Birdman at the Arizona Legislature

Birdman at the Arizona Legislature is your unfiltered pass inside the halls of power at the Arizona Capitol. Hosted by Birdman, the show breaks down what’s really happening under the dome—beyond the press releases, party talking points, and polished soundbites. From heated floor debates and behind-the-scenes maneuvering to committee showdowns and the personalities shaping Arizona politics, Birdman delivers sharp analysis, firsthand insight, and straight talk you won’t get anywhere else. Whether you’re a political junkie, a concerned citizen, or just trying to understand how decisions at the Legislature affect your everyday life, this podcast keeps you informed, engaged, and ahead of the curve. No spin. No fluff. Just Arizona politics as it actually happens.

Rainy Day or Taxpayer Idle Cash? Rethinking Arizona’s Budget Reserves 02/26/2026

From Pediatric Cancer Funding to Veterans Reform: A Day Inside the House 02/25/2026

Vaping Taxes & Tiny Voices: How One Family Is Advocating at the Capitol 02/21/2026

Vaping Taxes & Tiny Voices: How One Family Is Advocating at the Capitol In this special “West Lawn Compendium” episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman spends four hours—10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—interviewing advocates, parents, candidates, and citizens during Early Childhood Legislation Day at the Arizona Capitol. Unlike official legislative agendas set by the House or Senate, advocacy days are organized by individuals and groups who come to lobby, educate, and share lived experiences with lawmakers. This particular day centered largely on early childhood development, childcare access, and family policy—but as always at the Capitol, the conversations extended beyond a single issue. In this final segment from the West Lawn of the Arizona House of Representatives, Birdman speaks with an entire family advocating for House Bill 4032 — legislation aimed at expanding Arizona’s tobacco tax to include vaping and other nicotine products. The current tobacco tax funds early childhood health and development programs through First Things First, supporting children ages 0–5 with services like home visitation, professional development for early educators, and childcare access. But as cigarette use declines and vaping rises, funding has begun to shrink. Amber Jones, a regional council member with First Things First, explains why advocates believe updating the tax structure is essential to maintaining critical early childhood programs. Her daughter, Genevieve, shares her experience witnessing the legislative process firsthand — connecting what she’s learning in social studies class to real-world policymaking. Meanwhile, her father, Travis Jones, reflects on civic engagement, grassroots advocacy, and why teaching children how government works is just as important as the policy itself. This episode captures more than a policy debate — it highlights how families engage in the legislative process, how bills move (or stall) among 4,000 proposals, and why advocacy is often a marathon, not a sprint. From early education funding to civic participation, this West Lawn conversation brings the legislative process into real life. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40155700

ESA vs. Public Schools? Dr. Stephen Neal Jr. Says It’s Time to Unite 02/20/2026

ESA vs. Public Schools? Dr. Stephen Neal Jr. Says It’s Time to Unite In this special “West Lawn Compendium” episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman spends four hours—10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—interviewing advocates, parents, candidates, and citizens during Early Childhood Legislation Day at the Arizona Capitol. Unlike official legislative agendas set by the House or Senate, advocacy days are organized by individuals and groups who come to lobby, educate, and share lived experiences with lawmakers. This particular day centered largely on early childhood development, childcare access, and family policy—but as always at the Capitol, the conversations extended beyond a single issue. In this segment of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, another statewide candidate steps up to the tent — this time for Arizona State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Dr. Stephen Neal Jr., running under the Arizona Independent Party, outlines his vision for education in Arizona, emphasizing a “students over politics” approach. Having previously aligned with both major parties, Neal says his focus is not ideology — but outcomes. The conversation covers: Raising math, reading, and writing scores statewide Reducing political division in education policy ESA (Empowerment Scholarship Account) programs vs. public schools Teacher workload, respect, and classroom autonomy Transparency and accountability in school funding The difference between policy-making and policy implementation Neal argues that the debate shouldn’t be ESA versus public schools — but how both systems can better serve students. He calls for collaboration, improved resource allocation, and restoring focus to academic fundamentals. It’s a conversation about education reform, school choice, accountability, and what it really means to put students first in Arizona. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40155635

Making Churches Safe: The Sanctuary Movement for Children Explained 02/20/2026

Making Churches Safe: The Sanctuary Movement for Children Explained In this special “West Lawn Compendium” episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman spends four hours—10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—interviewing advocates, parents, candidates, and citizens during Early Childhood Legislation Day at the Arizona Capitol. Unlike official legislative agendas set by the House or Senate, advocacy days are organized by individuals and groups who come to lobby, educate, and share lived experiences with lawmakers. This particular day centered largely on early childhood development, childcare access, and family policy—but as always at the Capitol, the conversations extended beyond a single issue. On this episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman continues his day on the West Lawn with a powerful and deeply personal conversation about child safety, faith communities, and systemic reform. Heidi Miller joins the show to discuss the Sanctuary Movement for Children — an initiative focused on making churches, schools, homes, and public spaces safer for children. Drawing from her background in Christian studies and social work, Heidi highlights how abuse and domestic violence often go unaddressed in faith communities — and why education, awareness, and prevention must start at the pulpit. She explains her “Sabbath for the Children” services, designed to educate congregations about child welfare and proper responses to abuse victims — including how mishandling disclosures can re-traumatize survivors. The conversation expands into: Faith community accountability National child protection training models Multidisciplinary abuse response teams The role of the National Child Abuse Hotline Reform ideas for Arizona’s Department of Child Safety (DCS) Heidi also shares firsthand experience navigating DCS systems and argues for streamlined, case-managed approaches that are both more effective and more cost-efficient. This episode explores a topic that doesn’t center around one specific bill — but around culture, systems, and responsibility. It’s a candid look at how community institutions can either fail children — or protect them. If you care about child safety, faith community reform, foster care systems, or DCS accountability in Arizona, this is a conversation worth hearing. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40155600

