Podcasts about The Arizona Republic

Anxieties you might assume are from a liberal law professor against President Donald Trump and his administration are coming from an unexpected source: Arizona Supreme Court Justice Clint Bolick. Appointed by Republican Governor Doug Ducey and a described "rockstar of the right" Bolick is no lefty, but he can't help but worry about the way the President is disregarding court decisions. This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, we are joined by an Arizona Republic reporter who spoke candidly with Bolick about why he sees the current moment as so perilous and how people on both sides of the aisle have responded to his call-out. Read Taylor Seely's article here Email us! thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Guest: Taylor Seely⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mary Jo Pitzl⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠Ron Hansen⁠⁠ Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amanda Luberto⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The rumors might be true... the desert heat is hot– maybe even hot enough to cook your breakfast. Just ask the town of Oatman, Arizona, where the annual egg fry competition has become a long-standing tradition. If anyone can confirm the myth, it's the participants. But as it turns out– there is always more to the story. In this week's episode of Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, we explore this Arizona heat myth, with the help of a climatologist, food safety expert, and small-town competition to answer the question: can you really cook an egg on the sidewalk in Arizona? ⁠⁠⁠⁠Submit your question⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ about Phoenix! Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Watchlist⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, our Friday media newsletter. Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Guests: Bobby Mursick, Erinanne Saffell, Heather Miller Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Abby Bessinger⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rep. Yassamin Ansari has spent her freshman year in Congress making national headlines. She made national headlines for her travel to El Salvador where she tried, unsuccessfully, to meet with a man who was deported to that country as part of President Donald Trump's mass deportation effort. At the same time, she's thinking about her political party – from who will run for president in 2028 to who is signing up new voters. This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, we are joined by Rep. Ansari to break down her first year in Congress and her attempts to work across the aisle. Email us! thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mary Jo Pitzl⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, Ron Hansen⁠ Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amanda Luberto⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Breaking Battlegrounds, Chuck and Sam are joined by Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota to discuss his latest bills, including the No DOT Funds for Sanctuary Cities Act, the FASTER Act, and legislation to protect women's sports at military academies. Johnson also shares insights from his committee work on Agriculture, Infrastructure, and the China Select Committee and explains why he's running for governor. Next, AEI's Daniel Buck dives into the broken world of American education, from Harvard's “Queering Education” course to why no one actually likes high expectations, laying out how ideology has replaced academics and what real reform could look like. Finally, Congressman Andy Biggs joins us in studio to talk about federalism in the Trump era, what Congress must prioritize before year's end, and why he's running to replace Katie Hobbs as Arizona's governor. And as always, stay tuned for Kiley's Corner, where she discusses the Devil's Den double homicide and what one furious woman did after catching her boyfriend cheating. Don't miss this packed episode! Subscribe at BreakingBattlegrounds.Vote or wherever you get your podcasts to never miss an episode.www.breakingbattlegrounds.voteTwitter: www.twitter.com/Breaking_BattleFacebook: www.facebook.com/breakingbattlegroundsInstagram: www.instagram.com/breakingbattlegroundsLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/breakingbattlegroundsTruth Social: https://truthsocial.com/@breakingbattlegroundsShow sponsors:Santa Has A Podcast - This episode of Breaking Battlegrounds is brought to you by Santa Has a Podcast — a show for the whole family filled with kindness challenges, North Pole stories, elf updates, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic all year long. Listen now at SantaHasAPodcast.com.Invest Yrefy - investyrefy.comOld Glory DepotSupport American jobs while standing up for your values. OldGloryDepot.com brings you conservative pride on premium, made-in-USA gear. Don't settle—wear your patriotism proudly.Learn more at: OldGloryDepot.comDot VoteWith a .VOTE website, you ensure your political campaign stands out among the competition while simplifying how you reach voters.Learn more at: dotvote.vote4Freedom MobileExperience true freedom with 4Freedom Mobile, the exclusive provider offering nationwide coverage on all three major US networks (Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile) with just one SIM card. Our service not only connects you but also shields you from data collection by network operators, social media platforms, government agencies, and more.Use code ‘Battleground' to get your first month for $9 and save $10 a month every month after.Learn more at: 4FreedomMobile.comAbout our guest:Dusty Johnson brings an energetic and optimistic style to Washington as South Dakota's lone voice in the U.S. House of Representatives. An outspoken leader on issues related to border security, countering China, and welfare reform, he serves on the Select Committee on China, Agriculture Committee, and Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He also chairs the Republican Main Street Caucus, a group of 80 solutions-focused conservatives. Prior to being elected to Congress, he served as chief of staff to the Governor and as vice president of an engineering firm specializing in rural telecommunications. Dusty lives in Mitchell with his wife and three sons.-Daniel Buck is a research fellow at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), director of the Conservative Education Reform Network (CERN), and an affiliate of AEI's James Q. Wilson Program in K–12 Education Studies, where his work focuses on K–12 education, charter schooling, curriculum reform, and school safety and discipline.Before joining AEI, Mr. Buck was a senior fellow at the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, an assistant principal at Lake County Classical Academy, and a classroom teacher at Hope Christian Schools, Holy Spirit Middle School, and Green Bay Area Public Schools.His work has appeared in the popular press, including The Wall Street Journal, National Affairs, and National Review. Mr. Buck is the author of What Is Wrong with Our Schools? (2022).Mr. Buck has a master's degree and a bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. You can follow him on X @MrDanielBuck.-Congressman Andy Biggs is an Arizona native and currently serving his third term in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Arizona's Fifth District. He lives in Gilbert with his wife of 40 years, Cindy. They have six children and seven grandchildren.Congressman Biggs received his bachelor's degree in Asian Studies from Brigham Young University; his M.A. in Political Science from Arizona State University; and his J.D. degree from the University of Arizona. He is a retired attorney, who has been licensed to practice law in Arizona, Washington, and New Mexico.Before being elected to Congress, Congressman Biggs served in the Arizona Legislature for 14 years – the last four as the Arizona Senate President.Congressman Biggs is a member of the House Judiciary and Oversight and Reform committees. He is chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, co-chair of the Border Security Caucus, co-chair of the War Powers Caucus, and Chief Regulatory Reform Officer of the Western Caucus.Congressman Biggs has a lifetime rating of 100% with the Club for Growth, 98% lifetime score with FreedomWorks, 95% lifetime score with Heritage Action, 100% rating in the 116th Congress for National Right to Life, and a 99% career grade from NumbersUSA.The Arizona Republic named Congressman Biggs as one of its "10 Arizona people you'll want to watch in 2019," arguing that "Biggs makes the public case for the conservative position and often in defense of the Trump administration. He's very good at it. His advocacy tends to be well-reasoned and persuasive, not inflammatory...To keep an eye on what congressional conservatives are thinking and advocating, Biggs is increasingly one to watch." biggsforarizona.com Get full access to Breaking Battlegrounds at breakingbattlegrounds.substack.com/subscribe

