Grand Canyon Times

In this episode of the Grand Canyon Times Podcast, host Leila Golan speaks with Timothy Manila, Director of Higher Education at the Goldwater Institute, about new reports examining Arizona's public universities. Manila outlines concerns about ideological influence in honors programs and gaps in civics education, and discusses proposed reforms to restore academic standards and accountability.  

Rachel Walden, vice chair of the Arizona Corporation Commission and a member of the Mesa Public Schools governing board, joins the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to explain her case for re-election and outline her views on education reform. She argues that public education needs a stronger focus on foundational reading and maths instruction, less ideological content in classrooms, and more rigorous board oversight of curriculum and leadership. Walden also discusses Mesa's academy model, block scheduling and new electives such as cybersecurity and finance as ways to align schooling with Arizona's growing technology and healthcare sectors. The conversation frames school boards as influential institutions shaping both student outcomes and the state's long-term economic future.

William "Bill" Beard, Municipal Affairs Liaison at the Goldwater Institute and a former member of the Pima County Election Integrity Commission, joined the Grand Canyon Times podcast to discuss the politics and policy disputes surrounding data centers. Beard argues that data centers are an extension of longstanding information infrastructure, not a novel threat, and says public debate is being distorted by misinformation about energy, water, and land use. He frames the issue primarily as one of private property rights and warns that restrictive or politically driven regulation could deter investment, weaken economic competitiveness, and leave states behind as digital infrastructure demand grows.

Educator, attorney, and author Rachelle Dené Poth joined the Grand Canyon Times podcast to discuss how artificial intelligence is being integrated into K–12 classrooms. Poth explained the practical differences between AI tools and traditional search engines, and outlined best practices for ethical use, data privacy, and academic integrity. She emphasized the need for expanded teacher training and shared how AI can save educators time while enhancing student engagement and critical thinking. Looking ahead, Poth said AI will become a routine part of education, with AI literacy emerging as a key workforce skill over the next decade.

Goldwater Institute Vice President for Legal Affairs Tim Sandefur joined the Grand Canyon Times podcast to discuss his new book, You Don't Own Me: Individualism and the Culture of Liberty. Sandefur traced the idea of individual freedom through literature, film, architecture, and American history, arguing that personal self-sovereignty is the foundation of cultural creativity and political liberty. He also addressed modern threats to individuality, including social conformity pressures and artificial intelligence, emphasizing the need for independent thinking and personal responsibility in a free society. 

In this episode of the Grand Canyon Times podcast, host Leyla Gulen speaks with Henry Thomson, Associate Professor at Arizona State University's School of Politics and Global Studies.  Thomson, a political economist and author of Food and Power and Watching the Watchers, discusses the growing polarization on college campuses and the breakdown of open, civil political discourse among students. Drawing from his international academic experience, Thomson compares U.S. polarization to global trends, reflecting on how social media, ideology, and fear of backlash have changed university culture.  In the wake of the killing of activist Charlie Kirk, he explores how universities can foster respectful debate, balance free speech with safety, and help students engage across divides by examining underlying assumptions rather than reacting emotionally.

In this episode of the Grand Canyon Times podcast, host Leyla Gulen talks with Chris Thomas, Director of Legal Strategy for Education Policy at the Goldwater Institute and a longtime Arizona school attorney. Thomas discusses findings from a Goldwater report revealing the many hidden forms of compensation for Arizona school superintendents—including car stipends, excessive vacation days, and cash payouts—that go far beyond base salaries. He explains how a lack of transparency leaves both taxpayers and school boards in the dark, and calls for public posting of superintendent contracts as already required in Indiana, Illinois, and Texas. The conversation also touches on broader education policy issues, including administrative spending versus classroom funding, chronic absenteeism, and the impact of school choice in Arizona's evolving education landscape

In this episode of the Grand Canyon Times podcast, host Leyla Gulen talks with Michael Calles, a fourth-generation Arizonan, U.S. Air Force and Army veteran, and retired Phoenix police officer running for Glendale City Council. Calles shares how nearly 30 years of public service — from law enforcement to high school coaching — inspired his campaign focused on strengthening public safety, supporting local businesses, and improving city responsiveness. He discusses his priorities for increasing patrol presence, addressing homelessness with compassion and firmness, and fostering stronger neighborhood communication. Calles also outlines his vision for smart budgeting, revitalizing Glendale's economy, and restoring community trust through transparency and direct engagement

In this episode of the Grand Canyon Times podcast, host Leyla Gulen speaks with Joseph Nixon, litigation counsel at the Public Interest Legal Foundation and a veteran election attorney with more than 30 years of experience. Nixon discusses Louisiana v. Callais, a U.S. Supreme Court case examining whether Louisiana's new congressional map violates the 14th and 15th Amendments by using race as the primary factor in redistricting. He explains how the case highlights the tension between the Voting Rights Act—which requires consideration of race to prevent voter dilution—and the Constitution's prohibition against race-based decision making. Nixon details his organization's legal brief in the case, outlines possible national implications for redistricting, and shares insights on election integrity work by the Public Interest Legal Foundation, including voter roll audits and privacy protections.