From Pastor to Politics: Why Gary R. Johnson Jr. Is Running for the Arizona House 02/20/2026

From Pastor to Politics: Why Gary R. Johnson Jr. Is Running for the Arizona House In this special “West Lawn Compendium” episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman spends four hours—10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—interviewing advocates, parents, candidates, and citizens during Early Childhood Legislation Day at the Arizona Capitol. Unlike official legislative agendas set by the House or Senate, advocacy days are organized by individuals and groups who come to lobby, educate, and share lived experiences with lawmakers. This particular day centered largely on early childhood development, childcare access, and family policy—but as always at the Capitol, the conversations extended beyond a single issue. 🎙️ A Candidate’s Vision: District 5 in Focus As the crowds moved across the West Lawn, not everyone there was advocating for a bill — some were advocating for themselves. I caught up with , who is running for the Arizona House of Representatives in District 5. He laid out why he’s seeking office — and what he believes Arizona needs next. From Ministry to Public Service Johnson describes himself as a longtime public servant. For more than 20 years, he’s worked as a pastor and community leader, starting in California. His background includes: Feeding over 100,000 people through food banks Working on Skid Row outreach efforts Supporting special needs students Operating private charter schools Serving in education leadership roles His campaign message centers on bringing what he calls “a new vision” to Arizona. 🧒 Universal or Affordable Childcare One of his top priorities is childcare reform. Johnson shared that as a young father of four (three biological children and one stepchild), he faced weekly childcare costs of about $500 — not including housing and other expenses. He says Arizona families need: Universal or affordable childcare options Financial breathing room for parents The ability to save for their children’s future He believes reducing childcare costs strengthens families economically and creates long-term stability. 📚 Education Reform & Teacher Pay Johnson argues Arizona should be among the top three states in education performance. His focus areas include: Increased teacher and principal pay Education reform strategies developed with superintendents Ensuring students have basic resources like nutrition and school supplies He emphasizes that supporting educators directly impacts student outcomes. 🇺🇸 Veterans Services In District 5, Johnson says he visited an American Legion post with 400 veterans operating out of a 400-square-foot space. His proposal includes: Building a centralized veterans facility Expanding access to medical and mental health services Creating a Military Honor Park Providing a gathering space for community and support He frames it as honoring those who served by investing in long-term care infrastructure. 🏪 Small Business Stability Johnson believes many small businesses fail within their first two years due to lack of support. He advocates for: Increased access to funding Structured support programs A five-year sustainability focus rather than short-term survival His argument is that stronger small businesses strengthen local economies. 🏠 Housing & Crisis Reform Johnson also spoke personally about his father’s recent passing after a hit-and-run accident. He described the financial strain of covering funeral costs and the ripple effects crises can cause. He suggests: Housing reform efforts First-time homebuyer programs Crisis relief systems for families facing layoffs or sudden loss Encouraging landlords to work with tenants experiencing hardship He believes there should be structured “cushion” programs to prevent families from falling into homelessness due to sudden emergencies. 🛂 Immigration & Public Safety On immigration enforcement, Johnson says reform should focus on safety and accountability. He supports: Transparency measures such as body cameras Strategic reform rather than blanket opposition Policies that protect communities while avoiding unnecessary harm He emphasized that not all immigrants are criminals and that enforcement must be balanced with fairness. ⚖️ Bipartisan Approach Johnson describes himself as neither far left nor far right. His stated goal is working across the aisle and focusing on solutions rather than party identity. 🎤 And that’s , making his case for District 5. As always, the lawn at the Capitol isn’t just where bills are debated — it’s where campaigns begin. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40155575