Alfredo Gutierrez, a nationally known migrants-rights activist and prominent politician, has died. At 79 years old, he succumbed to esophageal cancer on Tuesday, July 29. Through his long service in the state, Gutierrez exhibited an activist's DNA despite his role inside the government. He sought social justice with his dual passions of civil rights and educational access, especially for immigrants. This week on a special episode of The Gaggle, an Arizona political podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, host Mary Jo Pitzl takes you through the notable life of Alfredo Gutierrez. Rather than us talking about Gutierrez, you'll hear from the man himself along with former state House minority leader Art Hamilton, former Phoenix mayor Terry Goddard, former state Senate President Pete Rios and notable friends. Read Alfredo Gutierrez's obituary. Email us! thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mary Jo Pitzl⁠⁠⁠⁠ Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amanda Luberto⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If the Mariners can pull off a trade for Geno Suarez, how much will they be giving up? Nick Piecoro who covers the D-Backs for the Arizona Republic joins Bump and Curtis Rogers to start hour two. In The Timeline, another WNBA star is taking shots at Caitlin Clark.

In Hour 4 we were joined by Brady Henderson from ESPN covering the Seattle Seahawks, the Arizona Republic's Nick Piecoro covering the Arizona Diamonbacks, and Chris Scheetz live from KDays for Alberta Dreams. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During Hour 4 Nick Piecoro from the Arizona Republic joined the show discussing the Arizona Diamondbacks plans heading into the MLB's trade deadline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Peacock's hit reality TV series “Love Island USA” wrapped it's seventh season on Sunday, July 13 after leveraging millions of viewers worldwide for its juicy summer drama. However, Season 7 had an unusual run despite many rocky relationships in the villa and bombshells “taking your man.” The drama went beyond Fiji when several accounts of public backlash rose against contestants online. Arizona contestant Cierra Ortega was removed from the villa, though she was not the only one. This week on Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, we answer the questions: What is the controversy behind an Arizona “Love island” contestant and what this scandal may mean for casting reality television contestants moving forward. Submit your question⁠⁠⁠⁠ about Phoenix! Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠. Guests: Dina Kaur Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Abby Bessinger, Amanda Luberto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While the rest of the U.S. Senate will go on its annual break in August, Arizona freshman Ruben Gallego is heading to Des Moines to meet with middle America to potentially gauge his chances in what is expected to be a crowded field of Democratic contenders. This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, hosts Ron Hansen and Mary Jo Pitzl are joined by Des Moines Register politics reporter Brianne Pfannensteil. She joins the podcast to talk through what this trip means, if stopping at the Iowa State Fair is still a strong indicator of who is interested in the White House spot and how voters outside of Arizona view the senator. Email us! thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Guest: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Brianne Pfannensteil⁠ Hosts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ron Hansen⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Mary Jo Pitzl⁠⁠ Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amanda Luberto⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steve Benson, former cartoonist for the Arizona Republic, a fierce critic of the Mormon Church despite his family's prominence within it, and a notable creator of controversial cartoons during the 1990s and 2000s, has passed away. Born in 1954, Benson began his career at the Arizona Republic in 1980, where he won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning in 1993. His work sparked debate, reflecting his acidic stance on political and social issues, including his public critiques of the Mormon Church, which led to personal shunning and professional tensions. On the “DMZ America Podcast,” fellow political cartoonists Scott Stantis and Ted Rall discuss Benson's life as they knew their colleague, both professionally and personally.For Scott, who was deeply wronged by Benson, this news carries a complexity that those left behind are rarely permitted to acknowledge, let alone discuss publicly. On DMZ, we explore that strange feeling when someone who passes leaves behind a mixed legacy.Tune in for a thoughtful, intelligent discussion about humanity and death.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