Parent advocate Tiffany Hawkins joined the Grand Canyon Times podcast to discuss her fight for transparency in Arizona's school districts. Using her auditing background, she uncovered missing public records and pushed for reforms to safety and bullying policies after her daughter was injured on campus. Hawkins described how she's worked with the state ombudsman to enforce compliance and now campaigns for stronger public access laws. She urged parents to attend board meetings, file detailed records requests, and connect through community networks to demand accountability from local schools

In this episode of the Grand Canyon Times podcast, host Leyla Gulen speaks with Timothy Minella, Senior Fellow at the Goldwater Institute's Van Sittert Center for Constitutional Advocacy. Minella explains why he believes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs undermine America's founding promise of equal opportunity. He outlines how DEI has become embedded in public universities and government institutions, replacing equal treatment with ideological conformity. Minella discusses ongoing Goldwater legal actions—such as the case of ASU professor Owen Anderson—state reforms like Idaho's Freedom from Indoctrination Act, and efforts to eliminate mandatory DEI training.

In this episode of the Grand Canyon Times podcast, host Leyla Gulen talks with Chris Thomas, Director of Legal Strategy for Education Policy at the Goldwater Institute and a longtime Arizona school attorney. Thomas discusses findings from a Goldwater report revealing the many hidden forms of compensation for Arizona school superintendents—including car stipends, excessive vacation days, and cash payouts—that go far beyond base salaries. He explains how a lack of transparency leaves both taxpayers and school boards in the dark, and calls for public posting of superintendent contracts as already required in Indiana, Illinois, and Texas. The conversation also touches on broader education policy issues, including administrative spending versus classroom funding, chronic absenteeism, and the impact of school choice in Arizona's evolving education landscape

In this episode of the Grand Canyon Times podcast, host Leyla Gulen speaks with Kim Miller, founder of Arizona Women of Action and America's Women. What began as a small text chain in 2020 has grown into a network of more than 35,000 subscribers and followers. Miller shares how the organizations mobilize women to protect childhood, strengthen families, and defend faith-based values through civic engagement. The discussion explores practical steps for influencing education, donor awareness, and cultural change while carrying forward a mission rooted in Christian principles

Phil Mason, founder of the Arizona Republican Assembly, talks about improving student performance through teacher incentives, the role of ESAs, and the need for stronger parental accountability. He also shares insights on lobbying, legislative transparency, and the Arizona Republican Assembly's legislative scorecard

Matt Beienburg, Director of Education Policy at the Goldwater Institute, discusses Arizona's education landscape, the growth of Empowerment Scholarship Accounts, and the ongoing debate over school choice. He explains how ESAs work, addresses criticisms, and highlights their impact on families across income levels

Tiffany Benson joined the podcast to discuss: How secular humanism shapes K–12 and why the Bible should be taught as a historical source. Practical steps for parents to assert rights: know district policies, show up, and build trust with teachers. Building Restore Parental Rights and Education to equip families for transparency, safety, and academic excellence. Tiffany Benson is a Christian community advocate, writer, and founder of Restore Parental Rights and Education, a grassroots partner for K–12 families focused on district transparency, student safety, and academic success. She appears in the documentary 22 Words and writes the Substack ParentsPayAttention.com, offering plain-language guidance on policies, parental rights, and school governance. Benson is developing her nonprofit to provide training and tools that help parents lead with their values while navigating a rapidly changing public-school landscape.  

Tamra Farah joined the podcast to discuss: Shifting K–12 authority from Washington to states and parents through the "Big Beautiful Bill." Expanding ESAs/empowerment scholarships so education dollars follow the child. Refocusing schools on core academics while keeping ideology out of the classroom. Tamra Farah is the leader of AmericanStrategies.org and a former journalist with more than two decades in policy and politics.  She has advised local, state, and federal candidates and partnered with Americans for Prosperity, FreedomWorks, Moms for America, and Arizona Women of Action. Her commentary appears regularly across conservative media, including Townhall and AZ Free News. Farah advocates limited government, parental rights, and academic excellence rooted in community values.

Tom Horne joined the podcast to discuss: Concerns about politically biased content in history and geography textbooks used in Arizona schools His long-running fight against DEI and critical race theory in public education Efforts to improve academic standards, student discipline, and teacher support in Arizona schools Tom Horne is Arizona's State Superintendent of Public Instruction, currently serving his second term after previously serving as Arizona's Attorney General. A longtime advocate for rigorous academics and fact-based curriculum, Horne has worked to remove political indoctrination from classrooms while also launching initiatives to raise test scores, support teachers, and expand English immersion programs for English learners.  