Beyond Red vs. Blue: The Arizona Independent Party Pushes Back 02/19/2026

Beyond Red vs. Blue: The Arizona Independent Party Pushes Back In this special “West Lawn Compendium” episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman spends four hours—10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—interviewing advocates, parents, candidates, and citizens during Early Childhood Legislation Day at the Arizona Capitol. Unlike official legislative agendas set by the House or Senate, advocacy days are organized by individuals and groups who come to lobby, educate, and share lived experiences with lawmakers. This particular day centered largely on early childhood development, childcare access, and family policy—but as always at the Capitol, the conversations extended beyond a single issue. 🎙️ Independents, Ballot Access & Open Primaries: A Press Conference on the Lawn During Early Childhood Legislation Day, the West Lawn wasn’t just filled with advocates for children. At one point, cameras from multiple Phoenix news stations turned toward a separate press conference—led by former Phoenix Mayor , now chairman of the . The focus? Ballot access, open primaries, and the role of independent voters in Arizona politics. The Signature Disparity Johnson highlighted a striking imbalance: Republican or Democratic statewide candidates: ~6,000 signatures required Independent candidates: ~45,000 signatures required Not 4,500 — forty-five thousand. He argues that this disparity creates a structural barrier that effectively blocks independents from meaningful ballot access. In response, the former No Labels Party reorganized as the Arizona Independent Party to create a pathway for independent candidates to qualify under equal signature requirements. The Lawsuit & Legislative Pushback According to Johnson, both major parties challenged the move legally. At the same time, the legislature introduced a bill—complete with an emergency clause—aimed at addressing ballot access changes. Johnson’s critique was pointed: Why is there urgency around limiting independent ballot access, but not around education, healthcare, or budget reform? The Primary Problem Johnson also laid out a broader concern about Arizona’s electoral structure: Roughly one-third of registered voters are Independent Primary turnout can represent as little as 8% of the total electorate In heavily gerrymandered districts, winning a primary often guarantees the seat He argues that candidates in safe districts have little incentive to engage beyond their party base, which can amplify grievance politics over policy debate. A Case for Cross-Aisle Politics Johnson doesn’t frame the issue as anti-party. Instead, he argues that both Democrats and Republicans bring value—but that independent voters can serve as a moderating force. His philosophy centers on: Open primaries Reduced partisan barriers Encouraging candidates to engage beyond ideological silos Focusing on long-term structural issues like education, healthcare, and fiscal stability In his words, disruption doesn’t mean chaos—it means listening. The Bigger Picture While Early Childhood Legislation Day focused largely on family policy, the press conference underscored something broader happening at the Capitol: There is an ongoing debate about who gets access to the ballot—and who ultimately shapes Arizona’s political future. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40155535

Student Parents Left Behind? The Child Care Gap at Arizona’s Capitol 02/19/2026

Student Parents Left Behind? The Child Care Gap at Arizona’s Capitol In this special “West Lawn Compendium” episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman spends four hours—10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—interviewing advocates, parents, candidates, and citizens during Early Childhood Legislation Day at the Arizona Capitol. Unlike official legislative agendas set by the House or Senate, advocacy days are organized by individuals and groups who come to lobby, educate, and share lived experiences with lawmakers. This particular day centered largely on early childhood development, childcare access, and family policy—but as always at the Capitol, the conversations extended beyond a single issue. Segment 5 : Student Parents & Child Care Gaps: A Voice from the West Lawn During Early Childhood Legislation Day at the Arizona Capitol, I spoke with , a full-time student and single mother advocating for better child care access for student parents. Her message was simple but urgent: student parents are falling through the cracks. The Gap in the System While programs like Arizona’s Department of Economic Security (DES) provide child care assistance, eligibility rules often exclude full-time students who are working toward a degree. Nora shared that despite qualifying for programs like SNAP, she does not qualify for DES child care assistance because she is enrolled full-time as a student. That creates a difficult tradeoff: Pursue higher education to improve long-term financial stability Or work full-time simply to afford child care Without child care support, completing a degree becomes significantly harder—especially as a single parent. The C-CAMPIS Push Nora recently traveled to Capitol Hill to advocate for CCAMPIS (Child Care Access Means Parents in School), a federal grant program that provides child care support for low-income student parents. Her argument is rooted in long-term investment: Supporting student parents isn’t dependency—it’s economic mobility. When you fund child care for student parents: You increase graduation rates You strengthen workforce participation You break generational cycles of poverty For Nora, access to child care means being present both in the classroom and at home for her five-year-old son. A Broader Reality Nora also pointed out a larger truth: child care is no longer just a “single parent issue.” In today’s economy: Two-parent households typically require dual incomes Grandparents are often still working Informal child care networks are stretched thin The old support systems are not as accessible as they once were. The Ask Her message to lawmakers was clear: Don’t cut child care funding Protect and expand access for student parents Recognize child care as workforce infrastructure Because when student parents succeed, Arizona benefits from a more educated, self-sufficient population. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40155485

From Early Education to Alzheimer’s Prevention: The Brain Capital Movement 02/19/2026

