The Jeff Oravits Show Podcast

Arizona is at the center of it all—and Senator Wendy Rogers joins the show for a wide-ranging, hard-hitting conversation on the issues shaping the state and the nation.   We start with the controversy surrounding Congressman Ruben Gallego and connections to former Congressman Eric Swalwell, and what it means for Arizona's role in the national political spotlight.   From there, we dive into one of the most urgent long-term challenges facing the West: water. Is the Colorado River crisis solvable, and could building moratoriums become the new reality for Arizona communities?   On the national security front, Senator Rogers—drawing from her experience as a retired Air Force officer—weighs in on Mexico, the evolving threats at the border, and whether massive assets like aircraft carriers are becoming obsolete in modern warfare.   Back home, we break down the political battlefield in Arizona: The most competitive legislative races to watch What's at stake if Republicans lose control of the legislature Budget tensions and veto threats from Governor Katie Hobbs And where key bills stand as the session heats up   This is a no-holds-barred look at Arizona's role in America's biggest debates—from water and war to power and policy.

What does a 69-year-old gorilla in Germany have in common with your family dog? A lot more than you think—especially when it comes to the rising cost of care. In this episode, Olivia Oravits joins me to talk about the world's oldest gorilla, Fatou, living her best life at the Berlin Zoo—complete with her own enclosure, dedicated staff, and a level of care most humans would envy. But while Fatou enjoys her golden years, back home Americans are facing a very different reality: a growing pet cost crisis. We break down: The shocking reality that owning a pet can now exceed $50,000 over its lifetime Why annual costs are averaging over $4,000—and climbing fast How vet bills have surged 43% in just five years The rise of “pet debt” as owners turn to credit to cover unexpected care How modern veterinary medicine is mirroring human healthcare—with similar price tags And the emotional (and financial) question: how far would you go for your pet? From zoo longevity to household budgets, this episode explores the evolving relationship between humans and animals—and the real price of that bond.

Diesel prices are surging—and if you think it only impacts truckers, think again. In this episode, I sit down with Mike Kucharski, Co-Owner and Vice President of JKC Trucking, to break down what's really happening on the ground just weeks into this latest spike—and why it matters to every American. We dig into: What trucking companies are seeing 6 weeks into rising diesel costs How the industry actually works—owner-operators vs. company drivers Whether shipping prices are locked in… or quickly passed on to you The reality that most goods in America move by semi-truck Why electric big rigs are still barely a factor How fuel costs ripple through the supply chain and show up on your receipt And an update on concerns about unqualified or illegal drivers on U.S. highways Bottom line: when diesel spikes, everything gets more expensive—from groceries to construction materials. If you want to understand where prices are heading next and what's really driving inflation behind the scenes, don't miss this conversation.

Tax Day is here—and we're cutting through the noise with a hard look at the numbers that actually matter. How many Americans really pay federal income taxes? Where does your money go once Washington gets it? And how did we go from a time when there was no income tax at all to a system pulling in that takes nearly $7 trillion to run? In this episode, we break down the full picture: The surprising number of years America had zero federal income tax Why roughly 40–45% of Americans pay no federal income tax Who actually funds the system—and how much they pay The reality of federal spending: nearly $7 trillion in 2025 Why the government is spending about 30% more than it brings in The true size of government when you include state and local spending—about one-third of the entire economy How today compares to history, including when tax rates hit a staggering 94% We connect the dots between taxes, spending, and the national debt, giving you a clear, data-driven snapshot of where the country stands right now. If you've ever wondered whether the system makes sense—or where it's headed—this is your Tax Day reality check.

Mark Haughwout joins me for a wide-ranging conversation as the cost of the Iran war surges and Americans brace for higher prices—with no relief in sight from interest rates. We break down the economic ripple effects, from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to what it means for your wallet. Plus, political drama heats up in DC with resignations, impacts to California's governor race and a stunning moment as a single-engine plane is forced to land on a Phoenix street.