Alex Kolodin joined the podcast to discuss: Why election transparency benefits all voters regardless of party How his experience as an election attorney led him to challenge and defeat unlawful practices by current officials Concrete reforms he's championed to secure voting processes and restore confidence in Arizona's system Alex Kolodin is a three-term Arizona state representative for District 3 and vice chairman of the House Regulatory Oversight Committee. A graduate of Georgetown University and the University of Pennsylvania Law School, Kolodin built a reputation as one of Arizona's leading election attorneys. He has successfully sued current Secretary of State Adrian Fontes multiple times over unlawful election practices, winning landmark rulings that strengthened voters' rights. Now running for Secretary of State, Kolodin's campaign focuses on transparency, strict adherence to election law, and rebuilding public trust in the democratic process.  

Rachel Alexander joined the podcast to discuss: Systemic flaws in Arizona's election processes and how machines and mail-in ballots undermine trust The chilling effect of lawfare on conservative attorneys and journalists Practical reforms to restore secure, verifiable voting and hold officials accountable Rachel Alexander is a political columnist, attorney, and former Assistant Attorney General in Arizona. She serves as editor of Intellectual Conservative and writes regularly for The Arizona Sun Times and Townhall.   A longtime advocate for election integrity and government accountability, Alexander draws on her legal background and years as Maricopa County's elections attorney to uncover irregularities, defend free speech, and expose misuse of the justice system against conservatives. Her work resonates with readers who value constitutional protections, transparent leadership, and fearless reporting.

Jack Hastings joined the podcast to discuss: His roots in Surprise, Arizona and journey from educator to Vice Mayor The burden of federal oversight on local tax dollars and law enforcement The importance of conservative governance and empowering local officials Jack Hastings is the Vice Mayor and District Five Council Member for the City of Surprise, Arizona. A lifelong public servant, he's a former government teacher and lifeguard who has called Surprise home since 2004. Known for his advocacy to cut taxes, strengthen public safety, and enhance civic engagement, Hastings champions local control over federal micromanagement. He's recognized for his vocal conservative values and commitment to making government more responsive to families, taxpayers, and the community.

 Karrin Taylor Robson joined the podcast to discuss: Her decision to run for governor and the personal and professional journey that shaped her candidacy Sharp critiques of Governor Katie Hobbs on issues like border enforcement, water policy, and vetoed legislation Her platform rooted in conservative principles, economic development, and support from President Donald Trump Karrin Taylor Robson is a lifelong conservative, business leader, and mother running for Governor of Arizona with the endorsement of President Donald J. Trump. A proud supporter of the America First agenda, she raised over $1 million for President Trump's campaign, hosted events with his family, and backed him in 2016, 2020, and 2024.   Now, Trump is returning the support with his endorsement of her candidacy. Not a career politician, Karrin built one of Arizona's top land use and economic development firms, helping create thousands of jobs and cut through red tape to drive growth.   A wife, mother of four, and grandmother, she is campaigning to secure the border, stop radical indoctrination in schools, eliminate government waste, and restore law and order across the state.

Terry Schilling joined the podcast to discuss: The Biden administration's targeting of Christian universities, including the unprecedented $37.7 million fine imposed on Grand Canyon University. The American Principles Project's (APP) advocacy for women's sports and protection of children from gender ideology. The necessity of federal legislation to define biological sex and safeguard religious freedoms. Terry Schilling serves as the president of the American Principles Project, a leading conservative advocacy organization dedicated to promoting pro-family policies. Under his leadership, APP has expanded its influence, notably through the establishment of the Big Family initiative, aiming to position the family as a formidable force in Washington, D.C. Schilling's political experience includes roles with Sen. Sam Brownback (R-KS) and Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), as well as managing his father's successful congressional campaign in 2010. A graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville and a Claremont Institute Lincoln Fellow, he resides in Virginia with his wife and seven children.

Hayden Ludwig joined the podcast to discuss: The surprising resilience of drug trafficking at the U.S.-Mexico border despite tougher immigration enforcement The evolution of cartel strategies, including the use of sophisticated synthetic drug production and unsuspecting mules The Chinese Communist Party's role in enabling a chemical war against the United States via fentanyl Hayden Ludwig is the founder and managing editor of Restoration News, a media platform dedicated to investigative journalism supporting the America First Movement. Previously a senior investigative researcher at Capital Research Center, Ludwig holds a Master's in Public Policy from George Mason University. His work exposes how transnational networks, enabled by political weakness and foreign adversaries, continue to exploit America.