From Early Education to Alzheimer’s Prevention: The Brain Capital Movement In this special “West Lawn Compendium” episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman spends four hours—10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—interviewing advocates, parents, candidates, and citizens during Early Childhood Legislation Day at the Arizona Capitol. Unlike official legislative agendas set by the House or Senate, advocacy days are organized by individuals and groups who come to lobby, educate, and share lived experiences with lawmakers. This particular day centered largely on early childhood development, childcare access, and family policy—but as always at the Capitol, the conversations extended beyond a single issue. Segment 4 : Brain Capital — A Conversation with Genein Letford On the West Lawn during Early Childhood Legislation Day, I met , who wasn’t there pushing a specific bill number—but an idea she believes Arizona cannot afford to ignore: brain capital. Genein describes brain capital as the intersection of brain health and brain skills. It’s a framework being discussed not just at state capitols, but in Washington, D.C., at the United Nations, and even in global economic forums like Davos. The premise is straightforward but powerful: If we want strong economies, resilient communities, and innovative workforces, we must invest in the brain—early and often. Why It Matters in Arizona Arizona has one of the fastest-growing rates of Alzheimer’s in the nation. Dementia cases are rising, impacting families, healthcare systems, and first responders. Genein’s argument reframes the issue: The dementia crisis isn’t only a senior issue—it’s an early childhood issue. Research shows that building cognitive reserve—the brain’s ability to adapt, recover, and withstand decline—starts in utero and develops rapidly from birth to age five. That foundation influences everything from academic success to midlife brain resilience. Brain Capital as Infrastructure We talk about infrastructure in terms of highways and housing. Genein challenges policymakers to think of early childhood development as human infrastructure. In an AI-driven economy, routine tasks are increasingly automated. What remains essential are uniquely human skills: Creativity Cognitive flexibility Emotional intelligence Adaptability Those skills are built in the earliest years of life. Without early investment, the long-term economic costs show up later—in healthcare systems, workforce gaps, and diminished innovation capacity. An Intergenerational Conversation Genein emphasized that brain capital is not just about children. It’s intergenerational: Educating parents and caregivers Supporting early childhood programs Promoting brain health in midlife Preparing for aging populations Her work through the Lyrics and Leadership Institute for Brain Health integrates music and the arts as tools to strengthen cognitive development across generations. The Bigger Takeaway Early Childhood Legislation Day brought forward funding discussions, childcare access concerns, and workforce participation issues. Genein’s contribution added another layer: If Arizona wants to thrive long-term, the conversation must expand beyond short-term budgets to lifelong brain health. Because the most valuable asset in any state isn’t a building—it’s the human brain. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40155420

Midwives, Medications & the Capitol: The Fight Behind HB 2251 02/18/2026

Midwives, Medications & the Capitol: The Fight Behind HB 2251 In this special “West Lawn Compendium” episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman spends four hours—10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—interviewing advocates, parents, candidates, and citizens during Early Childhood Legislation Day at the Arizona Capitol. Unlike official legislative agendas set by the House or Senate, advocacy days are organized by individuals and groups who come to lobby, educate, and share lived experiences with lawmakers. This particular day centered largely on early childhood development, childcare access, and family policy—but as always at the Capitol, the conversations extended beyond a single issue. Segment 3 : Midwives, Medication, and the Legislative Process Music fades in… As the morning continued on the West Lawn, I noticed two women walking by wearing matching advocacy shirts—something you see a lot at the Capitol. When people show up to support a bill, they wear it. Literally. Their shirts read HB 2251 and HB 2252 — and yes, make sure when you look those up, you’re searching the correct session year, because bill numbers recycle. I sat down with Fatima and Teresa to talk about what those bills actually do and why they matter. 🏥 HB 2251: Life-Saving Authority for Midwives The primary focus this year is House Bill 2251, which deals with home birth midwives and their ability to carry and administer life-saving medications during emergencies. According to the advocates, this bill has been more than three years in the making. It has gone through amendments, negotiations, and revisions — and importantly, it cleared the Health and Human Services Committee, which is no small feat. As I’ve said before, with nearly 4,000 bills introduced in a session, simply getting heard in committee is a major milestone. Many proposals never even make it that far. If a bill survives committee, it usually moves to the House floor. After that comes crossover week — when House bills must pass over to the Senate and vice versa. That’s where the next real hurdle begins. 👩‍⚕️ The Core Issue Teresa explained the distinction between different types of midwives: Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) – typically hospital-trained. Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) – licensed community midwives who often attend home births or birth center deliveries. In Arizona, the debate centers largely around CPMs. Supporters argue that the medications addressed in HB 2251 are already within their scope of training and certification. The concern, they say, is that regulatory decisions are being made by licensing boards that may not have deep expertise in midwifery practice. The bill aims to ensure midwives can carry and administer specific emergency medications when needed — particularly in home birth settings where immediate hospital resources aren’t available. 🚑 HB 2252: Transport Authority (This Year’s Casualty) The second bill, HB 2252, would have allowed midwives attending home or birth center deliveries to: Accompany patients in ambulances during emergency transport Provide medical history and assist in a “warm transfer” to hospital staff Continue using their skills during transport to support mother and baby That bill, however, did not receive a hearing in committee this session — meaning it effectively died for the year. But as we discussed, that doesn’t mean it’s gone forever. Many bills take multiple sessions to build support and momentum. And supporters made it clear: they’re not finished with it. ⚖️ Why This Matters Advocates argue that ambulances are not always equipped with specialized maternal and neonatal supplies, nor are EMTs always trained in the nuances of birth-specific emergencies. Their position is simple: If a midwife has the training and medical history of the patient, having her present during transport could improve outcomes. Whether lawmakers agree — and how the Senate responds — is the next chapter in this process. 🔎 Learn More The advocacy group behind these efforts is the Arizona Community Birth Coalition. If you’re interested in tracking the bills or learning more about their policy goals, that’s the place to start. As always, what you see on the West Lawn is the front-facing version of a much longer process. Behind every shirt with a bill number on it are years of negotiation, regulatory debates, and families who feel strongly about the outcome. And that’s why we sit out there and listen. I’m Birdman, and this is Birdman at the Arizona Legislature. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40155370