The newly chosen Phoenix police chief says it's a dream come true to return to the department where he started his career. A pair of conservation groups are suing the Trump administration over a stretch of Arizona borderland that's slated to see wall construction in the next two months. Plus, a remembrance of Steve Benson, the longtime political cartoonist for the Arizona Republic.

Steve Benson, former cartoonist for the Arizona Republic, a fierce critic of the Mormon Church despite his family's prominence within it, and a notable creator of controversial cartoons during the 1990s and 2000s, has passed away. Born in 1954, Benson began his career at the Arizona Republic in 1980, where he won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning in 1993. His work sparked debate, reflecting his acidic stance on political and social issues, including his public critiques of the Mormon Church, which led to personal shunning and professional tensions. On the “DMZ America Podcast,” fellow political cartoonists Scott Stantis and Ted Rall discuss Benson's life as they knew their colleague, both professionally and personally.For Scott, who was deeply wronged by Benson, this news carries a complexity that those left behind are rarely permitted to acknowledge, let alone discuss publicly. On DMZ, we explore that strange feeling when someone who passes leaves behind a mixed legacy.Tune in for a thoughtful, intelligent discussion about humanity and death.Support the showThe DMZ America Podcast is recorded weekly by political cartoonists Ted Rall and Scott Stantis. Twitter/X: @scottstantis and @tedrallWeb: Rall.com

President Donald Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law in a Fourth of July ceremony, making tax cuts he passed during his first term permanent. It offsets those revenue losses to the government with steep cuts to services like the Medicaid program, requiring states to be responsible for funding food stamp programs and delivering tax cuts to the wealthiest taxpayers. This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, our hosts are joined by Republic reporter Stephanie Murray. Together they discuss the key points out of the Big Beautiful Bill, how Arizona politicians showed up and how the new law will impact Arizonans daily. Email us! thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Guest: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stephanie Murray Hosts: ⁠⁠⁠Ron Hansen⁠, ⁠Mary Jo Pitzl⁠ Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amanda Luberto⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

7-8-25 Arizona Republic Sports Reporter Richard Obert joins TEAM Talk as Grand Canyon joins the MWC immediately

On this episode we're joined by José Ignacio Castañeda Perez. He's a reporter for Spotlight Delaware, a local independent journalism non-profit. He's been there for the last year and a half. Previously he covered border issues for the The Arizona Republic and Underserved Communities for The Wilmington Delaware News Journal. He's specializing in reporting on immigration in Delaware. He's a graduate of Arizona State and is a recent recipient of The Chauncey Bailey Fellowship, for which he'll be doing an investigative project.José talked about all that covering immigration entails, the kind of stories that Spotlight Delaware pursues and how those stories are presented to their audience. He also shared advice for aspiring reporters and provided insights into some of the tough realities of the job.José's salute: Migrant InsiderThank you for listening. You can e-mail me at journalismsalute@gmail.com Visit our website: thejournalismsalute.org  Mark's website (MarkSimonmedia.com) Tweet us at @journalismpod and Bluesky at @marksimon.bsky.social Subscribe to our newsletter– journalismsalute.substack.com

Happily, metro Phoenix has some great pizza places. Places? Joints? Choose your own colloquialism. Your favorite pizza place says a lot about you. So who has the best? Lucky for us, we have a way of figuring this out. The Arizona Republic's 2025 Phoenix Pizza Poll... This week on Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com about metro Phoenix and beyond, host ⁠⁠Bill Goodykoontz⁠ chats with Endia Fontanez, the food and dining reporter for The Republic and the lucky winner of the contest, Jeff Carlberg. ⁠⁠Submit your question⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ about Phoenix! Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Watchlist⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, our Friday media newsletter. Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Guests: ⁠Endia Fontanez, Jeff Carlberg Host: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bill Goodykoontz⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Abby Bessinger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this month's podcast episode of 12:01 The Death Penalty in Context, DPI's Managing Director Anne Holsinger speaks with Sam Levin, a correspondent with The Guardian who covers criminal justice and the legal system, and Jimmy Jenkins, a criminal justice reporter for The Arizona Republic, about the challenges they encounter when reporting on the increasing secretive use of the death penalty.  Mr. Jenkins has witnessed executions in Arizona and Mr. Levin has recently investigated South Carolina's return to executions after a 13-year pause.