Kayleigh Kozak joined the podcast to discuss: The Origin and Impact of Kayleigh's Law Navigating the Legislative Process as a Civilian Advocate Empowering Victims Through Policy and Awareness Kayleigh Kozak is the Family First Campaign Director at the America First Policy Institute, where she works to strengthen families and protect victims of abuse. She is best known for "Kayleigh's Law," adopted in several states to ensure lifelong protection for survivors of sexual and domestic violence.   Kozak has helped pass a range of bipartisan victim-focused laws and led efforts behind a landmark ballot initiative imposing natural life sentences for child sex trafficking. A Liberty University graduate with a background in Family Christian Counseling, she is also a wife and mother of five.

Arizona Senate Majority Leader Janae Shamp (R-29) joined the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss: What border security looks like for Arizona in the future. What Prop 314 sets out to accomplish. Her recent meeting with Sec. of Health RFK, Jr and her win in taking chemicals out of school lunches. A former perioperative nurse and nurse manager in the medical field, Shamp was first elected to represent Arizona's 29th Legislative District in Nov. 2022. A resident of Surprise, she graduated from Arizona State University cum laude in Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology. She also graduated from Grand Canyon University magna cum laude in Nursing.

Steve Cortes on illegal immigration and Arizona election integritySteve Cortes, founder and president of the League of American Workers (LAW) joined the Grand Canyon Podcast to discuss: Illegal immigration and the impact on election integrity. Gov. Katie Hobbs (D-Ariz) and the provision of drivers licenses to illegal aliens. The America First agenda and Arizona voters. In addition to being the founder of LAW, Cortes is a senior political advisor to CatholicVote. He was a spokesman and advisor to President Donald Trump's 2016 and 2020 campaigns, and previously traded global currencies and interest rates for 25 years for large international hedge funds. He has been an on-air broadcaster for CNBC, Fox News, and CNN. Cortes founded LAW in 2022 with the mission of promoting "policies to protect the priorities of laborers." 

Chloe Cole, a detransitioner and senior fellow at Do No Harm, joined the Grand Canyon Times podcast to discuss: Chloe's childhood and process into gender transitioning with her parents and therapists. How quickly she felt she made a mistake after undergoing irreversible surgery. Chloe finding Christ and a renewed purpose as a woman and the work she has been doing to help the irresponsible gender-affirming rhetoric. A 20-year-old woman who said that she had "gender dysphoria" was given "puberty blockers," testosterone and had a double mastectomy at age 12, Cole has since "de-transitioned" and supports bans on the chemical castration of minors. Cole is a senior fellow at Do No Harm, an advocacy organization that recently launch the "Stop the Harm Database" which "catalogs pediatric sex change-related services, including surgeries, cross-sex hormones, and puberty blockers, at U.S.-based medical facilities between 2019 and 2023."

J. Christian Adams, president and general counsel of the Public Interest Legal Foundation (PILF) joined the Grand Canyon Times podcast to discuss: The 2020 election in Arizona and Donald Trump's loss by less than 10,500 votes. Overview of entertaining short film using current voter roll information that shows registrants using commercial addresses as their address of residence, which is illegal under AZ law. Christian's prediction of how this year's voter integrity will compare to the 2020 election. Adams previously worked in the Voting Section of the U.S. Department of Justice from 2005 to 2010. In 2020, President Donald Trump appointed him to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, where he continues to serve with a term through 2025.   Adams has been involved in election law litigation across 33 states and the territory of Guam, representing multiple presidential campaigns. He holds a law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law and is a member of the South Carolina and Virginia Bars.The Public Interest Legal Foundation (PILF) is a nonprofit law firm that focuses on election integrity issues in the United States.   Founded in 2012, PILF has pursued litigation related to voter registration list maintenance, election administration, and enforcement of the National Voter Registration Act.   The organization seeks to ensure compliance with federal laws related to voter roll accuracy and has filed cases in multiple states. PILF's legal activities often involve the pursuit of records or data from state election agencies and challenging practices it alleges may impact election integrity.

Arizona State Sen. Janae Shamp (R-AZ-29) joined the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss: Border security, housing affordability, and healthcare in Arizona Outreach to young conservative voters in her district Her legislative priorities when re-elected Shamp was first elected to represent Arizona's 29th Legislative District in Nov. 2022. She defeated Democrat David Raymer, winning 59 percent to Raymer's 41 percent.A resident of Surprise, Shamp graduated cum laude from Arizona State University and received her nursing degree, also graduating cum laude, from Grand Canyon University.She is an operating room nurse, and said she was fired from her nursing position for refusing to take the "COVID" MRNA injection. Arizona's 29th Legislative District is entirely located within Maricopa County, west and northwest of Phoenix. The district stretches from Litchfield Park in the south to north of Morristown in the north, stopping to the east of Wickenburg. It includes Luke Air Force Base.

Scot Mussi is President of the Arizona Free Enterprise Club, a non-profit advocacy organization founded in 2005 which focuses on "advancing a pro-growth, limited government agenda in Arizona." Mussi was born and raised Arizona and graduated from Arizona State University in 2004. He lives in Gilbert with his wife and their three children. In this episode of the Grand Canyon Times Podcast, he discusses the requirements for Arizona election officials to remove voter registration that do not have proof of U.S. citizenship, as well as other predictions regarding election security this fall.