Microphone Politics: Debate Culture on Arizona’s West Lawn 02/18/2026

Microphone Politics: Debate Culture on Arizona’s West Lawn In this special “West Lawn Compendium” episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman spends four hours—10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—interviewing advocates, parents, candidates, and citizens during Early Childhood Legislation Day at the Arizona Capitol. Unlike official legislative agendas set by the House or Senate, advocacy days are organized by individuals and groups who come to lobby, educate, and share lived experiences with lawmakers. This particular day centered largely on early childhood development, childcare access, and family policy—but as always at the Capitol, the conversations extended beyond a single issue. Segment 2: Debate Culture on the West Lawn — A Young Conservative’s Approach During Early Childhood Legislation Day, not everyone on the West Lawn was there for childcare policy. In between advocacy groups and parents sharing lived experiences, I ran into a different kind of participant—17-year-old Enoch Taylor, who was conducting what he calls investigative journalism and public debates. If you’ve seen the YouTube format, you’ll recognize it immediately: microphone in hand, camera ready, direct questions designed to spark engagement. His focus? Polarizing political topics—ICE enforcement, claims against former President Trump, Second Amendment rights, and broader partisan tensions. Enoch described his goal as challenging what he sees as unexamined “talking points” and testing the strength of opposing arguments in real time. His approach reflects what I call conflict journalism—a style built around reaction, confrontation, and high-engagement exchanges. Whether you agree with the format or not, it’s undeniably part of modern political media culture. What stood out, however, wasn’t the topics—it was his composure. He was respectful, articulate, and clear about his positions. At 17, he’s already navigating complex legal and constitutional arguments in public spaces. When we shifted the conversation to the Second Amendment, I offered a different framing from my own experience training lawful carriers: responsible firearm ownership begins with de-escalation and avoiding volatile situations altogether. Interestingly, he agreed—conflict avoidance is key. Enoch operates across Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X under the handle RealTaylorSharp, representing a growing generation of politically active young content creators who blend social media strategy with grassroots engagement. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. Why This Matters This interaction highlighted something important about the Capitol lawn: it’s not just a place for policy advocacy. It’s also a marketplace of ideas, tactics, and media strategies. You have parents advocating for childcare access on one side of the lawn—and young political influencers testing ideological arguments on the other. That contrast tells you a lot about the modern political landscape in Arizona. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40155305

From Probation Officer to Stay-at-Home Mom: The Childcare Gap in Rural Arizona 02/18/2026

From Probation Officer to Stay-at-Home Mom: The Childcare Gap in Rural Arizona In this special “West Lawn Compendium” episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman spends four hours—10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—interviewing advocates, parents, candidates, and citizens during Early Childhood Legislation Day at the Arizona Capitol. Unlike official legislative agendas set by the House or Senate, advocacy days are organized by individuals and groups who come to lobby, educate, and share lived experiences with lawmakers. This particular day centered largely on early childhood development, childcare access, and family policy—but as always at the Capitol, the conversations extended beyond a single issue. Segment 1: Rural Childcare Crisis — Graham & Douglas County Voices The episode opens with Gabby and Laura, two former probation officers from rural Arizona communities—Graham County and Douglas—who left their careers due to a lack of childcare options. Their stories highlight a critical gap affecting working families who fall into what they describe as the “middle bracket”: not low-income enough to qualify for programs like Head Start, yet not financially positioned to afford private childcare. In Graham County, only about 23% of children have access to early childhood education. In some areas, there are only two daycare centers serving entire communities. Gabby details how an unsafe babysitting experience became the final turning point that forced her to resign from her job. Laura shares how pregnancy and nonexistent childcare access ended her probation officer career. Both women now participate in the Changemakers program, which equips parents with tools to advocate at the state, federal, and local levels. Their message to lawmakers in Legislative District 19: awareness matters. Access gaps in rural Arizona are not abstract policy problems—they are workforce and family stability issues. This episode offers a ground-level view of how early childhood policy intersects with employment, public safety careers, rural infrastructure, and economic mobility. It sets the tone for a broader compendium of interviews capturing what a single advocacy day at the Arizona Capitol actually looks like. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40155255

Why HB 2795 Matters: Zoning, Local Control, and Small Modular Reactors in Rural Arizona 02/16/2026

Why HB 2795 Matters: Zoning, Local Control, and Small Modular Reactors in Rural Arizona In this episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman sits down in the House Majority Leader’s office with House Majority Leader Michael Carbone to discuss HB 2795, a bill aimed at clearing the path for small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) in Arizona. Carbone frames SMRs as a modern, proven technology—often misunderstood because of old associations with incidents like Three Mile Island and Chernobyl. He argues today’s advanced nuclear systems are fundamentally different, emphasizing their long-standing use in military applications and the role they could play in Arizona’s energy future. The conversation digs into why SMRs are being discussed now: grid reliability, increasing demand from data centers, the growth of electrification (including EVs), and the high costs and challenges of expanding transmission infrastructure. Birdman highlights the potential advantages of SMRs compared to large-scale wind and solar projects, including a smaller land footprint, greater consistency, and the ability to locate generation closer to demand—especially in rural communities where transmission access can be a limiting factor. Carbone also addresses local control and zoning, describing pushback from counties and cities and frustration with last-minute objections rather than early collaboration. He argues that if a project meets rigorous federal requirements, Arizona should reduce duplicative barriers and signal that the state is “open for business.” The discussion includes broader policy tensions around energy, regulation, and how political dynamics can turn technical infrastructure solutions into partisan fights. This episode is a deep dive into Arizona energy policy, small modular reactors, local zoning battles, data center growth, grid modernization, and the future of clean baseload power—and why HB 2795 may become a key flashpoint as Arizona plans for long-term demand. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40099515