Olivia Oravits joins me for a real—and at times ridiculous—look at where society is heading. We start with the rise of “hover parenting” taken to a whole new level… parents now hiring job coaches and stepping into their adult kids' careers. At what point does helping become hurting? And are we creating a generation that can't function on their own? Then we pivot to the future of work, including Mark Zuckerberg experimenting with AI avatars—raising the question: is your next boss even going to be human? We also hit the latest example of social media insanity, as another viral TikTok trend pushes common sense to the limit. Why do these trends keep happening—and why do people keep following them?

Larry Behrens of Power the Future joins the show for a follow-up conversation as global tensions—and energy markets—continue to shift weeks after the start of the Iran conflict. You've probably heard it: “We have all the oil we need right here in America.” So why are we still importing millions of barrels every day? We break down the reality behind U.S. energy: America produces roughly 13.4 million barrels of oil per day—but consumes closer to 19 million Why refineries can't just “flip a switch” to use domestic oil The difference between light and heavy crude—and why it matters Why the U.S. still depends on foreign oil despite record production The cost, politics, and regulatory hurdles behind building new refineries We also zoom out to the global picture—who produces the most oil, who consumes the most, and how conflicts like Iran impact prices here at home. If you've ever wondered why gas prices don't just drop when U.S. production rises, this episode connects the dots.

Brendan Steinhauser, CEO of the Alliance for Secure AI, joins the show to break down the real pace of artificial intelligence—and whether we're anywhere near “Terminator-level” self-awareness. We dive into the growing reality of AI-driven job losses, including new tools tracking how many jobs are already being displaced and what the future could hold. We also tackle the big questions: What careers are actually safe? Where is this all heading—toward a high-tech future or something closer to “Idiocracy”? And can Washington realistically put meaningful guardrails in place? Plus, a deeper conversation on transhumanism, AI's impact on relationships and birth rates, and the moral questions many aren't asking—especially from a Christian perspective. What safeguards should exist, and what should you be demanding from your representatives? This is one of the most important conversations happening right now.   NOTE: This description was created from my inputs into AI! :) Jeff O.

Is this ceasefire the beginning of peace—or just the setup for the next conflict? We kick things off with Iran's sweeping peace proposal, including demands to end all hostilities, lift U.S. sanctions, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz—with a controversial new fee on global shipping. Mark, drawing on years of experience in the Middle East, breaks down whether any of this actually holds… and what it means for Israel and the region. We also dive into President Donald Trump's fiery comments about Iran, his criticism of U.S. allies, and what this could signal for the future of NATO. Is the alliance still relevant—or are we entering a new global order? Plus: Gas prices spike (Mark pays $168!)—and why relief may only be temporary A major Supreme Court ruling on conversion therapy out of Colorado The cultural shift where even the “F-word” is losing its punch And local events, including the May 16th pro-life Taco Run fundraiser

Joe Galli, Senior Advisor of Public Policy with the Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce, joins me for a deep dive into the issues shaping Arizona right now—and there's no shortage of uncertainty. We break down the state budget and the lack of agreement on tax conformity as tax day approaches, raising serious concerns for businesses trying to plan ahead. We also look at the growing number of ballot measures heading toward 2026, including proposals on vehicle miles traveled taxes, food sales taxes, and labeling cartels as terrorist organizations. We discuss the rising cost of living, housing pressures, and how legislation like the “local cost of living protection act” could impact communities. On the economic front, how are Arizona businesses reacting to global instability—from the Iran conflict to rising energy prices. Plus: The continued growth of Arizona's budget and education spending Sustainability policies expanding influence at the local level Water and infrastructure challenges Public safety tax discussions The future of Arizona's economy and population trends And even a look up—literally—at Arizona's role in future lunar missions and whether Flagstaff could play a part.

We've got astronauts orbiting the moon sending back messages about humanity—and almost no one's paying attention. Meanwhile, fake A.I. videos are pulling millions of views. What does that say about us? In today's episode, Angela and I break down the cultural shift from real achievement to digital distraction, starting with the Artemis II mission and why it's failing to capture attention. Plus: The growing “everything is toxic” narrative and what it means for daily life A staggering $1.5 trillion defense budget proposal and where that money actually goes TSA policies, worker pay, and government contradictions Warren Buffett and a potential shift away from Bill Gates Arizona lawmakers eyeing restrictions on teens and social media From space to spending to social media control, this episode asks a simple question: Are we losing focus on what actually matters?