Ned Ryun, founder of American Majority, appeared on the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss his predictions on potential nominees from both Republican and Democrat parties, as well as the impact of absentee ballots in the upcoming electionRyun is a former writer for President George W. Bush. Before founding American Majority Action he created Generation Joshua, a civics education program. He also writes weekly opinion pieces for American Greatness, and was previously appointed to the 1776 Commission by President Donald Trump. Ryun lives with his wife and four children in Virginia. Founded in 2008, American Majority Action focuses on training and organizing activists to engage in voter education, mobilization efforts, and advocacy.

Steve Cortes appeared on the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss the recent debate between former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden, and the impact it will have on Arizona Voters. Bio: Cortes is a political advisor and commentator. He previously traded global currencies and interest rates for 25 years for large international hedge funds. He has been an on-air broadcaster for CNBC, Fox News, and CNN. Cortes founded LAW in 2022 to conduct research and develops proposals on public policies impacting American workers and the economy.

Jeff Tobey, candidate for the governing board of Peoria Unified School District, appeared on the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss the reasons he's running and his plans to make student and staff safety a priority in the district. Bio Tobey is currently running for a seat on the Peoria Unified School District board, which will be on the November 5, 2024 ballot. Tobey is the father of four children in the community, with ages ranging from toddler to high school student. Tobey received his Bachelor's in Communications from Arizona State University. He has served as Safety Chair for his church, and is currently the treasurer of his HOA.

Austin VanDerHeyden, the Municipal Affairs Liaison at The Goldwater Institute, joined the Grand Canyon Times podcast to discuss his organization's new report showing that hundreds of millions of dollars has been spent to "combat homelessness" by the Phoenix and Tucson governments, with little transparency or return on investment.He also discussed a measure that will appear on the 2024 General Election ballot in Arizona, Prop 312, which would allow property owners to claim a tax credit for expenses incurred to mitigate homelessness-related issues on their property.   Established in 1998 and based in Phoenix, The Goldwater Institute is a nonprofit public policy research and litigation organization. It promotes free-market principles and limited government. The Institute conducts research, provides policy recommendations, and engages in litigation to protect individual rights and state sovereignty. It was named after U.S. Senator Barry Goldwater. The Institute focuses on various policy areas, including education, healthcare, and property rights.    

Patrick Brenner, founder and president of the Southwest Public Policy Institute (SPPI), joins the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss public records law, school choice, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. In this episode, he covers the institute's pending lawsuits against the city of Scottsdale and Mesa Public Schools related to Arizona's public records law.SPPI is a research organization focused on formulating, promoting, and defending public policy solutions. It operates in eight U.S. states: Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and California.This episode can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

H. Sterling Burnett, director of the Arthur B. Robinson Center on Climate and Environmental Policy, joins the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss the creation of "chief heat officers" within the State of Arizona government and Phoenix city government, the agenda behind those positions, and the way in which "heat related" deaths are reported within Arizona. Dr. Burnett is also the managing editor of The Heartland Institute's Environment & Climate News and previously worked at the National Center for Policy Analysis for 18 years.This episode can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

Steve Cortes, founder and president of the League of American Workers (LAW), joined the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss the results of a new poll of Arizona voters. Among other findings, the poll results show: Former President Donald Trump ( R) leads President Biden (D) by four points among Arizona voters in the 2024 race for the White House: https://grandcanyontimes.com/stories/657187403-trump-leads-biden-by-four-points-in-arizona-poll-shows  72% of Arizona voters think the federal government is weak at securing the U.S. borders: https://grandcanyontimes.com/stories/657316386-72-of-arizona-voters-think-federal-government-weak-at-securing-u-s-borders-says-new-poll    56% of Arizona voters think President Joe Biden's border policies are to blame for crimes like an illegal alien's February 22 murder of University of Georgia nursing student Laken Riley: https://grandcanyontimes.com/stories/657336942-56-of-arizona-voters-think-biden-border-policies-contribute-to-crimes-like-illegal-alien-s-murder-of-laken-riley-says-new-poll  The survey released by LAW was conducted among 600 likely Arizona voters on March 14-17, 2024 by North Star Public Opinion Research.  Cortes is a political advisor and commentator. He previously traded global currencies and interest rates for 25 years for large international hedge funds. He has been an on-air broadcaster for CNBC, Fox News, and CNN. He founded LAW in 2022 to conduct research and develops proposals on public policies impacting American workers and the economy.