Should SNAP Pay for Soda? Arizona Lawmaker Pushes Nutrition Reform 02/13/2026

Should SNAP Pay for Soda? Arizona Lawmaker Pushes Nutrition Reform In this episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman sits down with Leo Biasiucci, who represents Legislative District 30—covering western Arizona, including Lake Havasu City and the iconic London Bridge. The conversation centers on Biasiucci’s latest effort to reform Arizona’s SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) policies. His bill proposes aligning SNAP purchases more closely with WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)guidelines—restricting taxpayer-funded benefits to nutritionally approved foods while prohibiting items such as soda, candy, and other junk food. Biasiucci argues that the intent of SNAP is to provide temporary assistance during times of need—not to subsidize products with little or no nutritional value. Citing data showing soda as one of the top SNAP-purchased items, he questions whether the program has drifted from its original purpose. His proposal would allow SNAP funds to be used only for WIC-approved foods, with additional items such as beef added to modernize and expand protein options. The discussion explores broader policy themes, including: The difference between personal spending and taxpayer-funded benefits Government’s role in setting guardrails on public assistance programs The relationship between nutrition policy and long-term healthcare costs Comparisons to prior bipartisan legislation restricting certain ingredients in school meals Biasiucci emphasizes that the reform is not about limiting personal freedom, but about ensuring that public dollars are used responsibly and aligned with public health goals. While acknowledging that the proposal has faced party-line opposition and a prior gubernatorial veto, he says conversations are continuing across the aisle. This episode offers insight into Arizona SNAP reform efforts, nutrition policy, public assistance oversight, healthcare cost concerns, and the role of state government in shaping benefit programs. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40099445

Why a Fire Truck Can Break a Rural City Budget: Bisbee’s Fight at the Capitol - HB 2924 02/09/2026

Why a Fire Truck Can Break a Rural City Budget: Bisbee’s Fight at the Capitol - HB 2924 Reporting from , Birdman sits down with Mayor for a candid, on-the-ground discussion about the unique public safety challenges facing rural Arizona—especially when it comes to fire protection and emergency equipment costs. Mayor Budge, a retired firefighter, walks listeners through Bisbee’s long and dramatic history with fire, from early-1900s blazes fought with dynamite to more recent downtown fires that tested the city’s aging infrastructure. With a population of roughly 5,000 and a dense, mountainside layout, Bisbee operates in a high-risk wildland–urban interface, where outdated equipment can mean the difference between containment and catastrophe. The conversation focuses on the true cost of fire readiness in rural communities. Unlike large metro departments with bulk-buying power, towns like Bisbee pay significantly more per vehicle—and face long repair delays due to distance from service centers. Budge explains how a federally awarded grant helped secure funding for a new fire engine, only for rapid inflation and Arizona sales tax to push the final price well beyond the city’s budget. To address this, Budge outlines House Bill 2924, a narrowly tailored proposal to exempt heavy-duty fire equipment from state sales tax, specifically targeting rural departments purchasing large engines and ladder trucks. The bill aims to reduce costs without materially impacting state revenue, while allowing rural fire departments to redirect funds toward protective gear, staffing readiness, and life-saving equipment. Listeners also gain insight into why this legislation currently sits in Ways and Means, why bills can stall without a hearing, and how public engagement is often essential to move rural-focused policy forward. The episode underscores how equipment age affects ISO ratings, insurance costs, and firefighter safety—and why modernizing rural fire fleets is a statewide public safety issue, not a local luxury. This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in rural Arizona policy, public safety funding, wildfire preparedness, tax policy, and the real-world impact of legislative decisions on small communities. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/40048465

Crossover Week Looms: Inside Arizona’s Growing Tax and Budget Debate 02/02/2026

Crossover Week Looms: Inside Arizona’s Growing Tax and Budget Debate In this update from Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman checks in while traveling across the state, offering listeners a snapshot of where things stand at the Capitol as crossover week approaches. With lawmakers shifting focus toward the budget phase, attention is centered on two major policy fronts: Arizona’s full tax conformity package and proposed SNAP fraud reform measures—both of which are expected to land back on ’ desk. Birdman explains the growing tension between the Governor’s office and House Republicans over whether Arizona’s tax filing framework is properly aligned with recent federal changes, including the implications of a large federal tax package often referred to as H.R. 1. As uncertainty looms, Birdman outlines the competing narratives: the Governor maintains that the system is functioning as intended, while House Republicans warn that Arizona taxpayers could face compliance issues if conformity is not addressed. With questions swirling around potential fiscal impacts—ranging from minor adjustments to more serious consequences—clarity remains elusive as the legislature moves deeper into budget negotiations. Birdman previews upcoming conversations with House leadership and hopes to connect with senators in the coming week to better understand the path forward. For now, the message is simple: stay tuned, ask questions, and keep watching as Arizona lawmakers navigate a complex and high-stakes legislative moment. This episode is essential listening for anyone following Arizona politics, tax policy, budget negotiations, SNAP reform, and state–federal conformity issues. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/39970220

Wind Turbines, State Trust Land, and Who Really Decides Arizona’s Future 02/02/2026