On July 4th, 1776, 56 men signed a document declaring the newly formed 13 colonies as one United States of America. By this charter, they formed a new country, one free from Britain's rule. The Declaration of Independence showcased the rights and beliefs of the new country. It was a written record of what America would stand for, and it was signed by the nation's founding fathers. Today, to honor the country's sovereignty, the gaggle presents a reading of the Declaration of independence. Here to read the country founding document are reporters and staff of the Arizona Republic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arizona has been home to many musical acts — some born and raised here, others who found fame along the way. But who's the biggest artist to come out of the Grand Canyon state? Is it Alice Cooper? Stevie Nicks? Linda Ronstadt? The answer might surprise you. This week on Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com about metro Phoenix and beyond, host ⁠Bill Goodykoontz teams up with Republic pop music critic and reporter Ed Masley⁠ to settle the debate. ⁠Submit your question⁠⁠⁠⁠ about Phoenix! Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Watchlist⁠⁠⁠⁠, our Friday media newsletter. Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠. Guests: Ed Masley Host: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Bill Goodykoontz⁠⁠⁠⁠ Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Abby Bessinger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, hosts Ron Hansen and Mary Jo Pitzl speak with Republic reporters Stacey Barchenger and Ray Stern to explore the politics of this unusual Arizona Legislature budget cycle. Email us! thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Guests: ⁠⁠⁠ Ray Stern, Stacey Barchenger Host: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Mary Jo Pitzl⁠⁠⁠⁠, Ronald J. Hansen Producers: Abby Bessinger, Maritza Dominguez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jessica Vaughan, America's leading expert on immigration law, has some ideas! Jessica has written articles for the Washington Post, New York Times, National Review, Boston Globe, The Economist, San Francisco Chronicle, the National Interest, Arizona Republic, and has appeared on NPR, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, and PBS's NewsHour.

Jessica Vaughan, America's leading expert on immigration law, has some ideas!Jessica has written articles for the Washington Post, New York Times, National Review, Boston Globe, The Economist, San Francisco Chronicle, the National Interest, Arizona Republic, and has appeared on NPR, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, and PBS's NewsHour.

Monsoons are an ancient phenomenon, bringing heavy bursts of rain and wind to the Valley. But there's much more to know about this season. This week on Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com about metro Phoenix and beyond. Tom Frieders, the warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Phoenix, and Sean McLaughlin, a meteorologist at Arizona's Family stations answer the question: When does the monsoon REALLY start? Submit your question⁠⁠⁠ about Phoenix! Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠The Watchlist⁠⁠⁠, our Friday media newsletter. Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠. Guests: Tom Frieders, Sean Mclaughlin Host: ⁠⁠⁠Bill Goodykoontz⁠⁠⁠ Producer: ⁠⁠⁠Abby Bessinger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Roundtable! Grant, Andy and Sam are here to talk about all the big MLB news and stories. Sam is on vacation this week, so Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic joins the boys. They talk about what the D-backs might do at the trade deadline, what to make of Ohtani's return to the mound and how insanely hot is the Big Dumper Cal Raleigh.-Follow Grant on X/Twitter: @GrantBrisbee-Follow Andy on X/Twitter: @ByMcCullough-Follow Sam on X/Twitter: @SamMillerBBHosts: Grant Brisbee, Andy McCulloughWith: Nick PiecoroExecutive Producer: Brian Smith Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Craig welcomes on Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic to react to the blockbuster trade that sends Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets. In return, the Suns receive Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 pick in this year's NBA Draft, and five second-round picks. Duane breaks down what this deal means for Phoenix, how it reflects the organization's direction, and whether this marks the start of a new era—or a full reset—for the Suns.

A proper understanding of the history of Juneteenth and why an Arizona Republic columnist got it oh soo wrong. We're joined by John Dombroski, founder and president of Grand Canyon Planning Associates. Speculation on Iran's next move in the Iran-Israel War; negotiate or fight on? A listener call-in on the recent anti-U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protests in America cities. Seth digs into Producer David Doll on etiquette.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Drownings are an unfortunately part of covering news in Arizona, but one has captured more attention than normal. This week on Valley 101, a podcast by the Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, we discuss the case of influencer Emilie Kieser's son and drowning prevention. Submit your question⁠⁠ about Phoenix! Subscribe to ⁠⁠The Watchlist⁠⁠, our Friday media newsletter. Follow us on ⁠⁠X,⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠. Guests: Lori Stauffer, Elena Santa Cruz⁠, KiMi Robinson Host: ⁠⁠Bill Goodykoontz⁠⁠ Producer: ⁠⁠Abby Bessinger⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