Naomi Lopez, Senior Fellow at the Goldwater Institute, joined the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss the need for more transparency in the federal 340b program. Established in 1992, the 340b program enables eligible hospitals and healthcare organizations to purchase outpatient medications at significantly discounted prices. Hospitals participating in the 340B program can use the savings to fund for essential services and programs, such as free or low-cost medication assistance, expanded access to healthcare, and community outreach initiatives. Participating hospitals, however, "often extend their 340B discounts to clinics in well-off communities, where they can charge privately insured patients more than those on Medicaid," reported the Wall Street Journal. "In some cases, the program appears to be bolstering profits in well-off areas more than it is underwriting services in less-privileged neighborhoods," said the Journal article. Naomi Lopez is a Senior Fellow at the Phoenix-based Goldwater Institute, specializing in health care issues. She previously was the Vice President for Healthcare Policy at Goldwater. She also has worked for the Illinois Policy Institute, Pacific Research Institute and the Cato Institute. This episode can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

Since 2021, government records show 186 voter registrants were "involuntarily purged" for citizenship issues in Pima County, ArizonJ. Christian Adams, president of the Public Interest Legal Foundation and founder of the Election Law Center, joined the Grand Canyon Times podcast to discuss a new report from his organization which showed that, since 2021, 186 voter registrants were "involuntarily purged" for citizenship issues in Pima County, Arizona.

Kayla Van Soest, the Tucson Market Manager of Children's Entrepreneur's Market (C.E.M.), joins the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss the organization. Founded in Utah, CEM helps organize markets in sixteen states, including Arizona, where children can sell their products and learn about entrepreneurship. CEM operates in various locations, including farmers markets, movie nights, and concerts, partnering with events that attract significant foot traffic to provide kids with greater exposure and sales opportunities. The program allows kids aged 5 to 17 to showcase their entrepreneurial skills and creativity by selling a diverse range of products, from beverages and snacks to handmade accessories, dog treats, and even flowers.

U.S. Congressional candidate Blake Masters (R-AZ-8) joined the Grand Canyon Times podcast to discuss his race. Masters is one of four candidates currently running in the Republican primary to represent the 8th Congressional District.  The district is currently represented by U.S. Rep. Debbie Lesko (R), who announced last year that she will be retiring at the end of the current term. Following is a summary of this episode: Trump Endorsement: Masters discussed his endorsement by former President Donald Trump in his 2022 Senate race. He said President Trump endorsed him because Masters was "strong on the border."  Border Security: Masters advocated for stringent border security, criticizing what he said are the Biden Adminstration's "open border" policies. He said he supports finishing the border wall, empowering border patrol, and deporting millions of illegal immigrants, saying that border security is the most crucial issue in his campaign and for the country. Economic Policies and Big Tech Regulation: Masters said we had economic growth and low inflation under President Trump, attributing it to the former president's pro-business policies. Masters also said there is a need to regulate Big Tech companies to prevent them from manipulating elections and infringing on free speech, drawing from his experience in the tech industry. Chinese Ownership of U.S. Farmland:  Masters said that Chinese ownership of Arizona farmland should not be allowed. Masters ran for U.S. Senate in 2022, losing to incumbent U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D) by a vote of 51.4% to 46.5%. Kelly reportedly outspent Masters by $66 million in that race.  After growing up and attending high school in Tucson, Masters graduated from Stanford University and received his J.D. from Stanford Law School. He then co-founded legal research startup Judicata. He is co-author of the bestselling business book, "Zero to One: Notes on a Startup" with Peter Thiel, and served as president of the Thiel Foundation. Masters married his wife, Catherine, in 2012 and they have three sons.   

Matt Roeske, founder of Cultivate Elevate, joined the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss the power of Electroculture which, he said, is, "the ancient practice of increasing yields utilizing certain materials to harvest the earth's atmospheric energy." Learn more: https://cultivateelevate.com/blog/electroculture-gardening-techniques-for-beginners-elevate-your-garden/?ref=lngodh4rpm  Introduction of Electroculture:  Roeske discussed the concept of electroculture, a method of enhancing plant growth by harnessing atmospheric energy. This practice dates back to 1835 and involves creating antennas from materials like wood and copper to stimulate plant development without the need for harmful pesticides or chemicals. Historical Context and Decline: Roeske discussed the historical recognition of ether (aether) as a vital energy source for growth and its subsequent dismissal with the rise of modern scientific theories. He said shift led to a disconnection from natural energy sources and an increased reliance on industrial and chemical methods in agriculture. Benefits of Electroculture: Roeske shared personal experiences and testimonials from others who have observed significant improvements in plant size, health, and yield through electroculture. This includes larger fruits and vegetables, increased pollinator activity, and a reduction in pests without the use of chemicals. Impact on Biodiversity and Environment: Roeske said electroculture not only benefits plant growth but also contributes to a healthier ecosystem by attracting more wildlife and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Potential for Revitalizing Agriculture: Roeske said that electroculture offers a sustainable alternative to conventional farming methods, potentially addressing food shortages and environmental degradation.  