Wind Turbines, State Trust Land, and Who Really Decides Arizona’s Future Broadcasting from the members’ lounge at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman sits down with and for a wide-ranging discussion on wind energy development, state land use, and local control in rural Arizona. The conversation centers on a package of bills aimed at addressing the rapid expansion of wind farms and large-scale renewable projects, particularly in Northern Arizona and the White Mountains. Both lawmakers argue that wind energy projects are being imposed on rural communities despite strong local opposition, raising concerns about environmental damage, wildlife impacts, visual blight, and declining property values—with some estimates reaching up to a 40% loss for nearby homeowners. A key focus of the discussion is legislation that would classify wind turbines as a public nuisance, borrowing language already used by state officials in other regulatory contexts. The lawmakers contend that residents consistently describe these projects as nuisances and that counties and boards of supervisors have failed to adequately respond to constituent concerns or conduct thorough environmental reviews. The episode also dives into the role of Arizona State Trust Land, which is currently overseen by a single decision-maker with broad authority. Marshall and Heap outline several bills designed to introduce greater oversight, transparency, and voter accountability, including proposals to create an elected oversight committee. They argue that leasing trust land for solar and wind projects may not represent the highest and best use of the land, particularly when alternative uses—such as housing development or mineral extraction—could generate significantly more revenue for Arizona schools and communities. Housing affordability emerges as a recurring theme, with discussion around selling—not leasing—select parcels of state trust land to enable affordable housing development, infrastructure investment, and long-term tax revenue growth. The lawmakers contrast this approach with renewable leases that provide limited local benefit while permanently altering the landscape. The episode closes with reflections on forest management, wildfire prevention, buried utility lines, and the economic legacy of industries like logging—underscoring the tension between environmental policy, economic reality, and rural community sustainability. This conversation offers listeners a candid look at Arizona energy policy, rural land use battles, renewable development controversies, property rights, and state trust land reform. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/39928230

What Does “Rural” Really Mean? Rep. Kevin Volk on Housing, Broadband, and Arizona’s Future 02/02/2026

What Does “Rural” Really Mean? Rep. Kevin Volk on Housing, Broadband, and Arizona’s Future Broadcasting from the members’ lounge at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman sits down with , a Democratic lawmaker representing Legislative District 17, which spans urban Tucson, rapidly growing suburban areas, and distinctly rural communities reaching into Pinal and Pima Counties. The conversation opens with a bipartisan success story: Volk’s legislation allowing electric vehicle owners to choose specialty license plates rather than being restricted to the standard cloud design. The change restored personal choice while preserving critical funding streams for nonprofits, universities, public safety organizations, and conservation efforts that rely on specialty plate revenue—an example of practical policymaking with real community impact. Birdman and Volk then dive into rural housing challenges, highlighting a teacher housing project in Pinetop-Lakesidethat uses container homes on surplus school district land. Volk explains how limited housing inventory in rural communities has made it increasingly difficult to recruit teachers, first responders, and other essential workers. By providing affordable, close-to-work housing, the project helps educators establish themselves in the community while creating pathways to long-term stability. The discussion broadens to Volk’s role on the House Committee on Rural Economic Development and Innovation, chaired by . Volk emphasizes that rural Arizona exists on a spectrum—from “rural-adjacent” suburban communities to deeply remote areas, including tribal lands where residents may travel hours for basic services. Defining “rural” accurately, he argues, is essential for making smart policy and funding decisions. Addressing early committee votes, Volk explains that rural advocacy isn’t about approving every request, but about balancing localized needs with statewide benefit. He references collaborative discussions with colleagues such as , noting that disagreement does not preclude cooperation—especially when the goal is expanding broadband access, housing availability, and long-term economic opportunity. The episode concludes with a look ahead to Arizona’s budget process, federal broadband investments, and the importance of sustained bipartisan dialogue in solving the state’s most persistent rural challenges. This conversation provides valuable insight into Arizona politics, rural housing solutions, broadband expansion, economic development, and bipartisan governance. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Mountain Retreat Realty Experts Trusted Arizona real estate professionals specializing in buying, selling, and market expertise across the state. 🔗 https://mtnretreatrealty.com Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/39927945

It’s Not About Shopping Carts: The Real Story Behind Arizona’s HB 2460 01/31/2026

It’s Not About Shopping Carts: The Real Story Behind Arizona’s HB 2460 In this episode of Birdman at the Arizona Legislature, Birdman breaks down a revealing and, at times, frustrating House Government Committee meeting centered on House Bill 2460, officially titled Business Property Theft Penalties Prohibition. While the bill—introduced by Representative Nicholas Kupper—is framed as a measure to prevent municipalities from holding businesses responsible for stolen property, the committee discussion quickly exposes what the issue is reallyabout: shopping carts and, more broadly, homelessness policy in Arizona’s largest cities. Birdman explains how cities like Phoenix, supported by the League of Arizona Cities and Towns, are pushing policies that would require retailers to prevent shopping carts from leaving their premises—potentially mandating costly locking or GPS devices that can add significant expense, especially for small and independent businesses. With shopping carts costing roughly $200 each and anti-theft devices adding up to $75 per cart, the burden disproportionately impacts smaller retailers while favoring large chains. The episode also highlights that Arizona law already criminalizes shopping cart theft, raising questions about why municipalities are shifting enforcement responsibility from individuals to businesses. According to Birdman, the committee debate repeatedly leaned on assurances from “big retailers,” while largely ignoring the consequences for small businesses and rural or smaller communities. Ultimately, Birdman argues that HB 2460 isn’t really about shopping carts at all. Instead, it reflects the state’s ongoing struggle to address homelessness, sidewalk obstruction, and urban encampments—without confronting the root causes, particularly housing shortages. Rather than penalizing retailers, Birdman calls for holding cities accountable for developing real, effective homelessness strategies. This episode offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how legislation can mask deeper policy conflicts, and why understanding what a bill appears to do versus what it actually addresses is critical when following Arizona politics. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Mountain Retreat Realty Experts Trusted Arizona real estate professionals specializing in buying, selling, and market expertise across the state. 🔗 https://mtnretreatrealty.com Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/39916485