June 2025 marks a decade since the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage. The landmark 5-4 ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges resolved a long-standing national debate and brought together a conflicting patchwork of state laws. Eight months before the SCOTUS decision, the Republican-dominated state of Arizona legalized same sex marriages, though the road to get there was rocky. This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, host Mary Jo Pitzl is joined by Republic editor Shaun McKinnon and LGBTQ+ rights advocate Sheila Kloefkorn to look back at the events that led to Arizona in 2014 joining the states that legally recognize gay marriage, and cast forward on what challenges remain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sonoita is one of three American Viticultural Areas in the state, and due to their higher elevation, they make excellent locations in the desert to grow wine. Unlike the greater Phoenix metro area, these parts of Arizona don't see triple-digit temperatures nearly every day in the summer and they also get a lot of rain. Arizona is home to more than 150 wineries now and small towns are dependent on them for tourism and economic boosts. So how are vintners adjusting to climate change in the desert and how is it impacting the wine industry overall? This week on Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com about metro Phoenix and beyond, we take a look at how changing weather patterns are affecting wine growing and how Arizona can even grow it in the first place. Submit your question⁠⁠⁠⁠ about Phoenix! Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠. Guests: Michael Pierce, Corey Turnbull, Brian Freedman⁠ Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amanda Luberto⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's show,  Sherrod Blakely and Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic discuss the recent coaching hire of the Suns, the future of Kevin Durant and possible ties to Boston, the NBA Finals, and an apology to Tyrese Halliburton. 0:00 - Welcome in Guest 2:00 - Suns Hire New Head Coach 8:50 - Future of Kevin Durant with Suns 11:33 - Future of Bradley Beal with Suns 19:40 - Potential Kevin Durant to Boston Trade 23:12 - Prizepicks 24:45 - Expectations for the Suns next season 32:40 - Takeaways from NBA Finals 43:41 - Wrapping up SUBSCRIBE to The Big 3 NBA Podcast ⤵️

Last week, news broke that the depletion of groundwater across the Colorado River Basin has been quietly, rapidly outpacing the more visible decline of the river itself. Even as the seven basin states negotiate reduced consumption of river water—inevitably driving dependence toward local aquifers instead—this newly published research shows that the majority ofmost of the water lost throughout the basin in recent years has been underground. In the Lower Colorado River Basin alone, groundwater has accounted for 71% of total water supply loss.  Jay Famiglietti, a longtime contributor to Ten Across, specializes in the use of satellite data to monitor the world's groundwater mass. His team's new findings focus on the U.S. Southwest—a region at the forefront of the nation's water supply challenges and the complex balances between resource limitations and economic growth.  As states and cities in the Colorado River Basin and elsewhere develop water management strategies to sustain themselves through future constraints, a growing understanding of groundwater supply is key to effective proactive policy. It is increasingly clear that time is of the essence for this uniquely finite resource.   Listen in as Ten Across founder Duke Reiter and Jay Famiglietti discuss the concrete findings in this report, the immediate and long-term implications for agriculture in the Southwest, and Jay's motivations for raising awareness of groundwater usage in the Ten Across region and beyond.  Relevant articles and resources:  Read the open access study: “Declining Freshwater Availability in the Colorado River Basin Threatens Sustainability of Its Critical Groundwater Supplies”  Read The Washington Post's analysis  More analysis from The Guardian and Inside Climate News  Catch up on the Colorado River negotiations  Listen to Jay's first podcast appearance  Related headlines:   “ADWR Director Briefs UA Water Resources Research Center Conference on Colorado River Negotiations” (azwater.gov, June 2025)  “It's not just big alfalfa farms. La Paz residents fear groundwater grab by big cities” (Arizona Republic, June 2025)  “Arizona wants this city to cut its groundwater use. Residents want flexibility” (Arizona Republic, May 2025)  “Even in wet years, wells are still dry. Why replenishing California's groundwater is painfully slow” (Cal Matters, February 2025)  “Opinion: Will We Have to Pump the Great Lakes to California to Feed the Nation?” (The New York Times, August 2024)  Credits:Host: Duke ReiterProducer and editor: Taylor GriffithMusic by: Lupus Nocte and TellsonicResearch and support provided by: Kate Carefoot, Rae Ulrich, and Sabine Butler