Kyle Reyes is the president of Law Enforcement Today, joined the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss border security and his recent trip to the Arizona-Mexico border.  Following is a summary of this episode: Border Security and Immigration Legislation: Reyes discussed the current state of border security and immigration legislation, noting the inefficacy of proposed solutions and said enforcing borders is important to maintaining national integrity. He references his own experiences and observations from visiting the border, pointing out the inadequacies of current policies and the need for more robust measures. Impact of Border Crisis on Local Communities: Reyes discussed the financial and social impact of the border crisis on local communities, highlighting the strain on resources and the increase in crime. Reyes mentions specific regions, like Texas and Arizona, where local authorities are struggling to manage the consequences of open borders and the influx of illegal immigrants. Media Influence: Reyes discussed the role of bias in the mainstream media in shaping public perception and policy and the influence of big tech and funding sources on narrative control.  Future Projects and Initiatives: Reyes outlined his upcoming projects aimed at supporting law enforcement and raising awareness about the border crisis. These include a campaign to show the nationwide impact of border issues, initiatives to support law enforcement officers, and continued efforts to provide an alternative narrative to mainstream media coverage on law and order topics.

Steve Cortes, founder of the League of American Workers (LAW), appeared on the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss a new poll conducted for his organization, which found that only 18% of Arizona voters say that the American Dream is "still attainable."  Founded in 2022 by Cortes, LAW conducts research and develops proposals on public policies impacting American workers and the economy. Cortes is a political advisor and commentator. He previously traded global currencies and interest rates for 25 years for large international hedge funds. He has been an on-air broadcaster for CNBC, Fox News, and CNN.  Why Cortes is Endorsing Donald Trump: Cortes, founder of the American League of Workers and former advisor to Donald Trump's 2016 and 2020 campaigns, discusses his brief support for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis's presidential bid. He said he is now endorsing Trump, citing Trump's landslide victory in the Iowa caucus. Internal GOP Dynamics: Cortes talks about the internal dynamics within the Republican Party, saying there is the need for unity and addition rather than division.  Midterm Elections: Cortes said he is disappointed in the 2022 midterm election results and said he believed the America First movement was ready to move on from Trump, but later realized that wasn't the case. Border Security and Economic Concerns: The podcast touches on border security and its economic implications. Cortes criticized President Biden's border policies, linking them to the decline in real wages and economic challenges for blue-collar workers. He said Texas for has taken independent action on border security and said there is a need for states like Texas to protect their citizens in the face of federal inaction.

Jenny Clark, a member of the Arizona Board of Education, joined the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss the state's Empowerment Scholarship (ESA) Program and the governor's recently proposed regulations of the program. Clark is also the founder of the "Love Your School" organization and a partner at First Day PR.  Following is a summary of this episode: Gov. Katie Hobbs' (D-Ariz.) Proposed Regulations:  Hobbs last week proposed new regulations for the ESA program, including a requirement that ESA families spend 100 days in public school before using the scholarship. Clark's Response to Hobbs' Proposal: Clark criticized the proposal, saying the there already is high scrutiny of ESA transactions and the transparency of the program compared to public schools. Misconceptions Addressed: Clark refuted claims about misuse of ESA funds, explaining the stringent accountability measures in place. She also clarified the legal status of ESAs as scholarships for students, not direct funding to schools. Impact of ESA on Families: Clark shared personal experiences and other stories highlighting the positive impact of ESAs, especially for children with special needs or those in unsuitable traditional educational settings. Financial Aspects of ESA: Discussed the budget and expenditure of the ESA program, emphasizing its small percentage of Arizona's education budget and the cost-effectiveness compared to public school funding. Love Your School Organization: Clark's organization offers free support to families in Arizona and West Virginia, helping them navigate school choice options, including ESAs, homeschooling, and special education evaluations. Future of Education Advocacy: Clark discussed educating families about school choice and advocating for the protection of ESAs and other educational options.

Arizona-based Chris Buskirk is the publisher of American Greatness. He has founded, built, and successfully sold multiple finance businesses including in insurance, reinsurance, specialty lending, and tax-credit financing. For over 15 years he has been a successful investor in growth stages companies across the financial services space as well as in real estate, digital marketing, consumer brands, and media. In this interview, Chris discusses why the United States of America is the best nation on the planet, and how to champion the middle class and the traditional family unit in the midst of the all the noise. For more Arizona news visit www.GrandCanyonTimes.com.

