unscripted - Jamescita Peshlakai - Voices from Arizona's Rural & Tribal Communities

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Kathryn and Jim for a fascinating conversation with Jamescita Peshlakai, a Navajo Nation member, Persian Gulf War veteran, former Arizona legislator, and candidate for the Arizona State Senate in Legislative District 6.

Stretching across roughly a third of Arizona, Legislative District 6 encompasses some of the state's most spectacular landscapes and diverse communities — including the Grand Canyon, portions of the Colorado River, Monument Valley, the White Mountains, and several tribal nations. Jamescita shares what she's hearing as she travels this vast district and talks with the people who call it home.

The conversation explores the rising cost of living, housing, access to healthcare, transportation, water, infrastructure, and the extraordinary distances rural Arizonans may travel for everyday necessities. Jamescita also provides a firsthand perspective on life in tribal communities, including challenges involving housing, federal land requirements, access to reliable mail and street addresses, voting, technology, and basic infrastructure.

The discussion also turns to one of Arizona's most precious resources — water — and the importance of conservation and long-term planning as communities across the state confront increasing demands on limited supplies.

Jamescita also shares some remarkable Arizona history, including her work establishing Navajo Code Talkers Day as an official Arizona state holiday and the broader history of Native American veterans, voting rights, and tribal communities in the state.

It's an 🌵 Arizona Unscripted conversation that goes beyond the headlines to hear directly about life in some of Arizona's most beautiful, remote, and often overlooked communities — and the people working to make their voices heard.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one story at a time.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — Technology, Public Safety & Privacy in Lake Havasu

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Kathryn, Jim, and Joan for an important conversation about public safety, technology, and privacy in Lake Havasu City.

Joining the discussion are Lake Havasu City Police Chief Troy Stirling and Lieutenant TJ Frances, who take listeners behind the scenes of the city's use of automated license plate reader cameras. They explain what the cameras do—and don't do—how the technology assists officers and investigators, and how it has helped the department identify vehicles and suspects in serious criminal investigations.

But with new technology come important questions. The conversation also tackles concerns about privacy, government surveillance, artificial intelligence, data sharing, and the potential for misuse. Chief Stirling and Lieutenant Frances discuss the safeguards the department has put in place, including access controls, audits, required documentation for searches, data retention limits, and oversight designed to prevent inappropriate use.

The discussion also looks ahead at the broader debate surrounding this rapidly evolving technology and how communities can balance effective law enforcement tools with the public's expectation of privacy and accountability.

It's a thoughtful 🌵 Arizona Unscripted conversation that brings law enforcement and community voices together to ask questions, clear up misconceptions, and better understand technology that's increasingly becoming part of public safety across Arizona.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one story at a time.

Welcome to Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Diane and Jim for a lively conversation celebrating the hobbies, creativity, and lifelong passions that make Arizona's communities so unique.

Special guests from around the state share the stories behind the activities they love. Jim talks about the art and science of home brewing—from selecting grains and hops to crafting recipes and experimenting with new techniques—while also discussing how the brewing community has evolved over the years.

Author Connie shares her journey from aspiring writer to publishing twenty books, offering an inside look at the creative process, the discipline of writing, and the rewards of bringing stories to life. The conversation naturally turns to another shared passion—reading—as the panel discusses favorite books, libraries, audiobooks, and the important role libraries continue to play as welcoming community spaces where everyone can discover, learn, and explore.

Along the way, the hosts reflect on how hobbies connect people, inspire creativity, encourage lifelong learning, and help build friendships across Arizona.

Whether your passion is brewing, writing, reading, gardening, crafting, or simply discovering something new, this episode is a reminder that hobbies enrich our lives and strengthen our communities.

Join the Arizona Unscripted team for a fun, inspiring conversation about the interests that bring Arizonans together—one hobby at a time.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one story at a time.

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Kathryn and Jim for an engaging conversation with Navy veteran, working mom, and Arizona congressional candidate Dani Sterbinsky. Traveling across one of the nation's largest congressional districts, Danny shares what she's hearing directly from residents in communities stretching from Maricopa County to Yuma, La Paz, and Mohave Counties.

The discussion explores many of the issues affecting everyday Arizonans, including the rising cost of housing, healthcare accessibility, veterans' services, and the unique challenges facing rural communities. Dani talks about the importance of creating more affordable starter homes, supporting first-time homebuyers, expanding access to healthcare, and ensuring that rural residents have access to hospitals, doctors, and essential services close to home.

Throughout the conversation, the hosts also reflect on the value of listening to local communities and how meaningful conversations can help shape solutions that work for people across Arizona. From veterans and young families to seniors and rural residents, this episode highlights the diverse voices and shared concerns that connect communities throughout the Grand Canyon State.

Whether you're interested in public policy, rural Arizona, veterans' issues, or simply hearing thoughtful conversations about the future of Arizona, this episode offers an informative and respectful discussion about the challenges—and opportunities—facing the state today.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one story at a time.

https://www.sterbinskyforcongress.com/

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this special Part 2 episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Diane and Jim as they welcome back acclaimed Route 66 author and historian Jim Hinckley for another unforgettable journey along Arizona's legendary Mother Road.

Picking up where the previous episode left off, the conversation dives even deeper into the history, beauty, and enduring spirit of Route 66. Jim shares some of his favorite stretches of the highway, from the breathtaking drive through Oatman and Sitgreaves Pass to the charming small towns and hidden gems that continue to attract visitors from around the world.

Along the way, the team explores the colorful characters, unforgettable road trips, classic diners, vintage automobiles, and remarkable stories that have made Route 66 an international symbol of freedom and adventure. Jim also reflects on the cultural diversity found along the route, the communities that have preserved its history, and the people who continue to keep the spirit of the Mother Road alive.

Whether you're planning your own Arizona road trip, searching for the next great local restaurant, or simply enjoy hearing incredible stories from one of America's most iconic highways, this episode is packed with inspiration, history, and plenty of reasons to get out and explore.

So fill up the tank, roll down the windows, and join Arizona Unscripted as Jim Hinckley returns for another memorable ride down Arizona's historic Route 66.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one story at a time.

Welcome to 🌵 Arizona Unscripted — the show all about Arizona: the people, the places, the food, the fun, and the stories that make the Grand Canyon State unlike anywhere else.

In this episode, host Bart is joined by co-hosts Diane and Jim for an unforgettable journey down Arizona's legendary Route 66 with special guest Jim Hinckley, acclaimed author, historian, and one of the nation's foremost experts on the Mother Road.

From the rich history of Route 66 and its role in shaping the American Southwest to fascinating stories of small towns, roadside attractions, classic diners, and hidden gems, Jim shares decades of experience exploring—and documenting—one of the world's most iconic highways. The conversation also uncovers surprising chapters of Route 66 history, from Native American trade routes and pioneer expeditions to the road's global influence as a symbol of freedom and adventure.

Along the way, the discussion highlights unforgettable restaurants, historic landmarks, restored motels, colorful characters, and the importance of taking the time to truly experience America through the communities that line its highways.

Whether you're planning your own road trip or simply love Arizona history, this episode is packed with stories, inspiration, and plenty of travel ideas.

So buckle up and join Arizona Unscripted as the team discovers why Route 66 is far more than just a road—it's one of the greatest stories America has ever told.

🌵 Arizona Unscripted — exploring Arizona one story at a time.