Pretty much everyone can tell you their favorite spot around town to dine. Sometimes it's the newer classics like First & Last or Valentine. Sometimes it's standard Valley must-haves like Chuck Box for a burger or Long Wong's for wings. While you can take a suggestion from just about anyone why not ask the experts. When Arizona's best chefs step away from the oven, stove or grill, where do they like to dine? This week on Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com about metro Phoenix and beyond, we sit down with the Republic's dining and nightlife reporter Bahar Anooshahr about her new series Chef's Night Out. ⁠⁠Submit your question⁠⁠⁠ about Phoenix! Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠. Guests: Bahar Anooshahr⁠ Producers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amanda Luberto⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arizona Representative Yassamin Ansari's (D) visit to the Eloy Detention Center and its coverage in The Arizona Republic. 960ThePatriot host Charlie Kirk's thoughts on his recent visit to the Great Britain, "Trust me: Trump’s revolution is coming to the UK" from British magazine The Spectator. Clips from some of William F. Buckley Jr.'s many great debates. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The state's Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes is focused on the Republicans who tried to help sidestep Arizona's certified election results. A Maricopa County Superior Court judge recently ordered Mayes to take her evidence back to the grand jury to inform them of a key legal argument made by the electors. This ruling may — or may not — undercut Mayes' case enough to reconsider a matter she has framed as protecting democracy itself. This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, hosts Ron Hansen and Mary Jo Pitzl are joined by former Democratic Attorney General Terry Goddard, and later, Republic reporter Stacey Barchenger. Goddard breaks down how rare it is for a case to go back to the grand jury for matters of defense, rather than elements of the alleged crimes, and other insights into the law. Stacey then joins The Gaggle to discuss this specific case and what it means for Mayes' political future. Email us! thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Guests: ⁠⁠Terry Goddard, Stacey Barchenger⁠. Hosts: ⁠Ron Hansen⁠, ⁠Mary Jo Pitzl⁠ Producer: ⁠Amanda Luberto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It gets hot in the Valley. Perhaps you've noticed. But no matter how hot it gets, even on a 118-degree day in the middle of August, someone is going to be out jogging. You can count on it. But if they end up on the mountain, and they end up not being able to bare the heat, what should be done about it? In this week's episode of Valley 101, we talked with Caitlin McGlade, a reporter for The Arizona Republic who wrote about trail closures, and Rob McDade, the public information officer for the Phoenix Fire Department, about the pros and cons of closing down the mountain trails in the summer. Submit your question⁠⁠ about Phoenix! Subscribe to ⁠⁠The Watchlist⁠⁠, our Friday media newsletter. Follow us on ⁠⁠X,⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠. Guest: ⁠Caitlin McGlade, Rob McDade Host: ⁠⁠Bill Goodykoontz⁠⁠ Producers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amanda Luberto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Trump administration has only been in office for a few months, but the early days seem to make good on a promise of stricter immigration reform and border security. But an intimidating defense along the border is not the only reason detention numbers have decreased. And deportations in other parts of Arizona — like Phoenix — are actually increasing. This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com,  we discuss what the border has looked like since Trump regained office, what it means for the communities along the border, and how a crack down on immigration is playing out in Phoenix. Email us! thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠⁠. Guests: ⁠Richard Ruelas⁠, ⁠Raphael Romero Ruiz⁠. Hosts: Ron Hansen, Mary Jo Pitzl Producer: Amanda Luberto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Windows-open season is about done. Now it's all on the mighty air conditioner, the reason we can all make it through another desert summer. But something about air conditioning units in Phoenix is a little different than the rest of the country. This week on Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and ⁠⁠azcentral.com⁠⁠, we answer the question: Why do homes in Phoenix have air conditioning units on the roof? ⁠⁠Submit your question⁠⁠ about Phoenix! Follow us on ⁠⁠X,⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠. Guests: Joe Granado Producers: ⁠⁠⁠Amanda Luberto, ⁠Abby Bessinger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As lawmakers are on break, work is going on behind the scenes on an education-related bill that would raise teacher pay and maybe provide constitutional protections for Arizona's private-school voucher program. Despite widespread agreement that the funding stream from the trust fund should continue, how to get the plan over the finish line is being hotly debated behind closed doors. This will leave a new version of what is commonly called Proposition 123 up to the voters, presumably in November 2026. But will that be the most strategic way to handle the situation? This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, we analyze different ways Prop 123 2.0 could show up. Email us! ⁠⁠⁠thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com⁠⁠⁠ Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠X,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠⁠. Guest: Lorna Romero Ferguson, owner of Elevate Strategies Host: ⁠⁠⁠Mary Jo Pitzl⁠⁠⁠  Producers: Amanda Luberto, Abby Bessinger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Flagstaff makes it easier to see the stars and explore the galaxies. It has also set the standard for how we should care and protect our night skies. This week on Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and ⁠azcentral.com⁠, we answer the question: How did Flagstaff become the world's first international dark sky city? ⁠Submit your question⁠ about Phoenix! Follow us on ⁠X,⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Tik Tok⁠. Guests: Christian Luginbuhl, Josh Coddington Producer, Host: ⁠ Abby Bessinger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you follow the evolution of American education, you are surely aware of Arizona State University's transformation under the leadership of Michael Crow. In a little over two decades, Crow has grown ASU into one of the largest and most influential public universities, in terms of overall enrollment, research expenditures, and the adoption of new technologies. In doing so, he has become an internationally recognized voice in the future of higher education at large. Built on a precise set of guiding principles outlined in his inaugural address, the university consistently garners accolades for community and global impact, environmental sustainability, and graduate employability.  In a field where peer institutions have traditionally competed based on exclusivity, ASU's success is derived from its 2014 Charter, which declared that this university would be "measured not by whom it excludes, but by whom it includes and how they succeed." Crow's New American University model defies the norms of rising tuition, low acceptance rates and inflexible learning pathways, with an aim to prioritize meaningful change in the lives of more students and the communities which it serves.   Ten Across, of course, is itself responsive to ASU's Charter and its design aspirations, particularly its emphasis on place. As a unique subset of ASU, Ten Across strives to deliver outsized impact through intentional networks, education, and media that address high-stakes issues experienced throughout the I-10 region—many of which are exacerbated by climate change.  Listen in as Michael Crow explains why Arizona was the place he chose for the development of this highly inclusive and innovative model of higher education, and the efforts that have gone into transforming ASU from a small state college into a global humanitarian and technological engine generating solutions to some of our most difficult challenges.  Related articles and resources:  Michael Crow explains the “invisible hand” of university research in conversation with Rice University President Reginald DesRoches  “ASU boosts the economic vitality of Arizona” (ASU News, January 2025)   “Why Phoenix is the ‘Most American City' with George Packer” (Ten Across Conversations, August 2024)  “'Evolve Or Die' —Michael Crow's Challenge to U.S. Higher Education” (Forbes, May 2025)  “Democrats need a leader like ASU President Michael Crow to rescue them” (Arizona Republic, January 2025)  Credits:  Host: Duke Reiter  Producer and editor: Taylor Griffith  Music by: Helmut Schenker and Pearce Roswell  Research and support provided: Kate Carefoot, Rae Ulrich, and Sabine Butler