Arizona State Senator Mark Finchem joins the show to break down a high-stakes legislative session and what voters can expect heading into November. From potential ballot initiatives to major policy battles at the Capitol, Finchem walks us through the biggest issues shaping Arizona right now—including efforts to suspend the gas tax, proposals to expand the size of the state legislature, and new legislation aimed at tackling A.I.-driven deepfakes. We also dive into: The key bills he's watching most closely this session The push for tax conformity and what it means for Arizona taxpayers Budget priorities and ongoing negotiations His assessment of how the session is unfolding And of course, we address the growing tension with Governor Katie Hobbs, often labeled the “veto queen,” and what that means for getting legislation across the finish line. A timely and wide-ranging conversation on the policies, politics, and power struggles shaping Arizona's future.

Sheriff Richard Mack, founder of the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association, joins the show for a deep dive into one of the most debated issues in America today—immigration and the balance of power between local law enforcement and the federal government. Mack, known for his landmark Supreme Court case Printz v. United States challenging provisions of the Brady Bill, explains what authority sheriffs really have when it comes to federal policies. Can local sheriffs push back? Where do they draw the line? And how does that apply to immigration enforcement today? We also get his assessment of President Donald Trump's immigration actions—what's working, what's not, and what it means heading into the midterm elections. Plus: A report from CPAC in Texas and the current political climate Why constitutional sheriffs are “under attack” and what that means Who's doing it right—and who's getting it wrong—on immigration enforcement This is a wide-ranging conversation on law, leadership, and the role of local authority in a rapidly changing America.

Flagstaff First Treasurer and small business owner Jim Schweikert joins the show to break down the Flagstaff Regional Plan—what it gets right, and where it may be missing the mark. We also dive into the growing debate over climate change policies versus real-world wildfire risks, and take a closer look at the city's sustainability department—its rapid expansion, rising salaries, and what it all means for taxpayers and local businesses.

Rob Wilson—former owner of Timberline Firearms and Training and a Coconino County Planning & Zoning Commissioner—joins me for a wide-ranging conversation on business, policy, and the direction of the country. Rob shares lessons from years of running a successful company, including what works, what doesn't, and what aspiring business owners need to know. We also dive into rising building costs in Arizona including the increased cost for the new energy codes. 

Olivia Oravits joins me to break down a mix of shocking headlines and uniquely Arizona stories. We start with a tragic drowning at Fossil Creek that serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly outdoor adventures can turn dangerous—even in popular destinations. We also look at the Grand Canyon ranking as the 4th most visited national park in 2025, what that means for tourism, crowding, and infrastructure, and why even a slight dip in visits still signals massive pressure on America's parks. Plus, a bizarre legal battle out of Florida where a hospital is suing a patient who has refused to leave for five months after being discharged—raising serious questions about healthcare resources and patient rights. It's a mix of real-life tragedy, strange but true stories, and bigger conversations about safety, public lands, and the systems we all rely on.

Pastor Nathaniel Bradford of Mountain View Church joins me for a powerful conversation on the state of Christianity in America. Are faith numbers really declining—or are millennials and Gen Z rediscovering belief in a big way? We talk about the pressures and temptations of modern life, how biblical lessons still apply today, and whether A.I. challenges or complements a Christian worldview. Plus, how to find peace and worry less in a world where everything is constantly in your face.

From airport delays and a deadly runway crash to major battles at the Arizona Legislature, there's a lot unfolding right now. We break down the travel chaos tied to federal gridlock, the latest on border security and housing bills, and the growing political fight at the Capitol. Plus, Goldwater Institute's Matt Beienburg joins the show to challenge claims about Arizona's ESA program, arguing the data has been misrepresented and calling for a media retraction. Bill Searle gives an update on a Yavapai County bathroom controversy surrounding a county policy that allows transgenders the use of the women's bathroom, the political ramifications in the upcoming election.