Closing Arizona’s Rural Childcare Gap: Inside HB 2239 with Krystyn Paulat 01/30/2026

Closing Arizona’s Rural Childcare Gap: Inside HB 2239 with Krystyn Paulat In this episode, Birdman broadcasts from the lawn of the Arizona State Capitol for a conversation with Krystyn Paulatof the Children’s Action Alliance, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization advocating for policies that strengthen the well-being of Arizona’s children and families. Paulat, who focuses on early learning and education policy, explains the goals behind HB 2239, legislation developed in partnership with Representative Blackman to address the growing childcare gap in rural Arizona. The bill is modeled after a successful, federally funded initiative launched under the Ducey and Hobbs administrations, which used ARPA dollars to expand childcare capacity statewide—creating more than 2,000 new childcare slots across every legislative district. The discussion highlights a key challenge facing rural communities: while funding programs may exist, infrastructure often does not. Paulat outlines how HB 2239 would help licensed and aspiring childcare providers overcome startup barriers by supporting planning and design, technical and business assistance, workforce development, and facility costs—critical components needed to open and sustain childcare centers in rural areas. The episode also explores the interconnected relationship between housing, workforce development, and childcare, emphasizing that economic growth cannot succeed without reliable early care options for working families. Paulat underscores the importance of early childhood development, noting that 90% of brain growth occurs by age five, and points to Arizona’s heavy reliance on federal funding for early care compared to K–12 education as a policy gap that deserves urgent attention. Listeners interested in Arizona legislation, rural childcare solutions, early education policy, workforce development, and family affordability will find this conversation both informative and timely. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Mountain Retreat Realty Experts Trusted Arizona real estate professionals specializing in buying, selling, and market expertise across the state. 🔗 https://mtnretreatrealty.com Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/39916120

Why Rural Arizona Needs Its Own Rules: Inside the New House Committee on Economic Development 01/29/2026

Why Rural Arizona Needs Its Own Rules: Inside the New House Committee on Economic Development In this episode, Birdman sits down at the Arizona Legislature with Representative Martinez, Chair of the newly created House Committee on Rural Economic Development and Innovation, for an in-depth conversation on why rural Arizona needs a distinct policy lens. Representative Martinez outlines the geographic scope of Legislative District 16, spanning communities such as Casa Grande, Maricopa, Eloy, Coolidge, Arizona City, tribal lands, and parts of southern Arizona. She explains how rural challenges—housing, water, broadband access, healthcare, wildfire response, and workforce development—differ fundamentally from urban and metro-area needs, and why one-size-fits-all policy often fails rural communities. The discussion pulls back the curtain on how Arizona House committees function, including how bills are assigned, how multi-committee referrals can stall or kill legislation, and why funding measures frequently move through appropriations. Martinez also shares her priorities as a first-time committee chair and how the Speaker’s decision to create this committee signals a renewed focus on rural Arizona. A major highlight is a real-world case from Eloy, where residents faced a proposed 199% utility rate increase. Martinez explains her push to hold state agencies accountable, particularly the role of RUCO (the Residential Utility Consumer Office), and her efforts to require stronger protections for rural ratepayers facing extreme increases. The episode closes with a preview of upcoming committee work, including flood recovery in Globe, cross-border wastewater issues in Nogales, and direct engagement with federal agencies—underscoring a hands-on, solutions-driven approach to rural policy. This conversation offers valuable insight for anyone interested in Arizona politics, rural economic development, legislative process, utility regulation, and public policy innovation. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌐 Official Site: https://birdman.media Support Our Sponsors This episode is brought to you with the support of our premium sponsor: Mountain Retreat Realty Experts Trusted Arizona real estate professionals specializing in buying, selling, and market expertise across the state. 🔗 https://mtnretreatrealty.com Supporting our sponsors helps keep Birdman Media™ independent and producing the content others won’t. © Birdman Media™. All rights reserved. /episode/index/show/767af04b-d2eb-44cc-80ef-81c29c2945fc/id/39916040

What the Budget Really Tells Us: A Conversation with Majority Leader Carbone 01/26/2026

Oversight Without Funding: How Prison Reform Stalled at the Capitol 01/26/2026

Inside the Arizona House: Opening Day with Rep. Walt Blackman 01/26/2026

Let's Start Here - Behind the Bills: The Five Issues That Matter at the Arizona Legislature 01/26/2026

Birdman at the Arizona Legislature

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