Currently, Republicans have only a seven-seat advantage over Democrats, and that is likely to shrink by two seats after this year's special elections to fill vacancies. Republicans are standing strong behind Trump, but Democrats are eagerly using this to their advantage. But will that work in Arizona and its two swing districts, Congressional District 1 and Congressional District 6? This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, hosts Ron Hansen and Mary Jo Pitzl are joined by Nathan Gonzales of Inside Elections. He is the editor of the non-partisan elections analysis website Email us! ⁠⁠thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com⁠⁠ Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on ⁠⁠X,⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Tik Tok⁠⁠. Guest: Nathan Gonzales, editor of Inside Elections Hosts: ⁠⁠Ron Hansen⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Mary Jo Pitzl⁠⁠  Producer: ⁠⁠Amanda Luberto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Among the known laws like following the speed limit or no drinking in public places, Arizona also has a bunch of wacky laws. Some are particular to Arizona like laws against saguaros and some are just...odd. This week on Valley 101, a podcast about metro Phoenix and beyond by the Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, Bill Goodykoontz is joined by Stephanie Innes to go over the 8 weirdest laws on Arizona's books. Submit your question⁠ about Phoenix! Subscribe to ⁠The Watchlist⁠, our Friday media newsletter. Follow us on ⁠X,⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Tik Tok⁠. Guest: Stephanie Innes Host: ⁠Bill Goodykoontz⁠ Producers: ⁠Abby Bessinger⁠, ⁠Amanda Luberto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the 100-day mark of Trump's second term, his approval ratings are the lowest for any newly elected president in over 50 years and economic warning signs are pointing toward a recession. This should be a clear sign that Democrats will be successful in the 2026 election as they try to flip the House, but infighting might be getting in their way. This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, hosts Ron Hansen and Mary Jo Pitzl are joined by Dave Wasserman. He's the senior editor and elections analyst for the non-partisan Cook Political Report. Email us! ⁠thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com⁠ Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on ⁠X,⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Tik Tok⁠. Guest: Dave Wasserman, senior editor & election analyst at Cook Political Report Hosts: ⁠Ron Hansen⁠, ⁠Mary Jo Pitzl⁠  Producer: ⁠Amanda Luberto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