Arizona lawmakers are talking about expanding the House—just as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to take on one of the biggest constitutional questions in decades. We connect the dots between government growth, declining trust, and what it all means for everyday Americans. Plus: the Fed's latest move, energy policy shifts, school choice battles, and a major step forward for Grand Canyon recovery.

A special conversation with Ireland's Cormac Bowell. We break down who St. Patrick really was, how the holiday is celebrated worldwide, and why it's such a big deal in America. With up to 36 million Americans claiming Irish ancestry, St. Patrick's Day has become a cultural phenomenon that connects two nations through tradition, food, and celebration.

Air travel is getting messy as TSA agents quit during the government shutdown while the war with Iran pushes jet fuel prices higher. Arizona lawmakers push major housing bills and debate the future of school vouchers. We also cover the fight over data centers, wealth migration out of high-tax states, the “Make America Healthy Again” push targeting medical schools & other stories—from Cuba's nationwide blackout to the Brady Bunch house getting landmark status.

On today's show, Jeff and Mark Haughwout cover a wide range of headlines impacting Arizona and the nation. A shakeup at the Department of Homeland Security raises questions about border policy, while a new proposal in Congress would create national constitutional carry. Back in Arizona, a report shows only about half of education dollars reach classrooms, and some schools may be facing financial risk. Plus, residents in an Eloy retirement community are dealing with major utility rate hikes, lawmakers debate banning Sharia law in Arizona courts, neighbors weigh in on Falcon Field landing fees, investigators examine a Phoenix plane crash, and authorities arrest suspects in a train burglary ring near Joseph City.

A case now headed to the Arizona Supreme Court could reshape how government regulates work and small businesses in the state. At the center of the dispute is a fundamental question: Do Americans have a constitutional right to earn a living without excessive government interference? Joining the podcast is Timothy Sandefur, Vice President for Legal Affairs at the Goldwater Institute, which is arguing that economic freedom should be treated as a fundamental right under the Arizona Constitution. The organization says many occupational licensing laws create unnecessary barriers that prevent people from working independently or starting businesses. In this episode, Sandefur explains the case, including an example involving an engineer who can legally do work for a company but cannot offer the same services independently without government permission. We also explore how common licensing barriers are across Arizona and what could change if the Arizona Supreme Court agrees that the “right to earn a living” deserves stronger constitutional protection.

As tensions rise in the Middle East amid the conflict involving Iran, energy markets around the world are on edge. A key concern is the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow shipping lane where roughly 20 million barrels of oil per day—about one-fifth of the world's supply—passes through. Any disruption there could send shockwaves through global energy markets and quickly affect prices at the pump. In this episode, Larry Behrens, Communications Director for Power the Future, joins the show to break down what the Iran conflict could mean for oil markets, global shipping, and American energy security. Behrens brings more than 20 years of experience in government, journalism, and energy policy, and has appeared on major outlets including Fox News and Newsmax discussing U.S. energy policy and global markets. We discuss how Iran fits into the global oil market, why the Strait of Hormuz is so strategically important, and whether the United States is truly insulated from Middle East energy shocks. Behrens also weighs in on what policies could help protect American consumers from volatility and whether the current crisis strengthens the argument for increased domestic energy production.

Roundabouts are becoming more common across Arizona as communities try to deal with traffic growth and safety concerns. But not everyone is convinced they're the right solution.   Jeff takes a closer look at the growing push for roundabouts with Steve Lazar, who says he and his neighbors are battling a proposed roundabout in the Cornville area north of Camp Verde and Cottonwood. While the issue may seem local, it touches on bigger statewide transportation debates — including traffic congestion & intersection safety     Later in the show, Jeff talks about the Noah's Ark Card Game, a faith-based, educational card game designed to bring families and generations together through fun, learning, and conversation. Inspired by the Biblical story of Noah's Ark, the game includes animal facts, memory challenges, and questions designed to spark curiosity while reinforcing faith-based values. It's meant to be a screen-free activity that families, classrooms, churches, and even senior centers can enjoy together.    The game features a deck of 144 cards with easy, medium, and hard animal-fact questions, making it accessible for players of different ages and skill levels. https://noahsarkcardgame.com

Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen joins Jeff to discuss tax filing confusion in Arizona, water concerns, crime legislation, lawsuits and the Supreme Court, the push to limit photo-radar, and potential statewide ballot referrals.

Arizona's cost of living is back in focus. In today's episode, Jeff breaks down the $1 million rental price-fixing settlement announced by Attorney General Kris Mayes and what it means for renters statewide, plus new data showing Arizona's building permit process is adding weeks — and potentially higher costs — to housing projects. He also covers the latest at the State Capitol, including an immigration enforcement bill, a “No Budget, No Pay” proposal, and a ballot measure on medical mandates. Plus, why the FCC is now investigating the rising cost of watching NFL games. From housing to state policy and national trends, it all connects to your wallet.

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport sits at 7,015 feet — and it's growing. In this episode, Jeff talks with Airport Director Brian Gall about expanding airline service, the arrival of mainline aircraft like the Airbus A319, and what that means for northern Arizona travelers. They discuss how busy FLG really is, why 60% of passengers are visitors, and what it takes to operate safely at high elevation — including those famously bumpy approaches. Brian also breaks down long-term expansion plans, the airport's role in wildfire operations and firefighter training, military and high-altitude training use, and whether Flagstaff could support another airline or even a Vegas route. Plus, the biggest challenges facing the airport as the community weighs growth and development. If you fly in or out of Flagstaff — or care about the region's economic future — this conversation gives you an inside look at what's next.

In this episode, we break down the biggest stories coming out of Arizona right now. The Legislature is debating a proposal that would require school districts to spend at least 60% of their budgets on teacher salaries and classroom instruction — a move supporters say boosts transparency and pay, while critics warn could squeeze vital support services. Lawmakers are also advancing a gas tax holiday aimed at lowering summer fuel prices, tougher penalties for teen sextortion, and a measure that could put new girls' sports eligibility rules before voters.   PLUS OLYMPICS UPDATE WITH OLIVIA ORAVITS: Olivia Oravits breaks down the final medal standings from the 2026 Winter Games in Milan–Cortina — where **Team USA finished second overall with **12 golds and 33 total medals, marking one of the strongest winter performances in U.S. history. She'll also recap the historic U.S. sweep of both men's and women's Olympic hockey gold medals — the first time America has claimed both titles at a single Games.  Olivia weighs in on the social and political buzz around President Donald Trump's comments and invitations after the men's hockey victory — including reactions from players and the women's team's choice to decline a White House invitation amid mixed messaging following their own gold-medal game.

We start off with the violence in Mexico, impact on USA and solutions. It's crossover week at the AZ legislature and Angela and I hit on several "trans bills", housing bills and more. Plus some tax stats and a lot more!

Is an anti ICE amendment coming to Flagstaff? Councilmember Lori Matthews talks about a petition floating around Flagstaff that the city council may soon hear that pits the City of Flagstaff against federal immigration enforcement + several other big AZ issues!

I chat with Congressman Andy Biggs about his plans for Arizona if he becomes our next governor. We also talk voter ID, a balanced budget amendment, A.I. issues and much more!

Hobbs has 12 bills, several on SNAP reform. How quick will she veto? Should teachers be barred from striking? How many families will lose access to private schools under proposed ESA initiative? Republicans push for vacation rental reforms. What will Flagstaff's minimum wage be in 2036 and how will it impact employment and costs? We have the numbers. Olivia shares Flagstaff's snow history and a tragedy in Nevada. 

Seedance 2.0 debuts and it's crazy! Hollywoods future in question and a bunch of changes are here as a result of AI. Angela and Olivia join me as we explain. The girls give an Olympic update and I talk about a bunch of Arizona news items including a big announcement in the AZ gubernatorial race. 

Angela and Olivia join me to talk Valentine's Day, marriage stats, divorce stats and more!

Angela and Olivia join me with an EV update and news that Ford and others are cutting back after massive losses. We also update you on charges for the suspect in last weeks west Flag shootout and deaths of DPS helicopter pilots. 

I sat down with Coconino County Supervisor Tammy Ontiveros for a wide ranging discussion on housing in Northern Arizona, infrastructure, energy and more. 

Mark Haughwout joins me as we discuss a newly launched initiative to rein in ESA's in AZ including an income test. What was going on with the airspace over El Paso today? Olivia with some Olympic updates. A beer maker cuts a bunch of workers due to AI productivity gains. 

Angela joins me as we share crazy welfare data on Puerto Rico, what those telephone poles were all about during the Super Bowl Halftime Show and should Puerto Rico just be its own country and not receive our tax dollars? Plus some Olympic updates including a new sport!

Aimee Yentes, Vice President of Arizona Free Enterprise Club joins me with a tax update. Governor Hobbs vetoed a bill that would have saved Arizonan's millions. So what's the next step? And what about the looming tax deadline? Plus, other states are attracting massive capital because they have eliminated their state income tax. Will Arizona follow suit?

Angela and I watched the Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime show and we have some things to say about it. A history lesson on Puerto Rico and some civics 101. An update on the Nancy Guthrie disappearance. I discuss the SAVE Act and the push this week to make sure only those who are citizens actually vote. Olivia gives an Olympic update.

There's a hearing coming up in the House Government Committee about HCR2044, the proposed constitutional amendment that would prohibit government DEI mandates and racial preferences. Matt Beienburg, director of the Goldwater Institute's Van Sittert Center for Constitutional Advocacy shares the details and why this amendment is needed in Arizona. 

Orville Wiseman of Wiseman Aviation shares his decades of stories and experiences as Flagstaff's fixed based operator (FBO) & flight school. I actually received my private pilots license from Orville's flight school as have 1000's over the decades. Orville shares some amazing stories of flying, Flagstaff challenging high elevation mountain airport, the history of aviation in Northern Arizona and the challenges airlines have in small rural communities. We also talk about the landing fee controversy and the potential for a new Arizona and federal law banning these fee's for general aviation planes. Orville touches on fighting forest fires and the role his FBO has at the historic Lindberg Winslow Airport in fueling and providing a location for the firefighter pilots to load the slurry to put out wildfires throughout the region. He also shares some of the famous people he's met over the years flying into Flagstaff (KFLG) Airport.    NOTE: This interview was recorded prior to the tragic helicopter crash in Flagstaff that killed 2 DPS officers.

Gina Swoboda joins us to discuss  running for Arizona Secretary of State, why she decided to not pursue the CD1 Congressional seat, a lay of the land politically and the challenges AZ faces with elections issues going forward. 

Energy expert from PowerTheFuture.com Larry Behrens returns to the show and shares info on Greenland and its strategic importance. Plus we talk Project Vault and the push to protect America's critical minerals. We also touch on Arizona's “summer blend” of fuel, refinery's, windmills and more.

Angela and I start off with a death in Flagstaff currently being investigated as an alleged fraternity hazing incident. A bill that requires gender at birth in use of bathrooms advances and is one step closer to the voters of AZ. Government shutdown 2.0 update. New SNAP requirements take hold. Sen. Kelly's big haul. Olivia discusses the possibility of a new national park in AZ. An organized theft ring participant gets a jail sentence and more!

Mark Haughwout joins me to talk about more ICE protests, some locally with school kids walking out and where this may all be heading. We also hit on the potential outcome of the 2026 election federally and in Arizona. 

Congressman Abe Hamadeh returns to the show with his thoughts on the ICE protests, immigration, the potential of a government shutdown this week and his bill The Federal Workforce Civics Competency and Accountability Act.

Will the Arizona Independent Party confuse Arizona Independent voters, Angela and I explain. I highlight crazy Democrat bills that will become law if AZ flips blue. An update on ICE, protests and illegal immigration. 

State Representative Quang Nguyen (R-LD1) returns to the show and discusses some of his bills that fight human trafficking, keeps Arizonans safe from sex offenders, drug traffickers and fights for the Second Amendment. He also weighs in on ICE, protestors and illegal immigration.

Angela joins me for updates including a new AZ GOP chair, a state budget that continues to grow and AZ AG growing controversy for comments on ICE. We also touch on the EU's delusions of super power status, the US exiting the WHO, Omars wealth and more. Plus, the next controversy in Flagstaff, a Mormon temple.