Matt Beienburg, the director of education policy at the Phoenix-based Goldwater Institute, appeared on the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss the Biden Administration's $37.7 million fine on Grand Canyon University (GCU), the largest Christian university in the U.S. The U.S. Department of Education (DOE) said the fine was imposed because GCU allegedly "lied" to students about the cost of the university's doctoral programs. GCU President Brian Mueller called the fine "ridiculous" and said the university will appeal. Beienburg said the Biden Administration's "mission to destroy institutions that do not subscribe to the prevailing orthodoxy at government-run schools," and the Goldwater Institute has requested government records to see if any collusion happened in the targeting of GCU. If the agency refuses to release the records, said Beienburg, the Goldwater Institute will sue to compel disclosure. Following is a summary of this episode: Fine Imposed on GCU: The U.S. Department of Education under the Biden administration imposed a $37.7 million fine on GCU, a large private Christian university in the country. This fine, unprecedented in its size, was levied for allegedly misrepresenting tuition rates and program details to students. Comparison with Other Universities: Beienburg discussed how the fine imposed on GCU starkly contrasts with penalties given to other universities for more serious offenses, such as failing to report crimes related to sexual assault. For example, Michigan State and Penn State were fined significantly less for their infractions. Allegations of Misrepresentation: The DOE accused GCU of not adequately disclosing the total costs of its programs, particularly for doctoral students. The department claimed that GCU did not clearly communicate the potential additional costs for extra credits related to dissertation work. GCU's Response and Background: Beienburg said GCU has maintained its tuition rates for the past 15 years, focusing on providing affordable education. The university has a large online presence and has been successful in keeping operational costs low. Beienburg said that GCU's conservative Christian identity and its non-traditional approach to higher education might be factors in why it was targeted. Broader Context and Implications: Beienburg discussed the broader issues in higher education, such as rising tuition costs nationwide and the increasing student loan debt. It questions the Department of Education's motives and highlights the potential political implications behind the fine, suggesting a possible bias against GCU's educational model and ideological stance. The Goldwater Institute is a public policy think tank located in Phoenix. Established in 1988, it is named after former U.S. Senator and 1964 presidential candidate Barry Goldwater (R-Ariz.). The institute focuses on a range of public policy issues, including education, constitutional law, regulation, and free-market principles. It advocates for limited government, individual rights, and economic freedom.  The Goldwater Institute is known for its involvement in policy formulation and litigation, particularly in the areas of school choice, healthcare, and government transparency. It has played a significant role in promoting and drafting model legislation in various states, aiming to influence public policy at both the state and national levels.  

Katlie Ratlief, executive director of the Common Sense Institute Arizona (CSI-AZ) and Glenn Farley, CSI's director of policy and research, joined the Grand Canyon Times Podcast to discuss the recently-released 2023 edition of Arizona's Free Enterprise Report: https://commonsenseinstituteaz.org/2023-free-enterprise-report/ This report includes the "Free Enterprise Competitive Index," which measures Arizona's alignment with CSI-AZ's policy areas on topics including: Education, Energy, Healthcare, Housing, Infrastructure, Public Safety, State Budget and Finances, and Taxes and Fees. Following is a summary of this episode: Arizona's Economic Health: Farley highlighted Arizona's economic growth over the past decade, leading to a healthier state budget. However, he notes the mixed outlook due to slowing national economy and depleted state cash reserves. Fiscal Discipline and Economic Growth: Farley credited fiscal discipline and economic growth for Arizona's transition from a deficit to a surplus under former Governor Doug Ducey's (R) administration. 2023 Free Enterprise Report: Ratlief discussed the report, which assesses Arizona's economy across various policy areas. The report serves as a roadmap for policymakers and community leaders. Education System: Ratlief and Farley said the state's education system faces challenges, particularly in high school graduation rates and learning loss due to the pandemic. However, they see policies like school choice and investment in education as positive steps. Public Safety and Housing: Arizona ranks poorly in public safety and housing. The fentanyl crisis, homelessness, and border issues are major concerns. Housing affordability is at its worst, driven by rapid price appreciation and interest rate increases. Healthcare System: The state's healthcare system faces challenges, including a shortage of healthcare providers and a low rate of private insurance participation. Infrastructure: Arizona has made significant investments in infrastructure, which is seen as a positive development, especially with the state's population growth. CSI-AZ is a affiliated with CSI Colorado, which was founded in 2010 as the Commonse Sense Policy Roundtable. CSI-AZ's mission is to examine and in inform Arizona citizens about the fiscal impacts of policies, initiatives, and proposed laws in the state.

Phoenix-area resident Ryan Hartwig, who gained national attention for "hidden camera" footage about Facebook, joined the Grand Canyon Times Podcast.In 2020, Hartwig released hidden camera footage from his work as a "content moderator" for Facebook while working at the Phoenix offices Cognizant. That footage, released through Project Veritas, featured conversations with co-workers and "documents showing Facebook's policies and patterns of bias," said Hartwig.Hartwig also co-authored the 2021 book, "Behind the Mask of Facebook: A Whistleblower's Shocking Story of Big Tech Bias and Censorship." He recently starred in the movie "Police State," by filmmaker Dinesh D'Souza, in which Hartwig is interviewed about censorship by tech companies.