April 2, 2025 marked Bill's 35th year at The Arizona Republic. That's a long time to do anything, much less work at the same media company. So much has changed in those 35 years, in media, in Arizona and in his own life, it seemed like a good time to sit back and take stock for a moment. This week on Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, he sits down with producer Amanda Luberto to share what's changed in 35 years at the Republic. Submit your question⁠ about Phoenix! Subscribe to ⁠The Watchlist⁠, our Friday media newsletter. Follow us on ⁠X,⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Tik Tok⁠. Host: ⁠Bill Goodykoontz⁠ Producer: ⁠Amanda Luberto⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In January of 2025, a 14-year-old Indigenous girl went missing without a trace from her home in Mesa, Arizona. Just weeks later, her dismembered remains were discovered on the side of a highway a few hours away. Investigators began to dive into a devastating homicide investigation, but it is still very much underway. This is the murder of Emily Pike.Sources:Blasius, Melissa, et al. “What Led up to Emily Pike's Placement in Foster Care?” ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV), ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV), 15 Apr. 2025, https://www.abc15.com/news/local-news/what-led-up-to-emily-pikes-placement-in-foster-care.DeYoung, Lauren, and Robert Anglen. AZ Central, 15 Apr. 2025, https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2025/04/15/emily-pike-san-carlos-apache-tribe-homicide-investigation/83016994007/?utm_campaign=trueanthem&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwY2xjawJyC_tleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHq6CGD6NvXUs6oNFiGUTdzJ.Grace, Nancy. Horrifying Discovery: Emily Pike's Body Found Off US 60. YouTube, 24 Mar. 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xAz9Sz83Kok.Holden, Ashley. “New Reports: Emily Pike Didn't Want to Return to Group Home.” ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV), ABC15 Arizona in Phoenix (KNXV), 24 Mar. 2025, https://www.abc15.com/news/region-southeast-valley/mesa/new-reports-emily-pike-didnt-want-to-return-to-group-home.Krasean, Nicole. “Family of Emily Pike Says Murdered 14-Year-Old Was a Sexual Assault Victim before the Murder Occurred | FOX 10 Phoenix.” FOX 10 Phoenix, FOX 10 Phoenix, 16 Apr. 2025, https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/family-emily-pike-says-murdered-14-year-old-was-sexual-assault-victim-before-murder-occurred.“Family of Emily Pike Says Murdered 14-Year-Old Was a Sexual Assault Victim before the Murder Occurred | FOX 10 Phoenix.” FOX 10 Phoenix, 16 Apr. 2025, https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/family-emily-pike-says-murdered-14-year-old-was-sexual-assault-victim-before-murder-occurred.The Interview Room. EMILY PIKE: IS THIS A SERIAL KILLER? - The Interview Room with Chris McDonough. YouTube, 14 Apr. 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1e2W0EUPXE.Whitney, Briana. “Former Roommate Describes What Happened Before Emily Pike's Mesa Disappearance.” Https://www.Azfamily.Com, https://www.facebook.com/arizonasfamily/, 5 Mar. 2025, https://www.azfamily.com/2025/03/05/former-roommate-describes-what-happened-before-emily-pikes-mesa-disappearance/.Young, Lauren De. “Slain Apache Teen Emily Pike Honored in San Carlos Memorial Service.” The Arizona Republic, Arizona Republic, 30 Mar. 2025, https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona/2025/03/29/slain-teen-emily-pike-honored-san-carlos-memorial-service/82697107007/.Legiscan, 2025, https://legiscan.com/AZ/text/HB2281/id/3059181

National economic uncertainty is impacting Arizona lawmakers and their budget deadline. But this year, there may be good reason to push to the last minute. Fluctuating tariff policies and Congress' want for billions in savings has made it unclear how much money Arizona can spend quite yet. This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, hosts Ron Hansen and Mary Jo Pitzl take a look at Arizona's economic forecast and what it might mean for state spending in the year ahead. Email us! thegaggle@arizonarepublic.com Leave us a voicemail: 602-444-0804 Follow us on X, Instagram and Tik Tok. Hosts: Ron Hansen, Mary Jo Pitzl  Producer: Amanda Luberto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Continuously, Arizona drivers are ranked among the worst in the nation. Just last year, a Forbes study using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the U.S. Census Bureau ranked Phoenix and Tucson in the top 10 cities with the worst drivers. So why are the roads in Arizona particularly dangerous, and what is being done about it? This week on Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com about metro Phoenix and beyond, we are joined by Sgt. Eric Andrews, an officer at the Department of Public Safety, to discuss driver safety in Phoenix, explain what AZ DPS is doing to help people on the road and tips for ensuring the safest ride. Also, Arizona Republic staff share some of their craziest driving stories. Submit your question about Phoenix! Follow us on X, Instagram and Tik Tok. Guests: Sgt. Eric Andrews Host, Producer: Amanda Luberto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Few people know the power of local TV more than Mary Jo West. She was a Phoenix news anchor for years, which of course cemented a place for her in the Valley's consciousness. She was the Valley's first woman news anchor, co-anchoring with Phoenix legend Bill Close — who was not thrilled about having her around. She battled sexual harassment, depression and more. But West is far more than all of that. This week on Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, we answer the question: What was it really like for the first female news anchor in Phoenix? Submit your question about Phoenix! Subscribe to The Watchlist, our Friday media newsletter. Follow us on X, Instagram and Tik Tok. Guests: Mary Jo West Host: Bill Goodykoontz Producers: Amanda Luberto, Abby Bessinger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Walter Cronkite, the longtime anchor of the "CBS Evening News," was often called "the most trusted man in America" and he probably was, certainly in terms of media figures. Arizonans might be familiar with the ASU journalism school: The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. But Cronkite, a graduate of the University of Texas, has no ties to Arizona. This week on Valley 101, a podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, we answer the question: Why is the ASU journalism school named after Walter Cronkite? Submit your question about Phoenix! Subscribe to The Watchlist, our Friday media newsletter. Follow us on X, Instagram and Tik Tok. Guests: Doug Anderson and Leonard Downie Jr. Host: Bill Goodykoontz Producers: Abby Bessinger, Amanda Luberto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices